Reykjavík: Premium RIB Whale Watching Small-Group Tour

Set out from Reykjavík's Old Harbour on a premium small-group whale watching experience aboard a custom-engineered RIB boat. With a maximum of 12 passengers per vessel, this 2-hour tour runs daily from April through October, guided by a certified RIB captain and a specially trained naturalist crew.

RIB boats are purpose-built for wildlife encounters — faster and more agile than larger vessels, they allow you to cover a wider search area and get closer to marine life on the water. Keep your eyes open for whales and dolphins, and from late April through mid-August, watch for puffins nesting along the coastline.

On the return journey, enjoy sweeping views of Reykjavík's iconic waterfront, including the Sun Voyager sculpture and the striking Harpa Concert Hall. High-quality suspension seats provide comfort and stability throughout the ride, and all safety equipment — including warm thermal overalls and goggles — is supplied on board.

This tour operates under a responsible whale watching Code of Conduct, ensuring every encounter respects the animals' natural behaviour. If no whales or dolphins are sighted, participants receive a complimentary ticket for the Classic Whale Watching tour, valid for two years.

Make your own way to the Elding ticket office at Ægisgarður 5c at the Old Harbour in Reykjavík. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure for check-in and boarding. The full experience lasts 2 hours from start to finish.

Once on board, your certified RIB captain and expert naturalist will guide the group across Faxaflói Bay in search of whales, dolphins, and seabirds. The custom suspension seats keep you comfortable even at speed, and the boat's agility means you can reach wildlife areas that larger vessels cannot.

• Thermal overalls (up to size 3XL), a life vest, and goggles are provided and must be worn throughout
• Bags are not permitted on the RIB boat — bring only items that fit in your pockets or around your neck
• Belongings can be stored at the operator's office during the tour
• A safety waiver must be signed before departure

The tour requires a minimum of 4 passengers to operate. If this minimum is not met, you will be offered the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.

This tour stands out for its small-group format — with just 12 passengers per RIB boat, every participant gets an unobstructed view and personalised attention from the crew. The custom-engineered vessels are faster and more manoeuvrable than traditional whale watching boats, covering more ocean and increasing the likelihood of wildlife encounters.

The included Whale Guarantee means that if no whales or dolphins are spotted, you receive a complimentary ticket for the Classic Whale Watching tour, valid for two years — so your experience is never wasted. Operated by Elding Adventure at Sea, a sustainability-focused operator committed to responsible wildlife tourism, this tour combines genuine adventure with environmental care.