Reykjavik: Speedboat Whale Watching Tour Small Group Seats

Summary

Whale watching by speedboat in reykjavik’s wild bay with local stories

You’ll zip across Faxaflói Bay in Reykjavik on a small-group speedboat tour, bundled in warm gear as your local guide shares stories about whales and puffins. Spot humpbacks or minkes up close (if you’re lucky), feel the wind and salt spray, and catch those quiet moments when it’s just you and Iceland’s wild sea.

What’s the experience like?

We were still fumbling with our lifejackets when our guide, Jón, grinned and asked if anyone had ever seen a minke whale up close. I shook my head — honestly, I’d barely seen a seagull that morning through the Reykjavik drizzle. The boat was smaller than I pictured, just twelve of us bundled up in these thick waterproof suits, goggles pressing against my cheeks. Someone cracked a joke about looking like astronauts. Jón laughed and said, “Well, you’re going to another world.”

The speedboat tore out into Faxaflói Bay so fast my teeth rattled (in a good way). Wind slapped my face but the suit kept me warm — I could smell the sea, sharp and clean. We slowed near a flock of puffins bobbing on the water, their beaks bright even under gray clouds. Jón pointed out distant spray: “That’s probably a humpback.” We all squinted; someone gasped when a fin broke the surface. It wasn’t graceful or cinematic — more like suddenly realizing you’re not alone out here. I tried to take a photo but fumbled with my gloves and just watched instead.

There was this weird hush after the engine cut, just seabirds calling and everyone holding their breath for another glimpse. Jón told us about how locals read weather by watching the birds’ flight — he said Icelanders trust them more than forecasts sometimes. I liked that detail; it stuck with me for some reason. When we finally turned back toward Reykjavik, city lights looked small behind us and I felt oddly lucky to have been out there, even if my hair smelled like salt for hours after.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching tour in Reykjavik

• Board speedboat in Reykjavik
• Enjoy two-hour whale watching
• Spot whales, dolphins, and seals
• Observe sea birds including puffins
• Listen to guide's wildlife information

Top questions

How long is the Reykjavik speedboat whale watching tour?

The tour lasts up to 2 hours from departure to return.

Is whale watching from Reykjavik suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels except for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

What wildlife can I see during this whale watching tour?

You may see whales (like minke or humpback), dolphins, seals, puffins, and other seabirds in Faxaflói Bay.

Are waterproof suits provided on the Reykjavik speedboat tour?

Yes, warm waterproof overalls, gloves, goggles, and lifejackets are included for all guests.

How many people are on each speedboat during the tour?

The boat holds up to 12 guests per guide for an intimate small group experience.

Is pickup included for this whale watching tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

Can children join this Reykjavik whale watching trip?

A minimum of one adult per booking is required; age suitability isn’t specified but check before booking if traveling with kids.

What’s included

Your outing includes up to two hours on a 12-seat luxury RIB speedboat from Reykjavik with full English guidance about whales and wildlife in Faxaflói Bay; you’ll get a lifejacket plus warm waterproof overall, gloves and goggles so you stay dry even if it gets splashy out there.