Puffin Cruise with Expert Tour Guide from Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland isn’t complete without encountering its adorable puffins, and this Puffin Cruise from Reykjavik offers just that — an intimate, eco-focused experience that brings you face-to-face with these charming seabirds. It’s a short, 1-hour adventure, but one packed with the kind of authentic wildlife encounters that make Iceland special.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines expert guidance with the thrill of seeing puffins in their natural habitat, all from the comfort of a custom-built boat. Plus, the inclusion of binoculars makes it easier for everyone to get a good look, even from a distance.

That said, a possible consideration is the weather — since this tour is weather-dependent, it can be canceled if the ocean’s choppy or the wind is strong. This is a common issue in Iceland, but it’s worth noting if your trip is tight on time.

This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers, families, and anyone keen to add a unique, close-up puffin sighting to their Iceland itinerary without spending a whole day at sea.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife experience — close-up views of puffins and seabirds in their natural environment
• Expert guides enhance the experience with engaging, knowledgeable commentary
• Binoculars included — so everyone can get a clear look, even if the birds are far away
• Flexible departure times — ideal for busy sightseeing schedules
• Weather-dependent — tours may be canceled if the sea gets rough
• Small group size — maximum of 33 travelers, ensuring a personal experience

An In-Depth Look at the Puffin Cruise Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavik, a location easily accessible by public transit or taxi. You can opt for hotel pickup for added convenience, though this incurs an extra cost. This makes it a straightforward addition to your day, especially if you’re staying in or near the city center.

The Boat and the Journey

The journey to Akurey Island is only about 15 minutes, which is perfect for those who want a quick trip without losing the thrill of being on the water. The boat itself is a well-maintained, classic wooden vessel — as one reviewer puts it, “a great old wood boat, well maintained,” adding to the cozy, authentic feel of the experience.

The boat is designed to get you as close as possible to the puffins’ nesting grounds, which are on rocky outcroppings just off the coast. The captain will circle the island a few times before turning off the engines — a move appreciated by bird enthusiasts who want peace and quiet to watch the birds in their natural state.

Wildlife Viewing and Bird Species

The main attraction is, of course, the puffins. During the season from May to August, the island becomes a hub of activity with puffins nesting and raising their young. But even outside those months, there’s plenty of seabird activity. Expect to spot northern fulmars, gulls, arctic terns, and black guillemots, all sharing the same habitat.

Multiple reviews reflect how close travelers got to the puffins. One guest specifically mentions seeing “lots and lots of puffins to see up close. On the island, in the water, and flying overhead,” which hints at how dynamic this experience truly is.

Expert Guide and Commentary

The guides on this tour, like Patrick and Joel, are praised for their knowledgeability and humor. One reviewer mentions Patrick as “hilarious and super knowledgeable,” which keeps everyone engaged even if the weather turns windy or chilly. The guides also share insights about puffin biology and behavior, turning a simple birdwatching trip into an educational outing.

Binoculars and Audio Guide App

Every participant is given binoculars to make viewing easier. Reviewers suggest bringing your own if you’re serious about bird photography, but the provided equipment is more than enough for casual viewing. The new multi-lingual audio guide app, available in five languages, ensures that international travelers can understand and appreciate the details about the seabirds and the island.

The Experience on Akurey Island

Once you reach the island, the engines are turned off, giving you a peaceful window to observe puffins nesting, diving, and flying overhead. Some reviewers mention that the puffins are particularly active during nesting season — a sight that is both adorable and impressive.

A common theme in reviews is the visual thrill of puffins “flying over our heads” or “flying and diving into the water,” which makes the experience feel very alive and close. However, a few guests mention that outside the nesting season, puffins can be harder to find, as they migrate away.

Duration and Group Size

At about an hour long, this tour is an excellent choice for those with limited time. The group size is capped at 33 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger boat tours. This small setting allows guides to give more personalized attention and answer questions about the puffins and other seabirds.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Since the tour is ocean-based, weather conditions are crucial. Winds or rough seas can lead to cancellations, which is frustrating but understandable — safety comes first. Many reviewers appreciated how the company handles cancellations, offering either a reschedule or a full refund if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

A tip from a reviewer: “Make sure to dress appropriately for choppy waters,” as it can be windy and splashing water is common. Layers, waterproof gear, and a hat are recommended to stay comfortable.

Pricing and Overall Value

At around $60 per person, this tour offers excellent value for such a specialized wildlife experience. Considering how close you get to the puffins, the expert guidance, and binoculars included, it’s a worthwhile investment. One reviewer described it as “a great tour at a fabulous price,” emphasizing that for such a small fee, you get a memorable, high-quality adventure.

Authentic Reviews and Unique Insights

Many guests highlight the enthusiasm and humor of the guides, with one saying, “Patrick was hilarious and knowledgeable,” which makes the trip fun as well as educational. Several reviewers also point out that the scenery is stunning, with calm seas and clear skies creating perfect conditions for birdwatching.

Others mention that seeing puffins in early or late season depends on luck — some saw only a few birds or none at all, reinforcing how nature’s timing affects wildlife encounters. Still, even a small number of puffins or seabirds was appreciated, especially when explained by guides passionate about their environment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for nature lovers, bird enthusiasts, families, and anyone wanting a quick, meaningful wildlife encounter in Reykjavik. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value an eco-friendly approach, with the added benefit of expert commentary that deepens your understanding of the local seabird populations.

If your Iceland trip is packed and you only have a short window, this one-hour voyage provides a meaningful, memorable highlight. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a small group experience with personalized attention and a chance to ask questions in a relaxed setting.

However, if you’re expecting guaranteed puffin sightings regardless of season or weather, keep in mind that sightings can vary, and the tour is weather-dependent. Advanced booking is recommended as this tour tends to fill up, especially during peak puffin season.

The Sum Up

This Puffin Cruise from Reykjavik offers more than just a birdwatching trip — it’s an immersive, educational experience that combines beautiful scenery, expert guidance, and close-up views of some of Iceland’s most charming seabirds. The inclusion of binoculars and a multi-language audio guide adds value, making it accessible and engaging for international travelers.

The short duration makes it perfect for a quick wildlife fix, and the small group size ensures a more intimate, less rushed experience. While weather can be unpredictable, the tour’s flexibility and safety-first approach mean you’re in good hands.

If you’re looking to add a genuine, nature-focused highlight to your Iceland itinerary and enjoy the company of knowledgeable guides, this puffin cruise is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, and children who enjoy birdwatching or nature outings will likely find it fun. Always check with the supplier if your kids are very young.

What should I wear on the tour?
Dress in layers, as it can be windy and splashy on the water. Waterproof jackets, hats, and comfortable shoes are recommended to stay cozy and dry.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour has a flexible cancellation policy. If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour will be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are binoculars provided?
Yes, binoculars are included on board, allowing for better views of the birds. You might want to bring your own if you’re an avid bird photographer.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 1 hour, making it an easy addition to your day without consuming too much time.

What other seabirds might I see?
Besides puffins, you may spot northern fulmars, gulls, arctic terns, and black guillemots, especially during nesting season.

This puffin cruise provides a fantastic snapshot of Iceland’s vibrant seabird life, guided by experts who make it both educational and entertaining. For those seeking a memorable wildlife encounter in Reykjavik, it’s a solid choice that offers great value for the price.