What wildlife will I see on this tour?

Whale and dolphin sightings are the focus. Puffin colonies are visible on nearby islands from May to 20 August. Sightings depend on seasonal presence and sea conditions, but the RIB boat's speed and agility increase the area covered and viewing opportunities.

Why choose a RIB boat over a larger vessel?

RIB speedboats are specially engineered to travel faster and cover a wider search area, increasing wildlife-spotting chances. Their smaller size and stability also allow closer approaches to marine life than conventional tour boats.

When is the best time to see puffins?

Puffins are visible during the breeding season, 1 May–20 August. Peak numbers and activity occur in June and July.

What should I wear and bring?

Wear waterproof, layered clothing to protect against ocean spray and changing temperatures. Waterproof jackets and pants are strongly recommended. Sunscreen, a hat, and a camera are also useful.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, children aged 10 and older are welcome at the listed price. Confirm age requirements and any restrictions when booking, and ensure younger children are comfortable with boat motion and water spray.

What if we don't see whales?

The tour description does not specify a wildlife guarantee or rebooking policy. Contact the operator directly to confirm their policy on sightings before booking.

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Top Deal

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Reykjavík Premium Whale Watching

(3)

Reykjavík, Iceland

Whale WatchingBirdwatchingWater ActivitiesBoat ToursSightseeing Tours

Instant confirmationSecure checkoutNo hidden fees

About this activity

Hunt for whales and dolphins aboard a nimble RIB speedboat from Reykjavík's Old Harbour, with a maximum of 12 passengers ensuring an intimate, high-speed wildlife experience. These specialized vessels cover more ground and get closer to marine life than larger tour boats, while seasonal puffin colonies and coastal landmarks round out a 2-hour adventure.

An exhilarating premium tour starting from the Old Harbour in Reykjavík everyday from 1 April to 31 October. This is a small group tour with only 12 passengers per boat, specially trained crew and certified RIB captain.

Price: 10+ yrs. is 21.990 ISK.-

Duration: Approx. 2 hrs.

Tour difficulty: Moderate

Available: 1 April - 31 October

Departure times: See booking calendar for availability

Search for the wildlife and explore seas on the adventure of a lifetime on our premium, small groups whale watching tour. Our specially engineered RIB boats get you closer and faster to the whales and puffins than our bigger boats. These stable and safe boats also allow us to search a bigger area, thus increasing your likelihood of viewing the whales, dolphins and birdlife.

This fantastic whale watching tour starts from the Old Harbour in downtown Reykjavík. First we ride out to one of three islands close to the harbour and check out the breeding puffins (season 1 May - 20 August). Next we head out further in search of whales and dolphins. Seeing the wildlife as up close as you can from our RIB boats is a once in a lifetime adventure and experience. After exploring the wonders of the sea we sail back to Reykjavík, where we will ride along the city shore line. Along the coast we will have views of the city from a unique angle, Sólfarið viking ship sculpture and mesmerising Harpa Concert Hall.

PLEASE NOTE:

*This tour has a minimum of 2 passengers. If the minimum is not met, we will offer you to reschedule or get a full refund.

*Tour may not be suitable for seniors (65+ yrs), pregnant women or those with a history of heart or back problems.

*You need to be able to stand in your seat (minimum age 10 years, or height of 145 cm.) and fit into one of our overalls to participate (maximum size 3XL).

*Participants will need to sign a waiver upon arrival in order to join the tour.

*Please make your own way to the Old Harbour and be sure to arrive no later than 30 min. before scheduled departure. Note that pickup is not available for this tour.

*If no whales or dolphins are seen on the tour, we do not refund the tour price, but in stead offer a complimentary ticket valid on our Classic Whale Watching tour. The ticket is valid for 2 years, for returning passengers only and are non-transferrable between tours.

*This tour is operated by our sister company Whale Safari*

Highlights

✓Small-group RIB speedboat (max 12 passengers) with certified captain
✓Active whale and dolphin spotting in Icelandic waters
✓Puffin colonies on nearby islands (May–August)
✓Unique coastal views of Reykjavík, Sólfarið sculpture, and Harpa Concert Hall
✓Stable, fast boats designed to search wider areas and get closer views

Insider tips

★Book for May–August if puffin sightings are a priority; whale activity runs year-round within the April–October season
★Dress in waterproof layers; RIB boats mean you're exposed to ocean spray even in calm conditions
★Check the booking calendar for departure times—availability varies by date
★Arrive early at Old Harbour to soak in downtown Reykjavík before departure

Good to know

•Duration: approximately 2 hours
•Moderate difficulty; RIB boats are stable but expect some motion and water spray
•Minimum 2 passengers required; tour runs 1 April–31 October only
•Departure from Old Harbour in central Reykjavík (easy city access)
•Children aged 10+ are welcome at the listed price; confirm age requirements at booking

Who it's for

Wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchersAdventure seekers comfortable with speedboat ridesFamilies with children 10+Photographers seeking close marine-life encounters

Best time to visit

May to August offers the highest chance of puffin sightings alongside whale activity. Visit early morning or late afternoon for calmer seas and better lighting; sea conditions are most stable in June–July, though whales and dolphins are present throughout the April–October season.