Reykjavik: Puffin Watching Boat Tour

If you’re heading to Iceland and love wildlife, this Reykjavik Puffin Watching Boat Tour offers a charming, close-up look at some of the most adorable seabirds around. Departing from the lively Old Harbour, this one-hour cruise whisks you out onto Faxaflói Bay, where puffins and other seabirds make their home. What makes this experience stand out is the guarantee of puffin sightings—a real treat for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

One of my favorite things about this tour is how intimate it feels. The boat, affectionately called “Old Skuli,” is a classic wooden vessel with a cozy vibe that ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd. Plus, the guides are notably knowledgeable and engaging, adding a fun, educational twist to the trip. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that weather conditions can affect the experience—bad weather could lead to cancellations or limited bird activity. Still, for those seeking an authentic, scenic wildlife encounter, this tour is a delightful choice, especially suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace and expert insights.

Key Points

• Guaranteed puffin sightings—no need to worry about missed views.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with knowledge and humor.
• Small, historic wooden boat ensures a personal, comfortable journey.
• Ideal for bird lovers and families wanting a scenic, educational outing.
• Weather-dependent activity—be flexible with plans around conditions.
• Great value at around $59 per person for a memorable hour on the water.

Exploring Reykjavik’s Puffin Watching Tour in Detail

An Authentic and Intimate Boat Experience

Starting at the Special Tours office in Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, the experience feels welcoming from the start. The boat, “Old Skuli,” is a vintage wooden vessel that can comfortably host up to 33 passengers. Its size strikes a perfect balance—small enough to feel personal but large enough to accommodate a group comfortably. This makes it easier for guides to connect with guests and for everyone to get a good view.

Traveling on a historical wooden boat adds a nostalgic charm, and many reviews highlight how the boat’s cozy atmosphere makes the trip feel like a shared adventure rather than just a tour. The open deck allows for excellent viewing, and there’s a covered interior if the weather takes a turn. Several reviewers appreciated that binoculars are provided, which helps you snap those perfect puffin photos and better appreciate their tiny, charismatic features.

The Itinerary: From Harbour to Islands

The main act begins with a short cruise across Faxaflói Bay, usually lasting around 10-15 minutes to reach Lundey and Akurey Islands. These islands are the heart of puffin activity, especially in the breeding season. As you cruise toward them, guides will share their knowledge about the local seabird colonies, island ecology, and the history of the area.

Once you arrive near the islands, the boat slows or idles with engines turned off, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and birdwatching without noise pollution. This is when the puffin sightings happen. According to reviews, puffins are most active on land during foggy or cloudy days—a helpful tip if you’re planning your trip. On clear, sunny days, puffins tend to stay at sea, making sightings less frequent but still likely due to the guaranteed sighting policy.

What You’ll See and Learn

The puffins are the main attraction here, and guides like Rebecca, Patrick, and others are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge. They educate visitors on puffin habits, nesting behaviors, and what makes these birds so special. Many reviews mention how guides go beyond just spotting birds, offering fascinating facts about other local seabirds, such as northern fulmars, gulls, Arctic terns, and black guillemots.

Some reviews highlight the entertainment value of guides like Patrick, who adds humor and personality to the trip, making it memorable for both adults and kids. The interactive nature of the guides helps even casual birdwatchers feel engaged and informed.

The Experience on the Water

The hour-long cruise is a relaxed, scenic journey. We’ve heard from travelers that the views of Reykjavik’s coastline and nearby islands are lovely, especially when there’s a bit of fog or cloud cover, which enhances bird activity. The boat’s stability means you can watch the birds without feeling seasick, but some reviewers mention that waves or choppier weather might cause a few saltwater splashes—adding to the fun, but worth noting if you’re sensitive.

Authenticity and Comfort

Because the tour is limited in size, it feels much less commercial than larger cruise options. Many travelers appreciate this, describing it as a personal, friendly experience. The boat’s interior has soft seats and a warm air system, providing relief from the chilly Icelandic wind or rain, which can be unexpected even in summer.

Pricing and Value

At $59 per person, this tour offers excellent value. Compared to other wildlife experiences, the guarantee of puffin sightings—and the chance to see multiple bird species—is a big plus. The inclusion of binoculars and a guide enhances the experience without extra cost, which many reviews appreciate. The full hour on the water, combined with the educational commentary, makes this a worthwhile, affordable activity, especially considering how unique puffin encounters are in the wild.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for bird enthusiasts, families with children, and anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic experience in Reykjavik. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy small-group, guided tours with knowledgeable hosts. If you’re a photographer or simply love wildlife, the close-up views and informative guides will enhance your trip.

However, if you’re sensitive to bad weather or prone to seasickness, it’s worth checking the forecast and considering the possibility of cancellations or less active bird behavior. The tour’s flexibility, with full refunds if canceled due to weather, helps manage those concerns.

Final thoughts

For just around $60, this puffin tour delivers a delightful wildlife encounter that combines scenic beauty, expert storytelling, and guaranteed puffin sightings. It’s a fantastic way to experience Reykjavik’s coastal nature up close, and many reviewers leave with great photos and fond memories.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour?
  It includes the boat ride, a guide, binoculars, and a 100% guarantee of puffin sightings.

• How long is the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, including the cruise to and from the islands.

• Where does the tour start?
  It departs from Special Tours’ office in Reykjavik’s Old Harbour.

• What should I bring?
  Bring warm clothes, layers, and possibly a rain jacket. Binoculars are provided, but feel free to bring your own.

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  Yes, many reviews mention children enjoying the trip, especially with engaging guides.

• Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
  Yes, cancellations due to weather are fully refundable if you notify 24 hours in advance.

• Are there options for different languages?
  The tour is in English, and an app is available in five languages for extra info.

• What if I don’t see puffins?
  The tour guarantees sightings, but if puffins are scarce due to environmental factors, the company offers a lifetime voucher for a free trip.

• Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
  If you have mobility issues, inform the provider ahead of time for assistance.

• Can I go on this tour during the winter?
  While possible, puffin activity and weather conditions vary seasonally. Check availability and weather forecasts.

Final Words

This Reykjavik Puffin Watching Boat Tour offers a charming, authentic way to experience Iceland’s seabird colonies up close. The small, historic vessel, combined with expert guides and a guarantee of sightings, makes it a top choice for wildlife lovers and curious travelers alike. It’s a relaxing, scenic adventure that delivers genuine value, especially for those who want a memorable, educational encounter with nature.

Perfect for families, bird enthusiasts, or anyone looking to add a touch of wildlife magic to their Iceland trip, this tour is a delightful mix of scenery, stories, and adorable puffins—just don’t forget your camera.