In the land where fire meets ice, Iceland also delivers unforgettable marine encounters—and there’s no better place to experience this than from the stunning fjord town of Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland. Partnering with TPO.Travel, this Akureyri Whales and Eyjafjord RIB Boat Tour combines high-speed adventure with intimate wildlife viewing, perfect for thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and photographers alike.
This is not your average whale-watching excursion. It’s up-close, personal, and immersive. The tour uses specially designed RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) vessels to give you a fast, smooth, and safe ride deep into the longest fjord in Iceland, Eyjafjörður, a hotspot for humpback whales, dolphins, puffins, and arctic terns.
Setting Sail from Akureyri: The Heart of the North
Your journey begins in Akureyri, a picturesque coastal town nestled at the base of Eyjafjörður. Known for its botanical gardens, cozy cafés, and vibrant culture, Akureyri is also a major hub for whale-watching. From the harbor, TPO.Travel will welcome you aboard with friendly guides, snug survival suits, and all the information you need to embark safely on this marine adventure.
Before you even hit the open water, you’ll be equipped with:
- Insulated flotation suits
- Life jackets
- Protective goggles
- Expert guidance and a quick safety briefing
Then, with the hum of the engine and a spray of saltwater, your RIB boat cuts across the fjord toward the whale-feeding zones.
The Giants of Eyjafjörður – Humpbacks and More
Unlike larger, slower vessels, RIB boats allow you to get closer to the action—quickly, safely, and without disturbing the marine environment. The highlight of the tour? The chance to see humpback whales breaching, tail-slapping, and feeding, often within just a few meters of the boat.
Common sightings include:
- Humpback whales – acrobatic and curious giants known for their dramatic displays
- White-beaked dolphins – playful and energetic, often seen riding the bow wave
- Seabirds like puffins and Arctic terns – especially during the nesting season
- Occasionally, even minke whales or blue whales have been spotted in these waters
With only 12 passengers per boat, everyone has a front-row seat to the spectacle, and no wildlife encounter ever feels overcrowded.
Expert Guides & Eco-Respectful Touring
Your tour is led by marine biologists and naturalists, all of whom are passionate about conservation and education. Throughout the ride, they’ll provide fascinating commentary about the behaviors of the whales, the delicate Arctic marine ecosystem, and how Eyjafjörður has become a marine paradise.
Every effort is made to respect the animals’ space, ensuring minimal intrusion while maximizing observation. This sustainable, ethical approach to wildlife viewing aligns closely with TPO.Travel’s values of responsible tourism and eco-friendly practices.
A Photographer’s Dream – Tips and Tricks
Whether you’re using a DSLR or just your smartphone, the RIB experience gives you unparalleled angles for marine photography.
Pro Tips for Whale Watching Photography:
- Use a fast shutter speed to capture action like breaching or tail slaps.
- Bring waterproof gear or bags—splashing is part of the fun!
- Wear gloves with grip so you can snap photos without losing control.
- For iPhone or phone users, use burst mode to capture rapid movement.
And don’t worry—TPO.Travel’s experienced guides will even help you spot the whales before your camera lens does.
Beyond the Water: The Magic of Akureyri and Northern Iceland
After your adrenaline-filled RIB experience, we encourage you to explore Akureyri’s charming streets, dine on fresh seafood, or warm up in a cozy coffeehouse. This tour pairs beautifully with other TPO.Travel Northern Iceland adventures, including:
- Classic Whale Watching from Dalvík
- Godafoss and Lake Mývatn Tours
- Arctic Coastline and Craft Brews Microbrewery Tour
- Aurora Borealis Viewing during winter months
TPO.Travel makes it easy to bundle your RIB tour with hotel bookings, transport, and sightseeing for a smooth and luxurious Icelandic escape.
Need-to-Know Information
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours on the water
- Group Size: Max 12 people per boat
- Season: May to October (weather-dependent)
- What’s Included: Flotation suit, life jacket, expert guide, gloves/goggles if needed
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate – suitable for most fitness levels
- Not Suitable For: Pregnant individuals or those with severe back problems
TPO.Travel can provide private tours, custom departures for groups, and support in multiple languages upon request.
What Our Guests Say
“One of the most intimate and unforgettable experiences I’ve had in Iceland. The RIB boat made us feel like we were flying across the fjord, and the humpbacks gave us a full show!”
— Emma B., USA
“We saw dolphins and whales within 20 minutes. The guide was amazing, the views were breathtaking, and the boat was both thrilling and comfortable.”
— Sven K., Germany
More Than Just a Whale Tour
The Akureyri RIB Whale Watching Tour is more than just sightseeing—it’s a personal connection to Iceland’s wildest wonders, made even more special by small group intimacy, expert narration, and TPO.Travel’s attention to detail and guest comfort.
Whether you’re a first-timer in Iceland or a returning explorer, this high-speed marine experience is the highlight of any Northern itinerary.
Book today with TPO.Travel and let Eyjafjörður’s giants leave you breathless.
Because adventure doesn’t start when you see the whale—it starts when you feel the wind on your face and the thrill of the unknown ahead.