Reykjavik’s RIB whale watching tour offers an exhilarating way to spot Iceland’s magnificent marine life. Aboard a small, nimble boat, travelers embark on a thrilling 2-hour excursion, led by a knowledgeable marine biologist. With the chance to see whales, dolphins, and even puffins, this tour provides an up-close encounter with the wonders of the North Atlantic. Equipped with warm, waterproof gear, guests can brave the elements in comfort as they speed across the waves in search of unforgettable wildlife sightings. But the true allure of this tour may lie in the unexpected discoveries that await those who…
Key Points
- A 2-hour RIB (rigid inflatable boat) whale-watching tour departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, with a maximum of 12 participants for a personalized experience.
- The tour is led by a professional marine biologist guide, who provides expertise and uses safety equipment to ensure a comfortable and secure excursion.
- Participants have the opportunity to spot puffins on nearby islands and search for whales, dolphins, and porpoises across a wide area.
- The tour is not recommended for individuals with back/knee problems, pregnant individuals, or young children under 10 years old and 145 cm tall.
- In the rare event of no sightings, guests are provided with a ticket for an alternative whale watching excursion.
Tour Overview
This 2-hour whale-watching tour takes passengers on a small-group RIB (rigid inflatable boat) excursion from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, providing the opportunity to spot puffins on nearby islands and search for whales, dolphins, and porpoises across a wide area.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 people, ensuring a personalized experience.
Aboard the high-speed RIB, passengers will be covered in warm, protective gear as they explore the waters surrounding the city.
With a professional marine biologist guide leading the way, guests can expect to learn about the diverse marine life found in this region.
If no sightings occur, an alternative tour ticket will be provided.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Reykjavik.
What’s Included
The tour includes a professional marine biologist guide to lead the excursion.
Passengers also receive the use of coveralls and all necessary safety equipment for the whale-watching trip. These coveralls help keep travelers warm and dry as they speed across the water in the high-speed RIB (rigid inflatable boat). The safety gear ensures everyone can enjoy the tour comfortably and securely.
With a maximum of 12 people per group, the small-group size allows the guide to provide personalized attention and expertise throughout the 2-hour adventure.
Whether you’re hoping to spot whales, dolphins, or puffins, the expert guide will use their extensive knowledge to give you the best chance of wildlife sightings.
Meeting and Pick-up
The meeting point for the RIB whale-watching tour is located at Ægisgardur 5d, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland. Guests meet at this central location before embarking on the 2-hour adventure. The tour ends at the same meeting point, ensuring a seamless experience.
Meeting Point | Pick-up | Drop-off |
---|---|---|
Ægisgardur 5d, 101 Reykjavík | 10-15 minutes before tour start | Same as meeting point |
Central location | Guides will be present to welcome guests | Guests return to starting point |
Easy to find | Necessary equipment and coveralls provided | Convenient and hassle-free |
Well-known landmark | Guests must arrive on time to join the tour | No need to worry about transportation |
Accessible by public transport | Tour departs promptly at scheduled time | Smooth beginning and end to the excursion |
Tour Details
Booking confirmations are received at the time guests make their reservation for the RIB whale-watching tour.
This small-group experience, limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, isn’t recommended for those with back/knee problems, pregnant individuals, or young children under 10 years old and 145 cm tall.
To ensure a comfortable and safe journey, participants are advised to dress warmly in wool or fleece sweaters, hats, gloves, and sturdy footwear.
In the rare event of no sightings during the tour, guests will be provided with a ticket for an alternative tour.
The tour ends at the same meeting point as the starting location, Ægisgarður 5d in Reykjavík.
Recommended Attire
To ensure a comfortable and safe journey, participants are advised to dress warmly in wool or fleece sweaters, hats, gloves, and sturdy footwear. The high-speed RIB boat tour can be chilly, especially when cruising across the water.
Layering up is key to staying warm and dry throughout the 2-hour excursion. Waterproof outerwear is also recommended, as there’s a chance of spray from the boat.
Wearing appropriate clothing will help travelers fully enjoy the whale-watching experience without being distracted by the cold. The tour operator provides coveralls, but guests should come prepared with their own base layers and accessories to stay cozy during the RIB boat adventure.
- Snorkeling Between Continents in Silfra With Photos Included
- Silfra: Diving Between Tectonic Plates – Meet on Location
- South Iceland Glaciers, Waterfalls and Black Sand Beach Day Tour From Reykjavik
- Golden Circle With Kerid Volcanic Crater Day Trip From Reykjavik
- #1 Northern Lights Tour in Iceland From Reykjavik With PRO Photos
- The Original Classic Whale Watching From Reykjavik
Sighting Guarantee
If no whales, dolphins, or porpoises are spotted during the tour, the tour operator provides ticket holders with a complimentary ticket for an alternative whale watching excursion. This ensures customers don’t miss out on seeing these magnificent creatures.
The tour is designed to cover a large search area to increase the chances of spotting wildlife, but the unpredictable nature of these animals means sightings can’t be guaranteed.
However, the tour operator is dedicated to customer satisfaction and will do their best to make sure everyone has an opportunity to witness the wonders of the ocean. This sighting guarantee is just one way they strive to provide an exceptional whale watching experience.
Age and Size Requirements
Children must be at least 10 years old and 145 cm tall to participate in the RIB whale watching tour from Reykjavik. This age and size requirement ensures the comfort and safety of all passengers on the small-group excursion.
The tour isn’t recommended for young children or those who may struggle with the boat’s rigid inflatable design. This minimum height and age limit helps maintain the small-group dynamic and allows everyone to enjoy the tour comfortably.
With a maximum of 12 travelers per tour, the RIB boat provides an intimate whale-watching experience that may not be suitable for very young participants. Adhering to these requirements helps create the best possible experience for all.
Tour Reviews
The RIB whale watching tour from Reykjavik has earned an impressive 157 reviews, achieving a Badge of Excellence for its exceptional quality.
Travelers rave about the small-group experience, which allows for personalized attention from the professional marine biologist guide. Guests consistently report thrilling encounters with whales, dolphins, and porpoises, as well as the opportunity to see puffins up close.
The high-speed RIB boats provide an exhilarating way to cover a large search area, maximizing the chances of wildlife sightings. Despite the occasional lack of sightings, travelers appreciate the alternative tour option provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provider generally provides all necessary equipment and supplies, including any refreshments. Bringing outside items may not be allowed for safety and liability reasons.
Is There a Bathroom on the Boat?
The boat doesn’t have a bathroom on board. However, the tour starts and ends at the same meeting point, so passengers can use the facilities there before and after the tour. Plan accordingly.
How Stable Is the RIB Boat in Rough Seas?
RIB boats are designed to handle rough seas well, with their inflatable sides and lightweight construction. They’re quite stable, but passengers should still exercise caution and listen to the guide’s safety instructions, especially in choppy conditions.
Can I Take Photos/Videos During the Tour?
Yes, you can take photos and videos during the tour. The small-group tour allows for ample opportunity to capture the sights and wildlife. Just be mindful not to disrupt the experience for others.
Do the Guides Speak Languages Other Than English?
The guides on these tours typically speak English, but they may also speak other languages depending on the tour operator and the languages their staff are fluent in. Travelers should check with the tour company about language capabilities.
Recap
The RIB Whale Watching Small-Group Boat Tour from Reykjavik offers an exhilarating way to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life.
Equipped with safety gear, the tour’s small group size and expert marine biologist guide ensure a personalized and informative experience.
Whether you’re seeking thrills or wildlife encounters, this RIB boat tour is a must-do activity for visitors to Reykjavik.
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Reykjavik
- Puffin Watching Yacht Cruise from Downtown Reykjavík
- Small Group Golden Circle in Spanish: From Cruise Terminal
- Reykjavik: Whales and Puffins Express Cruise Combo Tour
- Small Group: Golden Circle Tour from Cruise Terminal
- Diamond Beach and Jökulsárlón Day Tour with Boat Ride
- Reykjavik: Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour
More Tours in Reykjavik
More Tour Reviews in Reykjavik
- Reykjavík: 5-Day Northern Lights Hunt & Glacier Lagoon Tour
- Puffin Watching Yacht Cruise from Downtown Reykjavík
- Iceland: Volcanic Landscape Horse Riding Tour
- From Reykjavik: Landmannalaugar Private Tour with Transfer
- From Reykjavik: Landmannalaugar Super Jeep Tour
- From Reykjavík: South Coast or Diamond Beach
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Reykjavik we have reviewed
- Reykjavík: 5-Day Northern Lights Hunt & Glacier Lagoon Tour
- Puffin Watching Yacht Cruise from Downtown Reykjavík
- Iceland: Volcanic Landscape Horse Riding Tour
- From Reykjavik: Landmannalaugar Private Tour with Transfer
- From Reykjavik: Landmannalaugar Super Jeep Tour
- From Reykjavík: South Coast or Diamond Beach
- Small Group Golden Circle in Spanish: From Cruise Terminal
- Reykjavik: City Highlights Guided Tour
- Reykjavik: Street Food Walking Tour
- From Reykjavik: Silfra Snorkeling with Free Photos
- Reykjavík: Golden Circle, 2 Geysers & Geothermal Bakery Tour
- From Seljavallalaug: Eyjafjallajökull Volcano Summit Hike