Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour with Express Option

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and looking for a way to connect with Iceland’s incredible marine life, the Whale Watching Tour with the Express Option from Reykjavik Sailors offers a streamlined, exciting experience. Designed for travelers short on time but eager to see majestic whales and playful dolphins, this 2.5-hour cruise combines comfort, efficiency, and a good dose of nature’s spectacle.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances speed and substance. The Express route gets you quickly into Faxaflói Bay, meaning more time for sightings rather than sitting on the water. Plus, the boat’s modern design and onboard amenities make the journey comfortable even if the weather isn’t perfect. One possible consideration is that it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility issues, as it’s not wheelchair accessible. This tour is ideal for those who want a quick, value-packed marine adventure nestled into a tight travel schedule—perfect for a Reykjavik city stop or a day packed with other activities.

Key Points

• Fast access to the whale-watching zone means more time with marine life.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with insights into local ecosystems.
• The tour offers comfort features like heated indoor cabins, WiFi, and flotation overalls.
• Second-tour tickets are included if no whales are spotted on your first attempt, adding peace of mind.
• The price around $98 offers good value for a memorable, short marine experience.
• Suitable for travelers with limited time looking for an efficient, memorable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Whale Watching Tour?

The Reykjavik Whale Watching Tour with the Express option is a smart pick for anyone wanting a quick but meaningful Icelandic nature encounter. It’s particularly appealing if your schedule is tight but you don’t want to miss out on seeing whales, dolphins, and other sea creatures in their natural environment. The tour’s duration of 2 to 2.5 hours is perfect for fitting into a morning or afternoon, and the departure point at Geirsgata 11 makes it easy to access right from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour.

The emphasis on speed is a big advantage here. Instead of spending an hour or more just traveling to the whale hotspots, this tour’s high-speed vessel gets you to the action within 15-20 minutes. This means more time watching whales and dolphins, which is always the main event.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting at the Geirsgata 11 ticket office, you’ll meet your crew about half an hour before departure. The boat departs from Reykjavik’s historic Old Harbour, a lively spot full of maritime charm. Once onboard, the vessel cruises into Faxaflói Bay, a scenic body of water known for its rich marine life.

The highlight is, of course, the chance to see whales in their natural habitat. The tour is led by professional guides and marine biologists, who provide insights into the creatures you’re observing, from the gentle giants like humpbacks to the playful dolphins. Several reviews mention how knowledgeable and enthusiastic the guides are, making the experience both fun and educational.

The boat itself is designed for wildlife observation, with large windows and an open deck for optimal viewing. Passengers are encouraged to dress warmly—especially since Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable—and are provided with warm flotation overalls, which many travelers find handy. The heated indoor cabins with toilets and free WiFi offer a cozy spot to relax if the wind picks up or the seas get choppy.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, giving you a quick but comprehensive glimpse into Iceland’s marine world. Even if no whales are seen on your first trip, the tour includes a complimentary ticket for a second attempt, offering another shot at the sightings without extra cost.

What’s Included and What to Consider

Included in the ticket price are the whale-watching tour itself, expert guides, warm flotation suits, WiFi, and access to heated indoor cabins. These amenities enhance comfort, especially on cooler days, and the second tour ticket ensures that you won’t leave disappointed if sightings are sparse.

On the downside, snacks and beverages are not included but are available for purchase onboard. It’s worth bringing some water or snacks if you’re hungry, but the focus is on the experience rather than food.

The tour’s cost of $98 per person reflects good value when considering the duration, amenities, and the chance to see majestic whales and dolphins. Many reviews note the stunning views and how the quick ride into the bay maximizes viewing time.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly: Iceland’s weather can be chilly, even in summer, so layers, hats, and waterproof gear are essential.
• Bring a waterproof camera: To capture the marine life, especially in case of splashes or rain.
• Arrive early: Meet at the Geirsgata 11 ticket office about 30 minutes before departure to avoid missing your boat.
• Check for updates: The tour operates weather-dependently, so it’s wise to verify status on the provider’s homepage in the Daily Diary.
• Not wheelchair accessible: If mobility is an issue, this might not be the best option.

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Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the stunning views and the good value for such a short tour. One traveler noted, “We loved the way the boat was modern and comfortable, and the guides made the experience really engaging.” Others appreciated the speedy trip: “Getting quickly into the bay meant more time for sightings, and we saw quite a few whales and dolphins.”

Some travelers mentioned the seasickness tablets provided onboard, which can be a lifesaver for sensitive stomachs. The availability of free WiFi is a bonus for sharing your photos or checking messages while on the water.

For those visiting Reykjavik with a limited schedule but a desire to witness Iceland’s marine life, the Whale Watching Tour with the Express Option stands out as a practical choice. It’s tailored for efficient, comfortable, and memorable encounters, offering great value for the money. The emphasis on quick access to the whale habitat, combined with onboard amenities and expert guides, makes this tour a reliable and enjoyable option for travelers of all ages.

If you’re eager to see whales but don’t want to spend hours on the water, this tour is an excellent way to tick that box while still enjoying the scenic beauty of Faxaflói Bay. It’s especially well-suited to first-time visitors or those with tight travel plans who still want a genuine, authentic marine experience.

In short, this tour offers a perfect balance of speed, comfort, and the chance to see some of Iceland’s most captivating marine creatures—making it a smart, worthwhile addition to any Reykjavik itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the whale watching tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, giving you a quick yet immersive experience.

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
No, this vessel is not wheelchair accessible. If mobility is a concern, you might want to explore other options.

What’s the departure point?
The tour departs from Geirsgata 11, at Reykjavik’s Old Harbour pier, about 30 minutes before scheduled departure.

Does the tour include any amenities?
Yes, you’ll enjoy heated indoor cabins, WiFi, flotation overalls, and toilets onboard. Free seasickness tablets are also available.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and waterproof camera are recommended for the trip.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexible planning.

What if no whales are seen?
The ticket includes a complimentary second tour if no sightings occur on your first trip.

Is food available onboard?
Snacks and beverages are not included but can be purchased during the cruise.

This thoughtful, practical approach ensures you’ll maximize your time and enjoyment on this efficient Icelandic marine adventure, perfect for those wanting a quick glimpse of the majestic creatures that populate Faxaflói Bay.

You can check availability for your dates here: