Day Trips

From Akureyri: Whale Watching Tour on RIB Speedboat

Whale tail diving into Akureyri waters during RIB speedboat tour.

Guests photographing a whale near their boat on a whale watching tour in Akureyri.

Whale tail diving with seabirds in Akureyri during whale watching tour.

Akureyri cityscape with mountains across Eyjafjordur, Iceland.

Duration

2 hr

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Guided tour

4.5/5

(104)

Sophie

Aug 2025

Verified Partner Review

5/5

Went out with my partner on the RIB boat and just WOW. The ride itself was like a mini rollercoaster (hang onto ur hats), but seeing the whales surface right next to us was unreal. Crew were suuuper friendly and gave us those big orange suits so we didn’t freeze. We got splashed a bit but honestly, who cares when you’re THAT close to a humpback?! Would totally do this again, even if my hair was a mess for the rest of the day. Bring gloves if u get cold easy.

Yara

Aug 2025

Verified Partner Review

5/5

I dragged my friends on this, and we all LOVED it. The captain was so chill and knew all the whale facts. We spotted 3 humpbacks and one was like... right there, spouting next to us. Boat bounced a lot but that made it more fun. Def bring a hat and sunglasses, wind is wild out there. Highlight of our trip for sure.

Jonas

Aug 2025

Verified Partner Review

5/5

Took my parents (in their 60s) and teenage nephew. Everyone LOVED it, even though my mom doesn’t usually like boats. We all laughed about the suits—they’re kinda huge but warm! Saw 2 whales together and loads of birds. Guide was super knowledgeable and cracked a few jokes. Would def recommend for families.

Set out from Akureyri on a 2-hour whale and bird watching tour, guided by experts and equipped with all essential safety gear.

Get up close to humpback whales and seabirds in Eyjafjord, Iceland’s longest fjord, surrounded by glacier-carved mountains.

Enjoy an intimate adventure with just 12 passengers per RIB boat, ensuring a personal and immersive wildlife experience.

Specially designed RIB speedboats let you reach the whales faster and cover more area, boosting your chances of sightings.

Did you know? The RIB boats are built to approach wildlife without disturbing them, offering a respectful and thrilling encounter.

2-hour whale & bird watching tour

English-speaking expert guide

Small group; 12-seater boat

Warm floatable overalls, neoprene gloves, goggles, and headband

Life vest and other necessary safety equipment

Food & drinks

TOTAL DURATION2 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERSpeedboat
Timeline
Map
Start point
Oddeyrarbót pier
Get direction
1. Eyjafjord
2 activities
Things to do
Whale-watching
Included in price
Bird-watching and scenic fjord views
Included in price
End point
Oddeyrarbót pier
Get direction
Your ending point would be same as your start point

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

4.5
104 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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What our guests say
Sophie
Aug 2025
Verified Partner Review
5/5
Went out with my partner on the RIB boat and just WOW. The ride itself was like a mini rollercoaster (hang onto ur hats), but seeing the whales surface right next to us was unreal. Crew were suuuper friendly and gave us those big orange suits so we didn’t freeze. We got splashed a bit but honestly, who cares when you’re THAT close to a humpback?! Would totally do this again, even if my hair was a mess for the rest of the day. Bring gloves if u get cold easy.
Yara
Aug 2025
Verified Partner Review
5/5
I dragged my friends on this, and we all LOVED it. The captain was so chill and knew all the whale facts. We spotted 3 humpbacks and one was like... right there, spouting next to us. Boat bounced a lot but that made it more fun. Def bring a hat and sunglasses, wind is wild out there. Highlight of our trip for sure.
Jonas
Aug 2025
Verified Partner Review
5/5
Took my parents (in their 60s) and teenage nephew. Everyone LOVED it, even though my mom doesn’t usually like boats. We all laughed about the suits—they’re kinda huge but warm! Saw 2 whales together and loads of birds. Guide was super knowledgeable and cracked a few jokes. Would def recommend for families.
Kenji
Aug 2025
Verified Partner Review
4/5
We booked last min for our family of 4. Check in was smooth, staff were helpful (answered my kid’s million questions, lol). Saw a bunch of whales and even a dolphin! Only downside was we got a bit wet and cold, but they did warn us. Also, was pretty busy at the dock, so plan to arrive early.
Marcus
Aug 2025
Verified Partner Review
5/5
Can’t believe how close we got to the whales! The RIB boat is kinda cramped but you get the BEST view. Crew gave us dry suits and made sure everyone was comfy. My wife got a bit seasick, so maybe bring something if you’re sensitive to motion. Still, she says it was worth it. Would go again.

What to bring

Bring a wool or fleece sweater, warm hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes.

What's not allowed

This experience is not allowed for guests under 10 years and those under the height of145 cm (4'9").

This tour is not suitable for pregnant women or anyone with a history of back injuries; please consult your doctor before booking.

Additional information

Each RIB boat accommodates only 12 guests, ensuring a small-group experience with a private guide and specially trained captain.

Additional thermal gear and life jackets will be provided, but personal warm clothing is highly recommended.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Please arrive at the meeting point 30 mins before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Elding Whale Watching Akureyri.

Address: Oddeyrarbót 2, 600 Akureyri, Iceland.

Landmark: At the floating pier Oddeyrarbót 2, next to the cultural centre Hof in Akureyri.

Get directions to the meeting point