Whale Watching in Reykjavik, Iceland: Is It Worth It? Our Honest Review

Is whale watching in Reykjavík, Iceland, actually worth the money? We booked the Amelia Rose whale-watching yacht tour from Reykjavík's Old Harbour during our November 2026 trip, and despite the weather being far from ideal, we ended up having a fantastic experience.

We'd already planned to spend a night in Reykjavík before visiting the Blue Lagoon on our way home, and whale watching seemed like the perfect way to make the most of our first afternoon in Iceland.

Of course, when you're booking a wildlife experience, there are never any guarantees. You could spend three hours searching the water without seeing a single whale, and when we arrived at Reykjavík's Old Harbour in the pouring rain, I did wonder whether we'd picked the best day for it!

Thankfully, our patience was rewarded. After spotting several minke whales closer to the harbour, we travelled further out into Faxaflói Bay, where we were lucky enough to see two humpback whales surprisingly close to the yacht.

There were definitely some challenges along the way, particularly when the sea became much rougher further from shore, but the wonderful crew, comfortable yacht and incredible whale sightings made it an experience I'd happily recommend.

Here's our honest review of whale watching in Reykjavík, including the £83 per person tour price, what the Amelia Rose yacht was like, how rough the sea became, what wildlife we saw and whether I'd book the experience again.

This guide contains affiliate links. If you book through these links, Build a Break may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This review is based on our own whale-watching experience in November 2026.

Our Reykjavík Whale-Watching Tour at a Glance

The Amelia Rose whale-watching yacht tour costs approximately £83 per person, although prices can vary depending on your chosen date and availability.

You can check current prices and availability for the Amelia Rose whale-watching yacht through GetYourGuide, where eligible app bookings can also receive 5% off using our code BUILDABREAK5.

Watch Our Whale-Watching Experience in Iceland

Before I go into all the details, here's our video from the tour. You can see the yacht, the conditions out at sea and, most importantly, the incredible humpback whales we eventually spotted.

Booking Our Whale-Watching Tour in Reykjavík

When we started looking at whale-watching tours in Reykjavík, there were quite a few different options available, including traditional sightseeing boats, smaller vessels and RIB speedboats.

We eventually chose the Amelia Rose yacht operated by Sea Trips Reykjavík, partly because we liked the idea of having somewhere comfortable to sit inside if the weather wasn't great.

As we were visiting Iceland in November, we knew there was a good chance of cold, wet or windy conditions, so having a warm indoor lounge was quite important.

The yacht also has several outdoor viewing decks, meaning you can move around and look for whales from different parts of the boat.

The tour costs approximately £83 per person, although the price can change depending on when you book.

At the time of writing, eligible GetYourGuide app bookings can also receive a 5% discount using code BUILDABREAK5, which is worth checking before you pay.

How Long Is the Amelia Rose Whale-Watching Tour?

The tour is advertised as lasting approximately three hours, although the exact time can vary depending on the conditions and where the whales are spotted.

According to the booking information, departures can last approximately two and a half to three and a half hours.

We'd allowed most of our afternoon for the experience, which I'd recommend doing rather than making plans immediately afterwards.

It's also worth allowing time to check in before departure, particularly if you're visiting during a busy period.

Where Do You Check In for Whale Watching in Reykjavík?

The Amelia Rose tour departs from Reykjavík's Old Harbour, which is a lovely area to explore even if you're not taking a boat trip.

The check-in point for our tour was Old Harbour House, located at Ægisgarður 2, close to the harbour.

The booking instructions recommend checking in 30 minutes before departure, which is sensible because you'll need time to collect your boarding pass and make your way to the yacht.

We actually arrived earlier than necessary because it was pouring with rain, and we decided we'd much rather be somewhere warm than standing around outside waiting.

Old Harbour House has a bar and restaurant area, so we went inside and enjoyed a drink while waiting for our departure time.

It was a really convenient place to start the experience, particularly given the weather.

How Does the Whale-Watching Check-In Work?

Checking in was really straightforward, as there's a self-service machine inside Old Harbour House where you scan the barcode or QR code from your booking confirmation.

The machine prints your boarding pass, which you'll need when boarding the yacht.

One nice surprise was that our boarding pass also included a 15% discount voucher for Old Harbour House.

We were able to use this towards food after returning from our whale-watching trip, which was a lovely little extra and helped save a bit of money.

It was especially welcome after spending several hours out at sea, as we were definitely ready for something to eat by the time we got back.

The discount was offered during our November 2026 visit, so I'd check whether it's still available rather than assuming every booking includes it.

What's the Amelia Rose Whale-Watching Yacht Like?

One of the things I really liked about this tour was the yacht itself.

The Amelia Rose is a much more comfortable vessel than I had initially imagined when booking a whale-watching trip, with a lovely indoor lounge, comfortable seating and several different areas where you can relax between sightings.

There are also outdoor decks where you can stand and look out across the sea, including an upper viewing area used by the guides to help search for wildlife.

The boat didn't feel overcrowded during our visit, and there was plenty of space to move between the indoor and outdoor areas.

That made quite a difference because the weather wasn't particularly pleasant, and I certainly wouldn't have wanted to spend the entire three hours standing outside in the rain.

We were able to head indoors, warm up and enjoy a drink while the crew continued searching for whales.

The interior felt well maintained and comfortable, and I thought the yacht offered a really good balance between enjoying the adventure and having somewhere pleasant to shelter when the conditions weren't ideal.

Are There Toilets on the Amelia Rose?

Yes, the yacht has toilet facilities on board, which is reassuring when you're heading out to sea for approximately three hours.

There are also indoor seating areas, so you don't need to remain outside throughout the trip.

I'd still recommend using the facilities before departure, particularly if you're prone to seasickness or would prefer not to move around the yacht when the sea is rough.

Can You Buy Food and Drinks on Board?

Yes, the Amelia Rose has an onboard bar where you can purchase drinks and snacks during the trip.

We liked having somewhere warm to sit and enjoy refreshments while travelling between the different areas where the crew were searching for whales.

As with most tourist activities in Iceland, I wouldn't expect drinks and snacks to be particularly cheap, so it's worth factoring this into your budget if you plan to purchase anything.

I've included a photograph of the price list from our November 2026 trip so you can get an idea of what was available when we visited.

Eating at Old Harbour House Before or After Whale Watching

One thing I hadn't really considered before booking was that Old Harbour House would also be a convenient place to eat before or after the tour.

We arrived early because of the rain, so we were already familiar with the pub and restaurant area before heading out on the yacht.

After spending approximately three hours at sea, we decided to return for something to eat rather than search for somewhere else in Reykjavík.

This is where the 15% discount voucher we'd received at check-in came in particularly handy.

How Much Did We Spend on Food at Old Harbour House?

We ordered fish and chips with a glass of wine, and the total came to 4,502 ISK, which was approximately £27.54 after our 15% discount had been applied.

It's certainly not the cheapest meal you'll ever have, but Iceland isn't particularly cheap when it comes to eating out, especially around popular tourist areas.

Having the discount made it a little better value, and after our whale-watching trip, we were happy to enjoy a proper meal somewhere warm and comfortable.

A Cheaper Option: Hot Dogs at Old Harbour House

If you're trying to keep your spending down, you don't necessarily need to order a full restaurant meal.

Old Harbour House also had a hot dog menu, which offered a cheaper option for anyone wanting something quick before or after their whale-watching tour.

I think this is worth knowing because food costs can quickly add up during a short trip to Iceland, particularly when you're already spending £83 per person on an activity.

If you're happy with something simple, grabbing a hot dog rather than a full meal with drinks could make a noticeable difference to your spending.

I'd recommend checking the menu when you arrive, particularly if you're planning to use the discount voucher provided with your whale-watching boarding pass.

It's a handy little budgeting tip, especially if you're visiting Reykjavík for just a day or two and want to keep transport, food and activity costs under control.

Did We Actually See Whales in Reykjavík?

Yes, and this was obviously the highlight of the whole experience!

One of the things I was most excited about was the possibility of seeing whales in their natural environment, although I was very aware that this wasn't something we could count on.

We were visiting in November, the weather wasn't particularly good, and there was always the possibility that we'd spend the afternoon searching without seeing anything.

Thankfully, we didn't have to wait until the end of the trip for our first sightings.

Our First Sightings: Minke Whales

As we travelled away from Reykjavík's harbour, we began looking out across the water for any signs of movement.

We were lucky enough to spot several minke whales relatively close to the harbour, which was a really exciting start to the trip.

Minke whales are smaller than humpbacks and can be quite quick to appear and disappear, so you really do need to keep watching the water.

There were moments when you'd suddenly spot a whale surfacing, only for it to disappear beneath the water again before you'd had much chance to take a photograph.

It was fascinating watching the crew and guide searching the sea and pointing out where to look.

Even after those first sightings, we were still hoping that we'd be lucky enough to see something bigger before returning to Reykjavík.

Heading Further Out into Faxaflói Bay

After spotting the minke whales, the yacht continued further out into Faxaflói Bay in search of more wildlife.

By this point, the sea had become considerably rougher, and there were some pretty big waves.

We spent time inside the warm lounge while the guide continued searching from the upper deck, which I was very grateful for given the conditions.

It did take patience, and there were periods where it felt as though we were simply travelling across the sea, looking for any movement in the distance.

However, our guide clearly knew what she was doing and remained determined to find something for everyone to see.

I'm so pleased we persevered because what happened next made the whole experience worthwhile.

Seeing Two Humpback Whales!

Eventually, we were lucky enough to spot two humpback whales, and they appeared much closer to the yacht than I'd expected.

After spending so much time searching the water, it was such an incredible feeling to finally see these enormous animals surfacing in front of us.

It's one thing to watch whale-watching videos online, but seeing humpback whales in the wild is a completely different experience.

Suddenly, the rain and choppy sea didn't seem quite so important!

Everyone was excited, trying to work out where the whales might surface next, and it was lovely seeing how enthusiastic the guide was too.

I managed to capture some photographs and video of the humpbacks, although it's definitely one of those experiences that's difficult to do justice to with a camera.

We'd started the day knowing there was a chance we wouldn't see any whales at all, so being rewarded with several minke sightings and two humpbacks was fantastic.

What Was the Weather Like During Our Whale-Watching Trip?

I think it's important to be realistic about the weather when booking whale watching in Iceland, particularly during the autumn and winter months.

We visited in November, and the weather definitely wasn't the best.

It was pouring with rain when we arrived at Old Harbour House, which is why we decided to go inside for a drink rather than spend any longer than necessary standing around outside.

Once we were on the yacht, the conditions were manageable closer to Reykjavík, but as we travelled further out to sea, the waves became much bigger.

There were definitely some moments when we were very glad we'd chosen a boat with a comfortable indoor lounge.

However, I also think the weather is part of the reality of visiting Iceland, especially at that time of year.

We'd already expected it might be cold and wet, so we weren't particularly surprised when the conditions turned out to be less than perfect.

Although the rougher water made parts of the trip more challenging, we still had a great time, and I think finally seeing the humpback whales after all that searching made it feel even more rewarding.

Will You Get Seasick Whale Watching in Iceland?

This is probably the biggest thing I'd suggest considering before booking a whale-watching tour.

Even though we were travelling on a fairly substantial yacht, the movement was definitely noticeable when we reached the rougher water further offshore.

Several people on board were visibly struggling with seasickness, and some passengers were actually being sick.

It certainly wasn't a completely smooth and relaxing cruise throughout!

However, being able to move indoors made a big difference, as we had somewhere warm and comfortable to sit when we didn't want to remain outside.

If you're particularly prone to motion sickness, I'd recommend thinking carefully about the forecast and sea conditions before booking.

You could also speak to a pharmacist beforehand about suitable travel sickness medication, as some options need to be taken before the journey rather than once you're already feeling unwell.

The operator advertises complimentary seasickness tablets on board, although I'd confirm availability and suitability in advance rather than relying on this.

Personally, I wouldn't let the possibility of seasickness automatically put you off, but I would go into the experience knowing that a yacht can still move around quite a lot, particularly in Icelandic waters.

What Happens If You Don't See Any Whales?

One of the things worth understanding before booking any whale-watching tour is that you're looking for wild animals in their natural environment.

There are no guarantees that you'll see whales, regardless of the time of year, the weather or how experienced your guide is.

Sea Trips Reykjavík currently offers a complimentary return ticket if there are no whale sightings during your tour, subject to its conditions and availability.

According to the tour information, these return tickets can be valid for up to three years, but a lack of whale sightings doesn't normally entitle you to a refund.

This is a lovely policy if you're staying in Iceland for several days or think you may return in the future.

However, if you're visiting Reykjavík for an Extreme Day Trip or a very short break, it's worth remembering that you might not have another opportunity to use the return ticket on the same holiday.

It's also important to distinguish between a trip with no sightings and one cancelled by the operator because of unsafe weather or sea conditions, as the cancellation arrangements are different.

I'd always check the latest terms when booking.

Is Whale Watching in Reykjavík Worth It in November?

Based on our experience, yes!

We visited Iceland in November 2026 and managed to see several minke whales and two humpback whales during our afternoon tour.

Although the weather wasn't ideal, it certainly didn't stop us having a wonderful experience.

However, it's worth being realistic about the conditions during the winter months.

Iceland has fewer daylight hours in November, and the weather can be cold, rainy and windy, particularly when you're out on the water.

The calmer, warmer summer months are generally considered the most popular time for whale watching, with longer daylight hours and a greater variety of wildlife to look out for.

That doesn't mean you can't see whales in winter, though, as our experience proves.

For us, whale watching worked particularly well as part of an overnight break in Reykjavík, giving us something memorable to do during our first afternoon before visiting Blue Lagoon the following day.

I'd happily consider another whale-watching trip in the future, although I might be tempted to try a different season just to compare the experience.

What Is the Best Time of Year for Whale Watching in Reykjavík?

Whale-watching tours operate throughout much of the year, although departures are dependent on the weather and sea conditions.

April through September is generally the more popular period for whale watching, with longer days and often more favourable conditions.

However, species such as minke and humpback whales can also be spotted outside those months.

If you're already planning a trip to Iceland during autumn or winter, I certainly wouldn't rule out whale watching just because it's not summer.

I'd simply book with realistic expectations and keep your itinerary flexible where possible.

What Should You Wear for Whale Watching in Iceland?

Even if it doesn't feel particularly cold when you're walking around Reykjavík, it can be a different story once you're out at sea.

I'd recommend dressing in warm layers and wearing a waterproof jacket, particularly if you're visiting outside the summer months.

A hat and gloves are also useful because your hands can get cold quite quickly when you're standing on the viewing deck trying to take photographs.

Comfortable shoes with a good grip are worth wearing too, as the decks can become wet and the boat may move around in choppy conditions.

I wouldn't worry about dressing up for the yacht, despite how lovely the interior is. Practical clothes are definitely the way to go for this experience.

If you're travelling with just an underseat bag like we often do, I'd prioritise a warm waterproof coat and comfortable footwear rather than packing lots of extras specifically for the boat trip.

It's also worth taking a phone or camera with enough battery for the tour, although I'd recommend spending some time simply enjoying the sightings rather than trying to photograph every moment.

Can You Fit Whale Watching into a Short Reykjavík Break?

Yes, and I actually think it's one of the easiest bigger experiences to include in a short Reykjavík itinerary.

The departure point is right at the Old Harbour, so you don't need to travel a long distance outside the city to join the tour.

We visited during our November overnight break and booked whale watching for our first afternoon, after arriving at Keflavík Airport and travelling into Reykjavík.

It fitted our plans really well because we could spend some time exploring the city beforehand and enjoy dinner in Reykjavík after returning.

The following day, we travelled from Reykjavík to Blue Lagoon and then onwards to Keflavík Airport for our flight home.

That meant we managed to include whale watching, time in Reykjavík and a full Blue Lagoon spa experience in a short two-day trip without hiring a car.

We'd previously visited Reykjavík and Sky Lagoon on an Iceland Extreme Day Trip from Manchester, so this second visit was a lovely opportunity to enjoy some of the experiences we hadn't had time for previously.

If you're planning something similar, I'd recommend allowing a full afternoon for the whale-watching tour, rather than booking dinner or another activity immediately after its scheduled return time.

Wildlife tours don't always run to the minute, and you'll enjoy the experience much more if you're not worrying about what time you'll get back.

Is Whale Watching in Iceland Worth It? Our Honest Verdict

For us, whale watching in Reykjavík was definitely worth it, and I'm really pleased we booked the experience.

I'll admit that the weather wasn't particularly inviting when we arrived at the harbour, and there were moments when the rougher sea made the trip more challenging than I'd expected.

However, the Amelia Rose was a lovely yacht, with comfortable indoor seating, refreshments available and several outdoor areas where you could enjoy the views and watch for wildlife.

The crew were also fantastic, particularly our guide, who continued searching for whales even when the conditions became much rougher further out to sea.

We were already pleased to have spotted several minke whales, so finally seeing two humpback whales close to the yacht was an incredible bonus.

It really was one of those moments that made the whole trip feel worthwhile.

I also liked that the experience wasn't just about the whale sightings. We learnt more about the wildlife, enjoyed seeing Reykjavík from the water and had a lovely afternoon doing something completely different from our usual city-break activities.

Of course, I wouldn't recommend booking with the expectation that you'll definitely see whales, because that's simply not how wildlife experiences work.

If you're particularly prone to seasickness, I'd definitely take the possibility of rough water seriously, even if you're booking one of the more comfortable yachts.

However, if you enjoy wildlife, don't mind being out on the water and have a few hours to spare during your Reykjavík trip, I think whale watching is a fantastic experience to consider.

At approximately £83 per person, it isn't a cheap activity, but I felt the experience was well worth the money.

Our patience was certainly rewarded, and despite the rain and choppy sea, we came away having had a brilliant time.

I'd happily recommend the Amelia Rose and would definitely consider whale watching again if we returned to Iceland.

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