Iceland Super Saver: Puffin Cruise plus Whale-Watching Tour from Reykjavik

If you’re eyeing an adventure that mixes adorable puffins with majestic whales, this Reykjavik-based combo tour might catch your eye. We’ve looked into the Iceland Super Saver, a package that bundles two popular boat trips into one, offering a more budget-friendly way to experience Iceland’s incredible marine life. Whether you’re passionate about seabirds or marine mammals, this tour promises a memorable glimpse into Iceland’s wild side.

What really stands out is how knowledgeable guides enrich each leg of the journey, helping you understand the animals and their behaviors. Plus, the scenic boat rides offer a fresh perspective of Iceland’s rugged coastlines and islands. On the flip side, some travelers note that wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, and the puffin viewing can be quite brief, which might be disappointing if your main goal is close-up photos.

This experience generally suits travelers who want a cost-effective way to see multiple aspects of Iceland’s marine environment in a single day. If you’re okay with the unpredictability of wildlife encounters and are eager to learn from guides while enjoying the sea breeze, this tour could be a solid choice. Just keep in mind, it might not be ideal for those seeking guaranteed close-up views or a leisurely, in-depth wildlife experience.

Key Points

• Two tours in one: a puffin cruise and whale-watching, offering good value.
• Wildlife sightings: includes humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and puffins.
• Group size: relatively small, with a maximum of 33 travelers.
• Flexible scheduling: tours can be booked on the same day or separately.
• Weather dependent: the tour requires good weather; cancellations are possible.
• Guides: well-reviewed for their knowledge and commentary.
• Wildlife unpredictability: sightings depend on the day’s conditions and animal behavior.
• Price point: at just over $150 per person, most reviews find it reasonable for what’s offered.

How the Tour Is Structured

The Iceland Super Saver combines two distinct boat trips, each with its own charm and considerations. Let’s walk through what a typical day looks like and what you can expect at each stage.

Puffin Cruise to Akurey Island

This part runs about one hour, starting from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. If you’ve opted for hotel pickup, your day begins with a convenient transfer; otherwise, you’ll meet directly at the harbor. Once onboard, you’re wrapped in warmth with provided blankets, which is a thoughtful touch given Iceland’s often brisk winds.

The boat heads toward Akurey, a small island renowned for its dense puffin population. As you approach, guides will share insights about puffin behavior, physiology, and their role in the local ecosystem. From the deck, you’ll see these lively birds diving into the water to catch fish — a charming sight to behold.

Authentic Experiences and Limitations: Many reviews praise the guides for their enthusiasm and knowledge. One reviewer mentioned, “Both guides were amazing.” You’ll probably find yourself spotting Arctic terns, guillemots, and fulmars, especially with the provided binoculars. However, the distance from the island means that close-up views aren’t always possible. Some reviews note that you can only see puffins through binoculars or from a distance, which might not satisfy photographers or avid bird-watchers.

Whale-Watching Adventure

After the puffin cruise, the tour continues with the whale-watching segment, which lasts either 2.5 or 3.5 hours. Departing from the same harbor, the boat takes you into Faxaflói Bay, known for its rich marine life. The longer and high-speed options cater to different appetites for adventure and patience.

Onboard, expect warm overalls—another thoughtful inclusion—plus hot beverages like coffee and hot chocolate (at your expense). The guides and crew are praised for their sharp eyes and engaging commentary, helping you identify whales such as humpbacks and minke whales, and other creatures like white-beaked dolphins and porpoises.

Wildlife Encounters and Realities: As one reviewer put it, “Our whale watching tour was fantastic! We saw several whales including a humpback and some dramatic tail slaps.” Others noted, “If you’re lucky, you’ll see whales, but sightings depend on the day’s conditions.” In fact, if no whales are spotted, you’ll receive a complimentary ticket for a future cruise—a nice touch that lowers the stakes somewhat.

The boat itself is usually comfortable and well-equipped, and many travelers enjoy the calm sea conditions that make the experience smooth and enjoyable. Still, some mention that the boat can be crowded, especially on shorter trips, which might reduce the comfort level during peak times.

What It Feels Like to Be Out on the Water

Imagine sitting on a sturdy boat, wrapped in a warm blanket, with the open sea stretching endlessly around you. The guides are pointing out distant splashes, tail slaps, and flocks of seabirds circling overhead. The experience of watching whales breach or spy puffins darting into the water creates vivid memories.

Many reviews highlight how the guides’ enthusiasm and expertise make a difference. One traveler said, “Our narrator was fun and knew just when to speak or stay quiet,” which can be crucial during wildlife watching.

The combination of boat rides means you get both a scenic journey and a chance to see elusive animals in their natural setting. But remember, since these are wild animals, there’s no absolute guarantee. Some days are better than others, and patience is part of the game.

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $150.94 per person, this combined tour offers a good bang for your buck. The cost includes binoculars, warm overalls, and expert commentary, which are often overlooked expenses in similar tours. When you compare it to booking separate excursions, the discount makes it appealing.

However, reviews show mixed feelings about the value of the puffin viewing. Several mention that the puffin tour is quite short and the boat never gets very close. One reviewer said, “It’s very short, and you can only see puffins with binoculars,” which might be underwhelming for those expecting close encounters.

On the other hand, the whale-watching segment receives high praise for animal sightings and guide knowledge. Many travelers feel they got their money’s worth, especially if they’re keen on marine mammals or seabirds.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

• Dress warmly: Even in summer, Iceland’s weather can be chilly and windy at sea. Warm clothes, hats, and gloves are recommended.
• Bring your own binoculars: While binoculars are provided, bringing your own might give clearer views and avoid sharing.
• Be prepared for some disappointment: Wildlife sightings are unpredictable. If no whales are seen, you might still enjoy the boat ride and the company of knowledgeable guides.
• Choose your departure time wisely: Check the schedule and pick a time that aligns with your plans, as the tours are flexible.
• Book in advance: Most travelers book about 57 days ahead, indicating this experience is quite popular.
• Confirm your schedule: Remember to reconfirm cruise times with the supplier for a smooth experience.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge as a major plus. One said, “Our guides were amazing,” while another appreciated the fun and engaging narration. The whale sightings, especially of humpbacks and dolphins, seem to be highlights for most, inspiring comments like, “Seeing the whales was incredible, some very close.”

However, some travelers found the puffin tour less satisfying—either too brief or too distant for good viewing. One review pointed out that the boat is quite crowded during the puffin cruise, which hampers the experience.

The diversity of wildlife, the professionalism of guides, and the scenic settings make this tour a solid choice, especially for those looking for a cost-effective way to experience Iceland’s marine life.

The Sum Up

This Iceland Super Saver combines two of Reykjavik’s most popular boat tours, giving you a taste of both puffins and whales without breaking the bank. It’s best suited for travelers who love wildlife, enjoy boat trips, and don’t mind a little unpredictability when hunting for animals in their natural habitat.

While the puffin viewing can be brief and somewhat distant, the whale-watching adventure often delivers excellent sightings and engaging commentary. The guides’ knowledge and the well-organized schedule make it a comfortable, informative experience.

If your goal is to see a variety of wildlife and appreciate Iceland’s marine environment from a different perspective, this tour provides a practical, enjoyable option. Just keep in mind the weather, wildlife unpredictability, and the brief nature of the puffin portion—these are the trade-offs for the overall value.

FAQ

How long is each part of the tour?
The puffin cruise lasts about one hour, while the whale-watching segment can be 2.5 or 3.5 hours, depending on your choice.

Can I book both tours on the same day?
Yes, you can choose to do the puffin cruise and whale-watching tour on the same day or on separate days during your stay.

Is hotel pickup included?
Pickup is available at an extra cost, but many travelers meet at Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. Confirm your arrangements when booking.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, in layers, with waterproof clothing if possible. Even in summer, the sea can be cold and windy.

Will I see whales or puffins every time?
Wildlife sightings depend on the weather and animal activity. Many guests see whales and puffins, but sightings are not guaranteed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but if traveling with children, consider their comfort with boat rides and cold weather.

Are binoculars provided?
Yes, binoculars are included on the puffin cruise, but bringing your own might enhance the experience.

What if I don’t see any wildlife?
If no whales are spotted, you’ll receive a voucher for a free whale-watching cruise, providing a second chance for sightings.

This tour offers a window into Iceland’s lively coastal ecosystem and makes for an engaging day out. Whether you end up spotting whales or simply enjoying the scenic boat ride, it’s a memorable way to connect with Iceland’s natural beauty—especially if wildlife watching is your thing.