Exploring the captivating marine life around Reykjavik is an unforgettable experience. The ‘From Reykjavik: Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour’ offers a unique opportunity to witness the majestic whales and charming puffins in their natural habitats. Guided by a marine biologist, this two-hour adventure departs from the city’s Old Harbour, showcasing breathtaking landscapes and providing expert insights into the iconic wildlife. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an awe-inspiring adventure, this tour promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you eager to uncover more.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Whale Watching Experiences In Reykjavik.

Key Points

From Reykjavik: Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour - Key Points

  • This 2-hour RIB boat tour from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour offers the opportunity to observe whales and puffins in their natural habitats during the peak sighting season.
  • The tour is led by a live guide and marine biologist, providing insights into the local wildlife and Icelandic landscapes.
  • The stable RIB boat design allows for increased wildlife sightings and access to larger areas along the coast.
  • The tour operates from April 1st to October 31st, with no upfront payment required and the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
  • The tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues, and participants must sign a waiver before the tour.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

From Reykjavik: Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour - Tour Overview

The article describes a Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour that runs from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, lasting 2 hours and operating from April 1st to October 31st.

The tour is priced from €160 per person and is limited to 12 participants.

During the puffin viewing season from May 15th to August 15th, guests can expect to see these colorful seabirds in their natural habitat.

Led by a live tour guide and marine biologist, the tour provides personal guidance and insights into the indigenous wildlife.

Guests will sail past Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture while searching for whales and enjoying stunning landscapes.

Booking Information

From Reykjavik: Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour - Booking Information

Visitors can reserve the Whale and Puffin Watching Tour online without any upfront payment, with the option to cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

Availability can be checked for different starting times, and the tour requires a minimum of 2 participants for the 12:00 and 16:00 tours, while the 10:00 and 14:00 tours have no minimum.

  • Check availability for your preferred tour time

  • No upfront payment required to secure your booking

  • Enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour

  • Minimum of 2 participants needed for select tours

  • Flexibility to choose the timing that suits you best

Tour Highlights

From Reykjavik: Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour - Tour Highlights

Passengers aboard the Whale and Puffin Watching Tour can search for these iconic marine animals in their natural habitats. The tour traverses the waters around Reykjavik, providing close-up views of whales and puffins.

Sailing past the Harpa Concert Hall and Sun Voyager sculpture, the boat’s stable RIB design allows access to larger areas, increasing the chances of wildlife sightings.

Trained guides share their expertise on the indigenous species, educating guests about the local fauna. Throughout the journey, passengers can marvel at the stunning Icelandic landscapes and observe the fascinating behaviors of these creatures in their natural environments.

Tour Inclusions

From Reykjavik: Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour - Tour Inclusions

Along With the wildlife sightings and scenic views, the Whale and Puffin Watching Tour includes several other amenities that enhance the overall experience for participants.

Travelers will enjoy a live tour guide and personal guidance by a marine biologist, providing in-depth knowledge about the local marine life and environment.

Stable, high-quality RIB boats allow access to larger areas for improved wildlife viewing opportunities.

English language services ensure all participants can fully engage with and understand the tour.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers flexibility for travelers’ schedules.

No upfront payment is required, with the option to reserve now and pay later for added convenience.

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Tour Exclusions

From Reykjavik: Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour - Tour Exclusions

The tour doesn’t include transportation to and from the meeting point at Old Harbour. Participants are responsible for making their own way to the departure location.

The tour also doesn’t cover lunch or any other refreshments during the 2-hour excursion. Plus, any souvenirs or personal expenses incurred aren’t part of the tour package.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for certain groups, such as children under 10, pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, those under 4’8" (145 cm) or over 331 lbs (150 kg), and those over 75 years old.

Participants must sign a waiver before embarking on the tour.

Meeting Point

From Reykjavik: Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour - Meeting Point

The tour’s departure point is the ticket office located at Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, where participants gather prior to embarking on the whale and puffin watching excursion. This centralized meeting spot is easily accessible and provides a convenient starting point for the adventure.

Attendees can:

  • Check-in with the tour operators and receive any necessary instructions or equipment

  • Admire the picturesque harbor setting, with its colorful buildings and bustling activity

  • Take in views of the iconic Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture nearby

  • Prepare for the journey ahead, ensuring they’ve all the necessary items for the tour

  • Mingle with fellow participants, sharing excitement for the upcoming wildlife encounter

Participant Requirements

To ensure an enjoyable and safe experience for all, the whale and puffin watching tour has specific participant requirements.

Children under 10 years old, pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, those under 4’8′ (145 cm) or over 75 years, and anyone over 331 lbs (150 kg) aren’t permitted to join the tour. This is to protect the wellbeing of participants and ensure the RIB boat remains stable and maneuverable.

Proper hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are also required, as the tour involves spending time outdoors in the elements.

Plus, all participants must sign a waiver before the tour begins. These guidelines help create a comfortable and secure environment for everyone on the adventure.

Customer Feedback

From Reykjavik: Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour - Customer Feedback

Overall, customers consistently praise the whale and puffin watching tour, with a strong 4.5-out-of-5-star rating based on 130 reviews.

Highlights include:

  • Knowledgeable, personable guides who provide valuable insights about the local wildlife.

  • Smooth, comfortable transportation aboard the stable RIB boats that allow access to prime viewing areas.

  • Exceptional service and organization, contributing to a well-run and enjoyable experience.

  • The opportunity to witness whales, puffins, and stunning landscapes in their natural habitats.

  • While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, the tour’s high success rate leaves customers satisfied with their experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

From Reykjavik: Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour - Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The minimum age requirement for the tour is 10 years old. The tour is not suitable for children under 10 due to safety considerations.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?

Yes, you can bring your own camera equipment on the tour. The tour operators encourage participants to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife during the excursion. Just ensure your equipment is weather-resistant and easy to handle on the boat.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There is no option to extend the tour duration. The 2-hour whale and puffin watching tour has a fixed schedule with limited flexibility. Longer tours are not offered, so participants must book accordingly to experience the full tour.

Do I Need to Wear a Life Jacket During the Tour?

Yes, participants must wear a life jacket during the tour. The tour provider ensures all safety equipment, including life jackets, is provided and properly fitted to protect guests on the RIB boat.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s recommended to avoid bringing loose items that could potentially blow away or interfere with the boat’s operations.

Recap

This rib boat tour provides a unique opportunity to witness the captivating marine life of Iceland.

Participants can expect to see whales and puffins in their natural habitats, guided by a knowledgeable marine biologist.

With stunning landscapes and expert insights, this two-hour adventure from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour promises an unforgettable experience, especially during the peak viewing season from May 15th to August 15th.

You can check if your dates are available here: