Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour by RIB Boat

Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour by RIB Boat

If you’re looking for a marine adventure that combines the thrill of speed with wildlife sightings, this Whale Watching Tour by RIB in Reykjavik might just fit the bill. For around $160 per person, you’ll hop aboard a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) for a 2-hour trip that promises the chance to see humpback whales, dolphins, and puffins while enjoying spectacular views of the Reykjavik coastline. The tour is offered by Special Tours Iceland and garners a solid 4.6 out of 5 rating from hundreds of reviews—so most travelers leave satisfied with their experience.

What we love about this tour is how up-close wildlife sightings are made possible by the small, agile boat, allowing you to get nearer to the whales without disturbing them. Plus, the expert guides share detailed information about the marine life, making it both fun and educational. On the flip side, weather conditions can impact the trip—so you need to be flexible if the day turns windy or rough. This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy speed, nature, and learning about marine animals from passionate guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small-group experience enhances wildlife viewing and allows for a more personal adventure.
• Speed and agility of the RIB boat provide closer, more exhilarating encounters with whales and dolphins.
• Guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, adding depth to the experience.
• Weather dependence can mean the trip is canceled or altered, so flexibility is key.
• Equipment like warm overalls, gloves, and goggles keep you cozy despite the speed and wind.
• Combining the boat trip with post-activity visits to the Whales of Iceland Museum gives a comprehensive understanding of marine life.

An In-Depth Look at the Reykjavik Whale Watching RIB Tour

The Experience Starts Here: Location and Duration

Your adventure begins right in the Capital Region of Iceland, at the Aegisgardur 5E meeting point in Reykjavik. The tour lasts around 2 hours, with specific start times depending on availability. Keep in mind, weather conditions influence whether the captain decides to sail, as passenger safety is always a priority.

What Makes This Tour Unique?

Most whale-watching trips are done on larger vessels, which can limit how close you get to the animals. This tour’s small RIB boat is a game-changer. With shock suspension seats, you’ll experience a smooth ride despite the boat’s speed—reaching 32 knots—and you’ll be able to react swiftly to sightings. Several reviews highlight that the smaller boat “seemed much better than the bigger boat” because of its agility and ability to get closer to the whales.

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Expect the Unexpected (and the Expected)

Once out on the bay, guided by knowledgeable crew members, you’ll head towards Faxaflói Bay, known for its whale feeding grounds. The guide will share insights about whale behavior, migration patterns, and local marine ecology—making the experience both fun and informative.

You’ll be provided with warm flotation suits, gloves, goggles, and life vests, essential for staying comfortable in Iceland’s often brisk maritime climate. The gear is highly appreciated; reviews like “ waterproofs and goggles are recommended” and “you get waterproofs to put on and goggles,” show how much thought is put into passenger comfort.

Wildlife Encounters: What You Might See

The main goal is to spot whales, particularly species like humpbacks and mink whales. Many travelers report seeing multiple whales in one trip, sometimes breaching, tail slapping, or spouting water—spectacular sights that leave lasting impressions.

In the summer months, there’s a bonus: puffin nesting grounds on Akurey Island. During this time, you might see the cute puffins’ nests along the coast, which many reviewers find adorable. One traveler noted, “we saw puffins along the coast during their breeding season,” adding a charming element to the trip.

Authentic Moments from Travelers

Numerous reviews praise the guides’ enthusiasm and expertise. For instance, one traveler remarked, “Rebecca the guide was very enthusiastic and knowledgeable,” and another said, “Daniel our guide was amazing and fun.” These passionate guides seem to make a difference in how memorable the experience becomes.

The small group size (often just 6 people) is also a highlight, allowing everyone to see and hear easily and to move around for better viewing. Several reviews mention that this intimacy “made the experience even better” and led to sightings of **multiple whales, dolphins, and puffins.

The Post-Trip Bonus: The Whales of Iceland Museum

After your boat ride, you can visit the Whales of Iceland Museum in the Grandi harbor district. It offers a deeper dive into whale species, migration routes, and conservation efforts, making it a great educational addition, especially if you’re a marine life enthusiast.

Pricing and Value

At $160 per person, this tour offers good value considering the small group, speed, and close-up wildlife sightings. Many reviews underline that the experience was worth every penny, especially for those who love marine animals, speedboat rides, or natural scenery. The fact that all necessary gear is included and the museum ticket adds to the overall value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurers who enjoy boat rides, wildlife photography, and learning about marine ecosystems. It’s also suitable for those who prefer small group tours with enthusiastic guides. However, it’s not ideal for children under 10, pregnant women, or people with back problems—the speed and physical demands may not suit everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not quite. The tour is not recommended for children under 10 years old, likely due to the physical nature of the RIB boat ride and safety considerations.

What should I wear?
You’ll be provided with warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and life vests. However, bringing your own warm, layered clothing is advisable, especially in cooler months or if you tend to get cold easily.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Weather is a key factor, and captains will decide whether sailing is safe based on conditions.

How long is the trip?
The actual boat ride lasts about 2 hours, which includes time on the water searching for whales and wildlife. Meeting at the designated point is minimal, so you can plan for slight variations.

Will I see whales every time?
While the goal is to see whales, nature is unpredictable. Many reviews mention sightings of multiple species, but some trips may not produce whale sightings—yet the experience of being on a fast boat and seeing puffins or dolphins still makes it worthwhile.

Is the trip physically demanding?
It can be slightly bumpy or fast-paced, especially in windy weather. However, shock suspension seats and gear help make the ride comfortable. Those with back problems or pregnancy should consider their comfort level before booking.

Final Thoughts

This Reykjavik Whale Watching RIB Tour combines adventure and education in a compact, lively package. The small boat allows for closer wildlife encounters and a more personal experience, making it especially appealing for those who want to feel like a true sea explorer. The knowledgeable guides and the chance to see whales, dolphins, and puffins make it a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts.

While weather can sometimes interfere, most travelers find that the thrill of the ride and the sightings justify the risk. The gear provided and museum access add extra layers of value, making this an experience worth considering for your Reykjavik visit.

If you’re after a fast-paced, intimate, and wildlife-rich adventure, this tour will likely be a memorable part of your Iceland trip. Just remember to come prepared for whatever the weather throws at you—because in Iceland, the weather keeps things interesting.

Summary

This small-group, speedboat whale watching tour in Reykjavik offers a fantastic chance to see whales, puffins, and dolphins up close, guided by passionate experts. Its value for money, combined with the thrilling ride and educational museum visit, makes it a standout choice for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The weather dependency is a minor consideration, but the overall experience is lively, immersive, and truly memorable for those who love being close to nature’s marine wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: