Speedboat Whale Watching Small-Group Tour in Reykjavik

Imagine zooming across the choppy waters of Faxaflói Bay in a sleek, 12-seat RIB boat, with the wind in your hair and the possibility of spotting whales, dolphins, puffins, and seals — all in just about two hours. That’s exactly what this speedboat whale watching tour promises. It’s a quick, exhilarating way to connect with Iceland’s marine life while enjoying some spectacular views of Reykjavik and beyond.

We love that this tour is designed for small groups, limited to just 12 travelers, ensuring you get personalized attention from your guides and a more intimate experience with nature. Plus, the emphasis on speed means you spend less time waiting and more time actually seeing wildlife in action.

One potential drawback: the tour is weather-dependent. If the sea gets too rough or the weather turns foul, the trip might be canceled, which can be disappointing if you’ve been looking forward to this adventure. It’s worth noting that the tour is best suited for those who are comfortable on a small boat and dressed warmly.

This experience suits travelers eager for a quick, energetic wildlife encounter, especially if you prefer the thrill of a speedboat over larger, more sedate whale-watching cruises. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their time and see as much marine life as possible in a short window.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy: Only 12 people per boat for a more personal experience.
• Speedy travel: The RIB boat allows rapid movement to wildlife hotspots, increasing your chances of sightings.
• Comprehensive gear: Waterproof overalls, gloves, goggles, and life jackets are provided, ensuring you stay warm and dry.
• Diverse wildlife: Expect whales, dolphins, puffins, and seals, with many reviews confirming multiple sightings.
• Stunning views: Besides wildlife, you’ll enjoy unique perspectives of Reykjavik and its rugged coastline.
• Weather dependency: The trip relies on good weather; cancellations are possible if sea conditions are unsafe.

What to Expect: A Closer Look

Meeting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins at Special Tours, Geirsgata 11, Reykjavik. The meeting isn’t far from public transportation, making it easy to reach. Keep in mind, hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included—so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it an ideal half-day activity—long enough to satisfy your wildlife curiosity without stealing your entire day. Most travelers book this tour about 38 days in advance, which speaks to its popularity and value.

Transportation: The Speedboat Experience

The boat itself is a luxury RIB (rigid inflatable boat), designed for stability and speed. It’s a far cry from the larger, slower whale-watching vessels. Reviews praise the boat for its comfort, with guides ensuring everyone stays secure with life jackets and waterproof gear.

The Itinerary

Once onboard, your guides will take charge, steering through Faxaflói Bay in search of marine life. The focus is on reaching the wildlife hotspots quickly, thanks to the boat’s speed, giving you more time to observe whales, porpoises, and dolphins before the two hours are up.

Wildlife Sightings

Many reviews highlight the frequency of sightings—from humpback whales to minke whales, and even rare species like the Bone Shark, mentioned by some travelers. Dolphins often play around the boat, providing spectacular up-close encounters, described as “unreal” or “a trip of a lifetime.”

Puffins, while more seabird than marine mammal, are also often seen, adding to the diversity of what you might witness. Several travelers note that guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, sharing insights into each animal and their behaviors.

The Experience

Expect to get wrapped warmly in waterproof overalls, gloves, and goggles—essential gear for Icelandic waters. The ride itself is described as fun and exhilarating with many feeling that two hours fly by. The small group size allows guides to give more personal attention, answer questions, and share interesting facts about the marine environment.

Unpredictability and Cancellations

Weather plays a crucial role. As one reviewer lamented, “Weather was bad, not the fault of the operator, but the tour should have been canceled and rescheduled,” highlighting that cancellations due to poor weather are possible. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Value for Money

At $164 per person, this tour offers excellent value—especially considering the exclusivity of a small group and the chance to see multiple species. Reviewers consistently mention how well-organized and rewarding the experience is, with some describing it as “absolutely amazing” and “a highlight of their trip.”

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly, in layers, since you’ll be on the water exposed to wind and spray.
• Book well in advance, given its popularity and limited capacity.
• Arrive at least a few minutes early to get suited up and settle in.
• Be prepared for potential cancellations if the weather is unsafe.
• Keep your camera ready—marine encounters happen suddenly, and a quick shot is often worth it.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Many reviews emphasize guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, with one saying, “Rebecca, our guide, was lovely and very passionate about marine life.” Others note the intensity and intimacy of the sightings, with reports of whales surfacing close to the boat and dolphins frolicking around, making this more than just a boat ride—it’s a real wildlife adventure.

Several travelers comment on the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, which helps create a safe and enjoyable atmosphere, even when the sea gets choppy. The boat’s speed is frequently praised for allowing better wildlife spotting than traditional slower cruises.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This speedboat whale watching experience in Reykjavik is ideal for travelers who crave a fast-paced, intimate encounter with Iceland’s marine life. It’s perfect if you value personalized attention and want to maximize your chances of seeing whales, dolphins, and puffins in a short time. The small-group setting ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the fast boat adds an element of adventure and excitement.

However, it’s best suited for those comfortable on a small boat and prepared for potentially variable weather conditions. If you’re looking for a relaxed, large-boat cruise with a more leisurely pace, this may not be the right fit. But if you want an energetic, memorable wildlife adventure with guides who are genuinely passionate, this tour delivers on that promise.

This tour offers excellent value for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure lovers alike, providing a dynamic view of Iceland’s marine environment that’s hard to beat.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It generally is, provided children are comfortable on small boats and dressed warmly. The small group and dynamic ride can be appealing to adventurous families.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers up to 2 hours on a luxury RIB boat, waterproof gear (overalls, gloves, goggles), a lifejacket, and guidance in English about the wildlife.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour requires at least one adult per booking, and most travelers can participate. Specific age limits aren’t stated, but children should be comfortable on boats and dressed appropriately.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, waterproof overalls, gloves, goggles, and life jackets are provided. Just bring warm clothing underneath.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe, it may be canceled, in which case you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How early should I arrive?
Arrive a few minutes early at the meeting point to get suited up and ensure a smooth start.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before your scheduled tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

How many people are on each boat?
Maximum of 12 travelers, which makes for a more personalized experience.

What kind of marine life might I see?
Common sightings include whales (humpback, minke), dolphins, porpoises, and puffins. Some reviews mention rare species like the Bone Shark.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility options aren’t specified, so it’s best to contact the provider directly for detailed info.

This speedboat whale watching tour in Reykjavik offers a lively, close-up glimpse of Iceland’s wild marine world, perfectly suited for those seeking an active, intimate adventure. With knowledgeable guides, a small group, and the thrill of speed, it’s a memorable way to connect with nature in a short amount of time.