Puffin Express by RIB Speedboat from Reykjavík

If you’re visiting Reykjavík and have a soft spot for seabirds or simply want a unique way to explore Iceland’s coastal wildlife, the Puffin Express by RIB Speedboat offers a lively, compact adventure. This one-hour tour whisks you from the Old Harbour straight to the rocky shores near Akurey island, where puffins and other seabirds go about their daily routines. It’s a quick, exhilarating trip that promises a chance to see adorable puffins up close—something many travelers consider a highlight of their Iceland trip.

What we particularly love about this tour is its speedy nature—getting you out on the water quickly with all the gear provided. The thrill of zooming over the waves in a sturdy RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) feels like a fun, adrenaline-fueled way to connect with Iceland’s natural environment. Plus, the knowledgeable guides make the experience both informative and engaging, sharing plenty of insights about the local birdlife and the island’s ecological significance.

A potential consideration is the ride’s speed, which some travelers found a bit too intense, especially if you’re sensitive to rapid motions or prefer a calmer boat experience. The tour uses a powerful RIB, designed to get as close as possible to the shores, which may feel a little rougher than traditional boat rides. It’s also a short tour—just about an hour—so those looking for a more relaxed, in-depth wildlife experience might want to consider longer excursions.

This trip suits travelers craving an active, bird-focused outing with a quick turnaround. It’s ideal for those with limited time in Reykjavík, bird enthusiasts, or families seeking a fun, scenic outing that offers fresh air and marine wildlife sightings.

Key Points

• Speedy adventure: The tour’s quick pace provides a fun, energetic way to see puffins up close.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with fascinating details about puffins and seabirds.
• All gear included: Warm overalls, life jackets, goggles, and gloves are provided, making the boat ride comfortable and safe.
• Close-up views: The specially designed shoreline approach allows for great photo opportunities of puffins and other seabirds.
• Limited duration: The roughly one-hour trip is perfect for a quick wildlife fix but may not appeal to those wanting a more in-depth tour.
• Small group feel: With a maximum of 12 travelers, you get a more personalized experience.

Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and Arrival

The adventure kicks off at the Reykjavík Old Harbour, specifically at the Ægisgarður 5F location. This central spot is easy to reach via public transport or a short walk from key parts of the city, which adds to its convenience. Once you arrive, you’ll meet your guide, who will hand out all the necessary gear—warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and life jackets—so you’re prepared for the brisk sea air and splashes.

The RIB Speedboat Ride

Boarding the RIB is straightforward, with plenty of suspension seats that promise a smoother ride despite the boat’s powerful engine. The thrill of the fast boat ride is undeniable; it’s a lively, wind-in-your-hair kind of experience that gets your adrenaline going quickly. The boats are designed specifically to get you as close to the shoreline as possible, which is crucial for bird-watching. The speed and agility of the RIB mean you can cover more ground in less time, making the most of your one-hour window.

The Island Stop: Lundey / Akurey

The main attraction is the rocky shores of Lundey (sometimes called Akurey), just off the coast of Reykjavík. These small islands are known for their puffin colonies, nesting between May and August. The actual approach to the shore involves navigating over rocky, uneven terrain, which the boat handles carefully. Once in position, you’re likely to get some excellent views of puffins, with their distinctive beaks and adorable antics, flying or perched on the rocks.

Reviewers highlight that the boat’s design allows for an up-close encounter, with viewers able to see puffins in their natural habitat without disturbing them. One guest noted, “Our guide Celina kept us entertained and taught us a lot about puffins and this part of Iceland,” enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing. The guide’s insights are especially valuable as puffins and other seabirds—such as northern fulmars, gulls, and Arctic terns—are discussed in detail, helping you understand their behaviors and ecological roles.

Wildlife and Bird Watching

While puffins are the star of the show, this tour also offers the chance to see other seabirds. The guides point out different species and share interesting facts—like how puffins nest on the islands during the warmer months, and how their interactions with the environment shape the local ecosystem. The birdlife is vibrant during nesting season, creating a lively spectacle of colors and sounds.

Returning to Reykjavík

After about 60 minutes on the water, the boat heads back toward the harbor. The return trip is just as exhilarating as the outbound leg, offering views of Reykjavík’s skyline and coastline. The entire experience, from start to finish, is designed to give you a snapshot of Iceland’s seabird life, packaged into a fun, energetic ride.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer described the experience as “truly a special time out on the water,” praising the guide for making the trip both entertaining and educational. They appreciated the expert guidance and the opportunity to see puffins close up—a favorite aspect for many bird-loving travelers.

On the flip side, a reviewer expressed disappointment about the speed of the ride. They felt the boat was quite powerful, and the ride was “very slow” despite warnings about safety and the boat’s intensity. They suggested that the trip could be done with a less powerful boat, offering a calmer experience.

The difference in opinions highlights that this tour is best suited for those who enjoy lively, fast-paced boat rides and are comfortable with a bit of motion. The safety gear and the boat’s design aim to ensure comfort despite the ride’s vigor, but it’s worth considering if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer calmer waters.

Price and Value

At around $85 per person, the tour offers a good balance of value, especially given the inclusion of all gear and guided commentary. The small group size maximizes interaction with guides and enhances the overall feeling of exclusivity—perfect if you prefer a more intimate wildlife experience. Since the tour is only about an hour, it’s a swift way to add a memorable highlight to your Reykjavík itinerary without a major time commitment.

Compared to longer or more leisurely birdwatching excursions, this trip emphasizes speed and excitement, making it ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those seeking a fun, active outing. The vivid memories of zooming over the water and seeing puffins darting around make this a worthwhile investment.

Practical Information and Tips

• Booking well in advance (about 35 days on average) is recommended since the tour is popular during the puffin nesting season.
• The tour departs at 12:00 pm, so plan your day accordingly.
• Hotel transfers are available for an additional fee (~2200 ISK), which could be a good option if you prefer a seamless experience.
• Because weather can affect the trip, be prepared for the possibility of cancellation or rescheduling—your guide or operator will notify you if conditions are unsafe.
• Group size is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Participants most likely to enjoy this tour are those who love wildlife, are comfortable on boats, and want a quick but memorable puffin encounter.

The Sum Up

The Puffin Express by RIB Speedboat provides an energetic, intimate glimpse into Iceland’s seabird colonies. With its focus on speed, rich guide commentary, and close-up views of puffins, it appeals strongly to wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. While the ride’s vigor might not suit everyone, the thrill and the chance to observe puffins in their natural habitat make it a memorable outing.

This tour offers excellent value for a one-hour excursion packed with scenic views, educational moments, and fun. It’s best for travelers short on time or those eager for a lively, bird-focused adventure in Reykjavík. If you’re after a quick, engaging, and bird-filled experience, this trip deserves a spot on your Iceland itinerary.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children? While the tour is generally accessible to most travelers, the speedboat ride’s quick pace and motion might be intense for very young children or those sensitive to motion. It’s best suited for older kids comfortable with boat rides.

Can I see puffins outside of May to August? Puffins primarily nest during this period, so sightings outside these months are less likely. The tour’s timing aligns with the puffins’ nesting season, maximizing your chances.

Are food and drinks included? No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price. However, you can bring snacks and water if you wish.

Is transportation to the meeting point provided? Not included, but hotel transfers are available for an extra fee (~2200 ISK). The meeting point at Reykjavík Old Harbour is accessible via public transport or walking.

How many people are on each tour? The maximum group size is 12 travelers, offering a more personalized experience.

What should I wear? The tour provides warm overalls, gloves, goggles, and life jackets. Still, dressing in layers and wearing comfortable waterproof shoes is advisable.

Will I get wet during the ride? Expect some splashes, especially since the boat approaches shoreline rocks closely. The provided gear helps protect you, but a waterproof layer or quick-drying clothes are recommended.

What if the weather is bad? Tours are weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe, your trip may be canceled or rescheduled. Refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

The Puffin Express delivers a lively, educational, and fun snapshot of Iceland’s seabird life in a compact, well-organized package. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a quick but memorable nature encounter in Reykjavík.