Are you keen to book a whale watching trip during your stay in Reykjavik? We’ll explain why the Icelandic capital is a prime location for whale watching, tell you a little about the types of whales commonly seen and advise you about the best times of year for sightings. If as a traveller you’re not sure what to expect during a whale watching excursion, this guide should come in useful.

The Difference Between Toothed and Baleen Whales

Firstly, before you book your whale watching tour from Reykjavik let’s give you a bit of background about what you are here to see. Broadly speaking, whales – in Icelandic waters or elsewhere – fall into two categories: toothed and baleen. So what’s the difference between the two?

• Toothed whales are able to consume fish and other sea creatures. They typically move around in groups or pods and are much less likely to be seen on their own. A few examples of cetaceans with teeth include pilot whales, sperm whales, orcas, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises.

• In contrast, baleen whales feed by sieving enormous quantities of plankton and krill through plates covered with fine hairs that give them their name. To maximise their meal, they’ll often tilt sideways to allow more into their mouth. Whales that feed like this include minke whales, humpback whales, blue whales and fin whales.

Which Species of Whales Are You Most Likely to See near Reykjavík?

On a boat trip departing from Reykjavik, the odds are pretty good that you’ll see at least one whale. The Icelandic Institute of Natural History is a leading authority on such matters and has recorded 23 species of whales, dolphins and porpoises close to the Icelandic coast. However, it’s more likely that you’ll encounter some species compared to others.

If you have booked a whale watching tour out of Reykjavik, you’ve a good chance of seeing minke whales and humpback whales. They often hang around in Faxaflói Bay. White-beaked dolphins are another regular visitor to Icelandic waters.

There’s a slim chance you might see an orca, but this is relatively rare compared to the more frequent sightings recorded off the Snaefellsnes peninsula. But Iceland’s marine life is abundant, so it’s a great place to head out on the water regardless.

Humpback whales

Humpback whales are the show-offs of the whale community. As they rise out of the ocean, lifting their fluke (tail) and slapping it down into the water, you’ll see a black and white underbelly which contrasts with their dark back. Such acrobatics delight onlookers and this, coupled with how often they’re spotted, makes them a crowd-pleaser.

Minke whales

Minke whales are present in significant numbers in Icelandic waters. They’re also curious creatures, coming close to whale watching vessels to find out what’s going on. It’s quite straightforward to work out whether what you’re looking at is a minke whale or not as they have a white band on their flippers and a ridge along their back.

Orcas

Orcas aren’t seen as often but when you do catch a glimpse, they’re unmistakable thanks to their distinctive black and white colouring. Also known as killer whales, they spend more time at the surface than some whale species and are good swimmers. They travel in groups, so if you spot one keep your eyes peeled as there are likely to be others nearby.

White-beaked dolphins

These cetaceans have dark bodies but a lighter underside and of course, a white beak. They prefer to stick to relatively cold but shallow waters, which makes them a common visitor to Icelandic shores. You’ll typically spot them in groups of five to ten. Further out, they tend to congregate in larger numbers.

Harbour porpoises

As their name suggests, this is another species that likes to be near land. They’re tiny in comparison to other whales that you might spot, measuring less than 2 metres long when fully mature. As harbour porpoises tend to be quite shy, this makes them tricky to spot, so you may need to rely on your guide to point them out. Photo: animalia.bio

Fin whales

Fin whales are only occasionally seen by visitors on whale watching tours from Reykjavik but you’d have the best odds in summer. They are the second largest species after blue whales and usually measure between 18 and 27 metres long. Blue whales and sperm whales are also found in Icelandic waters but sightings are similarly rare. Photo: animalia.bio

When Is the Best Time of Year To Spot Whales on a Tour From Reykjavik?

Is timing important? Yes and no – some whales remain in Icelandic waters year-round while others migrate. The reason for this is simple: cold water tends to be best for feeding, while warmer temperatures are preferable for breeding grounds.

But even largely migratory species such as humpback whales don’t always remain in one place. Juveniles that aren’t yet old enough to mate or those of advanced age might choose to stay put in Icelandic waters year-round.

Nevertheless, the chances of seeing some whale species can vary according to the time of year. Typically, it used to be the case that there were more whale sightings on summer tours because the water temperature was warmer. You might prefer to book your whale watching tour at this time of year as the longer hours of daylight offer more flexibility as regards sailing times and the sea tends to be calmer.

However, weather permitting, any time is whale watching season in Iceland. Tour boats depart from Reykjavik year-round , and the majority of boats that go out return with satisfied customers. There was a 100% success rate during the 2023/2024 winter whale watching season.

One factor that comes into play in winter is the reduction in other marine traffic (such as cruise ships) which creates a more peaceful environment for the whales and perhaps entices them to stay put.

Best time to visit Iceland

With its serene snow-covered landscapes in winter and its long days in the summer, Iceland is a great place to visit at any time of year. The best time to come is down to you and will depend on what it is you want to get up to.

Find out more about when to visit—solo or with loved ones—in our guide to the best time to visit Iceland.

Why Is Reykjavik a Good Place To Go Whale Watching?

There are a number of reasons why Reykjavik is a good choice if you’re keen to go whale watching.

• Firstly, the area’s geography helps. The ocean currents that flow in to Faxaflói Bay ensure there’s enough food – and thus plenty of whales. Meanwhile, abundant daylight in summer maintains healthy populations of plankton and krill. The magnificent surrounding landscape – a backdrop of mountains and of course Reykjavik itself – is another huge plus.
• Secondly, convenience is a big factor. Tours depart year-round at regular intervals, so it’s easy to slot a whale watching tour into your itinerary, even if you only plan to be in Reykjavik for a day or two. The season lasts for 12 months, making this an option even for winter visitors to Iceland.
• Thirdly, sometimes trips have to be cancelled because of bad weather – this is Iceland after all and safety must always be a priority. When you book a tour, do so early in your stay so that you’ll have the opportunity to reschedule it for when the weather improves. But there are plenty of land-based Reykjavik attractions to keep you amused in the meantime, making this a smart choice for a base.
  
  

How to Prepare For a Reykjavik Whale Watching Tour

Your tour operator will take care of the warm outer gear, but even in summer it can get cold out on the water so dress in layers that will help keep you snug. Don’t forget your extremities and make sure you have a hat – one that won’t blow off your head – and good gloves. Shoes or boots with a decent grip are also essential as boat decks can become wet and slippery.

Though your onboard guide will offer an interesting commentary, you might want to read up on whales before you embark on your whale watching adventure. Consider a visit to the Whales of Iceland museum in Reykjavik harbour before or after your tour to learn more about cetaceans and the issues that impact their survival.

What to Expect When Whale Watching in Reykjavík

A whale watching tour typically lasts around 3 hours but you’ll need to arrive a little early to fill out the paperwork. Once everyone in the group has pulled on their gear, then you’ll board the boat from the pontoon or harbour. Onboard, you’ll be given a safety briefing and then you’ll depart the harbour.

The tour operator will have a good idea where whales have been most recently spotted and it’s likely you’ll head there first. Ethical whale watching companies sign up to IceWhale’s code of conduct . This prohibits boats from speeding near whales, getting too close, spending too long beside them and not congregating in large numbers near a single whale or pod.

The crew will adhere to these regulations for the whales’ welfare. So you should expect the boat to move away after a time, even if whales are still present. However before doing so, it’s usually possible for boats to loop round so that no matter what side of the vessel you’re on, you’ll still have an unimpeded view.

Periodically, your guide will point out a whale and make sure everyone on board has seen it. You can keep a look out too: an unusual number of birds feeding from the water might indicate a whale is coming to take advantage of their meal. Also, the telltale sign of a blow – not to be confused with the white tips of the waves – can precede a humpback’s fluke being swished up out of the water. Make sure you’re ready with your camera!

The best tours in Iceland

There’s so much to discover on your visit to Iceland—and it’s not all on the south coast. With cultural sights in the capital of Reykjavik to spa visits and wildlife tours, a trip to Iceland promises an action-packed experience.

For example, take a trip to one of Iceland’s most relaxing spa locations. The Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s most famous, offers the opportunity to dip in the milky waters known for their therapeutic benefit. Alternatively, there’s the Sky Lagoon, with its immense views over the Atlantic.

Of course, if you’re coming in winter, don’t miss a trip to see the northern lights. This dancing display in the night sky is truly an unforgettable experience.

Find out more in our guide to the best tours in Iceland.

The Whales of Iceland Museum in Reykjavík

Dive into the underwater world of the North Atlantic with life-sized models of whales and a fascinating tribute to the gentle giants of the sea that grace the waters surrounding Iceland. You are transported into an underwater realm as you enter the Whales of Iceland museum. The sounds of the ocean fill the air, and the lighting is dimmed to mimic the aquatic environment where these magnificent marine mammals reside.

The museum is home to 23 life-sized models of various whale species, including the awe-inspiring blue whale, the acrobatic humpback, the elusive minke, and the majestic sperm whale. These models are meticulously crafted to replicate every detail of the whales, from their textured skin to their colossal size. Each model is accompanied by informative displays that provide insight into the different species’ biology, behaviour, and conservation status.

The Whales of Iceland museum is not just about displaying models; it’s dedicated to educating the public about the importance of whale conservation. The museum addresses the threats that whales face, such as climate change, pollution, and commercial whaling. Through its conservation message, the museum advocates for protecting these animals and their habitats, encouraging visitors to become part of the solution to preserving the marine ecosystem.

Questions and Answers about whale watching Reykjavík

What types of whales can I expect to see during a whale watching tour in Reykjavík? While there are 23 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises recorded near the Icelandic coast, common sightings on Reykjavík tours include minke whales, humpback whales, and white-beaked dolphins. Orcas and fin whales are less frequently seen but also present.

What is the best time of year to go whale watching in Reykjavík? Whale watching is possible year-round in Reykjavík, but summer may offer more frequent sightings due to warmer water temperatures and longer daylight hours. Winter tours also have high success rates and less marine traffic, providing a peaceful environment for whales.

Why is Reykjavík considered a prime location for whale watching? Reykjavík's advantageous geographic location, regular food supply from ocean currents in Faxaflói Bay, and year-round tour availability make it an ideal spot for whale watching. The city's backdrop of mountains and its own urban charm enhance the experience.

How should I prepare for a whale watching tour? Dress in layers to stay warm, even in summer, and wear a hat, gloves, and shoes with good grip. Reading up on whales or visiting the Whales of Iceland museum can enrich your experience. Tours usually provide warm outer gear.

What should I expect during the tour? Tours typically last around 3 hours and start with a safety briefing. Ethical guidelines are followed to ensure the whales' welfare, including speed limits near whales and restrictions on how close boats can get. Your guide will help spot whales and ensure all passengers get a good view.

How likely is it to see whales in Iceland? The likelihood of seeing whales in Iceland is very high, with near 100% success rates during some seasons. The abundant marine life in Icelandic waters makes sightings common.

What month is best for whale watching in Iceland? July and August are often considered the best months for whale watching due to optimal weather conditions and the presence of many whale species feeding in the nutrient-rich waters.

Is whale watching better in Reykjavík or Akureyri? Both locations offer great whale watching opportunities. Reykjavík is convenient and accessible, while Akureyri, located in the north, is close to deeper waters where large whales are often spotted, possibly offering a different variety of sightings.

Is whale watching better in the morning or afternoon in Iceland? Both times of day can be productive, but mornings are often preferred for their typically calmer sea conditions and less crowded tours.