Boat Tours

Best Boat Tours in Iceland

Discover the largest selection of boat tours available in Iceland. Explore rivers, glacier lagoons, or the coastline and spot whales, puffins, seals, or icebergs.
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Exploring Nature with the Best Boat Tours in Iceland

Boat tours in Iceland are a captivating way to explore the country's stunning natural beauty from a unique perspective. Iceland's rugged coastline, glacier-fed fjords, and abundant wildlife make it an ideal destination for a variety of boat excursions.

One of the most popular boat tours is the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon tour in Southeast Iceland. Visitors can cruise amidst floating icebergs, surrounded by the dramatic backdrop of Vatnajokull glacier. It's an enchanting experience that provides a front-row seat to the ever-changing glacier and its striking blue ice formations.

Whale-watching tours are another highlight, with departures from several coastal towns like Reykjavik, Akureyri, and Husavik. Iceland's nutrient-rich waters attract a diverse range of marine life, including humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and puffins. These tours offer a thrilling opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Whether you're seeking adventure, wildlife encounters, or tranquil moments surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes, boat tours in Iceland offer a memorable way to connect with the country's untamed natural beauty while sailing on its pristine waters.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best boat tour in Iceland?

A popular boat tour in Iceland is the affordable boat tour of the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by over 450 travelers. The one-hour tour allows you to experience the beautiful glacier lagoon and costs approximately 50 USD.



Another top-rated boat tour in Iceland is a zodiac boat tour of the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by over 390 travelers. This one hour tour costs around 110 USD.



Another popular boat tour in Iceland is the Reykjavik whale watching tour, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by over 280 travelers. This excursion costs about 96 USD.

Is it worth it to go on a boat tour in Iceland?

Yes, going on a boat tour in Iceland is worth it. Iceland's coastlines and waters are rich with natural wonders, including glaciers, icebergs, wildlife like puffins and whales, and stunning fjords.



Boat tours offer a unique perspective and access to these remarkable sights. Whether it's cruising among floating icebergs at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, exploring the cliffs of Vestmannaeyjar, or searching for whales in Faxafloi Bay, boat tours provide unforgettable experiences in Iceland's pristine environment.



Dress warmly, prepare for varying weather conditions, and choose a reputable operator to make the most of your Icelandic aquatic adventure.

What is the cheapest boat tour in Iceland?

One of the cheapest boat tours in Iceland is an exciting one-hour boat tour from Brjanslaekur Port to Flatey Island. This excursion costs around 19 USD.



Another cheap boat tour in Iceland is a puffin watching tour from Reykjavik Old Harbor. This tour costs approximately 44 USD and gives you the chance to see Iceland's birdlife.



Alternatively, this guided puffin watching tour on Melrakkaey Island includes a transfer from Grundarfjordur. This unique excursion costs about 51 USD.

What should I wear on a boat tour in Iceland?

Dress warmly in layers, including waterproof and windproof clothing. Don't forget a hat, gloves, and sturdy waterproof boots. The weather in Iceland can change quickly, so it's essential to be prepared.

Are boat tours safe in Iceland?

Yes, boat tours in Iceland are generally safe when operated by reputable companies. They adhere to strict safety standards, and experienced guides are trained to ensure passenger safety.

Do I need any prior experience to go on a boat tour?

No prior experience is usually required for standard boat tours. However, some high-speed or adventurous tours may have age or health restrictions, so check with the tour operator.

Can I take a boat tour onto Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon?

You can explore Iceland's Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon on an amphibious vessel from May to October. This affordable boat tour of Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, for instance, costs only about 46 USD and is rated 4.6 stars out of 5 by some 277 travelers. Zodiac boat tours are also available for those wanting to get a bit closer to the icebergs, such as this best-rated 1-hour zodiac boat tour of Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

Can I take boat tours to see the northern lights?

Yes, many boat tours from Reykjavik and other towns in North Iceland operate special northern lights boat tours from September to April. The magical two-hour northern lights boat cruise, for instance, runs throughout the winter out of Reykjavik's Old Harbor. However, just like whale-watching tours in Iceland, there are no guarantees. Many northern lights boat tours will offer vouchers for another tour if you do not see the aurora.

Will I see whales and dolphins on my whale watching tour in Iceland?

As always when dealing with nature, you are not guaranteed to see anything on your boat tour in Iceland, even on a whale-watching tour. However, anytime you take a vessel to the sea in Iceland, you have a great chance of doing so. Most Icelandic whale-watching operators have an over 90% success rate in spotting whales. Additionally, many whale-watching boat tours in Iceland will offer vouchers for another trip if nothing is sighted.

Can I go on a RIB or speed boat tour in Iceland?

Yes, there are various RIB boat tours you can take part in during your visit to Iceland. This rib boat whale and bird watching tour in Akureyri takes you up close to the giants of the sea. You can also go on similar speed boat tours in Reykjavik or in the Westman Islands.

Can I take a private boat tour in Iceland?

Yes, anything is possible. If you have something special in mind for your boat tour in Iceland, please contact info@guidetoiceland.is for further information.

Where are the most common ports to take a boat tour from in Iceland?

Boat tours depart from Reykjavik, Akureyri, Husavik, and many other coastal settlements. Husavik is especially famous for whale-watching tours, and it is considered the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Boat tours also run seasonally onto Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

What kind of boats are used on Icelandic boat tours?

Most whale-watching tours in Iceland are done on larger vessels, with the option to take a zodiac or speed boat in the summer. Many puffin-watching tours in Iceland will be on zodiacs as well. There are specific tours on sailboats from certain ports, such as this outstanding 3-hour sailing and whale watching boat tour in Husavik. Amphibious vehicles are the most used at Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Kayak tours are also available in Iceland, such as this amazing 2.5-hour guided kayaking tour on Solheimajokull glacier lagoon.

Can I go whale watching on an oak boat in Iceland?

Yes, you can go whale watching in Husavik, sometimes called the 'Whale Watching Capital of Europe', on a traditional oak boat. The oak boat has a mast with a large mainsail on it, making it feel like stepping back into the past, as you go sailing on the ocean to find these great mammals of the sea.

Is there an age limit on boat tours in Iceland?

Most boat tours in Iceland have no age limit, although there are exceptions. This relaxing 2-hour kayak fishing adventure by Mt. Kirkjufell, for instance, has a minimum age of 18. Please view your tour's descriptions or contact your tour provider directly for further information.

What kind of fish will I catch on a sea angling tour in Iceland?

The most common saltwater species caught fishing in Iceland are Atlantic wolffish, cod, haddock, halibut, mackerel, and pollock. Check out our comprehensive guide to fishing in Iceland for more information. For the freshwater fisherman, we also offer a relaxing nine-hour river fishing tour for trout, char, and salmon.

Can I go kayaking in Iceland?

Yes, there are a variety of kayaking tours in Iceland that you can take part in. For example, you can go kayaking by the beautiful Mt. Kirkjufell on the Snaefellsnes peninsula. Additionally, there is also the possibility of sailing on a kayak on the Solheimajokull glacier lagoon.

When is the best time to take a boat tour in Iceland?

The best time for boat tours in Iceland depends on the type of tour you're interested in. For whale-watching, summer (May to September) is ideal. For northern lights tours, winter (September to April) is recommended.
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