The 4 Best RIB Boat Safaris in Iceland

1.Whale Watching by RIB Speedboat

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 621 reviews · 2 hours · from $200Our pick

Join a 12-seat RIB from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour for two hours among Faxaflói Bay’s islands. Expect fast runs to whale areas, city views, puffins near Lundey, and guides such as Claudia, Julian, or Julien sharing clear marine facts. Warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and safety gear are included.

“We had a fantastic experience going on a whale safari with this company. We saw several whales and dolphins close to the boat. The guide was very enthusiastic and had a lot of knowledge. The captain was very experienced and we felt safe. Highly recommend it.”

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2.Big Whales & Puffins RIB boat tour from Húsavík

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 501 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $203Top rated

Join Húsavík Adventures for a two-hour RIB ride in Skjálfandi Bay. A guide and captain search for humpback and minke whales, dolphins, porpoises, and seasonal puffins. The boat carries no more than 12 people, so every seat has a useful view. Puffins are usually present from mid-April through mid-August.

“Overall fun experience even though we took the 9am tour which was the first tour of the day hoping to see Whales, but only saw a few fins, not that exciting. Very cold, wet and rough waters getting out there so expect to get wet! They provide great gear for all. Austin our guide was great, very informative. I will say the negative was that it was also suppose to be whales & puffins, but the puffins aspect of the tour was never addressed, so not sure if what happened with that (?) overall no regrets.”

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3.2-Hour Whale Watching Express by RIB Speedboat

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 489 reviews · 2 hours · from $200

Meet at Akureyri’s floating pier for a two-hour RIB adventure in Eyjafjord. A guide such as Yoann, Agnes, Sergio, or Mack may explain whale behavior while the captain covers water quickly in search of humpbacks, minke whales, dolphins, and seabirds. Warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and safety gear are supplied, but dress warmly and expect a lively ride.

“Guides were great in sharing info about the wildlife we saw and ensuring we saw as many whales as possible. Unique and once in a life experience. For those considering tour: wear boots and warm clothes. You will get wet. The seat is a saddle seat and is a physically intense tour.”

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4.Whale Watching Tour by RIB Boat

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 393 reviews · 2 hours · from $194Best value

Search Faxaflói Bay for whales and dolphins aboard a fast RIB boat with shock suspension seats. Your English-speaking guide points out marine life, birds, and Reykjavik’s coast. Summer trips stop near Akurey puffin island, and the $194 price includes warm flotation gear and entry to the Whales of Iceland Museum.

“Honestly such a cool experience! We’ve whale watched a few times, but always by bigger boats. Highly recommend giving the RIB a try, it’s honestly so cool to be that close to whales and puffins! We even saw some dolphins on our trip. Highly recommend!”

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