WHALE WATCHING IN ICELAND: WHAT A TOUR FROM REYKJAVIK IS LIKE AND HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
- Roman Pech
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The outlook was anything but promising. Strong winds were whipping through Reykjavík’s harbor, large waves were rolling across the sea, and the crew were already handing out seasickness tablets during check-in. At one point, we were even told that the captain was considering whether it would be safe to leave the harbor at all. In the end, however, the mooring lines were cast off, the boat departed Reykjavík, and we headed into the North Atlantic.
Three and a half hours later, we returned with one of the most unforgettable experiences of our entire trip around Iceland. We had not only seen whales in the wild—we had also captured them on video. Our whale-watching tour from Reykjavík was operated by Elding, one of Iceland's leading whale-watching companies.
Whale watching is one of Iceland's biggest attractions
Few countries offer a better chance to see the world's largest mammals in the wild than Iceland. Thanks to the cold waters of the North Atlantic and its rich feeding grounds, several species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises can be spotted around the island throughout the year.
Every year, thousands of visitors set off from Icelandic harbors on whale-watching cruises lasting several hours, all with one goal—to see a whale in its natural habitat.
What is a whale-watching tour from Reykjavík like?
Our tour began at the harbor just a short walk from downtown Reykjavík. After check-in, the crew gave a brief safety briefing and offered everyone a warm waterproof overall. Even in summer, this is highly recommended, as it is much colder out at sea than in the city.
Before boarding, passengers were also offered seasickness tablets. The wind was already strong, and the sea looked rough. Some people accepted immediately, while others declined. After just a few minutes on the water, it became obvious that the crew knew exactly why they were offering them.
The boat rocked heavily in the waves, and several passengers chose to stay inside the cabin. Others braved the wind and enjoyed the views from the outdoor decks.
The entire excursion lasted approximately three and a half hours.
What are the chances of actually seeing whales?
This is probably the question every visitor to Iceland asks.
No company can guarantee whale sightings. These animals roam freely, and their presence depends on weather conditions, the season, and the availability of food.
The good news is that success rates are generally very high. During the main season, many operators report success rates of over 90%. If no whales are spotted during the tour, it is common practice to offer another cruise free of charge or at a discounted price.
In our case, patience paid off. After some searching, we spotted the first unmistakable blow just a few dozen meters from the boat. Moments later, a massive dark back emerged from the water, and over the next several minutes we were lucky enough to watch the whales surface repeatedly.
Watching a multi-ton marine giant emerge right beside the boat is one of those moments that stays with you forever.
Discover more of Iceland in our other articles, including our complete guide to the upcoming solar eclipse in Iceland.
Which whales can you see in Iceland?
Humpback whales are often seen close to the surface.
The most common species found in Icelandic waters include::
Humpback whale – famous for its long pectoral fins and spectacular breaches.
Minke whale – the species most frequently seen on whale-watching tours.
Fin whale – the second-largest animal on Earth, most commonly seen around Iceland during summer.
Orca (killer whale) – most frequently spotted in western Iceland during winter and spring.
Beluga whales, harbour porpoises, and dolphins, which appear less regularly.
Every tour is different, and there is never any guarantee which species you will encounter.
Where can you go whale watching in Iceland?
The best-known destination is undoubtedly Húsavík in northern Iceland, often referred to as the whale-watching capital of Europe. However, tours also depart from several other harbors.
Departure Port | Tour Duration | Price (EUR) | Best Season | Most Common Species |
Reykjavík | 3–3.5 hours | €83–125 | April–October | Minke whale, humpback whale, dolphins |
Húsavík | 3 hours | €90–118 | May–September | Humpback whale, fin whale, porpoise |
Akureyri | 3 hours | €90–111 | May–September | Humpback whale |
Dalvík | 3 hours | €83–111 | May–September | Humpback whale, dolphins |
Ólafsvík | 2.5–3 hours | €90–125 | Year-round | Orcas, humpback whales |
(Prices are approximate and based on an exchange rate of around 145 ISK per €1. They may vary depending on the season and tour operator.)
What should you bring?
Although most companies provide warm insulated overalls, it is still worth dressing appropriately.
We recommend bringing:
a waterproof jacket,
a warm hat,
gloves,
sturdy footwear,
a camera or smartphone with plenty of storage space,
and, if you're prone to motion sickness, seasickness medication.
Even on sunny days, the wind out on the North Atlantic can be surprisingly cold.
Is whale watching in Iceland worth it?
If you're looking for one of the most memorable experiences Iceland has to offer, the answer is a resounding yes.
Yes, these tours are expensive. Yes, the weather can be unpredictable. And yes, nobody can promise you'll actually see whales.
But that's exactly what makes the experience so special. You're not visiting a zoo or an aquarium. You're out on the open ocean, where nature still follows its own rules.
And when a humpback whale several meters long suddenly surfaces beside your boat, sends a column of spray into the air, and slowly disappears back into the depths of the North Atlantic, you'll immediately understand why whale watching is one of Iceland's most iconic experiences.
About the Author
Iceland has fascinated me for many years. Over the course of numerous journeys across the island, I have driven tens of thousands of kilometers, experienced storms that changed travel plans within minutes, and witnessed days when choosing the right route meant discovering places that most visitors never see. I documented many of these experiences in my documentary film Island in the North.
Through this website, I share practical travel advice, up-to-date information, and firsthand experiences from the field to help others explore Iceland more safely and gain a deeper understanding of its unique landscapes and ever-changing nature.
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