Whales and dolphins in the wild
Look for different species as the season and conditions change.
Whale watching from Ólafsvík
Search for whales and dolphins beneath the Snæfellsnes skyline, with an English-speaking guide and warm overalls included.
Watching from the deck with Láki Tours. Wildlife sightings and the species seen vary from trip to trip.
Photo 1 of 10: Passengers watching orcas from the deck of a Láki Tours boat.Tour at a glance
- Duration
- Around 2½–3 hours
- Joining point
- See Travel details
- Guide
- English
- Experience
- Guided boat tour
- Season
- 10 February–30 September 2027
- Joining
- Meet at the harbour
Description
Look for whales and dolphins in Breiðafjörður with Láki Tours, departing from Ólafsvík harbour on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Warm overalls are included.
Read moreRead less about this tour
Sail from Ólafsvík into Breiðafjörður with an English-speaking guide. Watch for whales and dolphins while learning about their behaviour and the marine life around Snæfellsnes. The crew follows responsible whale-watching practices, with the route and encounters shaped by the animals and sea conditions.
Allow around 2½–3 hours on the boat, plus check-in 30 minutes before departure. Orcas, sperm whales, humpbacks, minkes and white-beaked dolphins may be seen at different times of the season; no species or sighting is guaranteed. You make your own way to Ólafsvík harbour.
Out on Breiðafjörður
Watch with an experienced crew
An English-speaking guide shares insight into the animals and their surroundings.
Snæfellsnes from the sea
Coastal and mountain scenery on clear days, with the boat route chosen for the conditions.
Included in your boat trip
- Guided whale-watching boat trip
- English-speaking guide with an educational focus
- Warm, windproof and water-resistant overalls
- A complimentary revisit ticket if no whales or dolphins are seen; conditions and availability apply
Not included
- Travel to and from Ólafsvík harbour
- Food and drinks
What to bring
- Warm layers, a hat and gloves
- Sturdy closed shoes
- Your own drinks or snacks if needed
- A camera or binoculars, and sunglasses for bright conditions
How your boat trip unfolds
Check in at Ólafsvík harbour
Arrive at Láki Tours, Norðurtangi 9, 30 minutes before your selected departure. Look for the two blue Láki Tours containers.
Search Breiðafjörður for marine life
Board the boat and head out with the crew. Viewing locations and the time spent with any animals vary with wildlife movements, weather and sea conditions. There are no fixed wildlife stops.
Check in at Ólafsvík harbour
Arrive at Láki Tours, Norðurtangi 9, 30 minutes before your selected departure. Look for the two blue Láki Tours containers.
The map marks the verified harbour check-in point only. It does not show a boat route or guaranteed wildlife locations. Follow your confirmation for your selected departure.
Before you sail
Starting time
Choose a date to see departure times.
Starting location
Make your own way to Láki Tours, Ólafsvík harbour · Norðurtangi 9. Follow your confirmation for the arrival instructions. Pickup isn’t offered for this tour option.
Who can join
See traveller age categories and requirements in Travel details and the tour’s activity guidance.
Accessibility
Contact us before booking so we can check boarding arrangements and any specific mobility needs with the crew.
Cancellation terms
Cancel at least 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Later cancellations and no-shows are not refunded. Cancellation policy.
A few useful answers
Will we see orcas or other whales?
Whales and dolphins are wild animals, so sightings and species are never guaranteed. Orcas are most often encountered in late winter and spring, while other species may be seen throughout the season.
What happens if no whales or dolphins are seen?
You will receive a complimentary ticket for another available tour. Revisit tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable; contact us to arrange a place before travelling. A sighting-free operated tour is not refunded solely for that reason.
Can the weather cancel the trip?
Yes. The captain may change or cancel a departure if sea or weather conditions are unsuitable. Check your email on the day. If the trip is cancelled, you can arrange another available departure or receive a full refund.
Can I book as a solo traveller?
Yes, one person can book. Each departure also needs a minimum overall number of bookings to operate. If a departure is cancelled because that minimum is not reached, you can arrange another available date or receive a full refund.
Is pickup from Reykjavík included?
No. This tour starts at Ólafsvík harbour, where you must arrive 30 minutes before departure. Arrange your own transport and make sure you can reach the harbour before booking.
What should I wear, and are there toilets?
Wear warm layers, a hat, gloves and sturdy closed shoes. Warm windproof, water-resistant overalls are provided, and there is a toilet on board. Bring your own drinks and snacks if needed.
What are the cancellation terms?
Cancel at least 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Later cancellations and no-shows are not refunded. Cancellation policy.