The Faroe Islands are a natural playground for boat lovers. With rugged coastlines, towering sea stacks, and abundant wildlife, exploring by sea reveals sights you can’t see from land. Whether it’s getting close to the Drangarnir sea stacks, spotting puffins on uninhabited islets, or capturing dramatic fjord scenes with your camera, these boat tours offer unique perspectives that truly bring the islands to life. We especially like the Exclusive 1.5-hour Drangarnir Boat Tour for its combination of iconic sights and rich storytelling, which makes it a standout experience for anyone wanting a quick but memorable adventure.
One thing all these tours share is a focus on authentic, sea-based encounters with some of the Faroe Islands’ most famous landmarks. If you’re pressed for time, the Puffin Safari Boat Tour offers a delightful glimpse of puffins and seastacks in roughly 90 minutes. For photography enthusiasts, the Vágar Photography Boat Tour promises stunning, frame-worthy views. Both options are perfect for nature lovers and those who want a deeper visual connection to this windswept archipelago. Keep reading to find the tour that matches your interests and schedule.
1. Exclusive 1,5 Hour Drangarnir Boat Tour
At number one, the Exclusive 1.5-hour Drangarnir Boat Tour is a hands-down favorite for its compact, well-curated itinerary. For around $159.63 per person, you get a small-group experience—perfect for those who dislike crowded tours—where you’ll explore the Faroe Islands’ most breathtaking sights from the water. The tour covers the Drangarnir sea stacks, the Múlafossur waterfall, and even Skarðsáfossur waterfall, with plenty of time to learn about their folklore and geology.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of speed and depth. The 70-meter tall Drangarnir sea stacks are a must-see, and being so close makes for unforgettable photos. The boat then glides near the Múlafossur waterfall, often called the most Instagrammed waterfall in the world, offering a perspective impossible from land. The tour guide shares stories about the natural and cultural significance of each site, making it both scenic and educational. Several reviews praise the “great time” with a “considerate captain,” noting how the small boat makes it easy to get close without disturbing wildlife. If you’re a lover of nature and storytelling but short on time, this is a top choice.
Bottom line: Short, sweet, packed with iconic sights and personal stories, perfect for travelers who want a quality experience without a long commitment.
2. Puffin Safari Boat Tour
Coming in at number two, the Puffin Safari Boat Tour is a must for bird lovers and families. Priced at about $159.36 per person, this 90-minute excursion focuses on puffins, which are the real stars of the show. The tour takes you close to Tindhólmur, a volcanic islet with five peaks, and the Skarðsáfossur waterfall, with chances to see puffins in their natural habitat—sometimes in the thousands.
One of the tour’s big selling points is the guarantee of puffin sightings, which appeals to those who want a memorable birdwatching experience without strenuous hikes or hidden costs. The small group size (around seven people) allows for a more personal experience, and the captain provides plenty of information about the birds and landscape. Reviewers love the friendly crew and the chance to see puffins up close, even if weather conditions sometimes limit how close you can get. The tour is ideal for those interested in wildlife photography, birdwatching, or just wanting to see these charismatic birds without much effort.
Bottom line: An engaging, wildlife-focused trip suited for families, bird enthusiasts, and anyone eager to add puffins to their Faroe Islands story.
3. Photography Boat Tour in Vágar
At number three, the Photography Boat Tour in Vágar is a visual feast for camera lovers. For $155.26 per person, this 90-minute tour begins in Sørvágur and offers expert guidance for capturing the drama of the Drangarnir sea stacks, the Tindhólmur islet, and the Skarðsáfossur waterfalls as they plunge into the ocean.
What makes this experience truly special is its focus on photo opportunities. The captain and guide are seasoned photographers, offering tips on framing and timing to help you get the best shots. The boat’s route takes you through Sørvágsvatn, the famous fjord with floating salmon farms and the charming village of Bøur, providing a mix of scenic landscapes and natural sculptures. Reviews mention how rewarding it was to see the islands through a camera lens and how the guide’s advice elevated the quality of their photos. It’s ideal for serious shutterbugs or anyone who wants to document their trip with stunning images.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want a professionally guided photo session and a chance to capture the islands’ most photogenic spots.
How to Choose
When deciding among these Faroe Islands boat tours, consider your main interests, schedule, and budget. If iconic sea stacks and waterfalls top your list, the Exclusive Drangarnir Tour offers a balanced mix of scenery and storytelling in a quick trip. For wildlife lovers eager to see puffins in their natural habitat, the Puffin Safari provides a focused, personal experience. If photography is your main goal, then the Vágar Photography Tour helps you get the best images with expert guidance.
Budget-wise, all three tours are around $159, but the experience varies: the small-group size of the puffin tour offers a more intimate setting, while the other two focus on iconic sights and scenic photography. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season from late spring to early fall, when wildlife is most active.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after close-up wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, or high-quality photos, the Faroe Islands deliver remarkable maritime adventures. The Exclusive Drangarnir Boat Tour strikes a great balance for those short on time but eager to see big sights and hear stories. If puffins are your thing, the Puffin Safari delivers a charming, bird-filled experience. For photographers, the Vágar Tour offers a chance to capture the islands’ raw beauty with expert help.
Each tour provides a different perspective on this rugged, windswept archipelago. Book early, prepare for variable weather, and get ready for some unforgettable views—these sea adventures are sure to be a highlight of your Faroe Islands trip.