If you’re visiting Reykjavík and looking for something truly unforgettable, you have to go whale watching. There’s nothing quite like seeing these incredible animals in their natural habitat. And the best part? You don’t have to travel far—Reykjavík’s Old Harbour is the perfect jumping-off point for an adventure on the open sea.

Iceland’s waters are home to a variety of whale species, and depending on the season, you might spot minke whales, humpbacks, or even the occasional orca. Seeing a humpback breach right in front of you or watching a pod of dolphins play around the boat is something you’ll never forget. It’s a mix of excitement and awe—you’ll be standing on deck, bundled up in your warmest layers, scanning the horizon for that first glimpse of a dorsal fin.

When is the best time to go whale watching?

Whale watching in Reykjavík is a year-round adventure, but the experience changes with the seasons.

Summer (April to October) is the best time to spot whales, with long daylight hours and calm seas. This is when minke whales, humpbacks, white-beaked dolphins, and harbour porpoises are most commonly seen. Lucky visitors might even catch a glimpse of orcas or blue whales during these months.

Winter (November to March) offers fewer sightings, but it’s still possible to see minke whales and white-beaked dolphins. Plus, the winter backdrop of snow-capped mountains and the chance to spot the Northern Lights makes it a magical time to be out on the water. For the best chance of seeing whales, plan your visit between June and August, when the waters are teeming with life and sightings are almost guaranteed!

How long do the tours take?

Most whale-watching tours in Reykjavík are a few hours long, and they’re led by experienced guides who know exactly where to find the action. They’ll tell you all about the different species and share fascinating facts about their behavior and migration patterns. Some tours even have indoor areas with big windows, so you can stay warm while still catching all the action.

Not every day guarantees a close-up encounter, but even if the whales are playing hard to get, you’ll still get a beautiful boat ride with epic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Plus, the companies are super respectful of the whales’ space, making sure the tours are as eco-friendly as possible.

Are there other ways to see the whales?

Now, if you want to get really up close and personal with the giants of the sea (without getting wet), you should check out the Whales of Iceland museum. It’s just a short walk from the harbor, and it’s an awesome way to learn more about these fascinating creatures. The museum is filled with life-sized models of the whales that live around Iceland’s waters—you can literally stand next to a full-size blue whale and feel just how tiny we humans really are compared to these giants.

The exhibits are super interactive and great for all ages. You’ll get a deeper look at the lives of these animals, from their feeding habits to how they communicate with each other. There’s even a soundscape that plays whale songs as you walk through the space, which makes the whole experience feel really immersive. It’s a perfect complement to a whale-watching tour, giving you the full picture of Iceland’s marine life.

Whether you’re out on the water or wandering through the museum, whale watching in Reykjavík is a must. It’s a chance to connect with nature, learn something new, and come face-to-face with some of the most awe-inspiring creatures on the planet.

So, bundle up, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure. You never know what you’ll spot just beyond the waves!