Reykjavik: Puffin Watching Tour by RIB Speedboat

Imagine zipping across the waters just outside Reykjavik’s Old Harbor in a sleek RIB speedboat, feeling the spray on your face as you head out to see thousands of puffins in their natural habitat. For just $82 per person, this one-hour adventure takes you to the small islands of Lundey and Akurey, where scenic cliffs and rocky shores serve as the backdrop for one of Iceland’s most charming bird spectacles.

What immediately appeals to us about this tour is the combination of a fun, high-speed ride with the chance to observe puffins up close—a true highlight for bird lovers and adventure seekers alike. We also appreciate the knowledgeable guides, who enrich the experience with interesting facts about puffins and other local birdlife. The close proximity to the islands thanks to the shallow draft of the RIBs allows for a genuinely intimate wildlife encounter, which is often hard to find on larger, slower boats.

A potential consideration is weather dependency. Since the tour is subject to weather conditions, sailings may be canceled for safety reasons, especially in Iceland’s unpredictable climate. Also, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or children under 4 ft 6 in, which could limit some travelers. However, for those who love short, lively wildlife outings with a dash of adventure, this tour is a perfect fit—especially if you’re keen to see puffins during your Iceland visit.

Ultimately, this tour suits nature lovers, adventurers, and families with older children who want an authentic experience without spending hours at sea. If you enjoy learning about wildlife and racing around scenic coastlines, this is a lively way to spend an hour in Reykjavik.

Key Points

• Close-up Puffin Viewing: Get within meters of thousands of puffins in their natural habitat, thanks to the shallow draft of the RIB speedboats.
• Expert Guides: Learn about puffins and other seabirds from knowledgeable, friendly guides during your trip.
• Scenic Coastal Views: Enjoy stunning vistas of mountains, city lights, and rocky islands, making the short trip visually rewarding.
• Short & Convenient: The one-hour duration makes it ideal for travelers with limited time or as part of a busy sightseeing schedule.
• Weather-Dependent: Sails depend on weather conditions, so flexibility and patience might be necessary.
• Group Size & Comfort: Small groups of up to 12 participants ensure a more personal experience, with all safety gear provided.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Special?

This tour by Special Tours Iceland has been a favorite among visitors for over a decade, thanks to its focus on authentic wildlife encounters and scenic adventure. The speedboat ride itself isn’t just a means of transportation; it’s part of the fun. We loved the thrilling experience of skimming over the water, feeling the wind and spray, which really energizes the whole outing.

The main attraction is definitely the thousands of puffins that breed on Lundey and Akurey. These islands are well-known for their colorful birdlife, and their rocky shores provide ideal nesting sites. The guided commentary—delivered by licensed guides—adds depth, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. They share insights about the puffins’ behavior, their nesting habits, and how these birds have become emblematic of Iceland’s coastal wildlife.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

The meeting point is a small wooden hut marked “Reykjavik by Boat” in the Old Harbour. Arrive at least 30 minutes early so you can gear up with waterproof suits, goggles, and a life vest, all provided by the operator. Once aboard, the boat departs for Lundey and Akurey, only 15 minutes away.

The ride is quick but exhilarating, with the boat’s shallow draft allowing it to get close to the islands’ rocky shores. The captain will turn off the engine once near the islands, giving everyone a chance to observe the birds and surroundings undisturbed. This is when the real magic happens—you’re just a few feet from the bustling bird colonies.

The guide’s explanations are clear and engaging, sharing stories about puffin life cycles, their diet, and their significance to Icelandic culture. You might also spot other bird species like northern fulmars, gulls, arctic terns, and black guillemots.

What the Experience Feels Like

Many reviews mention how fun and educational the tour is. One traveler noted, “The boat ride was a highlight, especially the thrill of getting so close to the birds, and our guide was incredibly knowledgeable.” Others appreciated the small group size, which fosters a more personal atmosphere and easier wildlife viewing.

The short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary, especially if you’re keen to combine it with other Reykjavik activities. However, since the tour heavily depends on weather conditions, you might find that a windy or rainy day could lead to a cancellation, so it’s wise to have flexible plans.

What We Love About This Tour

The scenic views of mountains and city lights at dusk or dawn add a special touch, transforming a birdwatching trip into a mini-adventure landscape. The knowledgeable guides, many of whom share stories with enthusiasm and clarity, make the experience richer and more memorable.

Another aspect that sets this tour apart is the ability to get really close to the puffins without disturbing them—something larger boats can’t always do. This intimate encounter makes the experience feel authentic and personal, especially for bird enthusiasts.

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Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While the speedboat offers an exhilarating ride, it might be too lively for some travelers, especially those with back issues or pregnant women, as the boat can be bumpy. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent, there’s a chance it could be canceled, which might be disappointing if you’re on a tight schedule.

Lastly, the one-hour duration is perfect for a quick peek but might leave some wanting more time on the islands or exploring Reykjavik’s harbor area.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy wildlife and scenic rides, as well as families with older children who can handle the boat’s motion. It’s also perfect for those who want a short, memorable encounter with puffins without committing to longer excursions. Bird lovers and photo enthusiasts will especially appreciate the close-up views and the opportunity to capture unforgettable shots.

The Reykjavik Puffin Watching Tour by RIB Speedboat offers an exciting, accessible way to see Iceland’s adorable puffins in their natural habitat. With expert guides, a fun speedboat ride, and the chance to get close enough for some memorable photos, it balances entertainment and education perfectly. The scenic backdrop of mountains and city lights enhances the experience, making it feel special regardless of whether you’re an avid bird watcher or simply seeking a lively adventure.

The tour’s short duration makes it a great choice for travelers with limited time or those eager to combine wildlife viewing with other activities. While weather conditions can influence availability, the overall value is high, especially considering the small group size and the personalized attention.

For travelers who love wildlife, crave a little adventure, and want to see some of Iceland’s most charming birds, this tour fits the bill. Just remember to dress for the weather and keep your camera ready—you never know when you’ll get that perfect puffin shot.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is best for children over 4 ft 6 in (140 cm) and older due to safety and comfort considerations. Very young children or toddlers may find the boat ride too bumpy.

What should I wear?
All participants are provided with full-body waterproof suits and goggles. Still, waterproof shoes are recommended to stay dry and comfortable.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling is also possible, depending on availability.

Will the tour run in bad weather?
The tour depends on weather conditions. The captain will cancel if safety or comfort is compromised, so flexibility is essential.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately one hour, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day.

Is there a guide on the boat?
Yes, a licensed guide provides commentary during the trip, sharing insights about puffins and other seabirds observed.

Are there any additional costs?
The price includes all necessary gear, but extras like pickup/drop-off, food, or drinks are not included. These can be purchased separately.

This puffin adventure from Reykjavik offers an engaging mix of wildlife, scenery, and high-speed fun, perfect for those wanting a quick but memorable Icelandic experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: