RIB boat express: Whales, Eyjafjord and Akureyri
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is the original small-group RIB boat tour from Akureyri. Join us for a thrilling 2-hour adventure zooming the fjord between the magnificent mountains along with our best and most experienced guide and skipper.
We will travel the fjord in search for seabirds and whales that reside in the fjord. Once we've caught a sight of the wildlife, we will be sure to maintain a safe and respectable distance - in our experience, this provides the best quality encounter, for both whale and watcher!
Available options
RIB Whale Watcing Akureyri
Premium Whale Watching by RIB: On this small-group tour, you will get up close and personal with the whales!<br/>Duration: 2 hours: The tour is typically 2 hrs. from start to finish.<br/>RIB / Zodiac: Our fast boats will get you to the viewing area quickly and cover a larger area, as we search for the wildlife in the fjord.
What's included
Personal service with only 12 passengers per boat
Excellent live commentary
Whale guarantee (or try again for free on our big boat)
Specially trained captain
2 hr. RIB boat tour
Overalls, life-vest, goggles and neoprene gloves
What's not included
Pickup (not available)
Food (not available)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
5 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
7 reviews
5★
7
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Minimum age is 10 years of age or 145 cm (4 ft 7 in).
In the unlikely event of cancellation due to not enough passengers, you will be offered an alternative or a full refund.
The tour is subject to favourable weather conditions. If cancelled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund.
Passengers may be required to sign a waiver on arrival stating that you understand the risk of booking said tour.
You must fit into one of our overalls (3-XL) and be able to sit comfortably in your saddle-like seat to join the tour.
Meeting point
Meet us at our ticket office by Oddeyrarbót pier in Akureyri, next to the big round building, HOF. There you will meet our crew, get dressed and board the boat!
Important notes
We reserve the right to alter routes, itineraries or timetables of tours, adventure cruises or other day tours we operate as well as to change or cancel tour dates should the necessity arise. This includes irregularities due to adverse weather.
The whale watching tours are operated in wild and unpredictable nature which means that sightings on a particular whale watching tour can never be guaranteed.
In the unlikely event that no whales or dolphins are spotted during the whale watching tour we do not refund the tour price but offer a complimentary whale watching tour which is valid for two years.
Minimum numbers apply. There is a small possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
About Akureyri
Akureyri is a charming and vibrant city in North Iceland, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural scene, and mild climate. Often referred to as the 'Capital of the North,' it serves as a gateway to some of Iceland's most breathtaking landscapes, including waterfalls, geothermal pools, and the dramatic Arctic wilderness.
Top Attractions
Akureyri Botanical Garden
A beautiful botanical garden featuring a variety of plants from different climates, including a greenhouse with tropical plants.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Akureyrarkirkja
A striking church with a unique design, known for its tall steeple and beautiful interior.
Architecture
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (donations welcome for tower access)
Hof Cultural and Conference Center
A modern cultural center hosting concerts, exhibitions, and events throughout the year.
Cultural
Varies by event
Varies by event
Mývatn Nature Baths
A geothermal spa with warm, mineral-rich waters, similar to the Blue Lagoon but with a more natural setting.
Nature
Half-day to full day
Approximately 5000-6000 ISK
Goðafoss
A powerful and beautiful waterfall known for its dramatic drop and rich history.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Plokkfiskur
A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.
Dinner
Contains fish and dairy
Hákarl
Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy with a strong flavor and ammonia-like smell.
Snack
Contains fish, not suitable for those sensitive to strong smells
Skyr
A thick, protein-rich Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.
Dessert
Contains dairy, can be vegetarian or vegan if made with plant-based milk
Rúgbrauð
Dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.
Breakfast
Vegan, contains gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking
Whale watching
Geothermal bathing
Scenic drives
Strolling through the city
Visiting museums
Attending cultural events
Exploring historical sites
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the most popular time to visit Akureyri, with long days, mild temperatures, and abundant wildlife. This is the best time for hiking, whale watching, and exploring the outdoors.
10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
50°F to 59°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Icelandic
- Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Icelandic Króna (ISK)
Time Zone
GMT+0
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Akureyri is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when driving in winter conditions
- • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Akureyri Airport • 3 km (1.9 miles) from city center
By bus
Akureyri Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent schedules.
Taxis
Available • Apps: No specific apps, but taxis can be hailed or booked by phone
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Brekkubær
Glerá
Day trips
Mývatn
45 km (28 miles) • Half day to full day
A scenic lake known for its geothermal activity, birdlife, and stunning landscapes.
Goðafoss
60 km (37 miles) • Half day
A powerful and historic waterfall with a dramatic drop and rich cultural significance.
Húsavík
80 km (50 miles) • Full day
A charming coastal town known for its whale watching opportunities and beautiful surroundings.
Festivals
Akureyri Folk Festival • Mid-June
Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February
Akureyri Christmas Market • Late November to early December
Pro tips
- Visit the Akureyri Botanical Garden for a taste of the tropics in the Arctic
- Climb the tower of Akureyrarkirkja for a panoramic view of the city
- Experience the Midnight Sun or the Northern Lights, depending on the season
- Try local dishes like plokkfiskur and hákarl for an authentic Icelandic culinary experience
- Book whale watching tours in advance, especially during peak season
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
