Whales of Iceland

Climb aboard a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) equipped with special shock suspension seating for a smoother ride. Look for whales and other marine life in the wild. Travel aboard the 12-meter long boat to get extra close to whales in a way that is safe for passengers and the animals. Benefit from warm flotation suits, life vests, gloves and goggles to keep you cozy and safe, and avail of the services of an experienced guide who will provide information about the animals and bay in English.  Stop by the island of Akurey to look for adorable puffins during the summer. See their nests along the coast during their breeding season. Head out to the bay on a fast and thrilling ride with the wind in your hair. Reach a comfortable cruising speed of 32 knots and get plenty of time in the feeding grounds. Then, take a scenic route back along the coast of Reykjavik and take great photos before you arrive on land.

Climb aboard a whale-watching boat operated by the only environmentally certified whale watching company in Iceland. Get up close to humpback, minke, and orca whales, as well as abundant sea birds, white-beaked dolphins, and harbor porpoises. After setting sail, explore the southern part of Faxafloi Bay off Reykjavik’s old harbor and have an excellent chance of encountering mysterious and fascinating whales off the coast of Iceland, where the ocean currents create some of the best whale-watching conditions in the world. Enjoy a tour with a high success rate: Whales are seen on more than 95% of summer tours and 80% of winter tours, often surfacing within a few meters of the boat. To ensure that the animals are not disturbed, boats sail at a constant speed toward the whales' habitat, a sustainable policy that also minimizes oil use and pollution. Learn about the wildlife and scenery from guides that have gone through an extensive training program, based on exclusively developed guiding principles. And as a successful whale watching tour is a team effort, the crew works closely with passengers to spot whales, helping you feel an important part of the experience.

Whales are the most mysterious of creatures, and some of the best whale watching in the world is just off the coast of Iceland’s capital, where the ocean currents create excellent viewing conditions. Climb aboard a whale watching boat operated by the only environmentally certified whale watching company in Iceland, and explore the southern part of Faxafloi Bay in the Midnight sun of the summer months. On the 3.5-hour tour you will get up-close to whales such as playful minke, as well as see abundant sea birds, dolphin and harbor porpoise. Whales are seen on more than 95% of summer tours, often surfacing within a few meters from the boats. To ensure that the animals are not disturbed, boats sail at a constant speed towards the whales' habitat. This is part of a sustainability policy, trying to minimize oil use and pollution. Guides have all gone through an extensive training program, based on exclusively developed guiding principles. They will provide valuable information about the wildlife and scenery in an entertaining way. And as a successful whale watching tour is a team effort, the crew work closely with passengers to spot the whales, helping you feel an important part of the experience.

Visit the largest exhibition of its kind in Europe at the Whales of Iceland Exhibition, and see 23 life-size models of whales spotted in the waters in and around Iceland. Spend a few hours gaining a new perspective and greater appreciation for these majestic animals. Take a leisurely 20-minute walk (or a short drive) from the heart of Reykjavík to the harbor. Upon arrival at the Whales of Iceland Exhibition, play with interactive displays and read detailed information about 23 species of aquatic mammals. Marvel at the leviathan of the sea at a display of a blue whale that stretches nearly the length of a basketball court. Learn more about the narwhal, the “Unicorn of the Sea” and see the “horn” or “tusk” that is actually an elongated tooth. Stroll among the displays of beluga, humpback, minke, and killer whales.  Absorb in-depth information about the marine mammals around Iceland with an audio guide. Visit the Fin Whale Room to learn more about the threats that whales face and what we can do to resolve them. Be sure to watch a screening of the film Sonic Sea, shown daily at 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM. All ticket holders are welcome to join the daily guided tours in English at 10:30 AM and 2:00 PM. On your way out, stop by the Whale Cafe for a drink and a snack beneath the whales.

Join a whale watching tour for an unforgettable experience in Iceland. Climb aboard a modern boat and head to the whale watching grounds in just 20-30 minutes. Glide at high cruising speed, making it great fun for the adventurous. Embark on your whale watching tour via express boats, which are fast and equipped with the latest technology. Cruise in comfort with amenities both inside the cabin and out on deck during your time at sea. Reach the whale watching grounds in record time and keep your eyes peeled as you sail. Waste no time on your visit to Iceland.

Sail from Reykjavík's Old Harbor for a fantastic and unique experience chasing the famous northern lights. Your expert guide will explain the scientific facts about this amazing natural phenomenon, share stories and myths about the lights and answer all your questions. Please note that it's never guaranteed the lights will show up during the tour.  Here's the bonus: In the event that the tour must be postponed because of cloud cover, you won't be let down. Another activity awaits you. You'll head to the Whales of Iceland Exhibition in Grandi, just minutes away from the harbor, where a guide will greet you for a tour of the exhibit. You'll see full-sized whale models and try out fun and interactive technology. After touring the exhibit, including a fascinating 25 minute video, you'll end the night with a drink on the house and a complimentary ticket to try the Northern Lights Boat Tour again at the next available date. Please note that this tour is non-refundable, as an adventure is guaranteed regardless of weather conditions.