Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise Reykjavik Faxaflói Bay Old Harbor

You might spot a whale in the first ten minutes, or you might not see one all day

You board a comfortable yacht in Reykjavik's Old Harbor and sail into Faxafloi Bay in search of whales, dolphins, and seasonal puffins. A knowledgeable guide shares facts about the marine life and Icelandic coastline while you stay warm under provided blankets and enjoy unobstructed views from the observation deck. If wildlife doesn't show, you get a free return ticket: no second-guessing whether you should have gone.

Step-by-step itinerary

Whale and dolphin watching cruise

• Depart from Reykjavik Old Harbor
• Sail to Faxafloi Bay
• Watch for whales and dolphins
• Spot puffins (summer only)
• Enjoy scenic coastline views
• Learn from onboard wildlife guides
• Relax with warm blankets
• Use onboard Wi-Fi to share photos

The experience

The boat leaves Reykjavik Old Harbor and heads into Faxafloi Bay, where the water gets darker and the city noise drops away. You're standing on deck or tucked inside the salon with a warm blanket, depending on how brave you're feeling about the Icelandic wind. The yacht (either Harpa or Amelia Rose, both family-run by Harpa Yachts for decades) is built for this: cozy interiors, a bar, outdoor areas, and a flydeck if you want the unobstructed view. The guide is already scanning the water, pointing out where whales tend to surface, what to listen for, how to tell a minke from a humpback if one shows up.

The thing about whale watching in Reykjavik is that it's honest. You might see them. You might see dolphins instead, or just the bay itself: the mountains, the islands, the light hitting the water in that particular Icelandic way. In summer, puffins show up from mid-May to mid-August, and that alone is worth the trip if you've never seen one. The crew keeps you warm, the WiFi works so you can send photos as they happen, and if the day is a complete blank, no sightings at all, you get a free ticket to come back and try again. That's the deal Harpa Yachts makes, and it takes the sting out of a quiet morning on the water.

The cruise runs 2 to 3 hours depending on conditions and what the guides spot. You're not hiking, not climbing, not doing anything that requires special fitness. Just being on a boat in the bay, watching. The harbor is downtown, easy to reach by public transport or on foot if you're staying nearby. Bring layers, even if the forecast looks mild. The wind off the water is real.

What’s included

• Departure from Reykjavik Old Harbor on Harpa or Amelia Rose yacht.
• onboard guide with wildlife and marine life insights.
• warm blankets.
• free WiFi.
• observation deck and flydeck access.
• complimentary return ticket if no sightings occur.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:15 and 13:15

AgesAdult (16 and older) · Youth (7 to 15 years) · Child (under 7)

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.Operator's directions: “Please check in 30 minutes before departure at the Old Harbour House, Aegisgardur 2, 101 Reykjavík: https://maps.app.goo.gl/AsnpWDwABGmCn5Vt7”

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Easy physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Harpa Yachts

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to see Icelandic marine life without arranging transport or timing yourself. The yacht handles the navigation and the guides know where to look, which is what makes a 2-hour morning into something you'll remember.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (7 to 15 years); Child (under 7).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

What whales and dolphins are typically seen on this cruise?

Minke whales, humpback whales, and white-beaked dolphins are common in Faxafloi Bay. Sightings vary by season and water conditions. Puffins appear from mid-May to mid-August.

How long is the whale watching cruise?

The cruise lasts 2 to 3 hours, depending on wildlife activity and sea conditions.

What happens if we don't see any whales or dolphins?

If there are no sightings, you receive a complimentary ticket to try again free of charge on a future departure.

Is the yacht heated and comfortable?

Yes. Both Harpa and Amelia Rose have cozy interiors, lounges, bars, and salons. Warm blankets are provided, and there's an outdoor observation deck and flydeck for viewing.

Can I use my phone or camera on the boat?

Yes. Free WiFi is available onboard so you can share photos and stay connected during the cruise.

Do I need to be fit or have experience to join?

No. The cruise is suitable for all physical fitness levels. You're on a boat, not hiking or climbing.

Where does the boat depart from?

The cruise departs from Reykjavik Old Harbor, which is downtown and accessible by public transport.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed onboard.