From Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour by Speedboat

The From Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour by Speedboat offers a dynamic way to explore the rich marine life of Faxaflói Bay. Priced at $175 per person and lasting 2 hours, this tour takes you close to the waters where up to 23 whale species, dolphins, and seals often appear. The journey departs from Ægisgarður 5G, just a five-minute walk from Reykjavik’s city center, making it easily accessible.

What sets this tour apart is the use of a brand new, premium Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB), equipped with 12 suspension seats to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride even at high speeds. The tour is suitable for those eager to combine wildlife spotting with the thrill of speedboat adventure. However, it’s important to note that whale sightings cannot be guaranteed, as these are wild animals in their natural habitat, and weather conditions can influence visibility.

Key Points

• Two-hour speedboat whale watching tour starting from Reykjavik’s old harbor.
• Up to 23 whale species, plus dolphins and seals, are frequently observed.
• Comfortable ride on a brand new RIB with suspension seats designed for safety and comfort.
• Tour includes warm waterproof overall, goggles, gloves, and your own scarf.
• Guided by knowledgeable guides providing insights into whales, wildlife, and Reykjavik.
• Limited to ages 10 and up, with appropriate gear provided for a safe, enjoyable experience.

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Departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor to Faxaflói Bay

This tour begins in Reykjavik’s old harbor, specifically at Ægisgarður 5G, a short walk from the city center. Once there, the crew supplies you with warm waterproof overall, gloves, goggles, and your own scarf to keep you warm during the cruise. The departure is on a modern, 12-seat RIB, emphasizing both safety and exhilaration.

After departing, the boat passes the Harpa Concert Hall and the famous Sun Voyager sculpture, offering quick sights of Reykjavik’s iconic landmarks. As the boat heads into Faxaflói Bay, the real wildlife adventure begins. The bay’s waters are home to dolphins, seals, and a variety of whale species, making it a lively and diverse environment.

The Speedboat Experience: Comfort and Excitement

The new RIB used for this tour is equipped with 12 suspension seats, ensuring a comfortable ride even during the high-speed phases of the trip. This design is praised for providing a smooth experience, especially on calm days. The guide operates the boat with expertise, balancing safety with the thrill of the ride.

The speed of the boat adds an element of adventure, with high-speed phases making it more than just a wildlife tour—it’s also an action-packed water activity. The rough waters on windy days can affect the experience, and some reviews recommend choosing calmer days for the best views and comfort.

Wildlife Spotting: Whales, Puffins, Dolphins, and Seals

In Faxaflói Bay, the chance to see a variety of marine animals is high. Up to 23 whale species may frequent these waters, including humpback, minke, and white-beaked dolphins. The guide provides full commentary, answering questions and sharing facts about the whales and other wildlife.

One of the tour’s highlights is the puffin nesting islands, where puffins come to lay their eggs. The puffins often fly and swim around the boat, creating a lively aerial and water display. Sightings of dolphins and seals are also common, with dolphins sometimes coming very close to the boat for an exciting water encounter.

Asking Questions and Learning About Marine Life

The guide plays an important role in enriching the experience, offering informative commentary about the wildlife and the local environment. Guests can ask questions about the whales, puffins, and the ecology of Faxaflói Bay. This educational component makes the trip suitable for nature enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

The guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor are highly praised, making the trip both fun and informative. They also ensure safety protocols are clear and adhered to, making the experience accessible and secure for everyone.

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Practical Gear and Preparation

Participants are provided with full gear to stay warm and dry, including a warm waterproof overall, gloves, goggles, and a scarf. Open-toed shoes and sandals are not allowed for safety reasons, so guests should wear warm, closed shoes suitable for outdoor conditions.

Since whale sightings are not guaranteed, it’s recommended to wear warm clothes regardless of the weather forecast. The unpredictable Icelandic weather means that overcast skies and drizzle are possible, but the provided gear helps ensure a comfortable experience.

Customer Ratings and Feedback Highlights

This tour enjoys a high rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 102 reviews, reflecting consistent satisfaction. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides, fun ride, and close encounters with whales and puffins. The speedboat is praised for being “so fun” and “like an activity in itself”.

Multiple reviews mention seeing a humpback whale, along with dolphins and puffins, emphasizing the rich wildlife encountered. Some note that the ride can be rough on windy days, so travelers might want to pick calmer weather conditions for optimal comfort.

Who Should Choose This Tour?

This whale watching experience appeals most to those who enjoy fast-paced water adventures and are eager to spot wildlife in an authentic marine environment. It’s well-suited for adventurers aged 10 and up who are comfortable on boats and prepared for the unpredictable weather.

The tour’s educational aspect and spectacular marine sightings make it ideal for nature lovers and family groups with older children. The small group size and personalized guidance ensure a more intimate experience.

The Sum Up: A Thrilling and Informative Icelandic Marine Escape

The From Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour by Speedboat offers an exciting way to explore Iceland’s coastal wildlife. The combination of speed, comfort, and wildlife encounters creates a memorable adventure that captures the energy of Faxaflói Bay.

While whale sightings are not guaranteed, the chance to see dolphins, puffins, and seals, along with the stunning Reykjavik scenery, makes this trip worthwhile. The expert guides and high-quality equipment enhance safety and learning, ensuring a fun and educational experience.

This tour suits those looking for a high-adrenaline water activity combined with the opportunity to observe Iceland’s marine animals in their natural habitat. Just be prepared for variable weather and rough waters on windier days, and you’ll be set for a great adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is whale watching guaranteed on this tour?
No, sightings depend on wild animal behavior and weather conditions, so whales are not guaranteed.

What should I wear for this trip?
Guests are provided with warm waterproof overalls, gloves, goggles, and a scarf. It’s recommended to wear warm, closed shoes and dress in layers.

Can children participate?
This tour is not suitable for children under 10 years. It’s best for older children and adults comfortable with boat rides.

How long is the tour, and where does it start?
The tour lasts 2 hours and departs from Ægisgarður 5G in the Reykjavik old harbor. It ends at the same location.

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