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Reykjavík Whales & Viðey Island

(3)
Reykjavík, Iceland
Adventure ToursTransfersWhale Watching
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About this activity

Combine Reykjavík's two iconic experiences in one seamless 7-hour adventure: a morning whale and seabird watching expedition in Faxaflói bay, followed by an afternoon exploring the peaceful, art-filled Viðey Island. This pairing maximizes time on the water and includes access to Iceland's oldest stone house, coastal walks, and world-class public art.

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 (10:00 departure)
You start the day at the Old Harbour to join the whale watching tour starting at 10:00. After exploring the wonders of the whales and seabirds Faxaflói offers you return to the harbour around 13:00. 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.

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

Highlights

  • Whale and seabird watching in Faxaflói bay with expert naturalist guides
  • Viðey Island's Yoko Ono Imagine Peace Tower and Richard Serra's Áfangar sculpture
  • Iceland's first stone house (Viðeyjarfélagið) dating back centuries
  • Scenic walking trails and pebble beaches along the island's shoreline
  • Refreshments at Viðeyjarstofa café (summer season, 11:00–18:00)

Insider tips

  • Book the 09:00 whale tour (EL-10a) for maximum island time; the 10:00 option (EL-10c) gives you 2.5 hours on Viðey instead of 3.5 hours
  • Wear waterproof layers on the boat—spray is common even on calm days; bring binoculars for close-up whale spotting
  • Arrive 15 minutes early at Old Harbour (whale dock is steps from the Viðey ferry terminal, minimizing walk time between tours)

Good to know

  • 7-hour total duration includes ~3 hours boat time and ~2.5–3.5 hours on Viðey Island; 2+ hours buffer in Reykjavík Old Harbour between tours
  • Ferry departure fixed at 14:50 (both tour options)—plan island time accordingly; ferry return times not specified
  • Wear warm, windproof jacket, waterproof trousers, sturdy walking shoes, and bring seasickness medication if prone
  • No specific accessibility notes provided; contact supplier for mobility requirements on boat and island trails

Who it's for

Wildlife photographers and marine biologistsArt and cultural enthusiasts interested in contemporary public sculptureFamilies seeking a nature-based, manageable full-day itinerarySolo travellers wanting guided discovery plus independent exploration time

Best time to visit

May–October offers peak whale sightings (mainly minke and humpback whales) and reliable ferry schedules. Visit on calm, clear mornings for the smoothest boat ride and best photography conditions on the island.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€120
per person