Premium Small-Group Puffin & Bird Watching tour from Reykjavík

A Closer Look at the Premium Small-Group Puffin & Bird Watching Tour from Reykjavík

This small-group boat tour promises a quick yet immersive glimpse into Iceland’s vibrant seabird life, focusing on puffins and other native species around Faxaflói Bay. Led by knowledgeable guides and operated with care for both wildlife and guest safety, it’s a fantastic option for travelers pressed for time but eager for authentic Icelandic nature encounters.

What really sets this experience apart is the personalized approach—limited to just 12 participants, it offers plenty of opportunity for questions, close-up viewing, and expert insights. You’ll also enjoy the thrill of riding in a custom-made RIB boat, designed to approach wildlife gently and silently, ensuring minimal disturbance to the birds.

However, it’s worth noting that weather can influence the trip—being Iceland, conditions might be chilly or rainy, so proper attire is essential. This tour suits bird lovers, wildlife photographers, and anyone interested in Iceland’s coast who wants a well-paced, intimate adventure without the hassle of long excursions.

Key Points

• Close-up wildlife sightings: Puffins, gannets, and other seabirds in their natural setting
• Small group size: Limited to 12 travelers for a more personalized experience
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, passionate, and great at sharing facts and stories
• Optimal timing: Operating from May 15th to August 20th, during peak bird nesting season
• Comfort and safety: Warm overalls, safety gear, and binoculars provided
• Convenient schedule: Several departures daily to fit your plans

What Is the Premium Small-Group Puffin & Bird Watching Tour?

This one-hour adventure departs from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, taking you across Faxaflói Bay in a high-quality RIB boat. The tour is perfect for those who want a quick but enriching wildlife experience—a chance to see puffins and seabirds in their natural habitat without the inconvenience of longer trips or large crowds.

The tour runs during peak birdwatching season, from mid-May to late August, when puffins and other species are nesting along the coast, increasing the chances of sighting them in action. With up to four departures each day, you can easily choose a time that fits your Reykjavik schedule.

The Itinerary: What Happens During the Tour?

Starting at the Old Harbour, you’ll arrive about 30 minutes before departure to prepare. The process is straightforward—present your voucher, get fitted with your safety gear, and then board the custom RIB boat. You’ll be in small, intimate groups, which enhances the sense of adventure and allows the crew to give you personalized attention.

The core part of the trip involves sailing close to 2-3 islands where puffins nest, mainly Akurey and nearby islands. While the islands are nature reserves and you won’t disembark, the boat’s design allows for close approaches—without disturbing the birds. The captain can shut off the engine to glide silently, which is ideal for wildlife viewing.

Throughout the cruise, your guide—often a marine biologist or bird expert—will share fascinating facts about Iceland’s seabirds. Expect to see up to 30,000 puffins, along with gannets, the largest seabird in the North Atlantic, and the flightless great auk, if you’re lucky.

Detailed Breakdown of the Stops

Stop 1: Meeting at Reykjavík Old Harbour

The adventure kicks off here, with a quick safety briefing and equipment check. It’s a straightforward start, but the setting—surrounded by Reykjavík’s lively port—is charming and adds to the sense of adventure.

Stop 2: Approaching the Islands

The main highlight is sailing close to Akurey and other islands, where puffins are nesting. The islands are protected nature reserves, so the focus is on observation from the boat. You’ll get close enough for great photos—reviewers mention being given binoculars (though not all reviews agree this was consistent)—and many appreciate the silence of the boat engine during bird encounters, which helps avoid disturbing the wildlife.

Wildlife Viewing and Expert Commentary

You’ll observe puffins—often in large numbers—along with gannets and other seabirds. Travelers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides who are eager to share insights about the birds’ behaviors, nesting habits, and the ecological importance of Faxaflói Bay. One reviewer even noted that their guide was a marine biologist, making the experience both fun and educational.

Return to Reykjavík

After about 50 minutes of sailing, the boat returns to the Old Harbour. The entire experience lasts around an hour, making it a perfect quick escape from the city to the wild side of Iceland.

What to Expect: Practical Details

The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately is key. Reviewers consistently praise the warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and safety gear provided—especially important given the unpredictable Icelandic weather. The boat itself is described as comfortable and safe, with plenty of room for all passengers.

Participants must be at least 10 years old and 145 cm tall, making it accessible to many families and solo travelers alike. The physical demand is moderate—most reviewers say it’s suitable for those with average mobility, but those with knee problems might want to consider carefully.

The small group size (max 12) means everyone gets a good view, and the guides can answer questions comfortably. The price point of around $95 per person is seen as reasonable, considering the personalized experience and the chance to see hundreds of puffins up close.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One visitor praised the guides for explanation and safety, mentioning, “Our guide Emily was fantastic and explained information about the birds as we were watching them.” Many reviewers highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, often noting that they went beyond expectations with professional photos sent afterward, which adds great value.

Several reviewers commented on the close-up encounters—some said they saw so many puffins it was beyond what they expected, while others appreciated the respectful approach to wildlife, ensuring the birds weren’t disturbed.

A few mentioned minor drawbacks—such as not receiving binoculars despite the description, or difficulty hearing guides if no microphone was used. However, these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule, and most agree that the overall experience surpasses expectations.

Why Choose This Tour?

This experience is ideal for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and families seeking a short, intimate, wildlife-focused adventure**. Its small-group size makes it more personal and educational, and the expert guides add a layer of authenticity.

It’s particularly suited for those who want a concentrated puffin sighting experience—with the bonus of learning about the local ecosystem from passionate guides. The cost-benefit is strong, especially considering the binoculars provided and the close proximity to nesting sites.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour offers great value for travelers wanting to see puffins and seabirds without spending hours at sea. It’s perfect for bird enthusiasts or families with children 10+ who want an engaging, educational experience close to Reykjavík. The small-group setting ensures a more relaxed and private atmosphere, making it suitable for those who prefer a less crowded adventure.

If you’re a nature photographer or eager to snap professional quality photos of puffins and birds, this trip’s close approach and expert insights will be particularly appealing.

While weather can be unpredictable, the gear provided and the professional crew make it manageable even in less-than-perfect conditions. Overall, it’s a well-organized, memorable, and highly rated way to explore Iceland’s coastal wildlife.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 10 years old, making it a good choice for families with older kids interested in wildlife.

How long does the tour last?
The boat ride itself is approximately 1 hour, with about 30 minutes for check-in and safety briefing.

What should I wear?
Given Iceland’s often unpredictable weather, warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and safety gear are provided, but you should dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing.

Are binoculars included?
Most reviews mention binoculars are provided for each passenger, though some have noted this was not always the case. It’s best to confirm with the operator.

Can I see puffins during the entire season?
The tour operates specifically from May 15th to August 20th, aligning with the peak nesting season for puffins.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Puffins are the main attraction, with the chance to spot gannets—the largest North Atlantic seabird—and possibly the extinct great auk.

Is the trip safe?
Yes, the boat is designed for comfort and safety, and guides prioritize wildlife respect and safety standards.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, a different date or full refund will be offered.

How crowded is the tour?
Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a small, intimate experience with plenty of space for everyone.

Can I book this last minute?
On average, tours are booked 49 days in advance, but last-minute bookings might be possible depending on availability.

Overall, the Premium Small-Group Puffin & Bird Watching tour from Reykjavík offers a beautifully balanced mix of adventure, education, and wildlife spotting. It’s a smart choice for those looking to connect with Iceland’s birdlife in a safe, comfortable, and personalized setting—and at a fair price considering the experience you get.