Tours & experiences

The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik

About this experience

Encounter whales, dolphins, porpoises and birds on this cruise from Reykjavik and see the wildlife in their natural habitat off the capital’s coast. Whales and dolphins are seen on more than 90% of tours in both summer and winter! In the unlikely event you do not see a whale or a dolphin you receive a complimentary ticket to join us again another day.

Elding is an environmentally friendly company and recognised worldwide for its sustainability efforts. Our aim, mission and goal is to minimise the operational impact on the environment while offering an unforgettable experience at sea.

We follow a code of conduct for responsible whale watching, which ensures that our tours respect marine life by minimising disturbance, keeping a safe distance from the animals.

At a glance

  • Duration: 3 hr

Choose your tour option

Select a date and travellers to compare current prices and departure times.

Classic Whale Watching
Duration: 3 hours: Total duration of the tour is approx. 2-3,5 hours, depending on factors such as wildlife sightings and weather conditions.
Refreshments: Light refreshments and beverages are available for purchase on board.
Whale Watching Zone: We sail from Reykjavík's Old Harbour and our search area is Faxaflói bay. On rare occasions, we depart from other harbours.
Boat Amenities: We operate on a specially modified 150-200 passenger boat. Heated indoor areas, toilets and bar available on board.
Dress Code: Please make sure to dress according to the weather at sea. If needed, we have overalls you can borrow for free.

Plan your experience

Time on the tour3 hr
Guide languagesEnglish (live guide)

Set aside 3 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Before you go

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Wheelchair users are welcome to bring a light-weight chair on board our larger boats. If possible, please notify us of your arrival in advance, as assistance with boarding may be required.

What is included

  • Free WiFi on board
  • Excellent live guide
  • Overalls, raincoats and blankets
  • Admission to Wildlife Exhibition

Not included

  • Food and drinks
  • Gratuities
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Itinerary and highlights

Enjoy a 2-3,5 hr. cruise in Faxaflói bay in search for whales and other wildlife. Stunning views on the horizon and excellent onboard services provided. Feel free to borrow our overalls to stay warm on the outside deck.

Most common whales we encounter are humpback whales and minke whales, although other species make their way into the bay a handful of times a year. If no whales or dolphins make an appearance on the tour, we will offer you to try again another day, free of charge!

See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.

Meeting and pickup information

  • Meet us in the ELDING ticket office located at Ægisgarður 5c by the Old Harbour district in Reykjavík. Once at the pier, simply follow the red colour to find us! Be sure to arrive at least 15 min. before departure to ensure enough time to check in and to board the boat.

Languages and tickets

  • English — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Elding Whale Watching

Accessibility and practical details

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Passengers with limited mobility are warmly welcome. However, please note that our boats are not fully accessible, as steep stairs and high thresholds may limit access to inside areas and toilet facilities.
  • Wheelchair users are welcome to bring a light-weight chair on board our larger boats. If possible, please notify us of your arrival in advance, as assistance with boarding may be required.
  • If conditions in Reykjavík are unfavourable, the tour may either be cancelled or depart from an alternative harbour, which could extend the duration by 1-2 hours.
  • No whales or dolphins spotted on your tour? Join us again another day for FREE!

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 3 hr.
Which guide languages are listed?
English (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Child tickets: age 7–15; Adult tickets: age 16+; Senior tickets: age 67+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What accessibility information is provided?
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Passengers with limited mobility are warmly welcome. However, please note that our boats are not fully accessible, as steep stairs and high thresholds may limit access to inside areas and toilet facilities.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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