Reykjavik: Puffin Watching Tour

If you’re heading to Reykjavik and looking for a wildlife experience that’s both exciting and memorable, a puffin watching tour by RIB boat might be just what you need. We’ve checked out the details to give you a clear picture of what to expect, and from what travelers say, this tour is quite a hit. It promises a quick, fun adventure out into Faxaflói Bay where you’ll get surprisingly close to the adorable puffins, plus a few other seabirds along the way.

What really appeals to us is how this experience combines speed, nature, and education — you get to see the birds in their natural habitat while also enjoying an exhilarating boat ride. Also, the reviews repeatedly highlight the knowledgeable guides and the close-up views as major pluses. That said, it’s not a tour for everyone; if you’re not comfortable on open water or have mobility issues, this might be less suitable. This is a fantastic choice for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone wanting a quick but authentic wildlife encounter on their Iceland trip.

Key Points

• Close wildlife encounters: Get surprisingly near to puffins and other seabirds during the cruise.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting facts and personalized photos.
• Fast-paced RIB ride: The boat’s speed makes the trip exciting but might be challenging for those sensitive to waves.
• Limited duration: At just about an hour, it’s a short but packed experience, perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary.
• No food or hotel transfers: You’ll need to meet at the harbor, so plan your timing accordingly.
• Great for adventure seekers: The open-air RIB boat adds a fun, slightly adrenaline-filled element.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Reykjavik Puffin Watching Tour

This tour is designed to be a quick, energetic wildlife adventure. Starting at Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, you’ll meet the captain and guide, receive a safety briefing, and be equipped with coveralls and binoculars. The entire experience is about one hour, making it a manageable addition to any day in Iceland.

The Departure Point and Check-in

You meet at the “Whale Safari” office in the Old Harbour, which is quite central and easy to find. Once there, the staff are friendly and professional, helping you get dressed in your supplied coveralls, which are crucial to stay warm given the cold Atlantic waters and wind. The check-in process is straightforward, and the crew makes sure everyone is comfortable before heading out.

The Boat Ride

As soon as you step onto the RIB (rigid inflatable boat), you’ll notice how compact and lively these boats are. They are built for speed and agility, so expect a bumpy, fast ride across Faxaflói Bay. The boat seats are open, with everyone getting an equal shot at great views, thanks to its design.

The captain skillfully steers around the islands and sea cliffs, getting close enough to see puffins nesting on the rocks or flying overhead. The boat doesn’t just go straight out and back; it zips around the inlets and inshore islands, giving everyone a chance to marvel at the seabirds in action.

Wildlife Viewing

This is the heart of the tour. From May through August, puffins are nesting on the islands, and you’ll see them dive, fly, and waddle in their natural environment. Reviewers mention seeing hundreds of puffins, sometimes flying in groups, other times perched on the rocks or in the water. One reviewer enthusiastically shared, “We saw so many puffins flying and floating… the boat was able to get very close to the island.”

Along With puffins, keep an eye out for gannets, auks, fulmars, and Arctic terns. Our guides are experts at pointing out these birds and sharing interesting facts about their behaviors, diets, and habits. Several reviews praise the guides for their knowledgeability, with one mentioning, “Rob was a great guide, very knowledgeable!”

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The Experience of the Ride

The speedy RIB boat adds a fun, adrenaline rush to the adventure — you’ll feel the waves splash as you zip across the bay. This makes for a lively, memorable trip, especially for those who enjoy an active boat ride. Reviewers consistently highlight how safe and well-organized the trip is, with safety gear like coveralls and binoculars provided. The boat’s design allows for close views without disturbing the birds, which is a big plus.

Returning to Reykjavik

After about an hour of bird-watching and photo-taking, the boat returns to the harbor. The whole experience is designed to be efficient and engaging. Many travelers say that this short trip offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially with guides sharing images of the puffins and birds they’ve captured.

Is It Worth the Price?

At roughly $95 per person, the tour is priced for a premium wildlife experience. When you consider the close-up views, expert guides, all safety equipment, and binoculars, many find it to be a good value. The intimate nature of the RIB boats, which allow for more area coverage and closer encounters than larger vessels, justifies the price for wildlife enthusiasts.

Several reviews, like Helga’s, confirm that the experience exceeded expectations, with her saying, “We expected to see a small number of puffins but saw hundreds of them.” The fact that guides also take photos during the trip, later sharing them via email, adds extra value, especially for those keen to capture memories without lugging additional gear.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This puffin tour suits anyone who is interested in wildlife or photography and doesn’t mind a speedy boat ride. It’s perfect for those who want a short, but packed experience with plenty of bird sightings. If you’re traveling with kids over 10, particularly active or adventurous types, they’ll likely enjoy the excitement of the boat and seeing puffins in their natural habitat.

However, this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility issues, or those under 4 ft 8 in (145 cm). Also, since the boat rides on open water, it’s best for travelers who aren’t prone to seasickness.

Practical Tips for Your Puffin Watching Tour

• Dress warmly in layers; the weather can be unpredictable, and the wind on the water is chilly.
• Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for boat decks.
• Bring your own camera or smartphone—the guides are happy to help with photos.
• Arrive at the Old Harbour a little early to check in and get fitted in your coveralls.
• The tour does not include food, drinks, or hotel transfers, so plan accordingly.
• Book in advance, as this is a popular activity, especially in peak season.
• Remember, children under 10 are not advised to join this trip.
• The tour runs in the mornings, but check the availability for specific times, as they vary.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviewers emphasize how close they managed to get to the puffins, with some saying they could see them diving and flying just feet away. One shared, “The trip in the small boat was everything I hoped for. You get to go quite close to the islands and see a bunch of puffins, even early in the season.” The guides’ friendly, professional attitude and their ability to share fascinating bird facts make a big difference.

Others mention the speed of the boat, which adds an exciting twist. “The boat ride was a blast,” one person notes, highlighting that the thrill was part of the appeal. The safety equipment and well-organized process also contribute to peace of mind, especially for first-time boaters.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In the end, the Reykjavik Puffin Watching Tour offers a unique, close-up wildlife experience with a dash of adventure. It’s a fantastic way to see Iceland’s iconic seabirds in their natural environment, especially if you’re a bird lover or a keen photographer. The small group size, guided insights, and the ability to get very near to the birds make it stand out.

This tour is particularly suited for active travelers looking for a quick yet memorable outdoor adventure. Though it’s not for everyone, especially those who can’t handle open water or have mobility concerns, it’s a solid choice for anyone eager to combine a scenic boat ride with wildlife spotting.

If you’re visiting Reykjavik between May and August, and you’re ready for a high-energy birding trip, this experience could be just the highlight you’re looking for. It’s well-loved for its authenticity, educational value, and the sheer joy of watching puffins in the wild.

FAQ about the Reykjavik Puffin Watching Tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 10 years old, mainly due to the open-water boat ride and safety considerations.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring warm clothing, comfortable shoes, and a camera or smartphone. The tour provides binoculars and safety gear, but dressing warmly is key.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about one hour, making it ideal for fitting into a busy schedule.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at the “Whale Safari” office in Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, a central and accessible location.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring your own if you plan to snack or hydrate.

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

Are binoculars provided?
Yes, binoculars are included in the tour package.

What kind of wildlife might I see besides puffins?
You might see gannets, auks, fulmars, and Arctic terns, among others. Some reviews mention seeing whales or seals, but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the trip can be affected by weather conditions, but the operators do their best to run tours when possible.

To sum it up, the Reykjavik Puffin Watching Tour offers an exciting, intimate look at Iceland’s seabirds with the added thrill of a high-speed boat ride. It’s best for those who value close wildlife encounters and are comfortable on an open boat. With its friendly guides, spectacular views, and the chance to capture puffins in flight, it’s a trip that many find well worth the price.

You can check availability for your dates here: