Reykjavík in 1 Day for Couples - Whale and dolphin watching in Faxaflói bay
In Collaboration with Harpa Yachts. Updated on February 13, 2026.
Comfortable whale- and dolphin-watching luxury yacht cruise from Reykjavík Old Harbour. Summer trips may include puffin sightings at Lundey and coastal views of Viðey island. Check-in 30 minutes before departure at Old Harbour House (Ægisgarður 2).
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Harpa Yachts, inspired by the tour Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Whale and dolphin watching in Faxaflói bay
- Puffin viewing at Lundey (mid-May to mid-August)
- Luxury yacht with inside lounge, bar and flydeck
- Coastal views of Viðey island and Reykjavík skyline
Itinerary
Day 1
Meet 30 minutes before your booked departure time at Old Harbour House (Ægisgarður 2, 101 Reykjavík) for check-in and safety briefing. The cruise departs from Reykjavík Old Harbour and sails into Faxaflói bay looking for whales, dolphins and (seasonally) puffins. Return to the Old Harbour at the end of the cruise.
Sail Off
Depart Reykjavík Old Harbour and head out into Faxaflói bay on the hunt for whales and dolphins. The yacht has comfortable inside areas and a flydeck for outside viewing.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive at Old Harbour House (Ægisgarður 2) 30 minutes before the scheduled departure for check-in and boarding.
- Dress in layers and bring a windproof outer layer — sea conditions can be cool even in summer; comfortable shoes are recommended for the deck.
- Use the flydeck for unobstructed views together; staff can point out sightings and will announce wildlife locations.
Harpa Conference Hall
View the Harpa Concert Hall from the yacht while the crew navigates out of the harbour and provides a short onboard orientation about safety and expected sightings.
Tips from local experts:
- Harpa is visible from the water shortly after departure; have your camera ready for skyline photos featuring the glass façade.
- If you prefer to stay warm during the briefing, use the yacht's inside lounge area where there is seating and shelter.
- Ask crew members brief, quiet questions during the orientation if you’d like a more intimate moment together while learning about the route.
Lundey
Approach Lundey (the puffin island) to look for puffins sitting on the water and diving for food (puffin season approx. mid-May to mid-August).
Tips from local experts:
- Puffin sightings are seasonal (mid-May to mid-August); position yourselves on the outside deck for the best close-up views.
- Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing and quieter moments together without crowding the rail.
- Keep voices low and movements slow near the island to increase the chance of seeing puffins on the water.
Videy Island
Sail past Viðey island for coastal views and a chance to see seabirds; the island is known for its outdoor artwork and natural scenery visible from the bay.
Tips from local experts:
- Watch for coastal sculptures and the island silhouette from the yacht’s outside areas—early evening light is often good for photos.
- If you want quieter viewing, the yacht’s upper flydeck offers panoramic views with space for two to step aside from the main crowd.
- Remain seated or hold a rail when on deck; sea swell can be stronger near islands and the crew will advise when to move about the boat.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 4 |
| Activities Types | Experience, Attraction, Outdoor |
