Whale Watching in Faxaflói Bay – Reykjavík Boat Tour

Set sail from Reykjavík's Old Harbour and venture into the rich waters of Faxaflói bay on this 3-hour whale watching cruise operated by Elding Adventure at Sea. Guided by specially trained marine biologist naturalists, you will learn about the cetaceans that inhabit Icelandic waters and the broader ecosystem that sustains them.

The bay is home to a remarkable variety of species. Expect to encounter humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbour porpoises. On fortunate departures, passengers have also spotted killer whales, fin whales, and long-finned pilot whales.

Above the water, Faxaflói is equally alive with birdlife. Puffins, northern gannets, and arctic terns wheel overhead, diving into the fish-rich bay against a backdrop of distant mountains. Live English commentary brings every sighting to life.

Elding's ongoing research confirms that whales are present in the bay throughout the year, making this a rewarding excursion in every season. Warm overalls and blankets are provided on board, and the vessel features a heated indoor saloon and large viewing windows for comfort in any weather.

Your tour begins at the Elding ticket office at Ægisgarður 5c in Reykjavík's Old Harbour, where you collect your boarding ticket. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure for check-in and boarding.

Once under way, the vessel heads into Faxaflói bay, where marine biologist naturalists scan the water and deliver live commentary on every sighting. The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, though duration may vary with conditions.

• Warm thermal overalls and blankets are available for all passengers
• A heated indoor saloon and large viewing windows provide shelter between sightings
• Complimentary WiFi is available on board
• Access to the on-board Wildlife Exhibition is included
• Crew members photograph wildlife encounters when conditions allow

This is a genuine wildlife excursion, so sightings cannot be guaranteed. If no whales or dolphins are encountered, Elding provides a complimentary ticket for a future departure at no extra charge. The tour is weather-dependent and may be altered or cancelled on short notice if bay conditions are unfavourable.

Elding Adventure at Sea is one of Iceland's most established whale watching operators, running guided tours from Reykjavík's Old Harbour year-round. Their marine biologist naturalists bring scientific depth to every departure, turning each sighting into a genuine learning experience.

• Wildlife guarantee — if no whales or dolphins appear, you receive a free return ticket
• Thermal overalls, blankets, and a heated saloon keep you comfortable in Iceland's changeable weather
• Live English commentary from qualified marine biologist naturalists
• Available in every season, with resident whale populations confirmed by ongoing research

For families, nature lovers, and first-time visitors alike, this cruise offers an authentic encounter with Icelandic marine wildlife in a responsible, research-backed setting.