Whale Watching in Reykjavik by Speedboat

Getting out on the water to spot whales and dolphins near Reykjavik offers a fresh, exhilarating way to experience Iceland’s vibrant marine life. This 2-hour speedboat tour combines the thrill of high-speed chases across the North Atlantic with the chance to see some of the most iconic wildlife and landmarks that surround the capital.

We’re particularly fond of how this tour balances adventure and education, thanks to guides who are both knowledgeable and personable. Plus, the opportunity to snap photos of puffins in their breeding grounds from May to August adds a delightful splash of color and charm. That said, the rapid pace and small boat size might not suit everyone—those prone to seasickness or with limited mobility should consider this before booking.

This experience is perfect for travelers who crave intimate wildlife encounters, love a bit of adrenaline, and want to see Reykjavik’s shoreline from a fresh perspective. If you’re after a comfortable, guided, and fun-filled outing with a good shot at spotting marine creatures, this tour deserves serious consideration.

Key Points

• High-Speed Adventure: The rigid inflatable boat zips across Icelandic waters, offering an energetic and close-up experience.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see whales, dolphins, seabirds, and, between May and August, puffins at their breeding grounds.
• Small Group Size: Limited to just 12 people, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable crew including guides like Elsa who are eager to share insights.
• Shoreline Highlights: Short stops to admire Reykjavik’s famous landmarks, like the Sun Voyager sculpture and Harpa Concert Hall.
• Value for Money: For $191, you’re getting a high-adrenaline boat ride, wildlife sightings, and shoreline views in a compact, well-organized package.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, a lively hub filled with fishing boats and vibrant cafes. Upon arriving, you’ll meet your captain and wildlife guide—most reviews mention friendly staff like Elsa, who go out of their way to ensure you feel safe and well-informed. After a brief safety briefing, you’ll suit up in provided warm overalls and safety gear, ready for the sea.

The boat itself is a rigid inflatable vessel—small but mighty—with new, high-quality suspension seats, known as “shock seats.” These are designed to keep you comfortable during the ride, which is crucial given the boat’s ability to reach impressive speeds. The fast-paced ride means you’ll cover a large search area, increasing your chances of sightings and making the experience more dynamic than traditional whale-watching tours.

Once underway, the captain zips out from the harbor, taking you quickly away from land into the open waters. The thrill of zipping across the Atlantic is part of the fun, and as some reviewers mention, sitting in the front seats offers the best views and full enjoyment of the ride—so if possible, ask to sit upfront!

Wildlife Watching at Its Best

The key highlight of this tour is spotting marine wildlife. The crew actively searches for whales, with Minke whales and humpbacks being some of the species frequently seen, as one reviewer fondly recalls, “We saw a couple of Minke whales and were treated to a true dolphin show.” Dolphins often leap and play around the boat, following in its wake, while seabirds circle above, adding to the lively scene on the water.

Puffins are a special bonus. Between May and August, the tour makes a brief stop at puffin breeding grounds, letting passengers observe these charming birds in their natural habitat. Many reviewers mention how magical it is to see puffins in their bright colors and playful antics—little moments that make the experience memorable.

Shoreline and City Views

After the wildlife hunt, the boat heads back toward Reykjavik, offering short stops along the shoreline to admire landmarks like the Sun Voyager sculpture—an iconic sculpture symbolizing dreams and exploration—and the modern glass facade of Harpa Concert Hall. The scenery from the water offers a fresh perspective on the city’s colorful fishing huts, busy restaurants, and vibrant port activities.

End of Tour and Optional Re-Scheduling

The tour concludes back at the Old Harbour after approximately two hours. If, by chance, no whales or puffins are seen—something that can happen given the unpredictable nature of wildlife—the captain will offer a complimentary ticket for a return ride, ensuring you leave with at least one positive guarantee.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The small group size enhances intimacy and allows for more personalized attention.
• The speedboat provides an exhilarating experience that feels both safe and fun, especially with the comfortable shock seats.
• Guides like Elsa are praised for their friendly demeanor and knowledge, making the tour both entertaining and educational.
• The chance to see whales, dolphins, and puffins in their natural environment is genuinely exciting.
• The shoreline stops provide beautiful scenic contrasts to the marine wildlife encounters.

Cons / Considerations:

• The speed and small boat size might not be suitable for travelers prone to seasickness or with limited mobility.
• The tour does not include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to meet at the Old Harbour.
• As with any wildlife tour, sightings are not guaranteed—but the crew’s efforts and search strategy improve your chances.
• The price of $191 might seem high, but many reviews agree that the experience’s uniqueness and quality make it worthwhile.

Practical Details & Tips

• Price: At $191 per person, this tour offers a premium experience with small-group intimacy, wildlife focus, and scenic shoreline stops.
• Duration: About 2 hours, a perfect half-day activity without feeling rushed.
• Meeting Point: Reykjavik Old Harbour at Ægisgarður 5, 101 Reykjavik. Arrive at least 30 minutes early.
• What to Bring: Closed-toe shoes are required, and dress warmly in the provided overalls—layers are always recommended for Icelandic weather.
• Not Suitable For: Children under 10 and those under 145 cm tall, pregnant women, or anyone with back problems.
• Cancellation & Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance; book now with a “reserve & pay later” option for flexibility.

Authentic Feedback from Past Participants

Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the crew. For example, one guest said, “Elsa was really kind and able to tell us all we wanted to know,” emphasizing the guide’s role in enhancing the experience. Others lauded the adventure aspect—“the ride itself was an adventure, and getting so close to the wildlife was unforgettable,” said a satisfied traveler.

The thrill of the speedboat ride often stood out as a highlight. Many appreciated the up-close wildlife sightings, with dolphins jumping alongside the boat or whales surfacing nearby. Even if some were less lucky with sightings, reviewers felt the ride itself and scenic shoreline cruise made the trip worthwhile.

The Sum Up

This reliable, adrenaline-pumping whale watching tour in Reykjavik offers more than just wildlife sightings; it provides a lively, intimate experience of Iceland’s rugged waters and vibrant marine ecosystem. The small group size, combined with expert guides and a speedy boat, makes it ideal for travelers who want an active, engaging adventure rather than a passive boat ride.

If you’re eager to see whales and puffins in their natural environment and don’t mind the splash of wind and sea spray, this tour will satisfy both your curiosity and your sense of adventure. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate personalized service, beautiful shoreline views, and a touch of high-speed fun.

For travelers seeking a fun, authentic, and memorable Icelandic wildlife excursion, this tour ticks most boxes—and the positive reviews suggest it’s worth every penny.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that fits well into any Reykjavik itinerary.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Reykjavik Old Harbour, Ægisgarður 5. Make sure to arrive 30 minutes early to check in and gear up.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided speedboat trip, all safety equipment, and warm overalls to keep you comfortable during the ride.

Can I see puffins on this tour?
Yes, between May and August, there’s a short stop at puffin breeding grounds, giving you the chance to see these colorful seabirds.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for children over 10 years old and over 145 cm tall. The high-speed ride might be too intense for younger kids.

What about seasickness?
While the boat is equipped with shock absorption seats, the high-speed nature of the ride could cause discomfort for those prone to seasickness. Consider this before booking.

Are refunds available?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking also offers a flexible “reserve & pay later” option.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers and wear sturdy closed-toe shoes. The provided overalls will help protect you from wind and spray.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour starts at the Old Harbour, so you’ll need to make your own way there.

In summary, a whale watching speedboat tour in Reykjavik offers a lively, immersive way to connect with Iceland’s wildlife and scenic coastal sights. It’s a spirited adventure perfect for those who love small-group experiences, wildlife encounters, and a good dose of excitement—all wrapped into a compact, well-organized package.