Wildlife Whale Watching and Puffin Tour in Reykjavik

If you’re dreaming of spotting whales and puffins on your Iceland trip, this combined tour offers a well-rounded look at some of the country’s most captivating wildlife. While I haven’t done this specific tour myself, I’ve read plenty of reviews and details that make it clear it’s an experience worth considering if you love nature and are okay with a boat ride.

What really catches the eye here are the chance to see whales in their natural habitat—think Minke and Humpback whales, dolphins, and even killer whales—and the opportunity to get up close with puffins on a dedicated, smaller boat. The tour’s longer whale-watching trip on a larger vessel paired with a more intimate puffin-spotting experience on a smaller boat strikes me as a well-thought-out way to maximize your wildlife encounters. Plus, the expert guides and included amenities make it feel comfortable and informative.

One thing to keep in mind is the sea conditions—the larger whale-watching boat can roll quite a bit, which might not be ideal if you’re prone to seasickness. And since the tour is about four and a half hours in total, including two separate departures, it’s a bit of a time commitment. Still, this setup seems perfect for nature lovers, anyone curious about marine life, and those who enjoy a good boat adventure with stunning scenery.

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and eager to see wildlife beyond the city, this tour could be a highlight. It’s especially suited for travelers who don’t mind being on the water and want a genuine, close-up experience with Iceland’s marine creatures.

Key Points

• Two-part experience: A whale watching trip plus a puffin tour, each on different boats for varied perspectives.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding and spotting chances.
• Comfort & amenities: Free WiFi, binoculars, seasickness tablets, and a guarantee of rebooking if no sightings.
• Scenic views: Surround yourself with stunning mountain and island vistas while on the water.
• Duration: About 4.5 hours total, with flexible departure times for whale watching.
• Price: $152 per person—offers good value considering the combination of tours and included amenities.

The Itinerary — What to Expect

Starting at Faxaflói Bay: The adventure kicks off from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, a lively area full of boats and local charm. Once onboard, you’ll feel the excitement build as you set sail into the Atlantic, with panoramic views of the city, mountains, and distant islands. Here, the guides jump in to share fascinating insights about the creatures you’ll be searching for, making the journey both fun and educational.

Whale Watching (Larger Vessel): This part lasts around 3 to 3.5 hours, and it’s the main event for many. You’ll be on a bigger boat, which is designed for stability but can roll a bit, as one reviewer pointed out. If seasickness is a concern, the tour offers seasickness tablets and a free ticket to rejoin if you don’t spot anything on your first try. The goal is to see Minke and Humpback whales, dolphins, harbor porpoises, and possibly killer whales—these elusive giants are a real thrill to observe in their natural environment.

Puffin Tour (Smaller Boat): Later in the day, you switch to a smaller, specially crafted vessel. This one makes it easier to get close to the nesting islands, and binoculars are provided so you won’t miss the puffins’ charming antics. The puffin trip lasts about an hour, perfect for a relaxed, close-up view of these colorful birds—and the boat’s design helps maximize your chances of seeing them up close.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Knowledgeable Guides: Several reviews mention the guides’ expertise, which makes a big difference. They not only help spot marine animals but also share interesting facts that deepen your appreciation for Iceland’s wildlife. That kind of storytelling makes the experience more memorable.

Stunning Landscapes: The views from the water are spectacular, with mountains, islands, and the city of Reykjavik in the background. These visuals are highlights in themselves, providing a wonderful backdrop to the wildlife sightings.

Comfort & Extras: The tour’s amenities add value—free WiFi onboard (handy for sharing photos or staying connected), binoculars for the puffin trip, and complimentary seasickness tablets. Plus, the option to rebook if no animals are seen shows that they’re committed to giving you a fair shot at the experience.

Cost & Value: At $152 per person, this combined adventure is a solid investment if wildlife is a main focus of your trip. Considering the length and the included amenities, it’s an experience that feels worth the price. The fact that it’s booked about 27 days in advance suggests it’s popular, and for good reason.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is the size and seaworthiness of the whale-watching boat. One reviewer noted it “rolls around in the sea,” which can be uncomfortable for anyone prone to seasickness. The tour does offer seasickness tablets, but if you’re particularly sensitive, this is worth keeping in mind. Also, since the tours are separate, you’ll need to be prepared for two departures and the switch between boats.

Another point is the timing of the tours—you choose your whale watching departure, then the puffin trip is scheduled later in the day. Make sure your plans allow for the timeframe, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Lastly, keep in mind that no transportation is included to the meeting point, so plan your arrival at Geirsgata 11 accordingly, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Reykjavik’s public transit options.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits anyone interested in wildlife and nature, from casual wildlife watchers to passionate birders and marine life enthusiasts. It’s particularly good for travelers who want a mix of large-scale whale sightings and intimate puffin encounters. Those who enjoy a boat trip with scenic views will find plenty to love here.

However, if seasickness is a concern, be prepared with medication, or consider whether a smaller, calmer boat might suit you better. It’s not specifically designed for children, but older kids who can handle a boat ride and are curious about animals could enjoy it.

FAQ

Is the whale watching boat large or small?
It’s a larger vessel that can roll in the waves, which some travelers find less stable. The puffin tour uses a smaller boat, better for getting close to nesting islands.

How long does each part of the tour last?
The whale watching segment is about 3 to 3.5 hours, and the puffin tour is roughly 1 hour.

Are there amenities onboard?
Yes, free WiFi is available, and binoculars are provided for the puffin trip. Seasickness tablets are also complimentary if needed.

Can I rebook if I don’t see any wildlife?
Absolutely. You’re given a free ticket to join again if no sightings occur during your trip.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Geirsgata 11, 101 Reykjavík, and ends back at the same place.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically designed for children, older kids with an interest in wildlife and able to handle boat rides should find it engaging.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly, bring layers, and be prepared for the wind and spray. Don’t forget your camera and perhaps some snacks, as it’s a half-day adventure.

Final Thoughts

This combined Wildlife Whale Watching and Puffin Tour in Reykjavik offers a well-rounded way to connect with Iceland’s incredible marine life. The mix of larger boats for whale sightings and smaller vessels for puffin encounters provides diverse perspectives, making it a rewarding experience. The knowledgeable guides, scenic backdrop, and amenities enhance the trip’s appeal, especially for those who value comfort and expert insights.

While the larger whale-watching boat can be a bit bumpy, the chance to see whales in their natural environment and to observe puffins up close makes this a worthwhile outing for many travelers. It’s best suited for those who enjoy boat trips, are comfortable with the water, and want to witness some of Iceland’s most iconic wildlife.

Overall, if you’re after an authentic, wildlife-focused adventure that combines scenery with marine life sightings, this tour is likely to add a memorable chapter to your Iceland story. Just be ready for the boat ride, pack appropriately, and enjoy the spectacular views and fascinating creatures you’ll encounter.