1 Hour Iceland Nature and Wildlife RIB Small Group Guided Safari

A Close Encounter with Iceland’s Marine Life: Our Take on the 1-Hour RIB Safari

If you’re dreaming of seeing Iceland’s wildlife up close and personal, this 1-hour RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) Safari might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, the reviews and details paint a pretty compelling picture. It’s designed for those who want a quick but impactful glimpse of Iceland’s rich marine ecosystem without spending hours on the water.

What really catches our eye about this experience are two things: first, the small group size—just 12 travelers—that promises a more intimate, less crowded adventure, and second, the ability to access spots that larger boats can’t reach, meaning better wildlife viewing opportunities. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the short duration—just about an hour—which might leave some wanting more. But if you’re looking for a quick adrenaline-filled outing with lots of wildlife, this could be perfect. It suits travelers who enjoy nature, speed, and meaningful close-up wildlife encounters without a long commitment.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Limited to 12 travelers for a more personal experience.
• Access to hard-to-reach areas that bigger boats can’t get to.
• Wildlife sightings include puffins, seals, whales, and dolphins, offering diverse marine life.
• Approximate 1-hour trip—short but packed with excitement.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary on local wildlife and environment.
• Highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 based on 36 reviews, and 97% recommend it.

What to Expect from Your Iceland Marine Safari

Let’s walk through what this tour offers and how it feels in practice. Most of the magic happens in just an hour, but in that time, you’ll cover a lot of ground—literally and figuratively—on your small-group RIB adventure.

The Meeting Point and Start Time

You’ll gather at Hafnarhólmi in Bakkagerði around noon, ready to set sail. The meeting point is easy to find, and since the tour kicks off at 12:00 pm, it slots nicely into a day of exploring East Iceland. The tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward.

The Boat Experience

The RIB boat is built for speed and agility, allowing your guide to navigate the coastline efficiently and access areas large vessels can’t reach. This is especially exciting because it means you’ll be right at the action, rather than observing from afar. We loved the way guides described it as “the thrill of speed,” which adds an adrenaline rush to wildlife spotting.

Wildlife Sightings and Scenery

One of the standout aspects is the chance to get close-up views of puffins—these birds are always a favorite, their colorful beaks and adorable flight style making them photogenic. You’ll also get glimpses of seals lounging on rocks and possibly dolphins or whales, which are often seen along Iceland’s coast. The scenery itself is stunning—towering cliffs, rugged coastlines, and the wild Atlantic environment provide a dramatic backdrop for your wildlife encounters.

Guides and Commentary

Guides are not just drivers; they’re knowledgeable storytellers. As Ria E mentioned, the guides are “really kind, funny, and knowledgeable about Bakkageri and the Borgarfjörður region,” which makes the trip more engaging and educational. From the reviews, it’s clear that having guides who can share insights about the various bird species and local environment adds a lot of value.

Wildlife in Action

Wildlife sightings are a highlight, and reviews confirm that the guides are good at spotting and explaining what you’re seeing. Susan H described her trip as “AMAZING,” emphasizing the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. The chance to see puffins “in their natural habitat” feels special, especially since these birds are so emblematic of Iceland’s coastal wildlife.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Small Group Size

Traveling with only 12 people enhances the experience quite a bit. You get more personal attention from your guides, and it’s easier to move around for photos or to get a better view. This intimacy can make the experience more memorable and less rushed.

Access to Hidden Spots

The boat’s design means you can explore areas where larger ships can’t go, opening up new vistas and wildlife viewing points. That means more chances to see puffins, seals, and maybe even whales without the crowd.

Dynamic Wildlife Encounters

Many reviews highlight the quality of wildlife sightings. For instance, Ria mentions numerous puffins and seals, and Susan notes the knowledgeable guides who made the trip even better. The Atlantic puffins, with their vibrant beaks and comical flight, are usually a crowd favorite, and this tour provides plenty of opportunities for photos.

Is the Price Worth It?

At $140 per person, this tour is priced competitively for a unique, small-group wildlife adventure. Considering the short duration, it might seem steep for just an hour, but the quality of the experience—personalized attention, access to exclusive spots, and wildlife close-ups—adds significant value.

For travelers who appreciate wildlife, enjoy boat rides, or want a quick but engaging nature experience, this price point makes sense. Plus, reviews suggest it’s well worth the cost given the guides’ expertise and the chance to see Iceland’s iconic seabirds and marine mammals.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Weather Dependency: The tour requires good weather; if conditions are poor, it may be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a different date or a full refund. Always check the forecast before booking.
• Duration: Since it’s a short trip, don’t expect a lengthy cruise—think of it as a quick, high-impact wildlife encounter.
• Booking in Advance: The tour is popular and often booked about 80 days ahead, so plan early if you’re set on doing it.
• Clothing: Be prepared for the weather—layered clothing, waterproof jackets, and sturdy shoes are recommended since you’ll be on the water and exposed to wind and spray.
• Photography: Bring your camera or smartphone with a good zoom; the close-up wildlife views should give you some great shots.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This safari is ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who want a short, exciting, and intimate experience. It’s perfect if you’re in East Iceland and want a quick dose of marine life without a long commitment. Families with older children who enjoy adventure and wildlife will likely find this trip engaging, given the small boat size and interactive guides.

However, if you’re expecting a full-day excursion or more relaxed pace, this might feel too brief. It’s best for those comfortable with boat rides and standing for short periods in potentially windy conditions.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the 1-hour Iceland Nature and Wildlife RIB Safari is a prime example of a tour that combines adventure, nature, and education in a compact package. The small-group setting and access to exclusive viewing spots make it stand out from larger, more commercial excursions. From puffins to seals and possibly whales, you’re set for a memorable wildlife encounter with expert guides who are passionate about their local environment.

While it’s a short trip, the thrill of speed on the water and the chance to see Iceland’s iconic seabirds up close make it a worthwhile addition to any East Iceland itinerary. It’s particularly well-suited if you want a meaningful, personal wildlife experience without spending an entire day at sea.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, from start to finish.

What is the meeting point?
You’ll meet at Hafnarhólmi, Bakkagerði, Iceland, which is easy to find.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect to see puffins, seals, dolphins, and possibly whales, along with various seabirds.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the experience suits those comfortable with boat rides and wildlife viewing. Check with the provider if traveling with young children.

What should I wear?
Layered, waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended to stay comfortable on the water.

Can I cancel if the weather’s bad?
Yes, cancellations due to bad weather are free, and you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the group size small?
Yes, only 12 travelers maximum, ensuring a more personal experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 80 days ahead, so early planning is advisable.

If you’re after an exciting, wildlife-packed adventure in East Iceland, this small-group RIB tour promises a memorable, close-up look at some of Iceland’s most iconic marine creatures. It’s a quick but impactful way to connect with nature and add a dash of adrenaline to your Iceland trip.