RIB boat express: Whales, Eyjafjord and Akureyri

Exploring Akureyri’s fjord by boat offers a uniquely intimate way to see whales and seabirds against the striking backdrop of Iceland’s northern coast. This 2-hour RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) tour from Elding in Akureyri promises a high-energy, close-up whale watching experience. With only 12 passengers per boat, an enthusiastic crew, and the chance to glimpse humpback whales, minke whales, puffins, and other birds, it stands out as a memorable adventure. The tour generally sells out well in advance — booking about three months beforehand isn’t unusual — and is perfect for active travelers looking for a quick, authentic taste of Icelandic marine wildlife.

What makes this trip truly enjoyable? First, the small-group setting enhances the feeling of adventure without feeling crowded, and the experienced guides like Captain Siggi are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge. Second, the panoramic views from the RIB – bouncing over the water at speed – are exhilarating and offer a different perspective on Aldeyjar or the surrounding landscapes than a traditional boat cruise. A secondary but appreciated highlight is the inclusion of overalls, goggles, neoprene gloves, and life jackets — gear that keeps you warm and dry in the brisk Arctic air.

A potential consideration is that weather can influence the trip’s viability — safety is always the top priority, and cancellations happen when it’s too risky to go out. If that occurs, travelers are offered a different date or a full refund, which underscores the tour’s commitment to safety over thrill-seeking. Keep in mind that it’s tailored to those with moderate physical fitness and a minimum age of 10 years or 145cm (about 4 ft 7 in). Gravelly seats and the need to fit into overalls might be a small hurdle for some, but the experience’s authenticity more than makes up for it.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 12): Ensures personal service and a more intimate experience.
• Excellent guides: Enthusiastic, knowledgeable captains like Siggi make the trip engaging and informative.
• Close-up wildlife encounters: Chance to spot humpback, minke whales, puffins, and seabirds.
• High safety standards: Gear included, with weather-dependent cancellations handled professionally.
• Perfect for active travelers: You should be comfortable sitting in a saddle-like seat and wearing outdoor gear.
• Booking well in advance: The tour is popular, often booked 96 days ahead, so plan accordingly.

If you’re visiting Akureyri and craving a different way to experience Iceland’s stunning natural environment, this whale-watching tour by RIB offers the kind of up-close, exhilarating adventure you’ll remember long after your trip ends. During my research into this tour, I found it garners consistently high praise — truly a 5/5 experience for many travelers, as reflected in the reviews and the focus on safety, comfort, and authenticity.

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

The tour begins at Elding Whale Watching Akureyri, conveniently located at Oddeyrarbót 2. You’ll meet your small group, which is capped at 12 people, giving an intimate vibe. Once onboard, your guide, like the highly recommended Captain Siggi, will provide a brief safety overview and explain what to look for during your ride. The 2-hour window is perfect for those with limited time but still eager for a marine adventure.

The boat zooms out into Eyjafjörður, the fjord that’s home to the humpback whales, minke whales, and a variety of seabirds. You’ll feel the wind in your hair as the RIB accelerates, bouncing gently over the water, providing a thrilling viewpoint that larger boats can’t match. The panoramic views extend beyond marine life; you’ll see the rugged mountains framing the fjord, adding to the sense of being on the edge of the wild.

Wildlife Encounters: Up Close and Personal

Expect to see humpback whales and possibly minke whales, with seasoned guides like Gregg_C noting that their knowledgeable and enthusiastic commentary made the experience memorable. The chance to see these gentle giants in their natural environment, often surfacing within arm’s reach, is a highlight. Bird lovers will also enjoy watching puffins, which are frequently spotted during the tour, gliding near the water’s surface.

Many reviewers, including Linda_M, describe their trip as “one of the most exciting and exhilarating whale watching tours.” She described bouncing through icy Arctic waters, feeling “perfectly safe” thanks to the attentive crew, which is a testament to the professionalism behind the scenes. The included gear — overalls, goggles, neoprene gloves, and life jackets — helps keep everyone warm and dry, making the cold ride more comfortable.

The Experience in Practice

The tour’s small size allows for a more personalized experience — your guide will point out wildlife and answer questions, making it engaging and educational. The live commentary adds context, helping you understand what you’re seeing and why the fjord is such a rich habitat. The boat’s speed and agility inject a sense of adventure, making this a trip for the active and thrill-seeking.

While the duration is short, the quality of the encounter often exceeds expectations — you’re close enough to see whales blowing or surfacing, and the whole experience is genuinely immersive. As Gregg_C put it, the guide made the trip “memorable,” highlighting the difference a passionate, knowledgeable crew makes.

Gear and Safety

The included gear enhances safety and comfort. The overalls are crucial for staying warm, especially when splashed or wet from the sea spray. The goggles provide clear sightlines, and the neoprene gloves keep your hands warm during the ride. The boat’s specialized captain ensures a smooth ride, even in choppy conditions, and safety is clearly prioritized, with cancellations happening if weather conditions are unfavorable.

Pricing and Value

At $183.42 per person, this tour falls into the higher end of Icelandic adventure activities, but it delivers notable value. The small-group format, expert guides, and the chance to see whales and puffins in their natural habitat make the price reasonable, especially considering how much personalized attention you’re likely to get. The fact that it’s booked on average 96 days in advance speaks to its popularity — planning ahead pays off.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience suits active travelers comfortable with wearing outdoor gear and sitting in a saddle-like seat for roughly two hours. It’s ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking an adrenaline rush combined with genuine marine encounters. It’s not suitable for children under 10 or those who find it difficult to sit for extended periods. Keep in mind the weather-dependent nature of the trip; a clear, calm day makes for a much better experience.

Final Thoughts

This RIB whale-watching trip in Akureyri offers an exciting blend of adventure, wildlife discovery, and stunning scenery. The small-group setting and expert guides ensure a personal touch, making it a standout choice for travelers wanting a more interactive experience than large boat tours provide. While weather can influence your plans, the safety measures and flexible rescheduling options help mitigate disappointment.

If you’re craving an active, close-up look at Iceland’s marine life, this tour is a smart investment — especially if you’re prepared for the elements and looking for that perfect mix of thrill and nature.

• Active travelers comfortable with outdoor gear and moving around
• Wildlife enthusiasts eager to see whales and seabirds in their natural environment
• Those seeking a personal, intimate boat experience
• Visitors with flexible schedules, able to book well in advance
• People excited about adventure and speed on the water

FAQ

Is pickup available for this tour? No, the tour begins at the meeting point in Akureyri, so plan your transportation accordingly.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 2 hours, providing enough time for wildlife viewing without feeling rushed.

What should I wear? You’ll get overalls and gloves, but it’s wise to dress warmly, especially in layers, since it can be chilly on the water even in summer.

Can children participate? The minimum age is 10 years or 145 cm (about 4 ft 7 in). Ensure your child is comfortable sitting in the boat and wearing the provided gear.

What happens if the weather is bad? Cancellations due to poor weather happen for safety reasons, with the opportunity to reschedule or get a full refund.

Will I see whales? While wildlife sightings depend on conditions, reviews consistently mention spotting humpbacks, minkes, and puffins, making it likely you’ll see something special.

Is the price justified? Given the small group size, expert guides, and wildlife encounters, many feel the cost offers good value for an authentic and personalized adventure.

Are the tours suitable for bird lovers? Yes — puffins and seabirds are common sights, and the guides provide educational commentary.

Do I need to book far in advance? Yes. The tour is popular, with bookings averaging 96 days ahead, so plan accordingly.

This RIB whale-watching tour in Akureyri ranks as a prime choice for those wanting to combine scenic fjord views, marine wildlife, and a healthy dose of adventure. It’s especially well-suited for travelers craving a more intimate, energetic connection with Iceland’s northern waters.