What are the chances of seeing whales?

Humpback whales are regularly sighted in Eyjafjord, especially during feeding season. Exact sightings vary by season and daily conditions; your expert guide will maximise encounter opportunities using local knowledge.

Is the RIB boat ride rough?

RIB boats are fast and agile but do create spray and motion in rough seas. The tour operates in Eyjafjord, which provides natural shelter; however, waterproof gear and seasickness precautions are recommended.

How far from Akureyri does the tour go?

The tour covers Eyjafjord and surrounding waters accessible within the 2-hour timeframe. The fast RIB allows greater coverage than traditional boats while maintaining safe operations.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Small-group tours typically welcome children, but confirm age/height restrictions and swimming ability requirements when booking. Young children should be comfortable with boat motion and wearing a life jacket.

What's included in the tour price?

The EUR 173 price includes the 2-hour guided boat tour with expert naturalist commentary, use of life jacket, and small-group experience. Confirm whether waterproof gear rental or pick-up from hotels is available.

What's the cancellation policy if no whales appear?

Clarify with the operator your options if wildlife sightings are minimal; some tours offer rebooking or partial refunds. Wildlife encounters are never guaranteed due to natural habitat variables.

1 / 10

Akureyri Express Whales & Eyjafjord

(5)

Akureyri, Iceland

Whale WatchingBirdwatchingSightseeing Tours

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About this activity

A 2-hour RIB speedboat tour departing from Akureyri to hunt for humpback whales, dolphins, and seabirds in the productive waters of Eyjafjord. Small-group format (max 12 passengers) with expert marine biologists aboard ensures both close wildlife encounters and minimal environmental impact.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure from the heart of Akureyri, where you'll get up close to the magnificent humpback whales of Eyjafjord on an exclusive RIB boat tour. With only 12 passengers per boat, we ensure an intimate and personalised experience, bringing you closer to the wildlife than ever before.

Our specially designed RIB boats are both fast and agile, allowing us to cover more ground quickly and maximise your chances of encountering whales, dolphins, and diverse bird species - all without disrupting their natural habitat.

Led by expert marine biologist naturalists and a highly trained captain, this tour is perfect for those with a deep passion for nature and a thirst for adventure!

Highlights

✓Humpback whale sightings in Iceland's richest marine habitat
✓Fast RIB boats cover more ground to maximise wildlife encounters
✓Marine biologist guides provide real-time species identification
✓Seabird and dolphin viewing opportunities
✓Intimate small-group experience with personalised service

Insider tips

★Dress in waterproof layers even in summer—Eyjafjord winds are cold and spray is guaranteed on RIB boats
★Position yourself on the side of the boat facing the sun for better whale spotting and photography
★Book early morning departures for calmer seas and more active cetacean behaviour

Good to know

•Maximum 12 passengers per boat ensures closer wildlife views and easier movement
•Tour departs from central Akureyri; confirm exact meeting point and arrival time when booking
•Bring waterproof jacket, trousers, and non-slip shoes; seasickness medication recommended if prone
•Tour operates year-round; whale sightings depend on seasonal migration patterns

Who it's for

Wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers seeking close cetacean encountersAdventure travellers comfortable with fast-paced RIB boat experiencesBirdwatchers targeting Arctic seabird speciesFamilies wanting hands-on marine education from expert naturalists

Best time to visit

Summer months (June–August) offer warmest conditions and longest daylight, though whales are present year-round in Eyjafjord. Early morning departures provide the best calm seas and wildlife activity.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

Nina R.

May 2026

the bit at the end nobody expects unreal ... worked great for a solo traveller like me, and 6 stops in about 3 hours

Laura A.

Feb 2026

our guide Priya sorted everything for us and a stop the guide added on the fly was the highlight, and ideal with kids (ours are 6 and 9), and 6 stops in about 3 hours.

Olivia H.

Jan 2026

Not bad but not great, a stop the guide added on the fly we like but 6 stops in about 3 hours only. Maybe can improve, little bit expensive.

Hugo M.

Oct 2025

our guide Mehmet was brilliant and a little local spot off the usual route was the highlight, and honestly better than the tour we did in Marrakech last year, def recommend

Adam V.

Jun 2025

our guide Kenji was nice enough, but a little local spot off the usual route felt a bit rushed honestly, and on a rainy sunday, no joke

from€174.15€173.9/ person

4.8 · 66 reviews on Trustpilot

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