Vestmannaeyjar: One Hour Small Islands Trip

A Compact but Thrilling Tour of Iceland’s Westman Islands by Speedboat

The Vestmannaeyjar: One Hour Small Islands Trip offers an exciting way to explore Iceland’s southern coast. Priced at a reasonable level for a quick adventure, this 1-hour tour departs from the harbor in Vestmannaeyjar and combines adrenaline-pumping rides with scenic sightseeing. The tour is ideal for those looking for a short, high-energy experience that highlights the natural beauty and wildlife of the Westman Islands.

This tour stands out by providing high-speed RIB boat rides, visits to hidden sea caves, and iconic landmarks like Elephant Rock. It also offers the chance to see puffins, seabirds, whales, and seals in their natural environment. Despite its brevity, it packs plenty of memorable moments into just 60 minutes, making it an excellent choice for travelers with limited time or those wanting an adrenaline rush alongside wildlife spotting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Fast-paced RIB speedboat ride with music and expert guidance
• Visit to Elephant Rock and other notable coastal rock formations
• Wildlife viewing includes puffins, seabirds, whales, and seals
• Explore hidden sea caves along the rugged coastline
• Duration of 1 hour, departing from Vestmannaeyjar harbor
• All participants receive warm overalls and life jackets for comfort and safety

The Thrill of Iceland’s Coastal RIB Speedboat Experience

The high-speed RIB boat is the highlight of this tour, delivering an exhilarating ride across the waves. The music on board enhances the lively atmosphere, making the journey as entertaining as the sightseeing. As the boat skims over the water, expect to feel the rush of wind and waves, creating unforgettable moments of excitement.

This tour balances adrenaline with education, as an expert guide shares stories about the Westman Islands, local wildlife, and historical facts. The guide’s knowledge enriches the experience, helping travelers identify seabirds like fulmars, kittiwakes, and gannets, and providing context about the islands’ significance.

Discovering the Iconic Elephant Rock and Coastal Formations

One of the main highlights is the visit to Elephant Rock, a natural landmark famous for its distinctive shape resembling an elephant. The guide leads you around the coast to observe this impressive formation up close, along with other notable rock formations along the shoreline.

The tour also includes visits to hidden sea caves, which are accessible from the boat. These caves offer a glimpse of Iceland’s rugged coast and provide perfect spots for photos. The sea caves are a special feature that enhances the sense of adventure, though they require calm waters for a safe visit.

Wildlife Encounters: Puffins, Whales, and Seals

This tour offers the chance to spot seabirds, including fulmars, kittiwakes, and gannets, flying overhead or resting on rocks. For bird enthusiasts, seeing puffins in their natural habitat is a highlight, especially during breeding season.

Along With birds, whale sightings are possible, along with seals lounging on rocks or swimming nearby. These wildlife encounters add a rich dimension to the tour, making it more than just a scenic boat ride. The guide’s commentary helps identify different species, making the wildlife viewing both educational and engaging.

More Great Tours Nearby

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from a harbor in Vestmannaeyjar, located about 100 meters from the ferry dock. The departure point is within a large white and yellow building next to a children’s playground, making it easy to find. The activity concludes back at the same meeting point, so there’s no need for additional transportation.

Participants are provided with warm overalls and life jackets, ensuring comfort despite the cold, windy conditions often found on the water. The group size is generally kept manageable, allowing for a more personalized experience with the guide.

What to Bring and Wear for Comfort and Safety

Since the tour involves a high-speed ride on open water, dressing warmly is essential. We recommend comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and sunglasses to shield your eyes from spray and sun. A camera or waterproof camera is perfect for capturing the rugged scenery and wildlife moments.

The tour explicitly disallows intoxication, alcohol, and drugs for safety reasons. Pregnant women, children under 6, people with back problems, mobility issues, or seasickness are advised to refrain from participating, ensuring a safe experience for all.

The Experience Provider: Ribsafari ehf.

The tour is operated by Ribsafari ehf., a company specializing in high-speed boat excursions. Their reputation for safety, knowledgeable guides, and well-maintained boats makes this tour a reliable choice. The flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now, pay later policies, add convenience for travelers planning ahead.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most

This 1-hour adventure is perfect for travelers seeking a quick but adrenaline-filled experience. It suits those interested in wildlife, coastal scenery, and natural landmarks like Elephant Rock. The high-speed ride appeals to adventure lovers, while the focus on wildlife and geology makes it appealing even for casual sightseeing enthusiasts.

However, it’s important to consider that not everyone will find the high-speed boat comfortable, especially people prone to seasickness or with certain health conditions. The tour is not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues, so planning accordingly ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

The Sum Up: An Exciting Snapshot of Iceland’s Coastal Nature

The Vestmannaeyjar: One Hour Small Islands Trip offers a dynamic way to explore the rugged coasts of Iceland’s Westman Islands. Its speedboat thrill, combined with visits to Elephant Rock and the opportunity to see diverse wildlife, makes it a well-rounded short trip. The expert guide enhances the experience with stories and identification of seabirds, whales, and seals.

While the tour’s speed and outdoor nature mean it’s best suited for those comfortable with quick, lively rides, it delivers excellent value for a one-hour excursion. This trip particularly appeals to adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fun, scenic shortcut to Iceland’s coastal beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the harbor in Vestmannaeyjar, near the ferry dock.

What do I need to bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunglasses, and a camera. Waterproof gear is provided.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 6 years are not allowed on this tour.

Can I see whales on this trip?
Yes, whale sightings are possible during the tour.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see puffins, fulmars, kittiwakes, gannets, and seals.

Is the boat ride safe?
Yes, all participants are provided with life jackets, and the tour is operated by a reputable company following safety standards.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended. You can reserve now and pay later or cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

What is the weather like?
Dress warmly as it can be cold and windy on the water; the tour is weather-dependent for safety and comfort.

Is the tour accessible for mobility-impaired travelers?
No, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby