Whales of Iceland From Land and Sea

Whales of Iceland From Land and Sea offers an immersive experience that blends a captivating whale-watching cruise with a visit to the Whales of Iceland Exhibition. Guests embark on a 3-3.5 hour journey guided by an experienced biologist, who shares insights about the local marine life, including minke and humpback whales. After the cruise, visitors explore life-size whale models and informative displays, enhancing their understanding of these majestic creatures and Iceland’s rich marine ecosystem. With thermal overalls and sea sickness tablets provided, travelers can sit back, relax, and discover the natural wonders that Faxaflói Bay has to offer.

Key Points

• The Whale-Watching Cruise explores Faxaflói Bay, offering sightings of minke and humpback whales, harbor porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins, accompanied by an experienced biologist.
• The Whales of Iceland Exhibition features life-size models of Iceland’s native whale species, providing an educational and immersive experience to complement the whale-watching tour.
• The tour includes amenities such as thermal overalls, heated indoor seating, free WiFi, and complimentary sea sickness tablets, ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience for all travelers.
• The tour’s meeting point and departure/return location in Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, along with wheelchair-accessible transportation, cater to the needs of all guests.
• Customer reviews highlight the stunning coastal scenery, informative biologist guidance, and the life-size whale models at the exhibition as the key highlights of the overall experience.

Whale-Watching Cruise Overview

The whale-watching cruise from Reykjavik offers a captivating opportunity to witness Iceland’s diverse marine life.

Departing from the city’s Old Harbor, the 3-3.5 hour excursion explores the waters of Faxaflói Bay, where visitors can observe minke and humpback whales, harbor porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins.

An experienced biologist provides informative commentary on the marine creatures throughout the journey.

Thermal overalls are provided, and the vessel features heated indoor seating areas and free WiFi.

While whale sightings can’t be guaranteed, the cruise also includes admission to the Whales of Iceland Exhibition, featuring life-size models of the country’s native whale species.

Whales of Iceland Exhibition

Visitors can take in the Whales of Iceland Exhibition, which is included as part of the whale-watching cruise. The exhibition features life-size models of Iceland’s native whale species, providing a fascinating up-close look at these magnificent creatures.

Open daily from 10:00 to 17:00, the exhibition is wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly, making it accessible to all. Guests can learn about the different whale species and their unique characteristics through the informative displays.

The free entry to the museum is a welcome addition to the overall whale-watching experience, allowing visitors to further enjoy the world of Iceland’s marine life.

Tour Inclusions and Amenities

The whale-watching cruise includes an experienced biologist on board to provide informative commentary on the marine life encountered during the excursion.

Thermal overalls are provided, even in children’s sizes, to keep guests warm. Free WiFi is available both on the boat and at the Whales of Iceland Exhibition.

Heated indoor seating areas offer comfort, and complimentary sea sickness tablets are provided if needed.

While gratuities aren’t included, hotel transfers can be arranged for an additional fee.

With a maximum of 10 travelers per tour, guests can expect a personalized and accessible experience, as the tour is wheelchair-friendly with suitable surfaces for mobility devices.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

According to the information provided, visitors meet at the Special Tours Ticket Office, located at Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, which serves as the departure and return point for the whale-watching cruise.

The activity ends back at the meeting point. The transportation is wheelchair accessible, and the surfaces are suitable for mobility devices.

The whale-watching cruise accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers per tour, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Guests have provided a 3.8 overall rating for the Whales of Iceland experience, based on 13 reviews.

Travelers praised the knowledgeable guides and stunning coastal views, though some expressed disappointment over a lack of whale sightings or crowded boats.

The free entry to the Whales of Iceland Exhibition was appreciated, as it enhanced the overall experience.

While the tour may not always deliver on whale sightings, the exhibition featuring life-size whale models seems to be a highlight for many visitors.

Coastal Scenery and Marine Life

Beyond the museum experience, the Whales of Iceland tour offers a chance to witness the region’s captivating coastal scenery and diverse marine life firsthand.

From the comfort of the boat, guests can observe majestic minke and humpback whales breaching the waves, as well as harbor porpoises and white-beaked dolphins darting through the waters of Faxaflói Bay.

The tour’s experienced biologist provides insightful commentary, enriching the experience and helping guests better understand the wonders of Iceland’s marine ecosystem.

With the inclusion of thermal overalls and heated indoor seating, travelers can stay warm and comfortable while taking in the stunning natural beauty of the Icelandic coastline.

Experienced Biologist Guidance

The knowledgeable biologist on board enhances the Whales of Iceland tour by providing insightful commentary throughout the cruise.

They share expert knowledge about the various whale species, their behaviors, and the local marine ecosystem. Guests can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the majestic creatures they’re observing.

The biologist also helps spot the whales, pointing out their location and movements. This adds to the overall experience, ensuring travelers make the most of their whale-watching adventure.

Travelers can feel confident they’re in the hands of a true expert, enriching the tour with valuable information and insights.

Thermal Overalls and Sea Sickness Tablets

To ensure guests’ comfort during the chilly North Atlantic conditions, the Whales of Iceland tour provides thermal overalls. These insulated suits protect against the cold, wind, and sea spray, allowing guests to enjoy the experience without worrying about getting cold.

Plus, complimentary sea sickness tablets are available for those who may be concerned about motion sickness. This considerate touch ensures that all travelers can fully enjoy the whale-watching adventure, regardless of the weather or their physical sensitivities.

With these practical amenities, the tour operator demonstrates a commitment to making the experience as enjoyable and accessible as possible for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks on the whale-watching cruise. The tour operator encourages guests to pack a picnic lunch or snacks to enjoy during the 3-3.5 hour excursion. Beverages can also be brought aboard.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

The company offers various discounts and package deals, such as combo tickets that include the whale-watching cruise and admission to the Whales of Iceland Exhibition. Passengers should check the website or contact the ticket office for the latest offers.

Is the Whale-Watching Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The whale-watching tour is generally suitable for young children. It provides thermal overalls, heated indoor areas, and complimentary sea sickness tablets. However, the duration of 3-3.5 hours may be challenging for some young kids.

Can I Rebook or Cancel the Tour if I Can’t Make the Scheduled Time?

Yes, customers can rebook or cancel the tour if they can’t make the scheduled time. The company offers flexible booking policies, allowing guests to change their plans without incurring additional fees.

Are There Any Restrictions on Taking Photographs During the Cruise?

There aren’t any restrictions on taking photographs during the whale-watching cruise. Guests are free to capture the stunning coastal views and any whale sightings. Just be mindful of other passengers and respectful of the wildlife.

The Sum Up

The "Whales of Iceland From Land and Sea" experience offers a unique opportunity to witness whales in their natural habitat and learn about these magnificent creatures. The whale-watching cruise and the Whales of Iceland Exhibition provide a comprehensive and immersive encounter, enhanced by the expertise of experienced biologists. With warm thermal overalls and sea sickness tablets available, visitors can fully enjoy the coastal scenery and marine life on this unforgettable adventure.