2-Hour RIB Boat Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik

If you’re thinking about adding a whale watching adventure to your Iceland trip, this 2-hour RIB boat tour from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor might be just the ticket. It’s a quick, exciting way to see some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures up close, all while enjoying the fresh sea air and stunning Icelandic scenery. Considering the high demand—most people book about 43 days in advance—it’s clear this experience resonates with many travelers craving a memorable encounter with nature.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the fact that it’s aboard a small, fast RIB boat means you get to zip between different whale feeding spots more swiftly than on larger vessels. Second, with a limited group size of just 12 people, it feels more personal—it’s less like a crowded cruise and more like a shared adventure between friends. A third bonus, especially in summer, is the chance to visit Akurey Island, home to adorable puffins and other seabirds—an extra treat for bird lovers.

However, a few things might give you pause. The sea can get bumpy, and the boat ride is fast and lively, which isn’t suited for everyone—particularly those with certain health conditions or who dislike rough waters. Plus, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, so it’s a bit of a “hope for the best” situation when looking for whales and puffins. Still, given the generally high praise, most travelers find it to be a worthwhile adventure. This tour is ideal for those who love a quick, adrenaline-packed outing, and are eager to see marine life from a closer perspective.

If you’re looking for a personal, engaging experience that combines wildlife, scenic views, and a bit of thrill, this tour could fit the bill. It’s especially suited for travelers who don’t mind getting a little wet and bumpy, and who want the flexibility of a smaller boat for a more intimate encounter with the ocean’s residents.

Key Points

• Small-group experience makes for a more personal adventure.
• Quick, nimble RIB boat increases chances of seeing whales and dolphins.
• Includes waterproof gear and safety equipment for peace of mind.
• Summer bonus stop at Akurey Island offers puffin sightings.
• Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed but most find it worthwhile.
• Efficient 2-hour tour best suits those with limited time or seeking a quick thrill.

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting off from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor

Your adventure kicks off either with hotel pickup (if you’ve chosen that option) or directly at the ticket office. Once there, you’ll check in and be fitted with all the necessary gear—warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and life jackets—so you’re ready for whatever the sea throws at you. The guides are quick to explain safety procedures, which reassures most first-timers.

The RIB Boat Experience

The star of the show is the brand-new, 12-meter RIB express boat. It’s designed for comfort with shock-absorbing seats that help cushion the ride. This isn’t your typical slow cruise; the boat zips across Faxaflói Bay, giving you a sense of adventure right from the start. The ride itself is lively—some reviews describe it as bouncy but manageable, and a lot of fun. If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s good to note that the boat is fast and the waters can get choppy, although most find it thrilling rather than uncomfortable.

Scenery and Wildlife Spotting

As you leave Reykjavik’s coast behind, the views are stunning. You’ll see Esja mountain in the distance and the beautiful coastline. Your guide provides insights into the local marine life and the geography of Faxaflói Bay. This portion is a calm, scenic cruise that sets the stage for the main event: whale spotting.

The hunt for whales and dolphins

Most of the tour’s focus is on finding humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbour porpoises. The small size of the boat allows for quick maneuvers, meaning your guide and captain can chase promising signs of activity. Several reviews praise the crew’s knowledge and enthusiasm, with some mentioning how close they managed to get—sometimes feeling like you could reach out and touch these gentle giants.

Summer Puffin Visit at Akurey

In the summer months, when puffins are nesting, your boat makes a stop at Akurey Island. It’s a chance to see Iceland’s adorable puffins in their natural habitat, along with other seabirds. Reviewers love this part, describing it as a delightful bonus after the wildlife in the water.

Returning to Reykjavik

After about two hours at sea, you’ll head back to the harbor, passing by the Reykjavik coastline. Bring your camera, as the scenery is just as captivating from the water. If you opted for hotel pickup, your transfer will be waiting to whisk you back to your accommodation.

The Value of the Tour

Price and what you get

At around $180.93 per person, this tour is a solid option considering what’s included. You’re getting a small-group experience with all necessary safety gear provided—no hidden costs or surprises. The intimate setting enhances the chance to see whales and dolphins up close, which many reviews confirm.

Comparing the experience

Compared to larger, more commercial whale watching tours, this one offers a more personalized feel. Reviewers frequently mention how the guides’ knowledge and friendliness make the trip memorable. For example, one guest said, “Yoda and Blanca will be thrilled to hear that they could give you this experience,” highlighting the crew’s dedication.

Wildlife sightings: a matter of luck

While most travelers see whales and puffins, it’s important to remember that wildlife is unpredictable. As one reviewer put it, “Sightings cannot be guaranteed,” but if no whales appear, you’ll receive a complimentary ticket to try again. This policy is reassuring for those worried about paying for an uncertain outcome.

The thrill factor

The fast, bouncy ride adds excitement, especially for adventure lovers. Some reviews describe it as “a blast,” and many mention how close they managed to get to whales—sometimes feeling like touching them. The adrenaline combined with the chance to observe marine life makes for a memorable trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves a fast-paced adventure and doesn’t mind a bit of bumpiness, this trip will satisfy your craving for excitement. It’s perfect if you’re after close-up wildlife encounters—most reviews highlight how most guests manage to see whales and dolphins, with some even describing it as “magical.”

It’s also a good choice for those with limited time but still wanting a meaningful experience, thanks to its two-hour duration. Families with children over 10 and above 145 cm seem to enjoy it, especially if they’re open to a lively boat ride. However, if you’re prone to seasickness or have health issues, this might not be your best pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What’s included in the tour?
  Waterproof overalls, life vests, gloves, goggles, and all safety equipment are provided. If you book a summer tour, you’ll also visit Akurey Island for puffin watching.

• Is hotel pickup available?
  Yes, you can choose the option for hotel pickup, or meet directly at the Old Harbour in Reykjavik.

• How long is the tour?
  The experience lasts approximately two hours, including travel to the whale feeding grounds, wildlife viewing, and the return.

• Are sightings guaranteed?
  No, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but most guests see whales, dolphins, and puffins. If you don’t see whales, you’ll get a free ticket to try another tour.

• What about the boat ride?
  The boat is fast and can be bouncy; it’s designed for thrill-seekers comfortable with open water and quick maneuvers. It’s not recommended for very young kids or those with certain health conditions.

• Can I bring my camera?
  Absolutely—bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife. Just remember to keep it handy during the ride.

• Is this suitable for children?
  Generally, children over 10 and taller than 145 cm enjoy this trip. The fast ride and bumps might be too intense for younger kids.

• What happens if the weather isn’t good?
  The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This 2-hour whale watching tour in Reykjavik offers a lively, intimate way to connect with Iceland’s marine life. The smaller boat and expert guides are two of its biggest strengths—most travelers leave feeling they got a much more personal and exciting experience than on larger, more commercial tours. If you’re after close-up encounters with whales, dolphins, and puffins, and don’t mind a fast, bumpy ride, this trip is well worth considering.

That said, it’s important to be comfortable with the unpredictability of wildlife sightings and the nature of open-sea travel. For those who love a bit of adventure, want to maximize their chances of getting close to animals, and appreciate good guidance, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

In the end, even if you don’t see a whale, most reviews agree that the scenery, the boat ride, and the chance to be out on the ocean make it a memorable part of any Icelandic visit. Plus, knowing you’re supporting a small-group, highly-rated operation makes it all the more worthwhile.

Final advice

Book in advance, dress warmly, and set your expectations for a lively, unpredictable adventure. Prepare to be thrilled by the speed and closeness of the experience, and keep your camera ready—you never know when you’ll catch a whale breaching or puffins fluttering by. Happy sailing!