Whales are closer when the boat is fast. This small-group RIB tour takes you out from Reykjavik’s bay waters in a craft built for speed, then back with extra Reykjavik sights along the way. I like that you’re in a tight group and get guidance in English, so you spend your time looking out—not waiting around.

Two things I really love: first, the speed and tight seating make it easier to get close to whales when sightings pop up. Second, the included waterproof gear (warm overall, gloves, and goggles) means you’re not scrambling for layers the minute you arrive.

One drawback to plan for: the ride is energetic. If you have back or knee issues, you may find the semi-standing posture and rougher water tough, even with suspended seats—so wear supportive footwear and dress for cold wind.

Key things to know before you go

• Small group (max 12) so you’re not fighting for a view all the time
• Fast RIB format helps you reach whale areas quicker than bigger boats
• Warm waterproof gear included: overall, gloves, goggles, and lifejacket
• Reykjavik highlights from the water at Sun Voyager and Harpa
• Wildlife-first approach focused on getting to sightings fast, not lingering at one spot

Why a speedy RIB in Faxaflói Bay is worth the money

Reykjavik sits on the southern shore of Faxaflói Bay, and that matters because the whales and dolphins you’re hunting aren’t “out there” in the distant ocean. They’re in the same water system that’s right off the city, which is exactly why this type of trip works so well.

The price is $164 per person, and yes, that’s more than the big-boat options. But the value comes from time. A fast RIB can move between feeding areas quickly, and you’re more likely to catch whales as they surface and move on. In plain terms: speed helps you see more actions, not just more time at sea.

The other value is the size. With up to 12 people, the crew can keep everyone oriented and seated for spotting. That sounds like a small detail until you’re actually out there bouncing over waves, trying to see a blow from a moving platform.

Meeting at Special Tours (and arriving early)

You meet at Special Tours, Geirsgata 11, 101 Reykjavík, and the tour ends back at that same spot. There’s no hotel pickup, so plan to arrive under your own power and use nearby public transportation if you’re coming from the center.

One practical tip: don’t treat the listed start time like a strict “on the dot” promise. Some guests report the effective departure can feel earlier, so I’d rather you show up early with time to get geared up than rush in cold and wind-blown.

Once you’re checked in, the flow is straightforward: get in your group, grab your included waterproof gear, and listen to the crew brief. You’ll likely feel ready fast—because on a RIB, there’s not much point in waiting around once the boat is lined up.

Sun Voyager: get your Reykjavik bearings from the water

Your first included stop is the Sun Voyager. It’s a sculpture on the shoreline, and from the water it becomes more than a photo stop—it’s a reference point that helps you connect the city to what you’re doing out on the bay.

From the boat, you’re watching the coastline slide by while wind and water do their thing. That’s one of the small perks of this tour style: even if wildlife sightings take time, you still get Reykjavik visuals right away.

The potential downside here is timing and weather. If conditions are rough, your body will feel it more during the early segment than during a slower-paced sightseeing cruise. So dress like you expect wind-chill to jump at you immediately.

Harpa Concert Hall: the best kind of city sightseeing

The second included city stop is Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre. From the water, Harpa’s angles and glass surfaces read differently than they do from the sidewalks—more sharp, more dramatic, and more “designed for views.”

This stop also helps you understand why whale watching out of Reykjavik can feel special. You’re not just in a remote wilderness scene. You’re in a working capital on the edge of the sea, with wildlife potentially close enough to feel part of your day—not a separate planet you fly to.

If you’re the type who likes mixing nature and city viewpoints (instead of choosing one), this itinerary format is a good fit.

The whale-watching run: fast movement + a small crew mindset

The main “you’re here for this” portion is up to 2 hours on the water, guided in English. The operator’s home base is the Faxaflói Bay area, and the crew’s job is to put your boat in the right place when wildlife surfaces.

A key reason this tour earns strong marks is the way the RIB can adjust when sightings happen. The crew may coordinate with other boats when they spot whales, and the speed boat option lets you reach the moment faster than larger vessels. That’s not a marketing slogan; it’s the practical difference between seeing a distant spout and seeing real behavior—breaches, fin slaps, and close passes.

Group size helps too. With up to 12 passengers, you’re more likely to have people seated so they’re not constantly blocking each other. Still, you’ll want to be mindful. One guest review noted that blocked views can happen if someone stands in front—so choose a seat position that keeps your sightline clean.

If you like science explanations, you’ll probably enjoy the guides

You may hear different guides over time, but the common theme is clear: they explain what you’re seeing and keep it understandable. Some guides named in reviews include Rebecca/Rebekah, Joe, Joel, Otto, and Anika (described as a marine biologist). Even if you’re not a whale nerd, it’s a treat to hear why a whale is behaving the way it is—especially when you’re spotting it in real life, right there.

Wildlife you can realistically hope for

Faxaflói Bay is known for whales, dolphins, and seals, plus seabirds. Puffins are part of the mix too, and several guests report seeing puffins during the trip (sometimes tied to a brief nearby stop). Even on a day with fewer whales, it’s common to have a blend of marine life—dolphins playing near the boat, porpoises cutting through the water, and seabirds riding the air currents.

Because whale behavior is wild and unpredictable, the “odds” really depend on weather and timing. The big takeaway: the tour is built to maximize the chance of good encounters by moving efficiently when wildlife is active.

If you’re the type who hates uncertainty, you’ll want to remind yourself that the crew can’t control animal movement. But they can control how quickly you get to the action—and that’s where this fast RIB setup wins.

Gear that keeps you warm and dry (and what to bring anyway)

Included gear is a warm waterproof overall, gloves, goggles, and a lifejacket. That’s a big deal in Iceland, because the difference between a comfortable trip and an miserable one is usually wind exposure and wet clothing.

Still, one review flagged that the provided clothes weren’t fully waterproof in their case. That’s rare enough that I wouldn’t panic, but it’s enough that you should pack your own backup plan if you run cold or you know you overheat issues become “chilly fast” issues.

Here’s what I’d do to stay comfortable:

• Wear warm layers under the provided overall
• Bring waterproof shoes with good grip (you may step around or brace yourself)
• If you’re sensitive to cold hands, keep backup layers in your day bag, even though gloves are provided
• If you’re prone to motion sickness, think about what usually works for you before the boat ride

The RIB seating also helps. Reviews mention seats with suspension or shock absorbers, which makes rough water less punishing than you might expect on an inflatable. You’ll still feel movement, but it’s not like being strapped to a board.

The ride feel: thrilling, bouncy, and easy to understand

Let’s talk honestly about the boat experience. This is not a calm ferry. It’s a speedy RIB—fast enough that you get that “we’re really moving” sensation right away. If you like coaster-style motion, you’ll probably grin through the ride.

Most of the comfort comes from:

• Small-group spacing (you’re not packed in)
• Seats with suspension/shock absorption
• A crew that’s good at navigating rough waves

One caution from reviews: if you have back or knee problems, plan extra carefully. Some guests describe being semi standing for long stretches. Even with shock-absorbing seats, your joints can still feel it if you’re not used to that kind of stance.

If you’re unsure, bring supportive clothing and consider asking your doctor or therapist if this style of ride is safe for you.

Price and value: when $164 makes sense

At $164 per person, this tour isn’t the budget whale watch. So let’s justify it in real terms.

You’re paying for:

• Speed (faster travel to sightings)
• Small group size (better spotting and fewer view-blocking issues)
• Included gear (so you don’t buy a whole Iceland kit just for one outing)
• City viewpoints (Sun Voyager and Harpa instead of only sea time)

If you’re going to do only one whale tour while in Iceland, this “see more in less time” approach is a solid use of your limited vacation hours. If you’re doing multiple activities and you’d rather spread costs, you could choose a larger-boat option. But if your goal is close wildlife moments—especially whales—you’ll probably appreciate the RIB style.

Who this Reykjavik RIB tour suits best

This tour fits well if you:

• Want the best chance at close-up wildlife behavior, not just a long ride hoping for a distant blow
• Like a mix of city sights and nature
• Prefer smaller groups where you can hear the guide without shouting
• Don’t mind a lively boat ride

It might be less ideal if you:

• Have significant knee or back issues and you know this type of posture will feel bad
• Strongly prefer a calmer, low-motion experience
• Are traveling with very young kids who need a super-stable platform (the tour notes that most travelers can participate, but it doesn’t claim this is a gentle ride)

Should you book Katla Whale Watching’s RIB tour?

If you want maximum wildlife time with minimum wasted transit, I think you should book it. The combination of fast RIB movement, small group size, and included waterproof gear makes it one of the more practical ways to chase whales from Reykjavik.

I’d skip it or consider another option only if rough water and semi-standing posture would likely make you miserable. Otherwise, plan to dress for wind, arrive early to avoid missing departure, and treat whale sightings like a shared wildlife lottery that this tour is designed to help you win.

FAQ

How long is the Speedboat Whale Watching Small-Group Tour in Reykjavik?

The tour duration is about 2 hours.

Where do I meet for the tour?

You meet at Special Tours, Geirsgata 11, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?

No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What language is the tour provided in?

The guidance is offered in English.

What gear is included for the boat ride?

The tour includes a warm waterproof overall, gloves, goggles, and a lifejacket.

How large is the group?

The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers.

Do I get a mobile ticket?

Yes, the tour provides a mobile ticket.

Will I receive confirmation after booking?

You’ll receive confirmation at the time of booking.

What happens if the tour is canceled due to weather?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.