9pm Whale Watching Cruise in the Arctic Sun
Evening whale-watching cruise departing Reykjavík Old Harbour. Board at Special Tours ticket office, sail into Faxaflói Bay under the late Arctic light, and watch for humpback and minke whales plus other marine life. Tour includes warm flotation overalls, heated cabins, seasickness tablets and a complimentary return ticket if no sightings occur.
In Collaboration with Reykjavik Sailors. Updated on April 22, 2026.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Reykjavik Sailors, inspired by the tour 9pm Whale Watching Cruise in the Arctic Sun. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Depart from Reykjavík Old Harbour at sunset-like Arctic light
- 2–2.5 hour guided whale-watching cruise into Faxaflói Bay
- Warm flotation overalls and heated indoor cabins
- Complimentary seasickness tablets and free Wi‑Fi on board
Explore all itineraries in Reykjavík.
Itinerary
Day 1
Evening meeting at Special Tours ticket office and 9:00 PM whale-watching cruise into Faxaflói Bay.
Whale Watching tour from Reykjavik
Meet at the Special Tours ticket office on Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavík Old Harbour. Arrive 30 minutes before the 21:00 departure to check in and receive warm flotation overalls. Board the vessel, find a comfortable spot in the heated indoor cabins or on the panoramic decks, and sail into Faxaflói Bay. Guided naturalists will help spot marine life (minke and humpback whales, dolphins, harbour porpoises and occasional killer whales). Tour returns to Reykjavík Old Harbour at the end of the cruise.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 30 minutes before departure at Special Tours ticket office (Geirsgata 11, Reykjavík Old Harbour) to check in and collect overalls — look for the booth along the pier.
- Dress in warm layers, a windproof outer layer, and bring a hat and gloves; the operator provides warm flotation overalls and complimentary seasickness tablets if needed.
- Check the operator’s Daily Diary before leaving for the harbour for any status updates; if no whales are seen, retain the complimentary return ticket for a future tour.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 1 |
| Total Places | 1 |
| Activities Types | Experience |
Why this experience
You'll set sail at 9 PM during Iceland's midnight sun season (summer) for a whale watching cruise in bright daylight conditions. The Arctic sun barely dips below the horizon, creating an eerie twilight that lasts most of the night. You'll search for whales, dolphins, and seabirds in Faxaflói Bay while the sun circles the horizon. The crew provides navigation and wildlife commentary, and the extended daylight gives you hours to spot marine life.
This is a unique Icelandic experience—whale watching under the midnight sun, where traditional night doesn't exist. The continuous daylight and the surreal lighting create unforgettable photos and a dreamlike atmosphere.
Before you go
- Best time: June–August (midnight sun season)
- Budget: Check the booking widget for current pricing
- Difficulty: Very easy (entirely aboard a comfortable yacht; no hiking)
- What to bring: Windproof outer layer; sunglasses and sunhat (sun exposure is prolonged); camera; binoculars; charged phone
- Getting there: Board at Reykjavík Old Harbour (confirm location when booking)
- Accessibility: Yacht has interior seating and restroom facilities. Contact operator if you have accessibility needs
Frequently asked questions
What's included in this itinerary?
This itinerary includes yacht admission, professional crew guidance, whale watching in Faxaflói Bay, midnight sun viewing, and approximately 3–4 hours on the water. Check the booking widget for exact inclusions and on-board amenities.
Will I really see whales?
Sightings are never guaranteed, but summer is Iceland's peak whale season. The crew knows where whales are most active. Most cruises spot something—whales, dolphins, or seabirds.
What's the lighting like at 9 PM in summer?
The sun remains visible or very close to the horizon, creating continuous twilight. You'll have excellent visibility for wildlife viewing and photography without traditional darkness.
Is there food on board?
Typically beverages and light snacks are available for purchase. Full meals are usually not included. Confirm when booking.
Can I book this if I'm prone to seasickness?
Yes. Take preventative medication at least 30 minutes before boarding. The yacht has sheltered interior areas if you feel unwell.
Complete your trip in Reykjavik
Pair your midnight sun experience with other summer activities.
- Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht — Alternative whale watching at other times
- Golden Circle Private Tour — Daylight exploration of natural wonders
- Private Walking Tour Reykjavik — City exploration by endless daylight
Browse all Reykjavik itineraries at TheNextGuide.
Last updated: March 2026
