RIB Whale Watching Small-Group Boat Tour from Reykjavik

A 2-hour small-group whale-watching tour from Reykjavik offers an exciting way to encounter Iceland’s marine life up close. Starting at the Old Harbor, this $190.01 per person adventure takes place aboard a high-speed RIB boat, designed for safety, comfort, and speed. With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour provides a personalized experience, guided by a professional marine biologist who shares insights about the local wildlife.

The tour stands out for its focus on covering extensive search areas, increasing the chances to see whales, dolphins, puffins, and other seabirds. It also features a scenic return along the Reykjavik shoreline, passing iconic sights like the Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture. While sightings depend on natural animal behavior, reviews highlight consistent success, especially in spotting humpback whales, minke whales, and dolphins.

This tour is most suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, comfortable dressing warmly, and eager for a dynamic, fast-paced adventure on the North Atlantic. It’s less ideal for travelers with knee problems or small children under 10, but the overall experience combines marine wildlife with stunning city views, making it a memorable activity for nature lovers and marine enthusiasts.

Key Points

• Fast, stable RIB boat guarantees a fun, secure trip with better coverage of search areas.
• Small-group size ensures a personalized experience, with a maximum of 12 travelers.
• Includes a professional marine biologist guide who explains wildlife behavior and sightings.
• Multiple stops for puffins on nearby islands during puffin season (early May to late August).
• Sightings depend on wild animal activity, but reviews report frequent whale and dolphin encounters.
• Scenic city skyline views from the water, including Harpa and Sun Voyager.

Departing from Reykjavík’s Old Harbor

The tour begins at Ægisgarður 5d, located at Reykjavík’s Old Harbor. Travelers meet here to check in and receive safety gear, including coveralls and safety equipment. The departure is convenient, with the tour being highly booked 52 days in advance on average. The start time allows participants to enjoy the early morning or late-afternoon light, perfect for photography.

The Old Harbor location places visitors within walking distance of many accommodations, shops, and public transportation options, making it easy to reach. After the main activity, the tour concludes back at the same spot, with no added transport required.

The High-Speed RIB Boat Design

The tour features a rigid inflatable boat (RIB), known for its speed, stability, and safety. The boats are equipped with high-performance suspension seats that absorb shocks, providing comfort even in choppier waters. The speed of the RIB allows the guides to cover larger areas quickly, increasing the likelihood of wildlife sightings.

This boat type is ideal for thrill-seekers and those wanting closer encounters, as it can skim alongside seabirds and wildlife at eye level. The small size also means fewer passengers, enhancing the feeling of being immersed in the environment, rather than sharing the space with large crowds.

Visiting Puffins Near Reykjavík Islands

During puffin season (early May to late August), the tour includes a short visit to islands such as Akurey, Engey, or Lundey just outside Reykjavík. Here, puffins and other seabirds like auks and gannets gather along sea cliffs and nesting sites.

Travelers spend about 5-10 minutes on these islands, close enough to see the birds up close. The fast RIB allows for quick access, making the puffin encounter less rushed and more intimate. The reviews praise the proximity to the birds and the extraordinary closeness that smaller boats provide.

Searching for Whales in Faxaflói Bay

The main highlight is the whale safari in Faxaflói Bay, where the biologist-guided crew actively searches for minke whales, humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises. The 1 hour 30 minutes spent in the bay offers ample opportunity for sightings, which are common according to reviews.

The tour emphasizes up-close whale encounters, with many reviewers sharing stories of seeing breaching whales and playful dolphins right beside the boat. The high-performance suspension seats enhance comfort during the search, and the guides’ expertise helps identify and locate the animals.

Scenic Return Along Reykjavík’s Shoreline

After the wildlife expedition, the tour continues with a scenic waterfront ride back to Reykjavík. Passengers enjoy views of notable landmarks like Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture while reflecting on the adventure. This part of the trip offers perfect photo opportunities and a peaceful conclusion to the busy wildlife search.

Safety Measures and Equipment

Safety is a priority on this tour. All participants receive professional safety equipment and coveralls to stay warm, as the North Atlantic waters can be chilly. The boat is designed with safety in mind, and each boat has shock-absorbing seats to minimize impact from waves.

The maximum group size of 12 also contributes to a safer, more controlled environment. The guides are experienced, including a marine biologist, enhancing both safety and educational value.

Weather and Sightings Guarantee

Since wildlife sightings depend on animal activity, sightings cannot be guaranteed. However, the company offers a full ticket refund or alternative tour if no whales are seen. Weather conditions are crucial; poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling, with full refunds provided if the tour is canceled due to safety reasons.

Most reviews mention frequent sightings, with reports of multiple humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and thousands of puffins during successful trips. Some reviews highlight extraordinary moments, like whales breaching meters from the boat.

Experience for Different Types of Travelers

The tour suits those who are moderately physically fit and comfortable dressing warmly, as sturdy footwear, hats, gloves, and warm layers are recommended. It’s not designed for travelers with knee problems or very young children under 10 years old or 145 centimeters tall.

The small-group format and speedy boat appeal to those seeking a more intimate and adventure-focused experience. Since the tour lasts only about two hours, it fits well into a day of exploring Reykjavík.

Customer Feedback Highlights

Numerous reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, fun boat ride, and close wildlife encounters. Guides like Milán, Pedro, and Eline are frequently mentioned for their friendliness and expertise. Many report seeing multiple whales and dolphins, often describing the experience as magical or unforgettable.

Some reviews note that weather conditions can affect the experience; a few mention cancellations or no whale sightings, but the company’s flexible rescheduling policy helps maintain satisfaction. Tourists appreciate the quality of gear, safety measures, and the scenic city views from the water.

The Ideal Whale-Watching Adventure in Reykjavik

This small-group, RIB whale safari offers a combination of wildlife sightings and scenic views, making it ideal for travelers who want an active, engaging experience. The professional marine biologist guide enriches the trip with educational insights, while the speedy boat ensures a thrilling ride and broad search area.

While whale sightings are not guaranteed, the detailed reviews suggest most excursions result in multiple whale and dolphin encounters, with puffins adding a charming touch during the season. The scenic return along Reykjavík’s shoreline complements the wildlife adventure, providing beautiful photo opportunities and a peaceful moment at the end.

This tour delivers a dynamic and memorable experience that combines marine wildlife with urban scenery, perfect for nature enthusiasts, adventure lovers, and photographers alike. The small-group format ensures a personalized outing, and the professional guides make every effort to maximize your chances of wildlife encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the whale-watching tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours from start to finish, including stops for puffins and the return cruise along Reykjavík’s shoreline.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the use of safety gear, coveralls, and a professional marine biologist guide. Food and drinks are not included.

Are whale sightings guaranteed?
Sightings depend on wild animal activity. If no whales are seen, you receive a ticket for an alternative tour or a full refund.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits 12 travelers for a more intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be over 10 years old and at least 145 centimeters tall. The tour may not be suitable for those with knee problems.

What should I wear?
Dressing warmly with wool or fleece layers, hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes is recommended to stay comfortable in the offshore conditions.

Can I see puffins during this tour?
Yes, during puffin season (early May to late August), you visit nearby islands such as Akurey, where puffins and other seabirds are easily observed.

What landmarks will I see on the return trip?
You pass Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture, offering iconic Reykjavik city views from the water.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is straightforward, with most reservations made 52 days in advance. The tour is operated by Whale Safari and available through Viator.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. The company offers full refunds if the trip is canceled for safety reasons.

What makes this tour different from larger whale-watching boats?
The small RIB provides a closer, more personalized wildlife experience and the ability to cover more ground quickly, increasing your chances of sightings.

Where does the tour end?
The tour concludes back at Ægisgarður 5d, the same as the start point, with no additional transportation needed.

This whale and puffin RIB tour from Reykjavik offers an engaging, personalized, and scenic adventure. Combining marine wildlife encounters with stunning city views, it suits those seeking an active exploration of Iceland’s North Atlantic waters. While sightings depend on animal activity, the positive reviews and professional guides suggest most participants leave with lasting memories of this unique Icelandic experience.