RIB boat express: Whales, Eyjafjord and Akureyri

Exploring Akureyri’s Marine Wonders: A Closer Look at the RIB Boat Whale Watching Tour

If you’re heading to northern Iceland and love the idea of seeing whales in their natural habitat, this RIB boat express tour in Akureyri might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and tour details paint a compelling picture of what to expect. It’s a promising option for active travelers wanting an up-close adventure and scenic views.

What we really like about this tour is its small-group feel — with only 12 passengers max, it promises a more personal, less crowded experience. Plus, the chance to spot humpback whales and even minke whales is pretty exciting for marine life enthusiasts. On the flip side, being an outdoor activity on the water, it’s subject to weather conditions, which can sometimes lead to cancellations. Still, if you’re comfortable with a bit of adventure and want to combine sightseeing with wildlife spotting, this tour seems like a good fit.

This experience suits those who enjoy a quick, energetic outing during a day of exploring Iceland. It’s especially great for travelers who appreciate active adventures and want to see Akureyri from the water rather than just land-based sights. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for young children under 10, so perfect for families with older kids or anyone comfortable with boat rides and quick-paced excursions.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Only 12 passengers ensure personal attention and less crowding.
• Wildlife Galore: Opportunity to see humpback whales, minke whales, puffins, and seabirds.
• Active and Scenic: Fast-paced RIB ride with panoramic fjord views.
• Weather-Dependent: Tours can be canceled for safety reasons if weather isn’t suitable.
• Price & Value: Around $183, offering a focused, intimate wildlife adventure.
• Wildlife Guarantee: If you don’t see whales, you can try again for free on a larger boat.

The Experience of a RIB Whale Watching Tour

Imagine racing through the icy waters of Eyjafjörður in a powerful RIB — that’s the core of this adventure. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s a lively, dynamic way to encounter the natural beauty of northern Iceland. The tour lasts about two hours, a perfect window that balances excitement without wearing you out.

Starting Point and Logistics

You’ll meet at Elding Whale Watching in Akureyri, conveniently located near public transport options. The meeting point is straightforward, and since no pickup is included, planning transportation ahead of time is key. The tour begins with a safety briefing and getting fitted with overalls, life jackets, goggles, and neoprene gloves — essentials for comfort and protection in the cold waters.

The RIB Boat Itself

The RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) is a sturdy, fast vessel designed for stability and speed, allowing you to zip through the fjord with ease. The boat’s small size (max 12 passengers) means you’re closer to the water, gaining better views and a more intimate experience. The captain, who’s specially trained, keeps the ride lively but safe, and the friendly crew provides excellent live commentary throughout.

Wildlife and Scenery

Once underway, the real magic begins. We loved the thrill of zipping past towering mountains and rugged cliffs with water splashing on the sides. The main goal? Spotting whales — and you’ll see it’s all about patience and luck. The reviews highlight sightings of humpback whales, and some lucky travelers have even seen minke whales during their trip.

You’ll also keep an eye out for puffins and other seabirds, which are often seen along the fjord. The guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, adding context to the scenery and wildlife. As one reviewer put it, “a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide made the experience memorable,” especially when spotting various whales.

The Whale Guarantee and What It Means

One of the key benefits here is the “whale guarantee.” If you don’t encounter whales on your RIB ride, you can return for free on the larger boat. While this might sound like a safety net, it also speaks to the confidence the operator has in their chances of whale sightings. Keep in mind, though, that weather can cancel the tour altogether, which happened to at least one traveler who commented, “Cancelled due to bad weather — no one’s fault, just happens, but we’re glad we were safe.”

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes all necessary gear: overalls, life vests, goggles, and neoprene gloves. The live commentary adds a lot, offering insights and fun facts that make the experience richer. The cost is around $183 per person, which for a wildlife-focused, small-group adventure seems reasonable, especially considering the personalized service.

Food and pickup aren’t included, so plan ahead. Since this activity is focused on the water and wildlife, don’t expect meals or snacks, but bringing a warm drink or snack might be a good idea, especially if you’re sensitive to cold.

Analyzing the Value

At roughly $183, this tour isn’t the cheapest way to see whales in Iceland, but considering its small group size, the quality of the guide, and the potential for close-up whale sightings, it offers solid value. Many travelers mention feeling safe and well cared for, which is worth paying a little extra for, especially on unpredictable waters.

The 2-hour duration hits the sweet spot — enough to get a real taste of whale watching without it becoming draining or overly rushed. Plus, the chance to see puffins and seabirds adds another layer of interest for bird lovers.

What Travelers Say

The glowing reviews highlight the expertise of the guides and the excitement of whale sightings. One traveler called it “the best whale watching tour ever,” praising the safety and exhilaration. Another reviewer appreciated the clear communication and the chance to see multiple whale species.

The one downside? Weather can spoil plans. But again, safety comes first, and the operator’s flexibility with cancellations and refunds shows they prioritize traveler well-being.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This RIB whale watching experience is well-suited for active travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone comfortable with a bit of boat speed and cold weather gear. It’s perfect if you want a more personal, less crowded adventure, and don’t mind the possibility of a weather-related cancellation. It’s less ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues, as the activity requires moderate physical fitness and the ability to sit comfortably in saddle-like seats.

FAQs About the Tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children must be at least 10 years old and 145 cm tall. The activity requires moderate physical fitness and comfort with boat rides.

What should I bring?
While gear is provided, bringing warm layers, a hat, and perhaps a snack might make the experience more comfortable. No food or drinks are included.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t favorable, the tour will be canceled, and you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Can I see whales on this trip?
There’s a good chance, with many reviews mentioning whale sightings, including humpback and minke whales. There’s also a whale guarantee, meaning you can try again for free if you don’t see whales initially.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around two hours, which balances excitement with comfort.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviewers praise the guides for their enthusiasm and expertise, making the experience more engaging.

What’s included in the package?
All safety gear, live commentary, and the thrill of the ride. Food and pickup are not included.

Is the tour safe?
Yes, safety is prioritized. The boat is operated by trained professionals, and safety equipment is provided.

How many people are on each boat?
Maximum 12 travelers, creating a more personalized experience.

Can I book a return trip if I don’t see whales?
Yes, the whale guarantee allows you to try again on a larger boat for free.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re looking to combine your love of wildlife with a fast-paced, small-group adventure, this RIB whale watching tour in Akureyri is worth considering. The chance to see whales up close, along with the stunning fjord scenery, makes it a memorable part of any Iceland trip. Keep in mind, weather can play a role, so flexibility helps. But if you’re ready for a lively ride and keen on wildlife, this outing offers a rewarding experience that’s both exciting and visually stunning.

This tour is best suited for travelers who crave an active, intimate, and wildlife-rich adventure. It’s ideal if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy a more personal encounter with Iceland’s marine life. Just pack your warm clothes, be prepared for unpredictable weather, and you might find yourself with some fantastic stories — and maybe even a whale or two — by the end of it.