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Reykjavík Classic Whales in the Midnight Sun

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Reykjavík, Iceland
Whale WatchingSightseeing ToursAdventure ToursBirdwatchingCity Breaks
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About this activity

Witness Iceland's marine giants under the ethereal midnight sun on a 3-hour evening cruise departing from Reykjavík's Old Harbour. This rare summer experience combines whale watching with the surreal Arctic daylight, creating unforgettable views of minke whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and porpoises against golden-hour mountain backdrops.

A truly unique whale watching experience in the magical summer sun and the everlasting daylight.

Available:
15 June - 31 July at 20:30
1 August - 31 August at 19:30

Meet us at our ticket office in the Old Harbour in downtown Reykjavík where you will exchange your pre-paid voucher for admission tickets. Our sales staff will show you to our floating wildlife exhibition in our Visitor Centre which is facilitated on board a converted fishing vessel permanently placed by the pier. Before the tour you can enjoy the onboard multimedia show that includes images, videos and facts about the whales and marine life. We can expect to see minke whales, white beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises and even humpback whales on the 2,5-3,5 hr. evening cruise - just as on our day tours!

The mystical midnight sun often casts a beautiful orange and pink glow to the mountains surrounding the bay and together with the wildlife it provides quite a unique experience. To make the tour even more enjoyable, we often shut off the boat engines to enjoy the soothing sound of the water and the whales and the birds to the fullest. With the added feature of mellow music played on the way back to port, the tour is ideal for some romance or as a start of a night out in the city. If you're in the mood for some drinks, have a look at our onboard bar menu - we recommend the 'Whale Punch'!

Since this is a wildlife tour, we urge you to manage your expectations and keep in mind that we can never predict or guarantee sightings of any kind. In case we don't encounter any whales or dolphins, we do not offer refunds, but instead give out complimentary tickets so you have the opportunity try again another day.

As the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, we advise you to plan ahead and dress accordingly. In case of unfavourable conditions in the bay, the itinerary may be altered (often resulting in a slightly longer tour) or the tour could get cancelled altogether. You will be notified of any changes as soon as possible, but we suggest that you have a look at our online whale diary to check for updates.

Highlights

  • ✓View minke whales, humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbour porpoises
  • ✓Experience the mystical midnight sun with orange and pink alpine glow
  • ✓Onboard multimedia exhibition and pre-tour wildlife briefing on converted fishing vessel
  • ✓Engine shut-offs to hear natural whale songs and seabird calls
  • ✓Onboard bar with signature 'Whale Punch' and ambient music on return journey

Insider tips

  • ★Book the 20:30 departure (June–mid-July) for the most dramatic midnight sun colours; later sailings in August depart at 19:30
  • ★Arrive early to explore the floating Visitor Centre exhibition before departure—it enriches your understanding of what you'll see
  • ★Bring layers and waterproof outerwear; summer temperatures are mild but sea spray and wind can cool you quickly
  • ★Position yourself on deck during engine shut-downs for the best chance of hearing whale calls and spotting

Good to know

  • •Duration: 2.5–3.5 hours; meets at Old Harbour ticket office to exchange vouchers for admission
  • •Seasickness-prone visitors should take precautions—vessel operates year-round in open waters
  • •Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed; manage expectations as marine mammal behaviour is unpredictable
  • •Onboard bar available; comfortable seating and indoor shelter provided on the converted fishing vessel
  • •Tour operates 15 June–31 August only; limited to summer midnight sun season

Who it's for

Couples seeking romantic Arctic experiences with natural beauty and seclusionWildlife enthusiasts eager to see whales and marine birds in unique lighting conditionsPhotography-focused travellers wanting golden-hour landscape and wildlife shotsAdventure seekers combining city breaks with immersive nature encounters

Best time to visit

Book June–mid-July for peak midnight sun intensity and warmest conditions, though whales are active through August. Evening departures (19:30–20:30) align with the sun's low angle for the most photogenic light.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€101
per person