Reykjavik: RIB Whale Watching Tour & Puffin Islands

Summary

Fast RIB boat whale watching with puffins near Reykjavik

You’ll zip across Faxaflói Bay on a small-group RIB boat from Reykjavik with a local marine biologist guide—spotting puffins up close on rocky islands and searching for whales at sea level. Feel the wind and salt spray as you pass Sun Voyager and Harpa on your return. It’s personal, raw, and you’ll remember those wild moments long after.

What’s the experience like?

I was already zipped into the thick coveralls when our guide, Sigrún, grinned and handed me gloves—“trust me, you’ll want these.” The harbor in Reykjavik was quiet except for the slap of ropes against masts and that salty chill that seeps right through your sleeves. We shuffled down to the little yellow RIB, just twelve of us plus Sigrún and the captain. I could smell diesel mixed with seaweed—strange combo but kind of comforting. Someone cracked a joke about looking like Minions in our suits; everyone laughed, even the captain.

The boat took off fast—faster than I expected—and suddenly we were bouncing over Faxaflói Bay, wind flattening my cheeks. Sigrún pointed out Akurey Island where the puffins nest (she said their Icelandic name so quickly I didn’t even try to repeat it). We drifted close enough to hear their wings flapping, hundreds of them squabbling on the rocks. It smelled faintly fishy and cold, if that makes sense. I snapped a photo but mostly just watched; you don’t get this close on those big tour boats.

Then we sped further out searching for whales. It’s funny—I thought it would be quiet at sea but there’s always some sound: gulls screeching, water slapping the hull, people whispering when someone spots a fin. When a minke whale surfaced maybe twenty meters away, everyone went silent except for one guy who just said “wow” under his breath. I still think about that moment—the spray hanging in the air for a second before vanishing.

On the way back to Reykjavik we hugged the shoreline past Sun Voyager—looked almost silver in the flat light—and then slid by Harpa Concert Hall with its glass catching whatever sun there was. The city felt different from out there, smaller somehow. By then my face was numb but I didn’t care. If you’re thinking about a whale watching tour from Reykjavik, honestly? This is how I’d do it again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale and puffin watching tour

• Start at Old Harbour of Reykjavík
• Visit puffins at nearby islands
• Search for whales in Faxaflói Bay
• Enjoy panoramic views of Sun Voyager
• Pass by Harpa Concert Hall
• Return to harbour

Top questions

How long does the RIB whale watching tour from Reykjavik last?

The tour lasts approximately two hours from start to finish.

Are puffins included in this whale watching tour?

Yes, during puffin season (early May to late August), you visit puffin colonies near Reykjavik.

Is there a guide on board?

Yes, tours are led by a professional marine biologist guide plus an experienced captain.

What should I wear for this tour?

You should dress warmly—wool or fleece sweater, hat, gloves, and sturdy footwear are recommended.

How many people are on each boat?

The small-group RIB boats take up to 12 passengers per trip.

Is pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; tours depart from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour.

What happens if no whales are seen?

If there are no sightings, you’ll receive a ticket for an alternative tour.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Children must be over 10 years old and taller than 145 cm to join.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary safety equipment like insulated coveralls and gloves plus guidance from a professional marine biologist throughout your small-group adventure by RIB boat from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour—with time spent at puffin islands (in season) and close-up whale watching before returning along the city shoreline past Sun Voyager and Harpa Concert Hall.