Akureyri: 2-Hour Whale Watching Express by RIB Speedboat

Exploring Iceland’s marine life is a bucket-list experience, and this 2-hour whale watching tour from Akureyri promises just that—up-close views of humpback whales aboard a fast, nimble RIB speedboat. As part of the vibrant North Iceland scene, this tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, education, and breathtaking scenery.

What makes this trip stand out? For starters, the small group size (only 12 passengers per boat) creates an intimate, personalized experience that’s hard to match with larger ship-based tours. Plus, the RIB boats are designed to get you closer to the action—faster, more agile, and capable of covering a wider area than traditional whale-watching vessels. However, be prepared for the possibility of weather-related cancellations, a common consideration in Iceland’s unpredictable climate.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love wildlife, crave a bit of adrenaline, and appreciate knowledgeable guides and incredible scenery. If you’re after a memorable, authentic Icelandic adventure that balances thrill with respect for nature, this experience will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Close Whale Encounters: The small RIB boats allow you to get nearer to whales than bigger vessels.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Gisella and Mack enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• Fast & Agile: The RIBs cover more ground quickly, increasing chances of sightings.
• Limited Group Size: Only 12 passengers per boat ensure comfort and a personal experience.
• Weather Considerations: Tours can be canceled at short notice due to Iceland’s changing weather.
• Value for Money: At $174, the tour offers a premium experience with excellent reviews for value.

An Overview of the Tour Experience

The adventure begins at the floating pier in Akureyri, where you check in at least 30 minutes before departure. Expect to be warmly dressed; the tour provides overalls, neoprene gloves, goggles, and safety equipment—all crucial for staying dry and comfortable during the roughly 2-hour ride. Dress warmly with at least a wool or fleece sweater, and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially given the potential for windy or rainy conditions.

Once aboard the speedy RIB boats, you’ll notice how different this experience is from traditional whale-watching cruises. These boats are designed for speed and agility, which means you can cover more ground in your search for whales and other marine life. As we saw in multiple reviews, guides like Gisella and Mack are not only skilled drivers but also passionate about wildlife. Their knowledge about whale behavior and the local area often adds an extra dimension to the trip, making it more than just a boat ride.

The Search for Whales

The main goal is to locate humpback whales, but the trips often include sightings of dolphins, porpoises, and a variety of bird life. Reviewers frequently mention how the guides are adept at spotting wildlife quickly—Mack, in particular, was praised for his insights and his ability to identify whales by sight and behavior.

The journey to the whales involves a quick ride away from the port, sometimes about 20 minutes, where active whales are often observed. As one reviewer commented, “We saw many whales, including humpbacks and minkes, and the boat stayed at a respectful distance, allowing the whales to come closer if they felt like it.” This respectful approach is crucial for wildlife tourism, and guides seem committed to maintaining a non-intrusive distance.

What It’s Like on Board

Passengers consistently praise the comfort of the RIBs—a stark contrast to the sometimes rough, large-scale boats. The smaller vessels are described as “exciting” and “fun,” with some reviewers saying they felt more like riding on a motorcycle on the water rather than a traditional boat. The speed and maneuverability mean you’re not just along for the ride—you’re actively part of the wildlife hunt.

In less ideal weather, the provided overalls and gear prove essential. One reviewer mentioned how suits kept them warm despite the cold, rainy weather. The fast ride, combined with proper clothing, can turn what might seem like a cold, wet day into an exhilarating adventure.

The Wildlife Encounters

Seeing whales in their natural environment is a profound experience. Many reviewers describe the thrill of watching humpbacks surface feed, with some even witnessing humpback surface feeding—a rare and captivating sight. Others caught glimpses of mink whales or porpoises, extending the adventure beyond just the main target species.

Authentic moments, like a whale “coming toward the boat” or a porpoise “playing alongside,” add to the magic. Guests have also noted how the guides expertly keep the group informed, sharing fascinating facts about whale behavior, making the moments even more meaningful.

The Authenticity and Respect for Nature

A consistent theme in reviews is the respectful distance maintained by the guides and vessels. One guest appreciated how the boat “stayed a respectful distance from the whales, allowing them to come closer if they felt like it.” This non-intrusive approach not only benefits the animals but also makes the experience more authentic for visitors.

Value for Money

At $174 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option, but many reviewers agree it’s worth every penny. The small group size, dedicated guides, and the chance to get closer to the whales make this a premium experience. Several guests mentioned how this tour was a highlight of their Iceland trip, with some calling it “exhilarating,” “well worth the money,” and “an experience of a lifetime.”

Practical Details & What to Know Before You Go

Meeting Point & Timing: You meet at the floating pier Oddeyrarbót 2, next to the cultural centre Hof, at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, but check availability for exact start times. Remember, weather may lead to last-minute cancellations for safety reasons, so stay flexible.

What to Bring & Wear: Dress warmly—think wool or fleece layers—and bring sturdy shoes. The tour supplies overalls, gloves, goggles, and safety gear, but you should be prepared for potentially windy and rainy conditions. Because of Iceland’s rapidly changing weather, a quick-drying top layer and warm hat are wise.

Age & Health Restrictions: The minimum age is 10 years (or 145 cm tall), and the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, mobility issues, or anyone under 145 cm.

Safety & Conduct: Touching wildlife, bringing large bags, or using drones is prohibited. The guides emphasize safety, and all passengers sign a waiver upon arrival.

Authentic Reviewer Insights

The feedback from past travelers highlights several standout points:

• Guides like Gisella, Mack, Jacob, and Lenka are consistently praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to spot whales quickly. Their passion clearly enhances the experience.
• The small boat size offers a sense of adventure, with many describing it as more thrilling and intimate than larger ships.
• Even with less-than-ideal weather, guests found the experience rewarding. “In rainy weather, the suits provided kept us warm, and we still saw whales,” one reviewer shared.
• Many say that safety and respect for wildlife are a priority, adding peace of mind for eco-conscious travelers.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Akureyri whale watching tour offers a unique blend of adventure, education, and wildlife encounters that appeal most to those who love nature and aren’t afraid of a bit of speed. The small group size creates intimacy, while the speedy RIB boats provide a sense of thrill and a better chance of spotting whales.

It’s ideal for travelers who value authentic wildlife experiences and appreciate knowledgeable guides. If you’re comfortable with cold weather and enjoy getting close to nature, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Iceland trip.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less adventurous outing, or if your travel plans are tight, consider the possibility of weather cancellations or the need for proper clothing. Also, it’s not suitable for very young children or those with certain health conditions.

In short, this tour offers a well-rounded, exciting, and respectful way to connect with Iceland’s incredible marine life—an experience that leaves many visitors saying it was a top highlight of their trip.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, starting from the time you depart from Akureyri’s floating pier.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at the floating pier Oddeyrarbót 2, next to the cultural centre Hof in Akureyri.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with wool or fleece layers, sturdy shoes, and bring gloves, a hat, and waterproof clothing if possible. The tour provides overalls, gloves, goggles, and safety gear.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 10 years old or under 145 cm are not allowed. The experience is best suited for older kids and adults.

What animals might I see?
Primarily humpback whales, but sightings also include dolphins, porpoises, minke whales, and various seabirds.

Can weather cancel the tour?
Yes, weather can change rapidly in Iceland, and safety considerations may lead to last-minute cancellations.

What’s included in the price?
Guide, overalls, neoprene gloves, goggles, life vest, and safety equipment.

Will I get close to the whales?
Yes, the RIB speedboats are designed to get closer than larger vessels, with many guests praising how near they could observe the whales.

Is the experience worth the price?
Most reviewers feel the value justifies the cost, especially given the small group size and the chance for close-up wildlife encounters.

This detailed review hopes to help you decide if this whale watching adventure in Akureyri matches your travel style and expectations. For those eager to witness Iceland’s majestic marine life in an energetic, authentic setting, this trip is a clear contender.