From Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour by Speedboat

Travelers heading to Reykjavik often look for ways to connect with Iceland’s incredible natural environment, and a whale watching tour is a classic choice. This particular trip, run by Katla Whale Watching, offers a two-hour speedboat adventure that promises a good dose of wildlife sightings and scenic views. We’ve gathered plenty of insights from those who’ve taken this tour, so you can decide if it fits your travel style and expectations.

One thing we really like about this experience is how close and personal it gets you with marine creatures like whales, dolphins, and puffins. The other highlight lies in the stunning views of Reykjavik’s harbor and iconic landmarks as you depart. On the flip side, some travelers mention that, since whale sightings depend on natural luck, there’s no guarantee you’ll see whales every time. Still, if you’re looking for a fun, active way to explore Iceland’s waters and wildlife, this tour might just be your thing.

This tour suits those who enjoy adventure, are comfortable on a speedboat, and appreciate wildlife sightings in their natural habitat. It’s especially good for travelers who want a more dynamic, speedy experience rather than a lengthy cruise. Keep in mind, though, it’s not designed for children under 10, so this one’s more for older kids and adults who love a bit of thrill.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters are the main highlight, with chances to see whales, dolphins, seals, and puffins.
• Speedboat ride offers a lively, exhilarating experience that’s different from traditional boat tours.
• The guide’s knowledge and friendliness enhance the overall experience, making it more engaging.
• Weather can impact the trip; calmer days can make whale spotting easier and the ride smoother.
• You’ll be provided with warm waterproof gear, which is crucial given Iceland’s unpredictable weather.
• Price reflects the intimate size and speed of the boat, offering a more personalized adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

If you’re considering this tour, what really matters is how well it balances adventure, wildlife viewing, and comfort. The tour departs from Reykjavik’s old harbor, with a quick walk to Ægisgarður 5G, and takes you straight into the waters of Faxaflói Bay. The boat itself is a brand new, state-of-the-art RIB, with 12 suspension seats designed for a smoother, safer ride. That’s a big plus—both for comfort and safety, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or just prefer a more stable experience.

The departure is approximately two hours, which is enough time to get a taste of what’s out there without feeling overly committed. As you leave the city behind, you’ll cruise past landmarks like the Sun Voyager sculpture and the Harpa Concert Hall—familiar sights that remind you of Reykjavik’s vibrant culture even as you venture into the wild.

What Will You See and Do?

The main goal is to spot whales—up to 23 species are known to frequent Faxaflói Bay. Common sightings include humpback whales, minke whales, and sometimes even white-beaked dolphins and harbor porpoises. Reviewers consistently highlight the expertise of guides in locating these creatures, with many describing moments when whales come close enough to see blowholes or even see a humpback breach.

One reviewer recounts, “We saw a humpback whale and a few minke whales. On the way back, we got much closer to a humpback who came out of the water to breathe. It was incredible.” That kind of closeness makes a world of difference—seeing whales in their environment, as opposed to in an aquarium, is an extraordinary experience.

The Puffin Experience

Beyond whales, you’ll visit islands where puffins nest and lay their eggs. Puffins are a big draw in Iceland, and seeing them in flight and swimming around the boat adds a playful, colorful dimension to the trip. As one traveler put it, “we were given quite an aerial and water display by lots of puffins flying and swimming around us,” making the tour not just about whales but also about observing a variety of seabirds.

Wildlife and Nature in Motion

While whale sightings rely on chance—after all, these are wild animals—guides do their best to find them. As one reviewer mentions, “The guides were very friendly and helpful finding whales and dolphins but also respectful with them.” That respect is important; it ensures the natural behavior and habitat of these animals are preserved.

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The Speedboat Ride

The speed of the boat is a unique feature—think of it as combining wildlife viewing with an adrenaline rush. Many reviews rave about how fun and engaging the ride is, especially when the boat accelerates or makes sharp turns. Frances calls it “like an activity in itself,” and mentions seeing white-beaked dolphins that came very close to the boat. While some mention it can be rough on windy days, most agree that the high-speed phases add an exciting layer to the trip.

Comfort and Gear

The tour provides a full set of waterproof overalls, gloves, goggles, and a personal scarf to keep you warm and dry. This is especially important in Iceland, where the weather can change quickly and be quite chilly even in summer. The waterproof gear is generally well-reviewed, with travelers noting they stayed dry and comfortable despite the high speeds and splashes. Remember, sandals or open-toed shoes are not permitted, so come prepared with closed footwear.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is not suitable for children under 10, mainly because of the speed and the physical nature of the ride. If you prefer calmer waters or a more leisurely cruise, other options might suit you better. But if you’re after something energetic, with a good chance of wildlife sightings and a scenic, fast-paced ride, this tour hits the mark.

Price-wise, at $175 per person, it’s a bit more expensive than some traditional whale watching tours. However, the smaller group size (only 12 seats) and the thrill of riding a speedboat add to its value, especially for those who love active adventures.

The Potential Downsides

The biggest factor to keep in mind is whale spotting is not guaranteed. Since it relies on animals being in the area, some days might be less successful than others. As one reviewer pointed out, “seeing whales cannot be guaranteed,” so patience and a little luck are involved.

Weather can also impact your experience—rough seas may make the ride more turbulent, and windier days could make wildlife harder to spot. Therefore, check the weather forecast and possibly choose a calmer day for the best chances.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a nature lover, curious about Iceland’s marine life, and comfortable with a bit of speed and splash, this tour offers a memorable experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want a more active and intimate encounter with wildlife, rather than a lengthy or overly relaxed cruise.

Those seeking high-energy adventures that combine wildlife, scenic views, and some adrenaline will find this a compelling choice. It’s also a good pick for those who appreciate guides with knowledge, given the high praise for the staff’s friendliness and expertise.

FAQ

Will we definitely see whales?
Since whales are wild animals, sightings can’t be guaranteed. Weather and animal presence influence the chances, but guides do their best to find them.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is a brand new, state-of-the-art RIB with 12 suspension seats designed for comfort and safety, even at high speeds.

What should I wear?
You’ll be provided with warm waterproof overalls, gloves, goggles, and a scarf. It’s best to wear warm, windproof clothes underneath, and closed shoes.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, which is a good length for a quick yet immersive wildlife adventure.

Can children join?
This tour is not suitable for children under 10 years, mainly due to safety considerations and the nature of the ride.

What landmarks will I see during departure?
As you leave Reykjavik, you’ll pass by the Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture, offering a scenic backdrop to your adventure.

What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include whales (humpback, minke), dolphins, seals, and puffins.

What’s the price?
At $175 per person, it’s a premium experience, but the small group size and the speedboat thrill add to its value.

Is the experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The intimate size and guided nature make it easy for solo travelers to join and enjoy.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot through GetYourGuide, with options to reserve now and pay later, giving flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and looking for a dynamic wildlife adventure that combines the thrill of a speedboat ride with the chance to see whales and puffins up close, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach, along with the scenic departure from Reykjavik’s harbor, make this a memorable outing.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a more active, engaging experience and who are comfortable on a boat that speeds across the water. While it’s not a guaranteed wildlife sighting, the chances of seeing whales, dolphins, and puffins make it a worthwhile endeavor for anyone eager to get a bit closer to Iceland’s marine life.

So, if you’re craving a fresh perspective on Iceland’s waters—where scenery, wildlife, and adrenaline collide—this whale watching speedboat tour might just be the highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: