Reykjavik: Whale Watching Express

If you’re heading to Reykjavik and have a limited window but still want a taste of Iceland’s marine life, the Whale Watching Express from Special Tours Iceland might be just what you’re after. This 2-hour trip promises a swift journey to the whales and other wildlife, with the added bonus of comfort and expert commentary. We’ve looked into what makes this tour stand out—and what could make you think twice—so you can decide if it’s worth your time and money.

Our favorite aspects? First, the speed. Being able to reach the whale grounds in just 20-30 minutes means less sitting around and more viewing time. Second, the knowledgeable guides make a big difference—they’re passionate about marine life and keep the trip engaging. On the flip side, a possible drawback is the weather dependency—it’s all about good sea conditions, and sometimes wildlife isn’t guaranteed. This tour suits travelers who prefer a short, energetic outing with a focus on marine wildlife and comfortable travel, especially if you’re short on time but eager for an authentic Icelandic experience.

Key Points

• Fast access to whale grounds allows more time for wildlife spotting.
• Expert guides enrich the experience with educational commentary.
• Comfortable, modern boats with amenities inside and out, plus warm overalls.
• Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed but efforts are made to maximize chances.
• Flexible booking options—reserve now, pay later, with full cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.
• Authentic experience suitable for adventurous travelers, families, and those on a schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and Experience: What to Expect

A Quick Departure from Reykjavik’s Waterfront

Your journey begins at Reykjavik’s old harbor, a lively spot just a few minutes from the city center and most hotels. Once onboard, you’ll notice the modern, fast boat, designed for both speed and stability. The vessel is equipped with the latest technology to track marine wildlife, which means your chances of spotting whales and dolphins are higher. The crew is friendly, professional, and well-versed in their safety briefings, which include handing out warm overalls and motion sickness tablets if needed—an appreciated touch on choppy days.

The Ride Out to the Whale Grounds

In just 20-30 minutes, your boat will reach the whale-watching zone. This rapid transit is a key feature of the express tour, saving you hours compared to longer, more relaxed cruises. As you cruise at high speed, you’ll enjoy the thrill of being on a powerful vessel that makes the trip quick and fun, especially for those who love a bit of adventure.

Watching Marine Life from the Decks

Once at the marine area, the real magic begins. You’ll be encouraged to stay on the outside viewing decks, where the panoramic views and fresh sea air make the experience special. The guides will share educational insights about the whales, seabirds, and other wildlife you might see—Minke whales, dolphins, puffins, and more. Several reviews mention the enthusiasm and expertise of the guides as a highlight, with one stating, “Our guide Rebecca was amazing. She was so knowledgeable and so passionate.”

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Wildlife Spotting and Photography

While sightings are not guaranteed—wildlife is unpredictable—most travelers find that the effort pays off. Reviews highlight moments like getting close to Minke whales and dolphins, and seeing puffins flying nearby. One guest noted, “We saw whales and dolphins. It was really nice, and I recommend it to everyone.” The boat’s speed and technology help improve the chances of seeing these creatures, and if no whales are spotted, you’ll receive a complimentary ticket to try again on a future trip—an excellent gesture that shows confidence in their offering.

Onboard Comfort and Amenities

The boat is described as steady and comfortable, even in windy conditions. Inside, there’s a cafe serving hot drinks and snacks, perfect for warming up after being out in the brisk sea air. Outside, you can stand on the decks, taking in the views or capturing photos of the scenery and wildlife. The warm overalls provided help keep you dry and warm, which reviewers say is especially useful on colder or choppier days, plus some bring their own gear for extra comfort.

Returning to Reykjavik

After the whale grounds, the boat heads back, typically taking about the same time it took to get out. Most trips conclude around the 2-hour mark, offering a compact and efficient experience that fits well into a busy Iceland itinerary.

A Closer Look at the Reviews

The shared experiences from travelers paint a generally positive picture. Many praise the well-organized nature of the trip and the enthusiasm of the guides. One reviewer mentioned, “They take the time, it’s pretty fresh at sea, but the good suits on board kept everyone warm,” emphasizing the importance of gear and preparation. Others appreciated the speed of the boat—noting it was fast enough to get out quickly but steady enough for comfortable viewing.

Even when wildlife spotting doesn’t go as planned, there’s a sense of fairness. Reviews highlight that the company often offers free re-tries, which demonstrates confidence and a customer-first attitude. For example, one traveler said, “First time we didn’t see whales, but they gave us a free ticket to try again, and we got lucky!”

The Guides and Crew

The guides are consistently described as knowledgeable, passionate, and entertaining. Guests particularly value the educational commentary and the personable approach. One review states, “Our guide Rebecca was amazing,” underscoring that a good guide can make the trip memorable beyond just the wildlife sightings.

The Weather and Wildlife

Weather can influence the experience significantly. Choppy seas, wind, or poor weather might limit sightings or make the ride less comfortable—something to keep in mind. Several reviews mention that good weather enhances the experience, but even on less ideal days, the professionalism of the crew and the scenic ride make it worthwhile.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the generally shorter duration and focus on speed and comfort suggest this tour is designed for travelers wanting a quick, high-quality experience without a lengthy commitment. It’s a solid value for those who want a professional, guided trip with a decent chance to see whales and dolphins, especially given that wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed but are quite common. The inclusion of warm gear and Wi-Fi adds to the convenience and comfort, making it a practical choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want a meaningful wildlife experience. It suits adventurous souls who enjoy a speedy boat ride and are comfortable with the unpredictability of wildlife sightings. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a well-organized, guided tour will find this experience rewarding. It’s also perfect for those who value comfort and safety in a marine environment and want to avoid long, drawn-out cruises.

Final Thoughts

The Reykjavik Whale Watching Express offers a well-priced, efficient way to glimpse Iceland’s marine life without spending hours at sea. Thanks to modern boats, expert guides, and a focus on quality, most travelers come away happy—even if the whales decide to stay hidden. The tour’s speedy transit maximizes your time at sea, and the educational commentary adds value beyond just whale spotting.

For those seeking a short but engaging marine adventure, this trip hits most marks. You’ll enjoy stunning scenery, up-close wildlife encounters (most of the time), and a professional crew dedicated to making your trip safe and fun. Just remember to dress warmly, keep your expectations flexible, and enjoy the ride.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with the boat reaching the whale grounds in just 20-30 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Reykjavik’s old harbor, a few minutes from the city center and most hotels.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a guide, the boat trip itself, warm overalls, and Wi-Fi onboard.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No, marine animals are wild, and sightings depend on many factors. If you don’t see whales, you get a complimentary ticket to try again.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, warm overalls are provided, but bringing sunglasses and extra layers if you’re sensitive to cold is recommended.

Is the boat safe and comfortable?
Yes, the boat is modern, steady, and equipped for safety. Many travelers comment on its comfort, even in choppy weather.

Can children join the tour?
Yes, the tour is suitable for families, and children are often well taken care of with warm gear and safety briefings.

What if the weather is bad?
The crew will decide whether to sail based on weather conditions. The tour is dependent on good weather for wildlife sightings and comfort.

In the end, the Reykjavik Whale Watching Express offers a quick, well-organized adventure perfect for travelers eager to see Iceland’s marine life without a lengthy commitment. Well worth considering if you want a safe, educational, and fun wildlife experience in the North Atlantic.

You can check availability for your dates here: