The Faroe Islands are a treasure trove of rugged coastlines, towering sea stacks, and dramatic waterfalls – all best appreciated from the water or on a private tour. It’s an ideal destination for travelers who love nature, photography, and authentic local stories. We’re particularly fond of the Exclusive 1.5 Hour Drangarnir Boat Tour for its intimate size and rich storytelling, and the Puffin Safari Boat Tour for a close-up encounter with the islands’ most adorable seabird. If you’re after a tailored experience, the Private Sightseeing Tour with a Local Skipper offers exclusivity and expert insight. For those interested in capturing stunning images, the Photography Boat Tour in Vagar combines scenic beauty with great photo opportunities. Lastly, history enthusiasts might find the Self-guided Tour Rebellion in Klaksvik in the 1950s a fascinating walk through local stories of rebellion and resilience.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of tours suited to different interests and timeframes. Boat tours like the Exclusive 1.5 Hour Drangarnir Boat Tour and Puffin Safari Boat Tour give you close-up views of iconic sea stacks, waterfalls, and wildlife. For a more personalized experience, the Private Sightseeing Tour with a Local Skipper limits the group size to ensure an exclusive adventure. For photographers, the Photography Boat Tour in Vagar offers opportunities to capture the islands’ natural sculptures and waterfalls. Finally, the Self-guided Rebellion Tour in Klaksvik provides an engaging historical walk at your own pace.
1. Exclusive 1,5 Hour Drangarnir Boat Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Exclusive 1.5 Hour Drangarnir Boat Tour captures the essence of exploring the Faroese landscape from the water. For just under $160, this tour offers an efficient yet immersive way to see some of the most spectacular sights, including the Drangarnir sea stacks, Múlafossur waterfall, and Skarðsáfossur waterfall. The small group size makes this trip particularly appealing, allowing for a more personal experience and better opportunities for storytelling from a knowledgeable guide.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on natural beauty and wildlife. The boat gets you close enough to marvel at the 70-meter Drangarnir, and if luck is on your side, you might spot puffins, whales, or seals. The guide’s stories about Faroese folklore and geology add a layer of cultural richness. The itinerary is just enough to pack in these highlights without feeling rushed. Visitors consistently praise the professionalism of the boat and guide, with comments like “Great time. Small craft. Great captain” and “Rich stories from Elias.” It’s perfect for travelers pressed for time but eager to see key sights from a unique sea perspective.
Bottom line: This tour offers a compact, high-quality introduction to the Faroe Islands’ stunning coastline—ideal if you appreciate wildlife and folklore in a quick trip.
2. Puffin Safari Boat Tour
Number 2 on our list, the Puffin Safari Boat Tour, is perfect for wildlife lovers. For around $159, this 1.5-hour trip takes you along Vagar Island’s coastline, where thousands of puffins, seastacks, and waterfalls provide a feast for the eyes. This tour is designed to get you close to the puffins’ nesting sites on the uninhabited Tindhólmur islet, which is renowned for its five peaks and the thousands of puffins that inhabit it.
The tour’s main appeal is the chance to experience the untamed Faroese seabird colonies without strenuous hiking. The boat’s captain is friendly and knowledgeable, sharing fascinating facts about the puffins and the geological features of the islands. Reviewers mention the intimate size of the group, which allows for good wildlife viewing, even if the weather is choppy. One traveler notes, “It was lovely to see puffins and the sea stacks in evening light,” though some mention that weather can occasionally limit how close you get.
Bottom line: This tour offers a memorable wildlife experience with a focus on puffins and island scenery, making it ideal for nature lovers and photographers alike.
3. Photography Boat Tour in Vagar
For those who want to turn scenery into stunning photographs, the Photography Boat Tour in Vagar ranks third. At just under $155, this 1.5-hour excursion from Sørvág offers a chance to capture the iconic Drangarnir sea stacks, Tindhólmur, and Skarðsáfossur waterfall in the best light. The tour begins in Sørvág, sailing through the fjord to the natural sculptures that make the Faroes so photogenic.
What makes this trip special is its focus on photography. It’s tailored for camera enthusiasts, with ample opportunities to shoot from different angles and at various times of day. The guide, who has prior reviews praising the experience, helps point out the best framing and light conditions. During the journey, you’ll also have time to capture the waterfalls plunging into the ocean with your camera. The tour is short but packed with picture-perfect moments, making it a top pick for travelers eager to bring home exceptional images.
Bottom line: If photography tops your list, this tour provides both scenic beauty and expert tips to enhance your images.
4. Private Sightseeing Tour with Local Skipper to Vagar Area
The Private Sightseeing Tour with a Local Skipper is a premium option ideal for travelers seeking exclusivity and flexibility. Priced at $779 for up to six people, this 1.5-hour journey offers a personalized experience exploring the Faroe Islands’ most dramatic sights, including the Drangarnir sea stacks and the cinematic Tindhólmur. The boat is yours alone, and the itinerary can be tailored to your interests.
What makes this tour stand out is the private guide’s local expertise and the ability to control the pace and focus of the trip. You can ask questions, linger at specific locations, or explore additional spots. The guide will share stories about Faroese folklore and geology, enriching your understanding of the landscape. Reviewers appreciate the personalized service, with comments like “Our tour guide/captain was really fun, and knew EVERYTHING about Faroe Islands.” This option is best suited for couples or small groups who want a bespoke experience away from crowds.
Bottom line: For those wanting a truly custom experience with insider knowledge, this private tour offers intimate access and flexibility unmatched by group excursions.
5. Self-guided Tour Rebellion in Klaksvik in the 1950s
Number 5, the Self-guided Tour Rebellion in Klaksvik in the 1950s, is for history buffs keen to explore the stories of local resistance. For just $23.50, you can explore Klaksvik’s past through an MP3 or app-based tour, exploring at your own pace.
The tour covers key sites like Klaksvik Hospital, The Yellow Doctor’s House, and The Old Monopoly Store, revealing how a peaceful town transformed into a battleground during a rebellion in the 1950s. You’ll hear about the remarkable figure of a doctor hiding a past, and how the community faced bombs, power outages, and armed police. The flexibility means you can take your time, stop for coffee, or explore additional local spots.
While this tour doesn’t include the visual spectacle of the other options, it offers an immersive storytelling experience that’s ideal for history lovers wanting to understand a pivotal moment in Faroese history.
Bottom line: An affordable, flexible, and engaging way to learn about Klaksvik’s resilient spirit from the comfort of your own schedule.
$23.50 per person
How to Choose
When selecting a tour in the Faroe Islands, consider your budget, interests, and the kind of experience you want. If wildlife and quick access to the coast are your priorities, the Puffin Safari Boat Tour and Exclusive Drangarnir Boat Tour are excellent choices. For photography enthusiasts, the Photography Boat Tour offers the best opportunities to capture the islands’ natural beauty. Those seeking a personalized experience should consider the Private Skipper Tour, which allows for tailored itineraries and deeper insights. Budget travelers or history buffs interested in the island’s past might find the Self-guided rebellion tour engaging and cost-effective.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment. Think about how much time you have—if you only have a half day, a boat tour like the Drangarnir trip provides a rich experience without requiring a full day.
Final Thoughts
The Faroe Islands offer a range of memorable tours that fit different interests and schedules. From quick boat trips showcasing towering sea stacks and waterfalls to private, tailored explorations, there’s something for all. Wildlife watchers will love the Puffin Safari, while photographers will find the scenic boat tours perfect for capturing the stunning landscapes. History enthusiasts can walk through the stories of resistance in Klaksvik at their own pace.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early will ensure you get the most out of your trip. These experiences will deepen your appreciation for the islands’ rugged beauty and unique culture. So pick your adventure, and get ready to see the Faroe Islands in a whole new way.