Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour by RIB Boat

If you’re heading to Reykjavik and love the idea of spotting whales in their natural habitat, this whale-watching tour by RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) is likely to catch your eye. It’s an adventure that promises a fast-paced ride, close-up wildlife sightings, and a good dose of Icelandic coastal scenery—all in just a couple of hours.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it manages to blend excitement with education. The guides are often praised for their knowledge about whales and the local environment, which makes the trip not just fun but informative. Plus, the chance to get close to the animals—without disturbing them—is a highlight many travelers mention.

That said, it’s not a tour for everyone. The ride can feel bumpy, especially if you’re sensitive to motion, and it’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions. It’s also weather-dependent, which means your plans might change if the Atlantic waters are less welcoming.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure, are comfortable on the water, and are genuinely interested in marine life. It’s a great pick for those looking for a more intimate and active way to see whales and puffins compared to larger ship excursions.

This experience made our article of Our 10 Favorite Reykjavik Boat Tours & Cruises.

Key Points

• Close Encounters: The small RIB boat allows for a more personal and closer wildlife viewing experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with interesting facts and passionate commentary.
• Weather Dependency: The tour relies heavily on favorable conditions; safety comes first, so sailing isn’t guaranteed on bad weather days.
• Inclusions: Warm gear, goggles, and a visit to the whale museum add extra value.
• Group Size: Smaller groups (about 6 people) often mean a more personalized experience and quicker access to whale hotspots.
• Value for Money: At $160 for two hours, it’s considered a worthwhile expense for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Practicalities

You’ll meet at the tour operator’s ticket office in Aegisgardur 5E, Reykjavik, and from there, the adventure begins. The tour lasts about two hours, with start times varying depending on availability—so it pays to check ahead. Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to make your own way there, but the location is central and easy to find.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour package covers quite a bit to keep you comfortable and safe. You’ll be provided with warm overalls, life vests, gloves, and goggles, which are essential since you’ll be zipping across cold, windy waters. The gear really makes a difference, especially if the weather isn’t perfectly sunny.

The Ride and Wildlife Encounters

Once aboard one of the sleek RIB boats, you’ll feel the rush of speed as you cruise out to Faxaflói Bay at about 32 knots. This fast pace is part of the appeal—it’s exhilarating and helps you reach the whale feeding grounds quickly. The boat’s shock-absorbing seats make a notable difference, offering a smoother ride even at high speeds.

Many reviews highlight how close and personal the wildlife encounters are. You might see humpback whales, Minke whales, and dolphins, and some lucky travelers have been treated to breaching whales or dolphins jumping alongside the boat. One review even mentions seeing four humpback whales and a pod of dolphins in a single trip, which sounds pretty spectacular.

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Puffins and Other Marine Life

During the summer months, the boat often stops at Akurey Island to look for puffins nesting along the coast. These adorable seabirds are a favorite for many, and seeing their nests during breeding season adds an extra layer of charm to the experience. Several travelers have noted how special it is to get so close to these creatures in their natural environment.

Post-Trip and Additional Attractions

After the boat ride, you’re invited to visit the Whales of Iceland Museum in Reykjavik’s Grandi harbor district. This museum offers a deeper dive into whale biology, migration, and conservation, and many visitors find it a perfect complement to the boat experience. It’s a nice way to extend your whale-watching adventure indoors, especially if the weather turns sour or you'd like to learn more.

Reviews and Real Traveler Experiences

The reviews tell a pretty consistent story: most people think this tour is worth the price. Travelers often praise the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm, with one reviewer saying, “Rebecca was very enthusiastic and answered every question,” making the trip especially memorable.

Many mention how you don’t just see whales—you also get to see dolphins, puffins, and even breaching whales, which some describe as "life-changing." A handful of reviews note that the smaller, faster boats make a real difference in spotting wildlife, allowing you to get closer than larger vessels.

Of course, there are some honest caveats. A few travelers mention that the ride can be a little bumpy at times, especially if the weather isn’t perfect. One review notes that “Initially a bit bumpy but you get used to it,” and this is typical for high-speed boat trips on open water. Also, if you’re prone to seasickness or have back problems, this might not be the best choice.

Weather is another factor to keep in mind. Since the captain will decide whether to sail based on conditions, there’s a chance your trip could be canceled or postponed for safety reasons. It’s always good to have a flexible schedule and check the forecast before booking.

The Practical Side: Price, Duration, and Group Size

At $160 per person, this tour is a solid value when you consider the experience’s intimacy and educational aspect. Compared to larger boat tours, the smaller group size means less crowding and more opportunities for personalized wildlife sightings. Many travelers also appreciate the two-hour duration—long enough to feel like a proper adventure but not so long that it drags.

Since there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off included, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. The tour ends right where it starts, so there’s no need to worry about getting lost or backtracking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This whale-watching experience is best for those who:

• Want a closer, more intimate view of whales and marine life
• Are comfortable on a boat and enjoy adventure rides
• Appreciate knowledgeable guides who can deepen their understanding of whale ecology and local wildlife
• Are okay with weather-dependent activities and potential cancellations
• Not suitable for young children under 10, pregnant women, or people with certain health issues

It’s perfect for adventurous travelers, marine life enthusiasts, and anyone looking to add a lively, memorable activity to their Reykjavik itinerary.

The Sum Up

In all, the Reykjavik whale-watching tour on a RIB boat offers a blend of thrill, education, and natural beauty. The small boat size and knowledgeable guides elevate it beyond a standard wildlife cruise, making it especially appealing for those who want a more personal experience. The chance to see whales, dolphins, and puffins in their natural habitat—plus the added visit to the whale museum—makes this a well-rounded trip.

While the ride can feel a bit rough, most travelers find the excitement and wildlife sightings outweigh that minor discomfort. If you’re visiting Reykjavik and love animals or outdoor adventures, this tour is likely to be a highlight. Just remember to check the weather and be prepared for a fast, wet, and fun ride. It’s a memorable way to connect with Iceland’s rugged coastal environment and its incredible marine creatures.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not recommended for children under 10 years old, mainly due to safety considerations and the size of the boat.

Do I need to bring anything?
All necessary gear—warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and life vests—are provided. Just bring your own sense of adventure, and dress warmly in layers.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The captain makes the call on whether to sail based on weather conditions. If the weather isn’t suitable, the trip may be canceled or rescheduled. It’s best to check ahead and stay flexible.

Can I see puffins on this tour?
Yes, during summer months, the boat stops at Akurey Island to look for puffins nesting along the coast.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about two hours, including time in the whale feeding grounds and possibly at puffin nesting sites.

What types of whales might I see?
Most reports mention seeing humpback whales, Minke whales, and dolphins, with many travelers describing close encounters.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not suitable for very young children or pregnant women, older kids who enjoy boats and wildlife will likely have a good time.

If you’re after a lively, up-close wildlife experience with a knowledgeable crew and a quick pace, this whale-watching tour by RIB boat could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a fun, engaging way to explore Iceland’s marine environment, especially if you’re open to the weather and a bit of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: