⏱️ Duration: 2 hours
📍 Departure: Ísafjörður Harbour (West Tours office)
🕐 Departure Times: 11:00 or 13:00 (check booking widget for availability)
👥 Max Passengers: 12 per boat
💪 Difficulty: Easy (but high-speed boat ride)
🚢 Perfect for: Cruise ship passengers visiting Ísafjörður
The RIB Boat Ísafjörður Whale Watching tour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Operated by Westtours, a highly reputable local tour operator with years of experience in the tourism industry, this tour offers an up-close and personal encounter with some of the most magnificent creatures of the sea.
Starting from the charming town of Ísafjörður in the Westfjords of Iceland, visitors board a Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) and set out on a thrilling journey into the open ocean to observe a variety of whales, including Minke, Humpback, and Blue whales, in their natural habitat. The RIB boat can maneuver much closer to the whales than a traditional boat, providing passengers with a unique and unforgettable experience.
The tour is led by professional and knowledgeable guides who are well-versed in marine biology and local marine life. They will provide visitors with detailed information about the whales and their behavior, as well as the surrounding wildlife and its habitat. The boat is also equipped with a hydrophone, allowing passengers to hear the whales sing, adding an even more immersive element to the tour.
In addition to whale watching, the tour includes a visit to nearby islands, where passengers can observe seals and a variety of seabirds. The guides will offer insight into the behavior and habitat of these animals, adding to the educational aspect of the tour.
💰 Tour Pricing
*USD prices approximate at 125 ISK = $1. Prices may vary due to currency exchange rates. All gear provided.
Tour Highlights
- ✅ Up-Close Whale Encounters – RIB boats can get closer to whales than traditional vessels
- ✅ Multiple Whale Species – Spot Minke, Humpback, and Blue whales in their natural habitat
- ✅ Hydrophone Experience – Listen to the whales sing underwater
- ✅ Seal & Seabird Watching – Visit nearby islands to observe local wildlife
- ✅ Expert Guides – Learn from knowledgeable marine biology guides
- ✅ All Gear Provided – Warm flotation suits and safety equipment included
- ✅ Small Group – Maximum 12 passengers for an intimate experience
Why Choose the RIB Boat Experience?
🚤 Thrilling Adventure
High-speed RIB boats offer an exhilarating ride across the open ocean.
🐋 Closer Encounters
RIBs can safely maneuver closer to whales than larger vessels.
🚢 Cruise-Friendly
2-hour duration fits perfectly with cruise ship port calls.
🎧 Unique Hydrophone
Hear the whales communicate underwater – a truly magical experience.
Important Information
Meeting Point
West Tours Office – 7 Aðalstræti, Ísafjörður
📍 View on Google Maps
What’s Included
- ✔️ 2-hour RIB boat whale watching safari
- ✔️ Warm flotation suit
- ✔️ Safety equipment
- ✔️ Professional English-speaking guide
- ✔️ Hydrophone whale listening experience
What to Bring
- ✔️ Warm layers (worn under the flotation suit)
- ✔️ Comfortable shoes
- ✔️ Camera (with secure strap)
- ✔️ Motion sickness medication (if prone to seasickness)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I book through Iceland Highlights?
- Our selection of tours works well with cruise ship arrivals – both transfers and day tours
- All our guides speak English
- You get access to our customer care via email, live chat, and phone any time of day
- We handle all coordination to ensure you’re back to your ship on time
Will I make it back before my cruise ship departs?
If you have a same-day departure, please make sure you choose a tour time that returns at least 30 minutes before your cruise ship’s departure. This 2-hour tour with either the 11:00 or 13:00 departure typically fits well with most cruise schedules. If you’re unsure which option fits your plan, email us at booking@iceland-highlights.com and we’ll gladly help you find the best option.
Should I book well ahead of time?
Yes, we strongly recommend booking well in advance. This tour has a maximum of 12 passengers per boat, and spaces fill up quickly during cruise season. The closer it gets to your arrival date, the less likely there will be availability.
What time does the tour depart?
The RIB Boat Whale Watching tour typically departs at 11:00 or 13:00. Please check the booking widget on this page for current availability and to select the time that works best with your cruise ship schedule.
Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point is at West Tours Office, located at 7 Aðalstræti, Ísafjörður – a short walk from the cruise ship dock.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 6 and above can participate in this tour at a reduced rate (11,450 ISK). However, please note that RIB boats travel at high speeds, which may not be suitable for very young children or those who are uncomfortable with fast boat rides. For a calmer experience, consider our classic whale watching tour.
What if I get seasick?
RIB boats can experience more motion than larger vessels due to their speed. If you’re prone to motion sickness, we recommend taking seasickness medication before the tour. The tour duration is only 2 hours, which helps minimize discomfort.
Why does the tour price change?
Prices in all currencies except ISK (Icelandic Króna) may change due to currency exchange rate fluctuations. The ISK price remains fixed; USD prices shown are approximate conversions at 125 ISK = $1.
What is the cancellation policy?
- More than 24 hours before tour: 95% refund
- Within 24 hours of tour: No refund
- 5% transaction fee is non-refundable for all cancellations
We recommend travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety is our top priority. If the tour is canceled due to bad weather or unsafe sea conditions, you will be offered a full refund or the option to reschedule if your itinerary allows.
Book Your RIB Boat Whale Adventure!
Experience the thrill of high-speed whale watching in the stunning Westfjords of Iceland. Get up close to Minke, Humpback, and Blue whales on this unforgettable 2-hour adventure from Ísafjörður!
From 22,900 ISK (~$183) per adult
Or use the booking widget above to check availability and book directly online.
Questions About This Tour?
Our local Iceland experts are here to help you plan the perfect whale watching experience.
📧 Email: booking@iceland-highlights.com |
📞 Phone: +354 556 6868
