Reykjavik: Traditional Sea Fishing with BBQ Feast

Imagine stepping aboard a cozy fishing boat in Reykjavik’s old harbor, feeling the salty breeze, and casting your first line into the Atlantic. That’s exactly what this traditional sea fishing tour offers—a genuine chance to connect with Iceland’s maritime roots, with the bonus of a delicious BBQ of your catch afterward. We’ve reviewed this experience based on dozens of glowing reviews, actual itinerary details, and what you can realistically expect from this three-hour adventure.

What we love about this tour is its intimate setting, the opportunity to catch your own fish, and the chance to enjoy fresh, expertly cooked seafood right on the boat. The small group size of no more than 12 people ensures personalized attention, making it a suitable option whether you’re a novice angler or a seasoned fisherman. A minor consideration might be the weather—since it’s outdoors and weather-dependent, you’ll want to dress warmly and be prepared for Iceland’s unpredictable climate.

This experience is ideal for travelers craving authentic Icelandic activities, families eager for a fun and educational outing, or anyone interested in trying their hand at fishing while enjoying stunning sea vistas. If you love fresh seafood, scenic boat rides, and hands-on activities, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Good To Know

• Authentic Icelandic Fishing: Experience real sea angling for cod, haddock, rockfish, and pollock alongside local guides.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 12 guests, offering a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Fresh, On-Board BBQ: Keep what you catch and enjoy it cooked right on the boat, with a simple yet delicious meal.
• All Equipment Provided: No need to bring your own gear; guides supply fishing equipment, instructions, and waterproof clothing.
• Stunning Views and Wildlife: Expect scenic vistas of the bay and islands, with opportunities to see local wildlife like puffins.
• Flexible and Convenient: Tour duration is approximately three hours, with options to check available start times.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Full Experience: What to Expect from the Tour

Meeting Point and Initial Impressions

Your day begins at the old harbor in Reykjavik, just a 5 to 10-minute walk from the city center, next to the Víkin Maritime Museum. The harbor area is lively, with boats coming and going, and as you approach, you’ll spot the guides ready and eager to welcome you aboard. The meeting point is on the other side of the shipyard, past the Reykjavík Marina Hotel, where large ships are undergoing repairs—a notably charming setting that adds to the authenticity.

Boarding and Safety Precautions

Once on board, you’ll be greeted by a friendly crew, including your guide, who will equip you with fishing gear and waterproof clothing. Guides like Thor and Snorri get high praise for their enthusiasm and helpfulness, making even complete beginners feel comfortable. The small size of the boat and tour group means you’ll have plenty of space to move around, and safety is taken seriously—children under 4 are not recommended, but kids up to the age of 12 are provided with lifejackets and will likely enjoy the experience.

The Fishing Itself

As the boat departs into the bay, your guide will give a quick briefing on fishing techniques and the types of fish you’re targeting. Expect to fish for cod, haddock, rockfish, and pollock, using equipment provided by the guides. The reviews reveal that catching fish is part of the fun; even those who were inexperienced managed to land some impressive catches. As Clint said, “Great tour! Caught a lot of big fish,” and Nina commented on it being “exciting and enjoyable.” Many reviewers appreciated how approachable and enthusiastic the guides were, with Thor and Snorri making the experience memorable.

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Wildlife and Scenic Views

While patiently waiting or reeling in your catch, you’ll enjoy the sights of the surrounding islands and the chance to spot puffins and other seabirds. Emma praised the “beautiful scenery,” which combined with the lively atmosphere onboard makes for a well-rounded experience beyond just fishing.

The BBQ Feast

Once your catch is secured, the crew fillets your fish—no need to worry about cleanup—and prepares a simple yet delicious meal. The highlight here is the fresh fish, pan-fried and served with potatoes and sauce right on the boat. Georgian noted, “We caught cod and enjoyed the beautiful sea, and the fresh fish tasted delicious.” The meal is often described as the perfect reward for your efforts, with many reviewers saying it was one of the best meals they had during their trip to Iceland.

Return and Reflection

After about three hours on the water, the boat returns to the harbor. The entire experience feels intimate, personal, and rewarding. Many guests, like Marjorie, found themselves wanting to return: “I liked it so much I went back the next day.” The crew’s friendliness and professionalism shine through, making the final moments bittersweet.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, the reasonable price is justified by the quality of the experience, the inclusiveness of the fishing gear, and the delicious meal of freshly caught fish. Caught fish are filleted and cooked on the boat, saving you the hassle of cleaning or sourcing fresh seafood later. Reviewers like Marc pointed out that it’s “safe, fun, and a good value for money,” which makes it an accessible activity for many travelers.

What Sets It Apart

• The small-group setting ensures a quieter, more personal experience.
• The guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm are consistently praised—expect friendly explanations and tips.
• The opportunity to keep your catch and enjoy it cooked on-site makes this more than just a sightseeing trip.
• The scenic, wildlife-rich environment adds to the adventure, making it a more immersive experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Approximately 3 hours, so you can easily slot it into a half-day activity.
• Timing: Check availability for start times; the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so dress warmly.
• Group Size: No more than 12 participants, creating a friendly, less crowded atmosphere.
• What to Bring: Warm clothes, waterproof gear provided, but consider bringing layers for comfort.
• Cost-Effectiveness: The price covers gear, guidance, and the meal, offering great value for those interested in hands-on Icelandic culture.
• Child Policy: Not recommended for children under 4; lifejackets are provided for those 12 and under.

Authenticity and Review Highlights

The overwhelmingly positive reviews underscore how well this tour delivers on its promises. Guests rave about the guides’ friendliness—Rachel called the crew “very enthusiastic”—and the quality of the fishing, with some catching more than 20 fish over multiple trips. Several reviewers have mentioned how delicious the cooked fish was, with some going back for a second day. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike found this activity engaging and memorable.

Emma summarized it well: “The guides were fantastic and the scenery was beautiful,” capturing the essence of what makes this experience special. The combination of personal attention, scenic beauty, and fresh seafood makes it a truly genuine Icelandic activity.

The Sum Up

This Reykjavik sea fishing tour is perfect for those craving an authentic, hands-on Icelandic experience without the fuss. It’s a smart choice if you want to learn fishing basics, enjoy beautiful ocean views, and indulge in a fresh seafood meal—best suited for travelers who appreciate small groups and immersive activities.

You’ll love how approachable and helpful the guides are, how scenic the setting is, and the fact that you get to enjoy a meal of your own catch. It’s an activity that combines adventure, culture, and delicious food into a compact, memorable experience.

While weather can vary, the warm camaraderie and the thrill of catching your own fish make this tour well worth considering. Whether you’re a fishing novice or a seasoned angler, this trip promises genuine fun, tasty rewards, and a story to tell long after your Iceland trip ends.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the old harbor in Reykjavik, a short walk from the city center.

What should I wear?
Warm clothes are highly recommended, and waterproof clothing is provided by the guides, so dress in layers to stay comfortable.

Can children participate?
Not recommended for children under 4 years old. All children 12 and under must wear a provided lifejacket.

How long does the tour last?
The activity takes about 3 hours, including fishing, the meal, and the return to port.

What fish might I catch?
You could catch cod, haddock, rockfish, or pollock, depending on the day’s conditions and luck.

Are meals included?
Yes, your catch is filleted and cooked on the boat, served with potatoes and sauce—a simple but flavorful meal.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Guides provide instruction and assistance, making it accessible for those new to fishing.

What’s the group size?
No more than 12 passengers, providing a relaxed, personalized experience.

Can I choose a specific time for the tour?
Availability varies; check with the provider to see upcoming start times and book accordingly.

You can check if your dates are available here: