Reykjavik: Whale Watching by RIB Speedboat

Imagine speeding across the Atlantic, cooled by brisk Icelandic air, with the promise of glimpsing majestic whales, playful dolphins, and adorable puffins just off Reykjavik’s coast. That’s what this whale watching tour offers — a unique, adrenaline-packed way to encounter marine life in a setting that’s both thrilling and intimate. The tour is operated by Sea trips Reykjavík, featuring a small group adventure aboard a 12-seater RIB speedboat.

One of the things we love about this experience is its small group size. It creates a personal atmosphere that allows for better maneuverability and closer wildlife encounters. Plus, with the high speed of the boat, you’re not just sitting around waiting — you’re actively chasing sightings, which makes the trip feel dynamic and exciting. However, out on the water in Iceland, weather plays a big role; rough seas or heavy rain could mean rescheduling or adjusting expectations, so it’s worth being flexible.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy fast-paced adventures and want to see marine animals up close in their natural environment. It’s especially appealing for travelers who value knowledgeable guides and superb views, but it might not be suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or anyone with certain health concerns due to the boat’s speed and movement. Still, for the adventurous at heart, this tour offers a genuinely memorable experience.

Key Points

• Intimate group size enhances wildlife encounters and comfort.
• High-speed RIB boat offers a fun, adrenaline-filled adventure.
• Wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the guides do their best to find animals.
• Weather conditions can impact the tour; flexibility is key.
• All necessary safety equipment and warm clothing are provided.
• Free re-try if no wildlife is spotted on your scheduled day.

What to Expect: A Detailed Breakdown of Your Whale Watching Experience

The Departure Point and Check-In

Your adventure begins at Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, Aegisgardur 2. It’s recommended to check in 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. The check-in process is straightforward — scan your QR code or barcode at the self-service kiosk. If arriving by car, there’s free parking nearby, though it’s wise to arrive early to find a spot and avoid last-minute rushes.

The Vessel: Small but Mighty

The tour takes place on a 12-seater RIB speedboat, making it one of the more personal and agile options available. This size matters because it allows the boat to maneuver quickly and get closer to wildlife, compared to larger vessels. Reviewers frequently mention that being on a smaller boat enhances the experience — with some noting that they could “maneuver around better” and get closer to the whales. The boat is equipped with warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and safety gear, which are essential given the chilly Icelandic waters and the spray from high speeds.

The Route and Scenic Highlights

Once onboard, the captain sets out across Faxaflói Bay, cruising between small islands like Engey and Lundey. These islands are noteworthy destinations; Lundey, known as Puffin Island, hosts colonies of puffins, providing a delightful end to your marine adventure. The route also offers a chance to enjoy panoramic views of Reykjavík and iconic landmarks such as the Harpa concert hall from a fresh perspective.

The focus of the trip is wildlife spotting, but the scenery itself is captivating — rugged coastlines, distant mountain backdrops, and the lively waters of Faxaflói Bay. Many reviews highlight how the views of the city from the water are stunning, with some passengers noting the perfect weather conditions that make the experience even more memorable.

Wildlife Encounters and Sightings

This is the core of the experience. The guides are experienced and knowledgeable, with some reviewers mentioning guides like Julian, a marine biologist, who shared a wealth of information about the animals they encountered. Sightings can include:

• Whales (Humpbacks, Minkes, and even rare sightings of other species)
• Dolphins (playful and curious)
• Porpoises (occasional visitors)
• Puffins (on Lundey Island, especially during late spring and summer)

One guest shared that they followed a humpback whale for over an hour, witnessing tail slaps, breaches, and blows — an experience they described as “truly a blessing.” Others have seen around ten whales at once, with some even getting close enough to see breaching or tail slapping, thanks to the boat’s agility.

What Happens if You Don’t See Marine Life?

Wildlife is unpredictable, and sightings can never be guaranteed. However, this tour offers a generous policy: if no animals are spotted, you’ll receive a complimentary ticket to try again another day. Several reviews mention that guides and staff go out of their way to maximize chances, such as seeking calmer waters or waiting patiently for animals to surface.

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts around 2 hours, with departures typically available during daylight hours—check availability for exact times. This length is generally perfect for balancing excitement and comfort, especially considering the cold and potential motion sickness. The tours are seasonal, with the best whale-watching months from April until September, due to better weather and animal activity.

Safety and Comfort

Safety is a priority, with all necessary gear provided. The warm overalls, goggles, and gloves are particularly appreciated in the Icelandic wind and spray. Reviewers often mention how well-organized the experience is, with staff attentive and accommodating. The boat’s speed adds a thrill, but it might be too bumpy for small children or those with back problems, so keep that in mind.

Price and Value

At $140 per person, this tour offers good value for the close-up wildlife encounters and scenic water views. The small group size and the opportunity for re-tries if no wildlife is seen add to its appeal. Many guests feel it’s worth the cost, especially given the expert guides, well-organized logistics, and the chance to get close to whales and puffins.

How This Tour Stacks Up

Compared to larger whale-watching boats, this RIB experience is more intimate and often more exciting, with reviews consistently praising the speed and maneuverability that allow for better wildlife observation. The expert guides, some with a background in marine biology, significantly boost the educational element, making this not just a fun ride but also an informative one.

The weather-dependent nature means that if conditions aren’t perfect, your experience might be more subdued or require rescheduling. However, the flexibility offered by free re-tries ensures that committed wildlife enthusiasts can try multiple times for that perfect sighting.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping way to see Iceland’s marine life, this RIB speedboat tour is hard to beat. Its small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and proximity to animals make it stand out as an authentic, high-value experience. The scenic backdrop of Reykjavík and Faxaflói Bay adds a lovely touch, making it more than just a wildlife trip — it’s a compact adventure that combines nature, speed, and stunning views.

This tour is best suited for adventurers, wildlife lovers, and those craving an active, close-up experience. It’s a little less suited for very young children, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility concerns, due to the boat’s speed and movement. Still, for those able and willing, it’s likely to become a memorable highlight of your Iceland trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You need to meet at the Old Harbour House 30 minutes before departure.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera. The tour provides warm overalls, goggles, and gloves to keep you comfortable.

Can I go if I don’t see any wildlife?
Yes, if no animals are spotted, you’ll receive a free ticket to try again on another day.

What’s the best time of year for whale watching?
The most suitable months are from April through September when marine activity and wildlife sightings are at their peak.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10 years old, mainly because of the boat’s speed and movement. It’s also not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems or height restrictions.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect quick adventure without overextending on cold or seasickness concerns.

In the end, this whale watching RIB tour offers a compelling blend of excitement, education, and scenic beauty. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a more personal encounter with Iceland’s marine wildlife, wrapped in an energetic and fun package.