Whales up close beat the usual big-boat watch. On this small-group RIB tour out of Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, you get a sea-level view of whales and dolphins while still covering a wide search area fast. If it’s puffin season, you may also spot Atlantic puffins on nearby islands just outside the city.

Two things I really like: the close-to-the-water approach and the way the crew turns the ride into real spotting time, not just aimless cruising. You also get a professional marine biologist guide, plus coveralls and safety gear, so you’re not just “hoping it’s cold enough.” Reviews and the on-the-ground vibe point to guides like Maria, Sam, Ann, and others who actually explain what you’re seeing and keep the mood upbeat.

The main drawback to plan for is comfort on rougher days. This is a speedboat in North Atlantic conditions, so even with shock-absorbing seats, you’ll feel the chop more than on a big ferry—and it’s not recommended for people with knee problems.

Key highlights at a glance

• Up to 12 people keeps the experience more personal and easier to spot from
• Sea-level RIB viewing gives you close-up chances with whales and dolphins
• Marine biologist guide adds context, not just spotting
• Puffins in season (May to August) with short island stops outside Reykjavik
• Warm coveralls and safety gear mean fewer “what was I thinking?” moments in the cold

Old Harbour start: why a small RIB works so well

Reykjavik’s whale watching scene usually comes in two styles: big-group boats that can feel crowded, and smaller craft that feel like a working search. This one is the small-craft option. You start at Ægisgarður 5d near the Old Harbour area, then head out on a fast, stable RIB that’s built for getting closer to wildlife action at sea level.

The big advantage for you is simple: fewer people competing for the best angles. With a maximum of 12 travelers, you’re more likely to see the same animal from the same side of the boat instead of constantly shifting positions. And because the RIB can move quickly, the crew can cover more water looking for whales, dolphins, and birds.

Also, this isn’t just about whales. The itinerary includes bird-focused stops around the city area, so you’re not staring at empty water for the whole trip.

The first stage near Reykjavik Old Harbour (Ægisgarður 5d): puffins plus the initial hunt

The tour kicks off near Reykjavík’s harbor, and the plan shifts a bit depending on the season. During puffin season, the route includes time for puffins in their natural habitat near the city before the crew focuses on whales.

That first stage matters because it sets expectations. If conditions are good, you start with birds—then you roll into whale search farther out. If conditions are not great, the crew still uses that early time efficiently so you’re not wasting your clock waiting for the day to improve.

One practical detail that helps here: you’re in warm coveralls and equipped with safety gear right away. That makes it easier to stand, watch, and shift your attention between birds and larger marine life without turning the outing into a cold-weather endurance test.

Puffin stop outside Reykjavik (Akurey, Engey or Lundey): short visit, real payoff

If you’re traveling from early May through the end of August, this tour gives you a shot at puffins around islands outside Reykjavik, with stops at Akurey, Engey, or Lundey. The boat ride is short, and the puffin viewing window is also short—about 5 to 10 minutes on the islands.

At first glance, that can sound like a tease. But here’s why it works: seabird watching is about timing. The crew gets you out close and quickly, then brings you back while you still have active bird behavior around the cliffs and waterline. You’re not stuck for an hour in a single spot hoping something changes.

And the bird variety can be a bonus beyond puffins. Expect auks, gannets, and other sea birds flying over the cliffs and sea area near the islands. On the day, you’ll feel like the boat is a moving platform for spotting, not a slow sightseeing cruise.

Whale time in Faxaflöi Bay: why sea-level viewing feels different

The heart of the tour is the long whale-search window out on the water, including time in Faxaflói Bay (about 1 hour 30 minutes). This is where the RIB approach really earns its keep.

From a small speedboat, you’re at a near sea-level vantage point. That changes the feel of whale sightings. Instead of spotting from a distance where the animal looks like a moving dot, you get the chance to see surfacing and blow patterns closer to real scale. If whales come in near the boat, you’re in the zone.

The boat also has high-performance suspension seats designed to absorb shocks and improve comfort. That’s not just for luxury; it’s about keeping you steady and reducing the risk of injury when the sea gets rough. Reviews back this up with lots of praise for seat comfort when the ride got bumpy.

Wildlife you can hope for includes whales, dolphins, and birds throughout the search area. Many groups get multiple sightings, and the most memorable moments often come from repeated surfacing. On some days, animals may even appear very close to the boat, including humpback whales with dramatic breaches and dolphins riding alongside for playful stretches.

The return sweep: Reykjavík from the water, Harpa and Sun Voyager

After the main search, you head back toward Reykjavík. One of the best parts of a short trip is that you still get a “city on the water” element instead of just going straight back to the dock with your camera still on low battery.

You travel along the shoreline with panoramic views for photos, and the route takes you past the Sun Voyager sculpture on the seafront. Then you also go by Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre, Iceland’s famous glittering building by the harbor.

This section is more than scenic filler. It gives you a mental reset after the adrenaline of the wildlife search. If the whales were active, the return feels like you’re riding the high. If the sightings were quieter, you still leave with solid Reykjavik visuals from a perspective most people don’t get.

Guides, gear, and how the experience stays easy to enjoy

This tour includes a professional marine biologist guide, plus coveralls and all necessary safety equipment. That combination matters more than it sounds.

Coveralls keep you warm and dry enough that you can focus on spotting instead of managing discomfort. Many people also mention that the provided suit is warm and waterproof, which is exactly what you want when wind and spray hit your clothes. You’ll still want to dress in layers, because the North Atlantic doesn’t care about your optimism.

The marine biologist guide is the part that turns a sighting into understanding. When whales surface, you’ll learn what you’re looking at—then you can watch more intentionally. On days when you’re waiting for whales, this kind of guide also helps keep the time from dragging by explaining behavior and local patterns.

You’ll likely meet different crew members depending on your departure, but names that come up in past groups include Maria, Emily, Sam, Milán, Pedro, Lefterius, and Ann. The consistent theme is a crew that talks with you, not at you, and stays patient when conditions get bumpy or when people feel sea-sick.

Price and value: is $208.09 worth it?

At $208.09 per person for about 2 hours, this isn’t a budget activity. But the value makes sense if you care about three things: time on the water, small-group access, and professional guidance.

Here’s the value math you can feel:

• Small group (max 12) means a better chance you’ll actually see what the crew is spotting.
• RIB speed and maneuverability often lead to more search coverage than slower boats.
• You’re not paying extra for the essentials. Coveralls, safety equipment, and the marine biologist guide are included.

The main cost offset is that food and drinks are not included, and you’ll need warm clothing like hat and gloves even though you’ll get coveralls. So if you usually prefer buying snacks on tours, plan ahead.

If your alternative is a larger boat with a bigger crowd, the higher ticket price often feels justified by the viewing experience. In other words: you’re paying to be closer to the action and to spend more of your 2-hour window actually looking for wildlife.

Also, timing matters. On average, this tour is booked about 46 days in advance, so if you’re traveling in peak puffin season, earlier booking helps.

When this tour is a great fit (and when it isn’t)

This is best for you if you:

• Want close-up wildlife viewing from a small craft
• Like guided spotting with a marine biologist, not just a checklist of what might appear
• Don’t mind cold weather and actually enjoy being outside in it
• Prefer a group capped around a dozen people

It’s also a strong “first Iceland day on the coast” type of activity, because it’s short and focused, and you get both wildlife time and Reykjavik views.

But consider skipping or rethinking if you:

• Have knee problems (it’s not recommended)
• Are traveling with very young kids (children must be over age 10 and over 145 cm tall)
• Can’t handle the feel of rough water if conditions get choppy

And do watch the weather. The experience requires good weather. On the day, wind and sea state can change the ride and, in some cases, the schedule.

Practical tips so your RIB whale watch goes smoothly

You’ll get coveralls, gloves, and other gear, but you still control your comfort level. Here’s what I’d do to stack the odds in your favor:

Dress for cold and wind. Plan on wool or fleece layers, plus a hat, gloves, and sturdy footwear. Even with coveralls, wind can find the gaps.

Bring the right mindset for a speedboat. This is a small, fast craft, so the ride can feel lively. The suspension seats help, and crew members are used to helping people who get sea-sick, but you’ll still feel movement.

For photos, keep your camera accessible. The best sightings can be quick—surfacing, brief breaches, then nothing for a bit. If your gear is buried, you’ll miss the moment you’re trying to capture.

If you care about puffins, go during the May–August window. The puffin island stops are specifically tied to that period.

Should you book this RIB whale watching tour from Reykjavik?

Book it if you want the highest chance of a close, personal wildlife experience without spending half your day on a big boat. The small-group size, sea-level viewing, and marine biologist guide combine into a trip that feels purposeful—not random. Add puffins in season and Reykjavik’s harbor scenery on the return, and you get more than just a whale hunt.

I’d think twice if you’re very sensitive to rough water or you have knee issues. Also, pack expectations for weather. If conditions are poor, the operator may adjust dates or refunds, and if sightings are limited, you may receive a ticket for an alternative tour.

If you’re flexible, bundled up, and ready to look out over open North Atlantic water, this is one of those Reykjavik activities that can truly become a highlight.

FAQ

How long is the RIB whale watching tour from Reykjavik?

The tour runs about 2 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Ægisgarður 5d in Reykjavík and ends back at the same meeting point.

What group size is this whale watching tour?

It has a maximum of 12 travelers.

What animals might you see on this tour?

You can look for whales and dolphins, plus sea birds. During the puffin season, puffins are also a key part of the experience.

When is the puffin season for this itinerary?

Puffins are included during early May through the end of August.

What should you wear and bring for the tour?

Dress warmly with wool or fleece layers, plus a hat, gloves, and sturdy footwear. You will also receive coveralls.

Is food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included.

What happens if there are no sightings or the weather is bad?

If the tour is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. If there are no sightings, you get a ticket for an alternative tour.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with knee problems?

Children must be over age 10 and over 145 cm tall. The tour is not recommended for travelers with knee problems.

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