THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Climb aboard a custom RIB from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour for a two‑hour, high‑speed search of Faxaflói Bay—often rewarded with humpbacks, minkes and a summer stop at puffin‑filled Akurey. Expect cold spray, suspension seats and an immersive coastal ride.
Climb aboard a custom RIB from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour for a two‑hour, high‑speed search of Faxaflói Bay—often rewarded with humpbacks, minkes and a summer stop at puffin‑filled Akurey. Expect cold spray, suspension seats and an immersive coastal ride.
The RIB bucks through Faxaflói Bay, spray stinging the face as Esja looms on the horizon and the Old Harbour shrinks behind you. Onboard a 12‑meter rigid-hulled inflatable, 12 passengers strap into suspension seats and warm overalls; the sea presents itself as an active partner—sometimes calm and glassy, sometimes pushing the boat forward in quick, breathless swells.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Special Tours Iceland · Reykjavik, Capital Region
The RIB bucks through Faxaflói Bay, spray stinging the face as Esja looms on the horizon and the Old Harbour shrinks behind you. Onboard a 12‑meter rigid-hulled inflatable, 12 passengers strap into suspension seats and warm overalls; the sea presents itself as an active partner—sometimes calm and glassy, sometimes pushing the boat forward in quick, breathless swells.
This two‑hour excursion leaves from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, once the commercial heart of the city and today a hub for tourism and small fisheries. The bay’s geology—coastal basalts and glacially carved bays—frames predictable feeding grounds where humpbacks, minkes and white‑beaked dolphins follow shoals of fish. In summer the boat detours to Akurey, a basalt islet where puffins claim cliffs for nesting, adding ornithological drama to the marine show.
Guides combine natural history with practical seamanship, pointing out landmarks and explaining local whale behavior while adhering to Icelandic viewing guidelines that prioritize minimal disturbance. Expect brisk maritime weather: layers, wind protection and steady footwear matter more than fashion.
Practicalities: check in at the Special Tours ticket office in the Old Harbour at least 30 minutes before departure, and be aware of age and height restrictions (not recommended under 10 years or 145 cm). The operator provides overalls, life vests, gloves and goggles; sightings are common but never guaranteed—companies often offer a free retry if no whales appear. For photographers, fast shutter speeds and stabilization help capture dorsal fins and brief breaches. Time your tour for calmer morning windows or late afternoon light; either way, prepare for an energetic, close‑to‑the-water encounter with Iceland’s marine life.
No—wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed; if no whales are seen the operator typically offers a complimentary ticket to rebook on a future classic or express tour.
Meet at the Special Tours ticket office in Reykjavík’s Old Harbour and arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for check‑in and safety briefing.
Not recommended for children under 10 or under 145 cm, pregnant travelers, or people with serious back or spinal conditions due to the boat’s motion.
Some spray is expected; the operator supplies warm overalls, life vests, goggles and gloves, but you should still wear warm layers and waterproof outerwear.
Special Tours Iceland operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
The RIB bucks through Faxaflói Bay, spray stinging the face as Esja looms on the horizon and the Old Harbour shrinks behind you. Onboard a 12‑meter rigid-hulled inflatable, 12 passengers strap into suspension seats and warm overalls; the sea presents itself as an active partner—sometimes calm and glassy, sometimes pushing the boat forward in quick, breathless swells.
The RIB bucks through Faxaflói Bay, spray stinging the face as Esja looms on the horizon and the Old Harbour shrinks behind you. Onboard a 12‑meter rigid-hulled inflatable, 12 passengers strap into suspension seats and warm overalls; the sea presents itself as an active partner—sometimes calm and glassy, sometimes pushing the boat forward in quick, breathless swells.
This two‑hour excursion leaves from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, once the commercial heart of the city and today a hub for tourism and small fisheries. The bay’s geology—coastal basalts and glacially carved bays—frames predictable feeding grounds where humpbacks, minkes and white‑beaked dolphins follow shoals of fish. In summer the boat detours to Akurey, a basalt islet where puffins claim cliffs for nesting, adding ornithological drama to the marine show.
Guides combine natural history with practical seamanship, pointing out landmarks and explaining local whale behavior while adhering to Icelandic viewing guidelines that prioritize minimal disturbance. Expect brisk maritime weather: layers, wind protection and steady footwear matter more than fashion.
Practicalities: check in at the Special Tours ticket office in the Old Harbour at least 30 minutes before departure, and be aware of age and height restrictions (not recommended under 10 years or 145 cm). The operator provides overalls, life vests, gloves and goggles; sightings are common but never guaranteed—companies often offer a free retry if no whales appear. For photographers, fast shutter speeds and stabilization help capture dorsal fins and brief breaches. Time your tour for calmer morning windows or late afternoon light; either way, prepare for an energetic, close‑to‑the-water encounter with Iceland’s marine life.