Akureyri: 2-Hour Whale Watching Express by RIB Speedboat

When I first looked into the 2-Hour Whale Watching Express by RIB Speedboat in Akureyri, I was struck by the combination of speed, intimacy, and the chance to see majestic humpback whales up close. This small-group tour, operated by Whale Watching Akureyri, promises an exciting and personal adventure on the icy waters of Iceland’s northeastern fjord—an area famed for its abundant marine life and breathtaking mountain scenery. With only 12 passengers per boat, it’s designed for those who want a more active and immersive experience than the traditional larger vessel tours.

What I really like about this tour is its speed and range. The RIB boats are quick, nimble, and allow for a broader search area, increasing your chances of spotting whales, dolphins, and a variety of seabirds. Plus, the guides, like Mack, are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making every sighting both educational and entertaining. Another highlight is the personalized experience — many reviews mention how guides like Gisella and Jacob go above and beyond with insights and storytelling.

That said, you should note that this activity is not suitable for everyone—it’s best for those comfortable with the boat’s speed and small, sometimes bouncing rides, especially in Iceland’s changing weather. The cost, at around $174 per person, might seem steep compared to larger boat tours, but the value comes in the form of closer encounters, fewer crowds, and the thrill of riding a fast boat in search of whales.

Key points / Takeaways

• Close-up whale encounters: The smaller boats allow you to get nearer to the whales than bigger ships typically can.
• Expert guides: Guides like Mack and Gisella bring a wealth of knowledge, making sightings more meaningful.
• Fast, wide-ranging search: The speed of the RIBs means a bigger area covered in less time, boosting your chances of spotting wildlife.
• Comfort and safety gear: Overalls, neoprene gloves, goggles, and life vests ensure you stay warm and dry in Iceland’s chilly waters.
• Limited group size: Only 12 passengers means more space, less noise, and a more personal experience.
• Weather variability: Tours can be canceled for safety reasons if the weather turns bad, so flexible plans are wise.

An in-depth look at Akureyri’s Whale Watching Experience

Starting with the Basics — Meeting in Akureyri

The adventure begins at Oddeyrarbót 2, right next to the cultural centre Hof, about 30 minutes before departure. This spot is easy to find, and it’s worth arriving early to get fitted with your gear—overalls, gloves, goggles—and to chat with your guide about what lies ahead. The tour lasts exactly 2 hours, which means you’re out in the fjord during the most active whale feeding times, often in the morning or early afternoon, depending on availability.

The Small Boat Advantage: Speed, Flexibility, and Closer Encounters

Unlike larger whale watching ships, these speedboats slice through the water at a good clip, allowing the crew to cover miles of fjord and find whales quicker. Many reviews mention how this bigger search area translates into more sightings. Several travelers, like James E., praising the “fairly cold and rainy” day, noted that the provided gear kept them comfortable, highlighting the importance of dressing warmly.

The Guides — Educators and Entertainers

One of the best parts of this tour is the guides. Reviewers consistently mention guides like Mack or Gisella, who not only spot whales swiftly but also offer insights into whale behavior and local geography. Joanne mentioned Mack’s “loads of insights”, which added educational value. Gisella’s enthusiasm and knowledge, as praised by others, make the experience feel more engaging and less like a generic boat ride.

Wildlife Encounters — More Than Just Sightings

Most travelers report seeing multiple whales, including humpbacks and minke whales. Azemar described the trip as “amazing” with many whales, while Janet loved watching a humpback surface feeding—a rare and mesmerizing behavior. Several reviews, like Deborah’s, highlight how whales came close enough to smell their breath, emphasizing the intimacy possible with these small, fast boats.

The Thrill of the Ride — Exhilarating and Fun

The RIB boats are described as “exhilarating” and “fun”, especially by those who enjoy a bit of adventure. Joshua called the ride “exhilarating hell”, noting the rough waters and the adrenaline rush, which adds to the overall excitement. Some, like Jan, also praised the “special” ride back—an exhilarating splash through choppy waves that you might remember long after the trip ends.

Weather and Safety — Planning Matters

Iceland’s weather in autumn can be unpredictable. Many reviews mention rain, wind, and chilly conditions, but the provided overalls and gear handle this well. The captain can cancel for safety’s sake, so flexibility is key. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer calmer waters, this high-speed trip might not suit everyone, but most reviewers felt comfortable with the gear.

Cost and Value — Worth the Price?

At $174, this tour isn’t cheap—especially compared to larger, less intimate trips. But many reviewers feel it’s worth every penny. The closer encounters and the smaller group size mean a more personal, exciting experience. Watching whales up close and hearing detailed stories from guides like Mack make the tour feel special. Some reviewers, like Mark, say it was “a highlight of their visit”, justifying the price through the thrill and quality of the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers who don’t mind a lively ride and want a more intimate whale watching experience. It’s also ideal for those who value expert guides and are willing to pay a bit more for closer encounters. However, it’s less suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

Practical Tips for a Great Trip

• Dress warmly with layers, including wool or fleece.
• Bring sturdy shoes—the deck gets wet, and you’ll want good footing.
• Arrive early for the gear fitting and briefing.
• Be flexible—weather can change swiftly.
• No large luggage, drones, or open-toed shoes allowed—security and safety first.
• Remember, the tour might cancel if conditions are unsafe, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re a nature lover with a spirit of adventure, you’ll appreciate how this tour combines thrilling speed with the chance to observe majestic whales in their natural habitat. It’s especially appealing if you want a personalized, less crowded experience, and don’t mind getting wet or bouncing on the waves. Families with older children (minimum age 10) will find it suitable, but it’s not ideal for very young kids, pregnant women, or those with back or mobility issues.

The tour is also a good choice if you want to combine your Iceland trip with learning about the local marine life from guides who love sharing their knowledge. Many reviews highlight how guides like Gisella and Mack make the experience both fun and educational.

The Sum Up

This Akureyri whale watching tour offers a dynamic, close-up encounter with some of the North Atlantic’s most impressive creatures, set against a backdrop of towering, glacier-carved mountains. The speed and agility of the RIB boats give you access to a larger area and more frequent sightings, making every trip feel like a small adventure. The expert guides enhance the experience with stories and insights that turn a sightseeing trip into a memorable learning experience.

While the cost might be higher than traditional tours, the value of getting very close to whales and enjoying a more personal and adventurous ride makes it worthwhile for many. It’s best suited for adventure-minded travelers who crave excitement and don’t mind the unpredictable Icelandic weather. If you’re up for a quick, exhilarating outing with the chance to see awe-inspiring marine life, this tour should be on your Iceland list.

Overall, for those seeking a more active, intimate, and educational whale watching experience, this RIB adventure in Akureyri promises plenty of memorable moments and possibly even a whale or two blowing bubbles in your direction.

FAQ

• How long is the tour? The tour lasts exactly 2 hours, starting from the floating pier in Akureyri.
• What is included? You get a guide, overalls, neoprene gloves, goggles, and safety equipment—everything you need for a comfortable ride.
• Is there a minimum age? Yes, children must be at least 10 years old or 145 cm tall to participate.
• Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather conditions may cause last-minute cancellations for safety reasons.
• How many passengers are on each boat? Only 12 passengers, making it a very intimate experience.
• Are food and toilets available? No, food is not provided onboard, and toilets are not available on the boat.
• Do I need to bring anything? Dress warmly in layers, bring sturdy shoes, and consider sunglasses for glare.
• Is there a safety briefing? Yes, safety equipment is provided, and guides give instructions before departure.
• What types of whales might I see? Most likely humpback and minke whales, with some chance for others like Sei whales or harbor porpoises.
• Is the tour suitable for non-English speakers? The tour is conducted in English, so some language skills are helpful for understanding the guides’ comments.

This RIB whale watching tour in Akureyri is a solid choice for travelers who want to combine adventure, education, and wildlife spotting in one package. It’s safe, well-organized, and praised for its guides and scenery—perfect for those who want to experience Iceland’s marine life in a more personal and thrilling way.