Puffin Watching Speedboat Express

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and eager to see one of Iceland’s most charming seabirds—puffins—this tour offers a quick, exhilarating way to get close without a long day on the water. For just $76 per person, you’ll hop aboard a luxury rigid inflatable boat (RIB) with a small group, traveling about one hour to islands where puffins nest and frolic in their natural habitat. Led by knowledgeable guides (the reviews mention a father-and-son team), this trip is designed for those who love wildlife, enjoy a bit of speed, and value intimate experiences.

What we particularly love about this tour is its small group size—only 12 travelers maximum—making for a relaxed, interactive outing. Plus, the warm waterproof gear provided ensures you stay cozy, even if the ocean breeze picks up. The short duration means you can easily slot this into a morning or afternoon, leaving plenty of time to explore Reykjavik afterward.

A potential consideration is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included—you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at Reykjavík by Boat at Ægisgarður 5F. Also, since the tour depends on weather conditions, it might get canceled if the sea turns rough, but the provider offers a full refund or reschedule if that happens. This is best suited for travelers who want a personal, close-up encounter with puffins and prefer a shorter, more manageable outing.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group size (max 12) keeps the tour personal and interactive.
• Wildlife Focus: Close encounters with puffins in their natural environment, with engines turned off to reduce disturbance.
• Comfort & Safety: Warm waterproof overalls, gloves, goggles, and life jackets provided for a cozy ride.
• Convenient Timing: A short, one-hour trip leaves your day open for other activities.
• Expert Commentary: Guides provide educational insights about puffins and local wildlife.
• Weather-Dependent: Tour may be canceled if conditions are poor, but full refunds are available.

A Detailed Look at the Puffin Watching Speedboat Express

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from Reykjavík at Ægisgarður 5F, a convenient location near public transportation. Starting at 12:00 pm, it’s a straightforward midday activity perfect for those who want to avoid early mornings or long afternoons at sea. Since hotel pickup isn’t included, you’ll want to plan your transport there ahead of time.

The full guidance in English means you’ll get a good depth of information about puffins, other native wildlife, and the surrounding scenery. The 12-seat luxury RIB is designed to be fast and nimble, getting you quickly to the islands where puffins nest. The vessel’s size and speed are part of what makes this tour stand out—you’re able to cover ground swiftly, maximizing your time observing the birds.

The Ride and Wildlife Viewing

Once aboard, you’ll notice the boat’s speed—it’s built for both comfort and quick transit. We loved the way the boat’s stability kept everyone secure, even when zipping over the waves. The engine noise is noticeable at times, but the guides turn off the engines when you’re near the islands, allowing for quiet wildlife observation.

The vantage point from the RIB offers an excellent view—you’re close enough to see puffins sitting on their nests, flying just overhead, or even swimming nearby. A reviewer mentioned seeing “lots of puffins, in a couple of locations,” which speaks to the tour’s success in locating and getting close to these birds. Another noted how their spouse’s camera picked up puffins sitting at a distance, highlighting the good photographic opportunities.

The Islands and Puffin Habitat

The islands outside Reykjavík are where puffins prefer to nest and breed, typically during the breeding season. The guide’s commentary enriches the experience, sharing facts about puffin behavior, nesting habits, and the importance of these islands as protected areas. The fact that the engines are turned off while in the vicinity helps to ensure the puffins are not disturbed, allowing for a more authentic wildlife encounter.

Gear and Comfort

Given Iceland’s often unpredictable weather, the tour’s warm waterproof overalls, gloves, and goggles are a thoughtful touch. These make a significant difference, especially if the wind picks up or if you’re sensitive to spray from the boat. The lifejacket is standard safety gear, but it’s reassuring to know it’s included.

The Experience and Authenticity

The reviews emphasize the personal touch provided by the guides. One reviewer called the business “a very nice father and son operation,” which adds a layer of charm and authenticity. The commentary is described as excellent, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

The tour can be booked up to 48 days in advance, which is a good window for planning. The full cancellation policy offers flexibility, especially important given the reliance on weather conditions. If the weather turns bad, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, providing peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for nature lovers who want a close-up view of puffins without committing to a long or strenuous trip. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with children taller than 140 cm, and those who enjoy a small, interactive group setting. It’s also well-suited for photographers eager to capture puffins in flight or at rest—especially given the positive reviews about good camera opportunities.

If you’re short on time but want a memorable wildlife experience, this tour hits the sweet spot — a quick, personable trip with a high chance of puffin sightings and expert commentary. It’s less about a comprehensive wildlife tour and more about getting up close and personal with these charismatic birds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children taller than 140 cm can participate, making it a family-friendly option if your kids are comfortable on boats.

How long is the trip?
Approximately one hour, giving you a quick but rewarding window into puffin habitat.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, it meets directly at Reykjavík by Boat at Ægisgarður 5F. You’ll need to arrange your transportation to the meeting point.

What should I wear?
Warm waterproof overalls, gloves, and goggles are provided, but it’s wise to dress in layers and bring a hat and possibly a windbreaker.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled if the weather is unsuitable. In that case, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I take photographs?
Absolutely. The proximity to the puffins and the good visibility make this a popular tour for photographers.

Is this tour a good value?
Given the personal experience, wildlife sightings, and all gear provided, many find the cost of $76 reasonable, especially considering the short duration and high quality.

Can I book this in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 48 days ahead to secure your spot, particularly during peak puffin season.

The Sum Up

This Puffin Watching Speedboat Express offers a lively, intimate, and convenient way to see Iceland’s adorable puffins in their natural surroundings. The combination of a small-group size, speedy boat ride, and guidance about local wildlife makes it a standout for travelers looking for a personalized adventure.

It works especially well for those with limited time who still want a meaningful encounter with Iceland’s seabirds. The gear provided ensures you stay comfortable, and the flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind, especially in unpredictable weather. Plus, the positive reviews about knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to capture fantastic photos make this tour a worthwhile addition to your Reykjavik itinerary.

While it’s not a full-day expedition or a nature-immersion experience, it delivers on the essentials: close puffin encounters, expert commentary, and a memorable boat ride that’s both fun and educational. It’s an ideal choice for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and anyone eager to add a touch of adventure to their Iceland trip.

Ready for a quick, charming glimpse of puffins with a splash of speed? This tour makes it easy—and fun—to tick off one of Iceland’s most lovable bird sightings.