Reykjavik: Whale Watching by RIB Speedboat - Why This Tour Stands Out

Reykjavik: Whale Watching by RIB Speedboat

Reykjavik: Whale Watching by RIB Speedboat offers an exhilarating way to encounter Iceland’s marine life just off the capital’s coast. For $140 per person, you’ll spend two hours on a small, fast RIB boat, cruising among islands and along the shoreline. Guides like Julian, a marine biologist, help bring the experience to life with their knowledge, making it more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to learn and witness nature up close.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how intimate and flexible it feels. The small 12-seater boat means fewer crowds and more maneuverability, allowing the captain to get closer to whales and dolphins. Plus, the panoramic city views from the water, including iconic sights like Harpa Concert Hall, add a scenic backdrop to your wildlife adventure. On the flip side, one consideration is that the tour depends on weather conditions; if the ocean is rough or visibility is poor, the captain’s decision to go out can change your plans.

This experience suits travelers who love wildlife, enjoy a bit of adrenaline, and don’t mind the chill of the Icelandic wind—especially since warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and safety gear are provided. It’s especially popular among those seeking a more personal, less crowded tour compared to larger boat options. If you’re prepared for a potentially bumpy ride and appreciate knowledgeable guides, this trip offers good value in a setting that’s both fun and educational.

Key Points

Reykjavik: Whale Watching by RIB Speedboat - Key Points

  • Small group size for a more personal experience.
  • Close encounters with whales, dolphins, and puffins in a natural setting.
  • Expert guides like marine biologist Julian enhance your understanding of marine wildlife.
  • Weather-dependent tour, so conditions may affect scheduling.
  • All necessary gear provided to keep you warm and safe.
  • Free return ticket if no wildlife sightings occur, offering risk-free peace of mind.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details of the RIB Speedboat Whale Watching Tour

Reykjavik: Whale Watching by RIB Speedboat - Exploring the Details of the RIB Speedboat Whale Watching Tour

When we think about trying to spot whales and other marine creatures in Iceland, the idea of a small boat ride immediately appeals to us. The Reykjavik: Whale Watching by RIB Speedboat tour capitalizes on speed, maneuverability, and a rare intimacy with wildlife, making it stand out from larger, more impersonal boat trips. Here’s a breakdown that can help you decide if it’s right for you.

Starting Point and Accessibility

The tour begins at Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, a convenient and lively hub for many maritime activities. Check in 30 minutes before departure at Aegisgardur 2, which is easy to find using the provided Google Maps link. For those driving, free parking is available nearby, making this an accessible option for locals and visitors alike.

Duration and Schedule

The tour lasts approximately two hours, with specific start times depending on availability. It’s worth checking the schedule beforehand so you can plan around other activities. Since weather plays a significant role in whether the boat can go out, flexibility is essential; the captain’s safety-first approach means your trip could be rescheduled if conditions aren’t suitable.

What’s Included and What You Need to Bring

Comfort and safety are prioritized. The tour provides warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and all safety equipment—crucial when facing Icelandic winds and splashes. We recommend bringing comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera to capture those rare moments. Since the boat is small, storing extra belongings is straightforward, and you can store anything unnecessary at the harbor.

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The Journey: From Cityscape to Marine Wilderness

Once out on the water, your guide will navigate among the nearby islands such as Engey and Lundey, the Puffin Island famed for its bird colonies. This route allows you to enjoy panoramic views of Reykjavik, including landmarks like the Harpa concert hall, while searching for wildlife.

The smaller RIB boat enables the captain to get closer to marine creatures than larger vessels, which is one of the most praised aspects based on reviews. Many travelers have noted how this intimacy makes the experience more exciting and authentic. As Christina mentions, “we saw hundreds of puffins and dolphins and two types of whales,” emphasizing the variety of animals you might encounter.

Wildlife Sightings: What to Expect

While sightings cannot be guaranteed—since marine animals are wild and unpredictable—the reviews suggest that success rates are high, especially during the summer months (April to September). Guides often know where to find whales, dolphins, and puffins, and the boat’s speed allows rapid movement to promising spots.

Common animals include humpback whales, minke whales, and playful dolphins. Reviewers like Amy remark how being in a smaller boat made it easier to “maneuver around” and see two whales and “tons of puffins.” Others, like Jayne, describe the experience as “amazing,” noting the thrill of seeing whales up close.

The Experience in Action

Expect to be bumpy sometimes—this isn’t a smooth cruise, but that’s part of the adventure. The small boat’s agility means you can pursue wildlife more effectively, often getting quite close, which is a big plus for photography enthusiasts. As one traveler put it, “the RIB boat gets to the whales much closer than the bigger boats,” adding that the journey itself is “fun” and “exciting.”

Marine Wildlife Education

Having a guide like Julian, who is a marine biologist, adds a lot of value. They not only facilitate sightings but also share interesting facts about the animals and their behaviors. This educational element enriches the overall experience, transforming a simple boat ride into a memorable learning opportunity.

The Puffin Colony and Final Moments

After wildlife observation, the tour often includes a brief stop at Puffin Island, Lundey, where you can see these charming birds up close. Many reviews highlight how this adds a pleasant contrast to the aquatic animals, giving a rounded wildlife experience.

The Cost-Effectiveness and Return on Investment

At $140 for two hours, this tour offers good value—especially considering the small group size and the potential for close-up wildlife encounters. The fact that if you don’t see any whales or dolphins, you get a free ticket to try again, further demonstrates the tour’s confidence in delivering a memorable experience.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Reykjavik: Whale Watching by RIB Speedboat - Why This Tour Stands Out

The small group size, plus the speed and agility of the RIB, make this a compelling choice. It appeals to travelers who want more than just sightseeing; they want to actively engage with nature, with the bonus of professional guides enhancing their understanding. Many reviews praise the staff’s friendliness, knowledge, and willingness to go the extra mile—like staying out longer to find whales or sharing insights about marine biodiversity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re comfortable on a boat and looking for a more personal, close-up encounter with Icelandic marine life, this trip fits well. It’s especially suited for those wanting a fun, slightly adventurous experience, and who appreciate the chance to see whales, dolphins, and puffins without the crowds of larger tours. Keep in mind, it’s not recommended for very young children, pregnant women, or those with back problems, given the boat’s size and the terrain.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Reykjavik: Whale Watching by RIB Speedboat - Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In our view, this tour offers genuine value, blending adventure, education, and the thrill of wildlife sightings. The small boat design, guided by knowledgeable experts, means you’re more likely to get closer to the animals and have a memorable experience. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone looking for a lively, authentic Icelandic marine adventure.

While weather remains a variable, the tour’s flexibility and the option for a free repeat visit mean you’re not left empty-handed if Mother Nature isn’t cooperative. If you’re seeking a fun, active way to connect with Iceland’s vast ocean and its inhabitants, this tour is a great pick.

FAQ

Reykjavik: Whale Watching by RIB Speedboat - FAQ

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

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a 12-seater RIB boat ride, sightseeing from the water of Reykjavik, and all safety gear like warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and safety equipment.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera. The provided gear will keep you warm and dry, but extra layers are recommended in Iceland’s cool weather.

Can I see whales and dolphins?
While sightings aren’t guaranteed, many travelers report seeing whales, dolphins, and puffins, especially during the summer months. Guides are experienced at locating wildlife.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with back problems, due to the boat’s size and activity level.

What if I don’t see any wildlife?
If no animals are seen during your trip, you’ll receive a complimentary ticket to try again, making the experience risk-free.

To sum it up, this Reykjavik whale watching tour offers a lively, intimate view of Iceland’s marine environment. The combination of expert guides, agile boats, and the chance to see whales and puffins up close makes it a standout. It’s perfect for those who want an active, authentic encounter, and who value the chance to learn from knowledgeable locals. Whether you’re a wildlife fanatic or simply looking for a memorable adventure, this trip will likely deliver moments you’ll never forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: