Reykjavik: Puffin Watching Tour

If you’re visiting Iceland and have a soft spot for seabirds, this Puffin Watching Tour from Reykjavík is a delightful way to connect with nature. For only $64 per person, you’ll hop on a cozy boat just 15 minutes from the city’s Old Harbour and sail out to observe the most common bird in Iceland — the Atlantic Puffin. With a runtime of about an hour, this tour offers an authentic, intimate look at puffin colonies, combined with spectacular views of the bay and Reykjavík’s skyline.

Two things we particularly love about this experience: First, the personalized size of the boat (limited to 38 passengers) ensures everyone gets good views and plenty of space to enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded. Second, the live biologist guide adds depth and context, enriching the experience far beyond just spotting birds. Their enthusiasm and knowledge make it clear they genuinely love sharing these birds’ stories.

A possible consideration? Because the tour’s success relies heavily on weather conditions, rough seas or sudden rain might impact your experience. It’s wise to bring weather-appropriate clothing and a camera, just in case.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate wildlife and scenic boat trips, especially those eager to see puffins in their natural habitat without the crowds. It’s also ideal for families or bird enthusiasts wanting a relaxed, educational outing that fits neatly into a day of sightseeing.

Key Points

• Short and Sweet: The one-hour duration makes it easy to include in a busy Iceland itinerary.
• Limited Group Size: With only 38 seats, it offers a personal experience with excellent viewpoints.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable biologists enhance the visit with interesting facts about puffins and local wildlife.
• Prime Location: Departing from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, the trip offers fantastic views of the city and bay landscapes.
• Authentic Wildlife Encounters: You’re likely to see the iconic orange-beaked puffins during mating season, along with other seabirds and possibly even whales or dolphins.
• Weather Dependent: Be prepared for changes in weather, which can affect visibility and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Puffin Watching Experience

The journey begins at Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, a lively area filled with boats and cafés, setting a charming scene before you set sail. You’ll board a traditional fishing boat, designed to comfortably hold up to 38 passengers. This smaller size is a real perk; it means fewer people competing for views and more room to settle in and enjoy the scenery.

The boat departs with a live guide, typically an experienced biologist, who shares insights into puffin behavior, their nesting habits, and Iceland’s birdlife in general. We loved the way the guide made the trip both educational and fun, blending scientific facts with stories about puffins’ quirky personalities.

During the roughly 60-minute cruise, you’ll sail to the small islands dotting the bay outside Reykjavík. These islands are home to large puffin colonies during the summer months. You’ll see the brightly colored beaks of the puffins, especially during the mating season when their beaks glow with vibrant orange against the seabirds’ black and white plumage. While some reviewers mention seeing puffins from afar, others note the experience is about appreciating their environment rather than close-up photography — although binoculars are provided to help with spotting.

The beauty of this trip isn’t just the puffins. The boat ride offers spectacular views of the bay’s landscapes, with Reykjavík’s skyline in the background, and the chance to see marine mammals such as dolphins or even whales, as a reviewer pointed out. The sightlines from the boat are unobstructed, giving everyone a good chance to take photos or just enjoy the scenery.

Weather can be unpredictable, so it’s worth dressing in layers and bringing waterproof gear. A reviewer recounted getting soaked on the bow during a sudden squall, but they still found it all worthwhile thanks to the wildlife sightings. The boat’s open design means you’ll get fresh air and close-up views, but it also means you’re exposed to elements — so pack accordingly.

What really sets this tour apart is the personalized service. The boat’s small size guarantees plenty of space and good vantage points. The binoculars are excellent, allowing you to see the puffins’ beak details and plumage, even if they’re a little distant. As one reviewer said, “The puffins were still a little hard to see even with binoculars, but I’d say it’s worth it,” highlighting that patience and binoculars are key to a good experience.

Timing your visit during mating season (spring to early summer) increases your chances of seeing puffins with their bright orange beaks, which the reviewer noted as a highlight. The presence of other wildlife, such as dolphins, adds to the excitement and makes the tour more than just a puffin-watching trip.

Pricing at $64 is quite reasonable for what you get — an intimate, educational outing with stunning sights and knowledgeable guides. Compared to larger, more commercial whale-watching tours, this one offers a more relaxed, personal atmosphere that many travelers find more fulfilling.

In terms of reviews, people consistently praise the expert guidance and the stunning views. One visitor called it “the best experience of my life,” especially highlighting the whale sightings when the puffins weren’t as close. Others appreciated how easy booking was and how the tour fit well into their day, with many mentioning the good length and flexible timing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to wildlife lovers who want a genuine, memorable encounter with puffins and marine life. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate small groups, personalized service, and expert guides. If you’re traveling with kids or older relatives, the moderate duration and relaxed pace make it accessible. Those on a budget will find it offers good value, especially with binoculars included.

On the flip side, if you’re not comfortable on boats or if weather isn’t cooperative, the experience might be less satisfying. Still, with Iceland’s unpredictable climate, it’s wise to be prepared for anything.

Final Thoughts

The Reykjavik Puffin Watching Tour offers a charming, accessible way to connect with Iceland’s vibrant birdlife and scenic bays. It’s a combination of educational insight, beautiful vistas, and personalized service that appeals to a variety of travelers. The small boat size ensures you’re not just a face in the crowd, and the knowledgeable guides help you appreciate more than just the birds — you’ll get a sense of the island’s rich natural environment.

While the weather can pose challenges, most visitors agree that the bonus of seeing puffins, dolphins, or even whales makes the experience well worth it. It’s a fantastic addition to a Reykjavík itinerary, especially if you’re eager to see Iceland’s iconic seabirds in their natural surroundings.

For anyone wanting a relaxed, informative, and scenic wildlife adventure, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for those who value quality over quantity — wanting to see puffins in a setting that feels authentic, personal, and memorable.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The boat trip lasts about 1 hour, making it easy to include in a day of sightseeing.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, a lively area with shops and restaurants.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 38 passengers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are binoculars provided?
Yes, high-quality binoculars are included to help you see the puffins better.

Is there an age limit?
The information doesn’t specify, but the tour seems suitable for most ages given its relaxed pace.

What should I wear?
Dress in weather-appropriate clothing, preferably layered and waterproof, because weather can change quickly.

Can I see whales or dolphins?
Some reviews mention spotting dolphins or whales, adding extra excitement to the trip.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, its short duration and small group size make it family-friendly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve now and pay later, maintaining flexibility for your travel plans.

To sum it up, this puffin watching boat tour offers an authentic and enjoyable way to experience Iceland’s remarkable seabird populations. Expect stunning scenery, expert guides, and personal service that makes this a memorable part of any Reykjavík visit. It’s well worth the modest price for nature lovers and curious travelers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: