There are two ways to go whale watching in Reykjavík: on a big boat with a café, or on this. The RIB Express is a 12-metre rigid inflatable that cruises at 32 knots, which means the ride out is half the fun and you get more time where the whales actually feed.

Special Tours runs the trip in Faxaflói Bay, right off Reykjavík. The boat's size lets the crew get close to the animals in a way the operator says is safe for both passengers and whales.

What you'll do on the RIB whale watching tour

On the way out you stop by Akurey, a small puffin island, during the birds' nesting season in summer. Then it is out into the bay at speed, wind in your face, to search the feeding grounds. The return leg takes a scenic route along the Reykjavík coastline, which is a good moment for photos of the city from the water.

The operator also has a Special Tours app with text and audio in English, German, French, Spanish and simplified Chinese, free for guests to download during the tour.

What's included

• Guided RIB boat tour with English-speaking guides
• Admission for one to the Whales of Iceland exhibition
• Warm floating overalls, life vests, gloves and goggles
• A visit to the puffin island in summer
• Scenic route along the Reykjavík coastline
• Suspension seats for a smoother ride

If there are no sightings, you are invited to join one of Special Tours' Classic or Express whale watching tours at no extra charge. Hotel transport is not included but is available at an extra cost.

Good to know before you go

Check in at least 30 minutes before departure for the safety briefing and suit fitting. Anyone arriving later than 15 minutes before departure is not guaranteed a place. Bring warm clothes, good footwear, sunscreen and a camera.

Pro tip: visit the Whales of Iceland exhibition before your tour, not after. Knowing what a minke looks like at full size makes spotting one from a bouncing RIB a lot more satisfying.