Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour by RIB Boat

Imagine speeding across Faxaflói Bay in a sleek RIB boat, wind whipping through your hair, eyes peeled for the splash of a whale or the flash of a puffin’s wing. That’s exactly what this Reykjavik whale-watching tour offers—a quick, adrenaline-filled escape into Iceland’s marine world, combined with impressive scenery and expert insights. With a solid 4.6-star rating based on hundreds of reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this tour a worthwhile way to connect with the ocean’s inhabitants.

What really makes this experience stand out? We love the small-group intimacy—most tours keep the group to just a handful of people, meaning better chances to spot wildlife and enjoy personalized attention from guides. Plus, the speedy RIB boat gets you close to whales in their natural environment, which is a different vibe compared to larger, more sedate cruise boats.

One thing to consider is the weather dependency—like all outdoor Icelandic activities, your trip could be affected by wind, rain, or rough seas. But if you’re prepared with the provided gear, that shouldn’t spoil the fun. This tour suits adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and those eager for a more dynamic, closer encounter with Iceland’s marine life.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small groups (max 6-8 people) allow for better wildlife viewing and interaction.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Rebekka and Alice are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to answer questions.
• Fast & Thrilling Ride: The RIB boat reaches speeds of up to 32 knots, making for an exhilarating adventure.
• Wildlife & Scenery: Expect to see whales, dolphins, and puffins (in summer), plus breathtaking views of Reykjavik’s coastline.
• Warm Gear Included: Overalls, goggles, gloves, and life vests keep you comfortable despite the chill and splash.
• Post-Tour Museum Visit: A ticket to the Whales of Iceland Museum complements the experience with in-depth whale info.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Whale Watching RIB Tour

What to Expect on the Trip

The adventure kicks off at the tour operator’s ticket office in Aegisgardur, centrally located in Reykjavik. After a quick safety briefing, you’ll suit up in provided warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and life vests—a thoughtful touch that ensures comfort regardless of weather. The boat itself is a rigid inflatable vessel equipped with shock suspension seating, designed to provide a smoother ride, especially when reaching the cruising speed of 32 knots.

Once underway, the thrill kicks in. The smaller size of the RIB allows for sharp turns and quick maneuvers, giving you better chances to get close to marine wildlife. Your guide, who may be as enthusiastic as Rebekka or Alice from reviews, will share insights about the whales, dolphins, and local seabirds. They’re also quick to answer questions, sometimes pointing out puffin nesting grounds during the summer—an extra treat for bird lovers.

Reaching the Whale Feeding Grounds

The main goal? To locate whales in their feeding grounds in Faxaflói Bay. This region is known for frequent whale visits, including humpbacks and mink whales, as confirmed by numerous reviewers who got to see multiple species during their tours. Many guests describe their sightings vividly: “We saw a humpback whale and Minke whale,” says one reviewer, while others mention seeing dolphins jumping alongside whales, adding a splash of extra excitement.

The small group size enhances this experience, making it easier for guides to spot signs of whales and get you into position for a good look. Some guests note that being in a quieter, lower boat makes a noticeable difference—“the zodiac boat with individual seats that have shock absorption is amazing,” one reviewer states.

Puffin Sightings & Summer Highlights

If you visit during summer months, your trip might include a stop at Akurey Island, a known puffin nesting site. Reviewers have enjoyed quick visits here to see these charming seabirds in their breeding grounds—just enough time to snap some photos and watch puffins go about their busy lives.

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Wildlife Encounters and Authentic Moments

Many reviews mention the variety of wildlife sightings—from humpback whales breaching, to dolphins jumping around the boat, to observing puffins. One reviewer highlighted, “The guide was very enthusiastic and knowledgeable,” which made the whole trip even more memorable. Another noted, “We saw a whale fully breach the water twice,” describing a moment that felt almost surreal.

Post-Trip Museum Visit

After your exciting ride, you can visit the Whales of Iceland Museum in Reykjavik’s Grandi harbor. The museum offers detailed exhibits on whale species, migration, and conservation—perfect for those wanting to deepen their understanding of the animals you just saw. This added touch is highly appreciated by families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour package covers the guided boat ride, warm gear, a visit to the puffin nesting grounds (seasonal),** and a ticket to the museum. However, meals and drinks are not included, so consider packing snacks if you’re hungry. Also, this activity doesn’t include hotel transfers, so plan to meet at the designated location.

The tour operates weather-dependent, with captains making safety calls based on conditions. This means there’s a chance your trip could be postponed or cancelled if the weather turns nasty—something to keep in mind when planning your day.

Group Size and Duration

The 2-hour duration strikes a balance—long enough for a meaningful wildlife experience but short enough for most travelers to enjoy without fatigue. The small group size of around 6-8 guests ensures everyone gets a good view. Many guests comment on how this setup improves the chances of wildlife sightings and makes the trip more personal.

Cost & Value

At around $160 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the inclusion of high-quality gear, expert guides, and the museum ticket. Compared to larger cruise options, which can be more sedate and less intimate, this smaller, faster ride offers a more up-close and dynamic experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventure seekers who don’t mind getting a bit splashed, nature lovers who crave close encounters with whales, dolphins, and puffins, and small-group enthusiasts who prefer a more personal experience. It’s ideal for families with older children (over 10 years), due to the boat’s speed and movement, and for travelers eager to combine wildlife watching with scenic coastal views.

While not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems or height restrictions (under 4’6”) should consider their comfort levels. Since weather can be unpredictable, packing a sense of flexibility is wise.

Final Thoughts

This whale-watching RIB adventure in Reykjavik offers a swift, energetic way to experience Iceland’s marine life. The speed, intimacy, and knowledgeable guides make it stand out as a memorable highlight of any trip to the capital. Many guests leave with stories of whales breaching just meters from the boat and puffins flapping past—experiences that are truly unique.

The value for money is clear when you consider the included gear, museum ticket, and the chance to see multiple species in their natural environment. It’s a trip that balances thrill and education, perfect for travelers craving a taste of Iceland’s wild side.

If you’re after a lively, close-up encounter with whales and seabirds, and don’t mind some wind and spray, this tour is a fantastic choice. For those who prefer a more relaxed cruise or are sensitive to motion, it’s worth weighing the fast-paced nature of the RIB against calmer options.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is generally not suitable for children under 10 years old due to the boat’s speed and movement.

What should I wear?
You’ll be provided with warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and life vests. It’s advisable to dress in layers underneath and bring waterproof clothing if you have it.

Can I see puffins during the tour?
Yes, during the summer months, the tour may include a stop at Akurey Island, where puffin nesting grounds are visible.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, including time spent cruising and wildlife spotting.

What animals can I expect to see?
Most guests report seeing whales (humpbacks, mink whales), dolphins, and seabirds like puffins during the summer.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the captain will decide whether to go based on weather and sea conditions, prioritizing safety and comfort.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, it starts at the local ticket office in Reykjavik. You need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

What’s the group size?
Typically, groups are small—around 6 to 8 participants—allowing for better wildlife observation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the guide multilingual?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides known for their enthusiasm and knowledge about marine life.

This Reykjavik whale-watching tour offers a lively, authentic way to explore Iceland’s waters. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, an adventure lover, or simply seeking a scenic boat ride, this experience delivers memorable moments in a compact, exhilarating package.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby