What whales might I see?

Minke whales are the primary species in Faxaflói Bay. Sightings depend on season and weather; seabirds like puffins and kittiwakes are also common.

How much time do I get on Viðey Island?

Approximately 2–3 hours, depending on which whale tour time you choose (09:00 or 11:00 departure). The ferry window is fixed at 14:50 return.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, but prepare for seasickness risk on the whale-watching leg. Viðey Island is family-friendly with manageable trails and historic sites.

Waterproof jacket, layers, sturdy walking shoes, hat, and binoculars. Bring snacks if visiting outside summer (café only open May–August).

Can I skip the whale watching and just visit Viðey?

This tour bundles both activities; check with the operator about island-only ferry tickets from the Old Harbour if you prefer.

What is there to see on Viðey Island?

Historic buildings including one of Iceland's oldest stone houses (17th century), Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower, Richard Serra's 'Áfangar' sculpture, walking trails, and beaches.

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Reykjavík Whales & Viðey Island

(3)

Reykjavík, Iceland

Adventure ToursTransfersWhale Watching

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About this activity

Combine whale watching in Faxaflói Bay with a peaceful afternoon exploring Viðey Island, a historic refuge just minutes from Reykjavík's Old Harbour. This 7-hour combo lets you spot minke whales and seabirds, then wander ancient stone buildings, art installations, and coastal trails on one of Iceland's most culturally rich islands.

This tour combines the best of Reykjavík's surrounding waters. Before or after exploring the wonders of the whales and seabirds in Faxaflói it is ideal to visit Viðey Island and experience its tranquility and sense of bygone centuries.

On Viðey you can enjoy a relaxing getaway from the city life on your own in the nature, see one of the oldest houses in Reykjavík and the first one made of stone in Iceland. There are also nice walking paths and beaches along the shore as well as artworks such as Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower and Richard Serra's 'Áfangar'. Viðeyjarstofa café is open from 11:00-18:00 everyday in summer where you can enjoy refreshments before or after exploring the island..

EL-10a (09:00 departure)
You start the day at the Old Harbour to join the whale watching tour starting at 09:00. After exploring the wonders of the whales and seabirds Faxaflói offers you return to the harbour around 12:00. You have some time to explore the harbour area before catching the Viðey ferry at 14:50 just steps from where the whale watching boats dock.

EL-10c (11:00 departure)
You start the day at the Old Harbour to join the whale watching tour starting at 11:00. After exploring the wonders of the whales and seabirds Faxaflói offers you return to the harbour around 14:00. You have some time to explore the harbour area before catching the Viðey ferry at 14:50 just steps from where the whale watching boats dock.

EL-10d (11:50 departure)
You start the day by walking down to the Old Harbour in Reykjavík for the ferry departing at 11:50. After exploring the beautiful island of Viðey you head down to the ferry point to get back to the old harbour at 15:30. You have some free time to walk around before the whale watching starts at 17:00.

Note that there is no pickup available for this combo tour. We do however offer drop off service for an additional fee.

Read more about Viðey here.

Highlights

✓Whale and seabird spotting in Faxaflói Bay
✓Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower on Viðey Island
✓Richard Serra sculpture 'Áfangar' in a natural setting
✓One of Iceland's oldest stone houses (17th century)
✓Scenic walking paths and pebble beaches
✓Viðeyjarstofa café for refreshments (summer 11:00–18:00)

Insider tips

★Book the early 09:00 whale tour (EL-10a) to maximize island exploration time before the 14:50 ferry.
★Wear waterproof layers and bring binoculars—whale sightings are weather-dependent but seabirds are reliable.
★The Viðey ferry departs steps from the whale-watching dock; timing is tight, so don't linger at the harbour.
★Bring sturdy walking shoes; island paths are uneven and exposed to wind.

Good to know

•Duration includes ferry transfers; actual boat time is ~3 hours whale watching + 2–3 hours island exploration.
•Ferry runs daily in summer; check winter schedules as some tours may not operate.
•Café on Viðey operates summer only (11:00–18:00); bring snacks for other seasons.
•Old Harbour departure point is central Reykjavík; no shuttle from hotels—plan transport in advance.

Who it's for

Wildlife enthusiasts and marine biology loversArt and history buffs interested in Icelandic cultureFamilies seeking a mix of adventure and relaxationSolo travellers wanting a guided experience with free exploration time

Best time to visit

Late May through August offers the most reliable whale sightings and fully staffed facilities, including the island café. June–July provides the longest daylight for island exploration.