RIB Whale Watching Small-Group Boat Tour from Reykjavik

If you’ve ever dreamed of getting close to whales and puffins in their natural habitat, this small-group RIB boat tour from Reykjavik might be just what you’re after. Running around 2 hours, it offers the chance to spot minke whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and puffins while cruising Faxaflói Bay in a speedy, stable rigid inflatable boat. The reviews suggest it’s a favorite among travelers for its intimacy, expert guides, and scenic city views from the water.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the small-group size ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the knowledgeable marine biologist guide adds a layer of insight you won’t get elsewhere. Also, the quick, high-speed RIB means covering more ground than typical whale-watching tours, which can increase your chances of sightings.

However, a potential consideration is the weather dependency—like all outdoor marine excursions, wind or rough seas can lead to cancellations or no sightings. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a lively, adventurous boat ride and are comfortable with chilly outdoor conditions. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or someone looking for a unique way to see Reykjavik from the water, this tour has a lot going for it.

Key Points

• Small Group, Big Experience: The tour caps at 12 travelers, which means more personalized attention and better chances to see wildlife.
• Versatile Wildlife Watching: From whales and dolphins to puffins and sea birds, the tour covers a wide variety of marine life.
• Scenic City Views: After the wildlife quest, you’ll cruise along Reykjavik’s shoreline, snapping photos of landmarks like Harpa Concert Hall and Sun Voyager.
• Expert Guides: The marine biologist hosts not only enhance your chances of sightings but also share fascinating facts about the local marine ecosystem.
• Comfort & Safety: The RIBs are equipped with shock-absorbing seats and safety gear, making the adventure both exciting and secure.
• Weather & Sightings: While the experience is almost guaranteed to be fun, sightings depend on wildlife activity. In case of no sightings, you’ll receive a ticket for a future tour.

The Itinerary Deep Dive

Starting Point: Ægisgarður 5d, Reykjavík’s Old Harbour

The adventure kicks off from Reykjavik’s lively Old Harbour, a perfect launching pad with plenty of local cafés and shops nearby. The tour begins with a quick safety briefing and distribution of coveralls, so you’ll stay warm and dry as the boat speeds out into Faxaflói Bay.

Puffin Spotting at Akurey

During the puffin season (early May to late August), the tour offers a delightful short trip to islands like Akurey, Engey, or Lundey. These tiny islands are teeming with seabirds, and you’ll spend around 5-10 minutes observing puffins, auks, and gannets in their natural habitat. Reviewers often highlight how the small, nimble RIBs get you close to the islands quickly, which means less time waiting and more time enjoying the sights. One reviewer recalls how the puffins are adorable, making it a favorite part of the trip.

Main Whale-Watching Expedition

The core of the tour is the 1.5-hour search in Faxaflói Bay. The boats are equipped with high-performance suspension seats, which significantly boost your comfort, especially if you’re sensitive to rough rides. The guides, including knowledgeable marine biologists, are excellent at spotting whales and dolphins, thanks to their experience and the use of binoculars.

Reviewers mention seeing multiple humpbacks, minke whales, and even some breaching. One guest fondly remembers how the guide Ann and crew made the experience unforgettable by actively searching for wildlife, often resulting in multiple sightings. It’s worth noting that whale sightings are not guaranteed, which is simply part of observing wild animals. A review even mentions how a trip was canceled due to high winds, but the company was flexible, offering a future tour or a full refund.

Scenic Return & Reykjavík Shoreline Views

After the wildlife safari, the boat heads back toward Reykjavík, providing an excellent opportunity for photos. Passing landmarks like Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture offers a unique perspective of the city from the sea. One reviewer described the shoreline cruise as “beautiful and perfect for photos”, emphasizing how it’s a bonus part of the experience.

Final Stop at the Harbour

The tour concludes back at Ægisgarður, roughly two hours after departure. Many guests leave with a sense of awe, having seen whales breach, dolphins leap alongside the boat, and puffins flutter overhead.

What You Can Expect: Detailed Breakdown

Wildlife & Bird Watching

The combination of whales, dolphins, and puffins is what makes this tour appealing. The reviews consistently mention multiple whale sightings, with some guests witnessing breaches close enough to feel like a personal show. Enthusiasts will appreciate the fact that the guides are proactive in locating wildlife, often using binoculars and their experience.

The puffin colonies near Reykjavík are a seasonal highlight, providing photogenic moments for bird lovers. The islands are a short boat ride away, and the speed of the RIB allows you to get there quickly, maximizing your viewing time.

The RIB Experience

The rigid inflatable boat is designed for speed, stability, and safety. Reviewers often comment on how fun the ride is—“like being on a rollercoaster”—but with the added bonus of wildlife sightings. The shock-absorbing seats help cushion the bumps, making it more comfortable than traditional boats. This is especially important for those who might worry about motion sickness or spinal sensitivity.

The Guides and Crew

Multiple reviews praise the crew, especially the guides, for their friendliness, knowledge, and dedication. Guests have mentioned Milán and Pedro as being super friendly and helpful, going above and beyond to ensure everyone has a good time. The marine biologist guide, Emily, was specifically singled out for her expertise and ability to share interesting facts, adding a layer of education to the adventure.

Scenic Shoreline & Landmarks

The post-safari shoreline cruise is appreciated for its panoramic views of Reykjavik’s landmarks. Passing the Sun Voyager sculpture, a symbol of exploration, adds a poetic touch to the trip. Many guests find this part of the tour a lovely way to wind down while still enjoying the sea breeze.

Practical Details & Comfort

• Duration: Around 2 hours, which is a good length for a wildlife tour without feeling rushed.
• Group Size: Limited to 12 people, creating a cozy and less crowded environment.
• Price: At about $190, the price is reasonable considering the inclusions—guided tours, safety gear, and the thrill of a fast boat.
• Weather Dependency: As with all outdoor activities, weather conditions matter. High winds can lead to cancellations, but the company is accommodating with rescheduling or refunds.
• Clothing: Dress warmly with wool or fleece layers, gloves, hat, and sturdy footwear because the wind at sea can be chilly, even in summer.

Booking & Flexibility

The tour is booked roughly 52 days in advance on average, reflecting its popularity. Flexible policies include free cancellations up to 24 hours before departure, providing peace of mind in case of weather or schedule changes.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Many reviews make it clear that this experience is more than just whale watching; it’s an adventure that combines wildlife, scenic city views, and a fun boat ride. For instance, Naomi_J said, “The trip was great fun and would definitely recommend,” while others appreciated the knowledgeable guides who made the experience memorable. Several guests noted that seeing multiple whales and dolphins felt like a special bonus, and some mentioned the extra close encounters from the RIB that larger boats can’t match.

A few reviewers highlighted the value of professional guides and good organization, which makes the entire process smooth—something critical in a busy travel schedule. The fact that no camera phone is needed—since the guides often take excellent photos—adds to the experience, allowing you to just enjoy the moment.

The Bottom Line

This small-group, high-speed RIB whale-watching tour offers a rare, up-close wildlife experience combined with scenic Reykjavik views. Its intimate size, knowledgeable guides, and the excitement of a fast boat make it stand out from more standard whale tours.

It’s particularly suited for adventurous travelers, wildlife lovers, and those who value a personalized, engaging trip. The risk of no sightings is always there—whale behavior is unpredictable—but the strong reviews suggest most guests leave with great stories and memorable photos.

If you’re looking for a mix of thrilling boat ride, expert guidance, and a chance to see iconic Icelandic marine life, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember to bundle up and prepare for an active, fun-filled couple of hours on the water.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a professional marine biologist guide, safety equipment, and coveralls. All wildlife sightings are part of the experience, but no food or drinks are included.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, covering the trip to puffin islands, whale search, and scenic shoreline cruise.

Can I see whales on this tour?
While seeing whales is highly likely based on reviews, sightings depend on wildlife activity, which can vary. If no whales are seen, you will receive a ticket for an alternative tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be over 10 years old and taller than 145 centimeters. It’s not recommended for very young children or travelers with knee problems.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in wool or fleece, plus hat, gloves, and sturdy footwear, as it can be windy and chilly at sea.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe or too rough, the trip may be canceled with the option to reschedule or get a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 52 days ahead, especially in peak season (May to August), but last-minute spots may be available.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Changes within 24 hours are not accepted.

In essence, this RIB whale-watching tour from Reykjavik promises a lively, intimate encounter with Iceland’s marine life. It’s a perfect pick for those who seek adventure, scenery, and the chance to see whales and puffins up close—all wrapped into a fun, well-organized package.