Reykjavik: Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour

Reykjavik: Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour — A Close-Up Look at Iceland’s Marine Life

When it comes to wildlife encounters in Iceland, few experiences match the thrill of seeing whales and puffins in their natural environment — especially from a sleek, fast RIB boat. This particular tour, run by Elding Adventure at Sea, offers a spirited combination of adventure, education, and natural beauty. With a 4.6-star rating based on nearly 200 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find it memorable enough to recommend.

What I really like about this tour is how personal and professional it feels. First, the presence of a marine biologist guide, like Kylie or Emily, elevates the experience from a simple boat ride to a genuine learning opportunity. It’s also a bonus that the boats are designed for stability and closeness, giving you a better chance to see and hear the animals rather than just reading about them later. The second highlight is the scenic backdrop: sailing past Reykjavik’s iconic landmarks like the Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture adds a wonderful city-meets-sea contrast.

A potential consideration? This is a seasonal tour best enjoyed between late April and August, and there’s no guarantee of whale sightings — ocean wildlife is unpredictable. Plus, the boat ride is fast and exhilarating, which might not suit everyone, especially those sensitive to motion or wearing high heels or unsuitable clothing. Still, the overall value and authenticity make it well worth considering.

Key points / Takeaways

• Close Encounters with Marine Wildlife: The lightweight, maneuverable RIB boats allow for a closer view of whales, dolphins, and puffins compared to larger vessels.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides, often marine biologists, enhance the experience with insightful commentary and help you spot the animals.
• Scenic Reykjavik Views: The tour ends with a water-level perspective of the city’s skyline, including the Harpa Concert Hall and Sun Voyager sculpture.
• Seasonal and Wildlife Variability: Puffins are only seen from late April to mid-August; whale sightings are not guaranteed but are often spectacular.
• Gear and Comfort: Wetsuits, gloves, goggles, and warm clothing are provided, making the chilly ocean weather manageable.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 12 participants, fostering a more intimate, engaging atmosphere.

Up Close with Reykjavik’s Marine Life and Landmarks

My favorite aspect of this tour is how it combines wildlife watching with a unique perspective on Reykjavik’s coastline. Starting from the Old Harbour, you hop aboard a specially-engineered RIB boat that’s designed for speed, agility, and comfort. Unlike larger boats, these smaller vessels can get closer to the animals, which becomes clear almost immediately when a whale breaches or a puffin zips past.

The guides are a highlight. Many reviews mention the guides’ expertise — often marine biologists like Kylie or Emily — who share fascinating stories and answer questions. One traveler recalled how Emily provided detailed information about puffins nesting on nearby islands, and that the crew even sent photos afterward. It’s rare to get such personalized attention on a wildlife tour.

Wildlife sightings are the core of this experience. Several reviews describe seeing multiple humpback whales, sometimes breaching repeatedly, and dolphins swimming alongside the boat. One reviewer even observed a whale doing a full flip, describing it as “incredible.” Puffins, especially during season, add a charming touch, nesting on islands and flying close enough to see their colorful beaks.

The scenery is just as memorable. As the tour winds down, the boat glides past Reykjavik’s waterfront, giving a water-level view of landmarks like the Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture. It’s a striking contrast: the urban skyline meeting the wild ocean.

What to Expect on This 2-Hour Tour

The tour duration of just two hours makes it an accessible addition to your Reykjavik itinerary. It’s long enough to give you a good chance of wildlife sightings but short enough to fit into a busy schedule. The start is at the Old Harbour, where you’ll meet your crew and get geared up with warm overalls, gloves, and goggles — essential for Iceland’s often brisk and windy conditions.

Once on the boat, the captain expertly navigates wider areas to maximize wildlife viewing. The small, fast boats are able to venture farther and closer than typical whale-watching vessels, which means you’re more likely to have that “wow” moment. Many reviews mention how the guides often spot animals first, then direct your attention with binoculars or friendly pointers.

It’s a good idea to wear weather-appropriate clothing, as the ocean can be breezy and damp. The crew supplies gear, but most travelers recommend bringing layered clothing, waterproof shoes, and sun protection — even in the unpredictable Icelandic weather. A few reviews note that despite the gear, it’s still a chilly ride, so prepare accordingly.

Wildlife and Landscape: The Core of the Experience

Whale watching is a highlight for many, but it’s important to understand that sightings depend on the season, weather, and luck. Many reviewers, however, report seeing humpbacks, minke whales, white dolphins, and even porpoises. One even described a whale swimming very close to the boat, creating a memorable close encounter. For those who specifically want to see puffins, the tour offers a chance to view them nesting on nearby islands, which is quite special.

The guides play a key role in making the experience both educational and fun. Several reviews praise guides like Kylie or Emily for their passion, knowledge, and ability to spot elusive animals. They also take pictures during the tour, which they email afterward, allowing you to focus on the experience without worrying about capturing every moment.

The scenery around Reykjavik is captivating. The water’s surface often reflects the city’s skyline, and the coastline’s volcanic formations add a rugged backdrop. The tour ends with a serene glide along Reykjavik’s waterfront, providing a relaxing conclusion to the adventure.

Price, Value, and Practical Details

The cost of around 2 hours on a small, fast boat with expert guidance offers good value. You’re paying not just for transportation but for a chance to get closer to the animals and benefit from knowledgeable guides. The gear included — warm overalls, gloves, goggles — ensures comfort, which is especially notable given that Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable.

Booking flexibility is a plus; you can reserve now and pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The small group size (limited to 12) also means a more personalized experience, which is often reflected positively in reviews.

There are some restrictions: this trip is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues or certain weight and height limits. Also, there are no toilets on board and no food service, so plan accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a person craving genuine nature encounters, or simply someone who enjoys a good speedboat ride with a side of stunning scenery, this tour is an excellent pick. Families with older children (over 10) will find it lively and engaging, especially with knowledgeable guides making the animals come alive.

Nature lovers who value authenticity over a commercialized experience will appreciate the small-group setting and the chance to learn directly from marine biologists. The scenic city views add a special touch, making it a well-rounded experience of Reykjavik’s coastal side.

Final Thoughts on the Reykjavik Whale and Puffin RIB Tour

This experience offers a compelling blend of adventure, education, and natural beauty. The chance to get close to whales and puffins, guided by experts, is a highlight for any traveler seeking authentic wildlife encounters. The small, fast boats provide a sense of thrill and intimacy that larger tours cannot match, and the scenery both in and out of the water is breathtaking.

While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, the reviews suggest that most participants enjoy a memorable day, with many describing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience. The inclusion of gear and the flexibility of booking make it practical for many travelers.

Overall, if you’re looking for a dynamic, educational, and scenic adventure that maximizes your chances to see Iceland’s marine life up close, this tour is worth every króna.

FAQ

What season is best for this tour?
The tour runs from April 1st to October 31st, with peak puffin viewing from April 20th to August 20th. That’s also when whale sightings are most common.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum age is 10, and children must be at least 145 cm tall. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those over certain weight and height limits.

What should I wear?
Dress in weather-appropriate layers. The tour provides warm overalls, gloves, and goggles, but bringing your own waterproof clothing, good footwear, and a hat is advisable for comfort and warmth.

How close can I get to the animals?
The small, maneuverable boats allow for closer proximity without disturbing the wildlife. Many reviews mention hearing whales exhale and seeing them swim near the boat, sometimes even underneath.

Is there any food or bathroom on board?
No, there are no toilets or food available during the tour. Plan ahead with snacks and bathroom stops before departure.

What happens if weather conditions are bad?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The guides and captain will assess weather safety and may reschedule if conditions are unsuitable.

If you’re after a lively, authentic encounter with Iceland’s marine animals — combined with a splash of city scenery — this RIB tour offers a memorable, engaging day out. Just remember to dress warmly, keep your camera ready, and enjoy the wild side of Reykjavik from a whole new angle.