Akureyri Express Whale Watching by RIB boat

Traveling to Iceland’s north coast? If spotting whales and marine life in their natural habitat sounds like your perfect adventure, then the Akureyri Express Whale Watching tour by RIB boat might be just what you’re looking for. This 2-hour expedition offers a small-group experience, limited to only 12 travelers, which means you’ll get a more intimate, personalized encounter with the wildlife and stunning coastal scenery.

What we love about this tour is how accessible and up-close the whale watching becomes. The RIB boat’s speed and maneuverability mean you’re not just sitting back and waiting — you’re actively zipping along the fjord, following pods and getting excellent views. One potential drawback? The tour runs in variable weather, as Iceland’s coastal conditions can change quickly, so packing warm, waterproof gear is essential. Perfect for those who want a quick, intense, and engaging wildlife encounter, this tour suits travelers craving adventure, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts eager for prime whale sightings.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and easier whale spotting.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary and help with spotting wildlife.
• Prime sightings of humpback whales, mink whales, dolphins, and more.
• Flexible departure times throughout the day accommodate different schedules.
• High value for the price, considering the close encounters and professional guidance.
• Weather dependency means flexible plans or possible cancellations.

An Overview of the Whale Watching Experience

The adventure begins at the Elding Whale Watching pier in central Akureyri. Depending on your chosen time slot—10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, or 4 pm—you’ll meet your crew ready to head out on what promises to be an exhilarating 2-hour trip. The tour is designed for a maximum of 12 guests, which is a real plus — no crowded boat, no fighting for the best view.

Once aboard the small RIB boat, you’ll quickly realize how different this is from larger, slower ships. The speed and agility of the boat allow you to cover more ground and get closer to the whales, which is something many reviewers highlight. The boat is equipped with all necessary safety gear, including life jackets, overalls, goggles, and gloves to keep you warm and dry in Iceland’s often brisk waters.

The route takes you along Eyjafjörður fjord, where your captain and guide will point out natural sights and wildlife, such as sea birds and marine mammals. The guide is vital here—reviewers like Jill_H and David mention how friendly and knowledgeable the crew were, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

The Route and What to Expect

The tour doesn’t follow a rigid path but rather adapts based on whale activity and weather conditions. Expect several stops along the fjord, where your guide will help you scan the water for signs of marine life. This is where the small boat’s speed really pays off—quickly moving to where the action is happening.

Dolphin sightings are also common, with white-beaked dolphins frequently spotted alongside whales. One reviewer, Nancy_H, recalled seeing four whales—two humpbacks and two mink whales—during her trip, with around 20 sightings altogether. That kind of close, frequent encounter is what makes this tour stand out.

Whale Sightings and Wildlife

The reviews reveal that the guides excel at whale identification and spotting. Zachary_S mentions that they followed a pod of humpbacks for over an hour, which demonstrates the tour’s flexibility and the guides’ skill. Many guests note how close they got to the whales — some even describe the experience as “up close and personal.”

The whales spotted include humpbacks, mink whales, and white-beaked dolphins, with some reviewers like Gillian_B describing the humpback feeding behavior as especially magical — “opening its mouth, rolling at the top of the water.” Such moments are rare and highly memorable.

Comfort and Equipment

The tour provides all necessary gear to keep you comfortable and safe, including overalls, goggles, gloves, and life jackets. Several guests, like Amber_S, commented on how the coveralls kept them cozy yet comfortable, even in chilly weather. The gear is designed to make the ride manageable, even if the water gets bumpy, though some reviewers, like Brian_C, note that the ride may be a little bumpy at times.

How the Tour Fits into Your Iceland Itinerary

Timing is flexible, with multiple departures during the day to fit different schedules. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it easy to slot into a busy travel itinerary. Since no transportation is included, you’ll need to make your way to the pier in central Akureyri. The meeting spot at Oddeyrarbót 2 is accessible via public transportation, which many find convenient.

You won’t need to worry about food or drinks on this trip; it’s all about the wildlife adventure. If you’re planning to join a cruise or explore further afterward, you’ll have plenty of time to do so. The tour ends back at the same pier, simplifying logistics.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $180 per person, this experience offers great value, especially considering the small group size and the chance to see multiple whale species up close. Compared to larger boat tours, the RIB approach provides a more dynamic and intimate experience, which many reviewers find worth the extra cost. Seeing whales in Iceland’s pristine waters is often a bucket-list highlight, and with knowledgeable guides and guaranteed sightings or your next trip free, the tour backs up its price.

Authentic Encounters and Insider Tips from Reviewers

Beyond the logistical aspects, the reviews reveal some of what makes this tour special:

• Knowledgeable guides like David and Linsey are praised for their enthusiasm and ability to spot whales quickly. Zachary_S mentions how the guides are “very knowledgeable,” and Helen_H says they were “amazing and really knowledgeable.” This expertise significantly enhances the experience, giving you context and understanding of what you’re witnessing.

• Close encounters are frequently highlighted. Anita_L described the whales as being “literally up close and personal,” which is exactly what many travelers are seeking. The small boat size and the expert crew make this possible.

• Safety and comfort are important priorities. Multiple guests, including Nancy_H, appreciated the provided gear that kept them warm and dry, even in Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

• Wildlife diversity is another perk. Several reviews mention multiple whale sightings, including humpbacks, mink whales, and even orcas, making the tour not just a whale-watching trip, but a full marine adventure.

• Photographic opportunities are abundant. Amber_S and others highlight how the tour’s proximity and stability offer great chances to capture whales feeding, rolling, and breaching.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Dress warmly: The tour provides gear, but layering with waterproof clothing and warm underlayers is advised.
• Bring a camera or binoculars if you have them. The small boat’s proximity to the whales makes for excellent photos.
• Sign up in advance: The tour is popular, often booked 77 days ahead, so plan early.
• Be prepared for some bumpy moments; if you’re prone to seasickness, take preventive measures.
• Arrive at the pier a little early to meet your guide and settle in.
• Confirm your departure time and check the weather forecast to dress appropriately.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a personalized and dynamic whale watching experience, the Akureyri Express tour by RIB boat delivers second to none. With its small group size, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see multiple marine species in a short time, it’s perfect for travelers who love adventure and wildlife photography.

While the weather can be unpredictable, the gear and expertise provided make this a manageable and rewarding trip. The high rate of positive reviews, often mentioning the proximity to whales and the guides’ professionalism, suggests this is a trusted operator for marine encounters in Iceland.

This experience is best suited for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and small group travelers eager for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. If you’re looking for a high-energy, intimate trip with a real chance of memorable whale sightings, this tour is a fantastic pick. Just remember to dress warmly, arrive prepared, and get ready for two hours of marine magic in Iceland’s stunning north coast.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The whale watching tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick but intense wildlife adventure.

How many people are on the boat?
The boat is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a small, intimate experience with plenty of space and better chances to see whales.

Do I need to bring any gear?
The tour provides life jackets, overalls, goggles, and gloves. However, bringing warm, waterproof clothing and a camera will enhance your comfort and experience.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
You could see humpback whales, mink whales, white-beaked dolphins, and possibly orcas, depending on the day.

Are there departure times available throughout the day?
Yes, you can choose from multiple departure times—10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, or 4 pm—based on what suits your schedule.

Is there a guarantee of whale sightings?
The tour offers a whale guarantee, or you can come again for free on a classic tour if no whales are seen.

What if the weather is poor?
Tours are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.