Whales are easier from a fast RIB. This small-group tour runs out from Reykjavik Old Harbour on a rigid inflatable boat built to cover more water, with shoreline stops for Sun Voyager and Harpa.

I like the “close-up” approach here: you’re in a low boat that can push farther and scan a big search area so wildlife comes to you more often than from a slow cruiser. The second big win for me is comfort: you’re given warm overalls, and the boat uses new suspension “shock seats” that make the high-speed ride way more bearable.

One consideration: this is a speedboat. If you have back problems or you’re pregnant, the ride isn’t recommended, and it’s also not suitable for kids under 10 or under 145 cm tall.

Key things I’d prioritize before booking

• RIB speed = a bigger search area for whales, dolphins, and seabirds
• Shock seats + warm coveralls help with comfort on open water
• Small group (max 12) means less crowding and more time facing outward
• Puffins May–August with a stop near breeding grounds
• Shoreline sights from the sea, including Sun Voyager and Harpa
• If whales don’t show, you get a complimentary return ticket before you leave

Reykjavik RIB whale watching starts fast at Old Harbour

Reykjavik’s whale watching scene can feel like a choice between big boats and smaller vessels. This one leans clearly toward the small-and-fast side, using a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) designed to move quickly across the North Atlantic. That matters because in whale watching, time on the water is basically your currency.

The tour launches from Reykjavik Old Harbour (Ægisgarður 5). I like that the meeting point is straightforward and right where Reykjavik sightseeing already happens, so you’re not building your whole day around complicated transfers.

Before you head out, you’ll get a safety briefing, then you’ll put on provided coveralls. It’s one of those details that makes the whole outing feel more “ready” than “we hope the weather treats us nicely.”

The 2-hour rhythm: searching water, spotting birds, then heading back

The total time on this whale watching trip is about 2 hours. In that window, the captain’s job is to cover enough water to find wildlife and then position the boat for the best viewing angle.

Leaving the harbor and getting on the game

You’ll cruise out from the harbor and start scouting near the islands close to Reykjavik Old Harbour. This is where the speed of the RIB becomes part of the experience, not just a thrill factor. A faster boat can adjust its position more often, which helps you catch wildlife when it’s active rather than just passing by.

You’ll also be sitting low in the boat compared to higher decks on larger vessels. That changes the view: you’re watching at eye level for dolphins and seabirds, and when whales surface, the moment feels sudden and close.

Wildlife you’re realistically aiming for

The tour focuses on multiple types of wildlife: whales, dolphins, and seabirds. Several people highlight dolphins actively following and jumping around near the boat, which is exactly the kind of “short-term fun” you want on a limited-time tour.

Whale sightings can be more hit-or-miss in any season, but the operator’s promise is practical: you don’t just do a set loop and hope. You’re covering a larger search area, and the guide/captain work to locate animals.

The puffin stop (May to August)

Between early May and late August, you may also spot puffins during a stop at their breeding grounds. This is a real seasonal hook for Reykjavik: puffins are tied to specific times of year, so booking in that window increases your odds of adding them to the mix.

The puffin part is typically a short stop early in the tour, so don’t plan on a long land-and-walk moment. Think of it as a chance to connect with one of Iceland’s signature birds without turning the trip into an all-day excursion.

Returning along the shoreline

On the way back, you’ll cruise Reykjavik’s shoreline. This is a smart design choice: even if the wildlife window was short, you still get Iceland’s city view from open water—colorful fishing huts, restaurants near the harbor, and the “from the sea” perspective that you simply can’t get on foot.

A small plus: if you didn’t spot whales, the captain provides a complimentary ticket for another ride before you leave. It doesn’t guarantee wildlife on your second attempt, but it does reduce the risk of feeling like you paid for nothing.

Sun Voyager and Harpa: quick stops that make the sea route feel complete

This tour doesn’t treat the shore like a chore. After your main time on open water, you make quick stops to admire major landmarks from the water.

Two names come up again and again here:

• Sun Voyager sculpture, seen from the shoreline angle that gives it a dramatic, coastal context
• Harpa Concert Hall, recognizable even from offshore, where the building geometry looks especially crisp against the sky and water

Because the stops are short, you won’t be wandering around with a big time cushion. That’s actually good for many people: you keep the pace while still getting the “Reykjavik postcard” hits.

Comfort on a high-speed ride: shock seats and warm overalls

Yes, it’s fast. The thrill is part of the point. But the comfort setup is what separates a fun ride from an exhausting one.

You’ll get warm overalls, which helps a lot when you’re out on open water even on a decent day. You’ll also sit on the boat’s newer suspension shock seats. These seats are designed to reduce the jolt you’d normally feel on a RIB bouncing over waves.

In practice, that means:

• The ride feels less punishing if the water chops up
• You can stay focused on scanning the water instead of bracing the whole time
• You’re more likely to enjoy the close viewing because you’re not constantly distracted by discomfort

If you want the best seat experience, your view also depends on where you sit. In particular, people have praised the front-row seats for making the ride feel even more intense and direct. If you’re prone to motion discomfort, you’ll want to think carefully about where you sit before you pull away from the harbor.

Wildlife odds: how to think about whales, dolphins, and seabirds

Whale watching is never a guarantee, but this tour’s format is built to improve your odds inside a two-hour window. The captain can cover more water, and the boat’s ability to move quickly helps with repositioning when animals appear.

Here’s how I’d set expectations so you don’t feel disappointed:

• Dolphins can be the most reliably entertaining. When they’re around, their behavior can keep you busy for minutes at a time.
• Whales are the big headline, but sightings depend on conditions and timing. You’re doing a search, not a fixed “whales live here at 10:15” plan.
• Seabirds are a good sign of activity. They often show you where marine life might be moving.

Also, the crew brings real education into the mix. Guides have been described as passionate about conservation and strong at explaining what you’re seeing. Names that come up include Elsa and Raoul, both noted for being friendly and helpful in guiding the experience.

Price and value: is about $200 worth it?

At around $200 per person for a 2-hour outing, this isn’t a budget activity. So the question isn’t only the price—it’s what you’re buying.

You’re paying for three main things:

• A faster boat that can scan more water than slower alternatives
• Better comfort than many big-boat options, thanks to overalls and shock seats
• Small-group time (limited to 12 people), which usually means less waiting around and more focus on spotting wildlife

There’s also a risk-reducer built into the experience: if whales don’t appear, you can receive a complimentary ticket for another ride. That doesn’t eliminate the nature-variable factor, but it does lower the chance you’ll leave feeling like you “lost” the money.

Is it worth it? If you’re prioritizing the best shot at seeing whales and dolphins from Reykjavik within a short timeframe, the value is strong. If you’re mostly after a slow sightseeing cruise with low motion, you might feel the speedboat style is too much for your taste.

Who this RIB tour suits (and who should skip it)

This is an active, sea-outing experience, and your body matters more than your travel style.

You’ll probably love it if:

• You want high energy and a closer-to-the-action feel
• You like learning in real time (not just sitting quietly while the guide points at something)
• You’re traveling in a group small enough that you’ll actually notice animals instead of competing for attention

You should think twice if:

• You have a history of back problems (it’s not recommended)
• You’re pregnant (also not recommended)
• You’re traveling with kids under 10 or under 145 cm tall

That last point is important. The minimums are clear, and the ride style isn’t designed as a gentle family activity. With that said, older kids who meet the height requirement can handle it well—especially if they like fast rides and spotting wildlife.

Booking smart: timing, what to bring, and what to expect on the day

You’ll pick among several start times, and you’ll make your own way to Reykjavik Old Harbour to meet the captain. That’s convenient if you’re already staying near the center.

Plan to arrive 30 minutes before departure so you have time for the safety briefing and getting into the coveralls without rushing. Bring closed-toe shoes—this is one of those small details that makes a big difference on deck.

Two practical rules to keep in mind:

• No luggage or large bags are allowed
• You’re traveling light for a reason: you’ll be on a small vessel and you’ll want open space for gear and comfort

If weather at sea changes, the whole operation can shift. People have shared stories of rescheduling due to sea conditions, which is normal for Iceland and part of what keeps these tours safe and worthwhile.

Should you book Whale Watching in Reykjavik by Speedboat?

I’d book this if you want a small-group experience, you’re chasing the best odds for whales and dolphins within two hours, and you don’t mind a fast, open-water ride. The mix of shock seats, warm coveralls, and the RIB’s ability to cover more water makes it feel like a serious wildlife hunt, not just a sightseeing spin.

I’d skip it if you need a very gentle outing or if your body is likely to struggle with bouncing and speed. In that case, pick a slower boat or a different activity and protect your trip happiness.

If you’re on the fence because of the price, look at it as a pay-for-position trip: you’re paying for speed, comfort, and time on the water where wildlife can actually show up. Then, if whales don’t show, the complimentary return ticket helps soften the blow.

FAQ

Where does the tour meet?

You meet at the Old Harbour of Reykjavik, Ægisgarður 5, 101 Reykjavik.

How long is the whale watching tour?

The duration is about 2 hours.

What is the price per person?

The price is $200 per person.

What’s included in the ticket?

Included are a professional captain and wildlife guide, warm overalls, and all necessary safety equipment.

Do I need to bring food or drinks?

Food and drinks are not included.

What should I wear or bring?

Bring closed-toe shoes. You’ll be provided warm overalls.

Is there a luggage limit?

Luggage or large bags are not allowed.

Who is this not suitable for?

It’s not recommended for pregnant women or for people with a history of back problems. The tour is also suitable for children over age 10 and over 145 cm tall.

What if we don’t see whales?

If you’re unlucky and don’t spot any whales, the captain gives a complimentary ticket for another ride before you leave.

Is the tour in English?

Yes, the live tour guide is English.

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