Reykjavik: Premium Whale Watching with Flexible Ticket

Taking to the waters around Reykjavík for a whale watching adventure is a classic Icelandic experience, but this tour takes it up a notch. Conducted by Whale Safari, this premium, small-group trip promises a more personal, exhilarating encounter with whales, dolphins, and puffins during the summer months. Unlike larger boat trips, this adventure uses a speedboat (RIB), providing a thrilling ride that feels as much like a safari as a sightseeing tour.

What immediately draws us in is the flexibility of the ticket—rescheduling is possible up to an hour before departure—perfect for travelers wary of weather disruptions. Plus, with warm overalls and safety gear provided, you can focus on the experience rather than the cold. However, this is a fast-paced trip that’s best suited for those comfortable on the water and over 10 years old.

This tour is ideal for adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts who want a closer, more energetic encounter with Iceland’s marine life. But if you’re seeking a more relaxed, scenic ride, you might prefer the larger boat tours. Here’s everything you need to know to decide if this tour fits your Iceland itinerary.

Key Points

• Small-group adventure offers more personal attention and a feeling of exclusivity.
• Speedboat experience guarantees an adrenaline rush and close-up views.
• Wildlife sightings typically include Humpback Whales, Minke Whales, dolphins, and puffins during the season.
• Weather gear is supplied, but dress appropriately for cold, windy conditions.
• Flexible ticket policy allows rescheduling with advance notice.
• Suitable for children over 10 and those comfortable with high-speed boat rides.

What Makes This Whale Watching Tour Stand Out

Unlike traditional whale watching cruises, this tour’s RIB speedboat design provides a more intimate and dynamic experience. We loved the way the small boats allowed you to sail closer to the action, often giving a more vivid view of whales and dolphins. This approach isn’t just about the thrill of speed—it’s about getting closer to marine life in a way that larger vessels can’t match.

The professional captain and guides are a huge plus. Reviewers like Sian praised the guides for being friendly and knowledgeable, which enhances the experience significantly. They share insights about the whales and marine environment, making it not just exciting but educational too. Grant’s account of seeing two humpbacks, two minke whales, and a pod of porpoises confirms that an attentive guide makes a real difference.

The seasonal puffin watching during May to August adds a bonus for bird lovers. Viewers can spot these colorful seabirds nesting just outside Reykjavík’s harbor, making the tour even more diverse in wildlife.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at the Whale Safari ticket office in Reykjavík’s Old Harbour. After a quick safety briefing and distribution of warm overalls, your group boards a punchy RIB speedboat. The design is sleek, with brand-new suspension seats that ensure comfort despite the boat’s speed and the sometimes choppy seas.

Once underway, you’ll traverse Faxaflói Bay, an area famous for its rich marine ecosystem. The boat’s speed and agility make it easy to cover large areas quickly—crucial since wildlife sightings are not guaranteed but are quite common.

Throughout the journey, your English-speaking guide will point out marine mammals and share fun facts about their behavior. During the summer months, you’ll also keep an eye out for puffins nesting in cliffs outside the harbor. Many reviewers, like Erica, appreciated how well-organized the trip was and how the guides shared interesting marine insights.

The tour lasts around 2 hours, after which you’ll head back to Reykjavík, enjoying a scenic ride along the shoreline, with views of famous landmarks. The return leg offers a different perspective on the city’s skyline and coast.

What’s Included and What to Consider

Included in the price are warm overalls, safety equipment, professional guidance, and puffin watching during the breeding season. The suspension seats are a thoughtful touch, especially considering the boat’s speed.

Meals and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly—perhaps bring snacks or enjoy Reykjavik’s culinary scene before or after your trip. The tour does not include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point in Reykjavík.

Weather plays a significant role—the tour is dependent on sea conditions and can be canceled if the weather turns rough. That’s typical for Icelandic adventures, so flexibility is key. The flexible ticket policy allows you to reschedule up to one hour prior to departure, which many find reassuring.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure-seekers and marine wildlife enthusiasts who want a more personal, hands-on encounter. If you’re comfortable on boats and enjoy high-speed rides, you’ll likely love the thrill and proximity this tour offers. Parents or guardians should note that children under 10 and pregnant women are not recommended, partly due to the boat’s speed and the potential for rough waters.

Travelers who appreciate guides who share local insights and are passionate about marine life will find this tour especially rewarding. The small group format means more interactive, informative, and fun—and a chance to ask questions and get close to guides like those praised by reviewers.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those seeking a lively, adrenaline-pumping way to see whales and dolphins, this tour offers compelling value. The small boat size and expert guidance mean better chances of sightings and a more personalized experience. The inclusion of seasonal puffin watching adds extra appeal, especially during summer months.

Pricing at $192 per person might seem steep compared to larger boat options, but the intimacy, speed, and potential for closer wildlife encounters justify the cost for many. Plus, the flexible ticket policy gives peace of mind—crucial when Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a fast, sometimes cold ride and are eager for a more active, engaging wildlife experience. If you’re after a relaxed cruise, you might prefer larger boat tours, but if closeness and thrill are your priorities, this is a solid choice.

FAQ

How long is the whale watching tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.

Are safety gear and warm clothing provided?
Yes, warm overalls and safety equipment are included to keep you comfortable despite the cold and windy conditions.

Can I reschedule my trip if the weather is bad?
Absolutely. The ticket is flexible, allowing you to reschedule up to an hour before departure, subject to availability.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for children over 10 years old and those taller than 145 centimeters. It’s also not suitable for pregnant women or anyone with back problems.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include Humpback Whales, Minke Whales, dolphins, and during summer, puffins outside the harbor.

Does the tour include hotel pick-up?
No, it starts at the Whale Safari ticket office in Reykjavík. Make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.

What happens if I don’t see any whales?
Many reviewers noted they saw multiple whales and dolphins, but if no wildlife appears, you might be able to try a different whale watching tour on a larger vessel for free.

In summary, this tour offers an energetic, close-up look at Iceland’s marine life on a small, personal RIB boat. It’s perfect for travelers craving adventure, expert guidance, and authentic wildlife encounters. If you’re ready for a speedy trip that combines nature, education, and a bit of adrenaline, this trip is likely to deliver — weather permitting, of course.