Reykjavik: Puffin Watching Tour by RIB Speedboat

If you’re heading to Iceland and love wildlife, a puffin watching tour from Reykjavik is one of those experiences that promises both excitement and a chance to see these charming birds in their natural habitat. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, I’ve researched it thoroughly and spoken with travelers who have, so I can give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What really caught my eye about this tour is the small group size and the up-close perspective on the puffins, thanks to the speedboat approach. Plus, the guides seem to be quite knowledgeable, which always makes a difference when you’re trying to learn about the wildlife you’re seeing. On the flip side, the brevity of the tour—just an hour—means it’s a quick, punchy experience rather than a long wildlife expedition, so it’s best if you’re looking for a fast, engaging outing rather than an extended adventure.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a fun, accessible, and educational wildlife encounter close to Reykjavik, especially if weather conditions are suitable for a boat ride. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy boat trips and want to see puffins without spending hours on the water. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Close-up Puffin Sightings: The boat gets you right up close to thousands of puffins, making for some fantastic photo opportunities.
• Educational and Informative Guides: Expect knowledgeable guides who provide lots of facts about puffins and other bird species.
• Fast and Convenient: The entire tour lasts just one hour, making it easy to fit into a busy day.
• Stunning Views: Besides puffins, you’ll enjoy sights of mountains, city lights, and the scenic islands.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour only departs if conditions are safe, so flexibility is key.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 12 participants, which means a more personal experience.

Starting from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, this tour offers a quick but immersive wildlife experience. The departure point is a rustic wooden hut marked REYKJAVIK BY BOAT, so keep an eye out to find it easily. It is recommended to arrive 30 minutes early to gear up and prepare. The tour lasts only an hour but packs a punch for those wanting a taste of Iceland’s marine life.

Once onboard the RIB speedboat, the adventure begins with a thrilling ride toward two small islands—Lundey and Akurey. These islands are roughly 15 minutes from the harbor, making the journey short enough to sustain excitement without fatigue. The boat’s shallow draft allows it to come quite close to the rocky shores, giving you an excellent vantage point for birdwatching.

The Islands and Wildlife

When you arrive at these islands, the engine is turned off to allow passengers to observe the birds in peace. The guides will share their insights about the puffins and other bird species visible in the area, such as northern fulmars, gulls, arctic terns, and black guillemots.

What makes this tour stand out is that it combines fun with education. According to reviews, guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. One traveler mentioned, “The guides shared lots of information about puffins and other birds, which made the experience much richer.” This kind of commentary helps you understand what you’re seeing beyond just counting colorful birds.

The Puffins

During the brief stay on the islands, you’ll see thousands of puffins—a sight that’s genuinely delightful. The puffins are often described as adorable, with their striking beaks and curious behavior. The shallow-draft boats allow for a close-up view that is difficult to achieve on larger boats or land-based tours.

Views and Atmosphere

While the main focus is on the puffins, the surrounding scenery adds to the experience. Expect panoramic views of mountains and, if the timing aligns, the shimmering lights of Reykjavik city in the distance. The experience offers a nice balance of wildlife observation and scenic beauty.

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The Experience Level and Comfort

The tour provides full-body waterproof suits and goggles, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable despite the sometimes choppy sea conditions. Life vests are included, and the boat ride is lively but controlled. The small group size enhances the feeling of being part of an intimate wildlife adventure rather than a crowded tourist trap.

At $82 per person, this tour offers a value-packed experience considering its duration and the personal attention you receive. For wildlife lovers, the chance to get close to thousands of puffins and learn about them from guides is usually worth it. The inclusion of waterproof gear and a guided commentary adds to the perceived value.

However, keep in mind this is a short, focused tour, so if you’re looking for a laid-back, lengthy wildlife cruise, this might not meet that expectation. Still, for those with limited time or wanting a quick, fun outing, it hits the mark.

Most reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning bird views. One even says, “The boat was perfect for getting close to the islands, and the guides were very informative.” The small group setting is often highlighted as a plus, making the experience feel more personal.

A couple of reviews mention that weather can impact the tour, which is common in Iceland. The captains will decide whether conditions are suitable for sailing, so flexibility in your schedule can be helpful. No one reported negative experiences with safety, which is reassuring.

• Arrive early: To get fitted with gear and settle in.
• Dress warmly: Even with waterproof suits, layers help if it’s chilly.
• Bring waterproof shoes: The gear provided is helpful, but proper footwear can make a difference.
• Expect a quick trip: It’s only 1 hour, so plan your day accordingly.
• Check the weather: If weather isn’t suitable, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled.
• Download the Special Tours app: It offers additional info and enhances the experience with audio guides.

This experience is well-suited for wildlife enthusiasts, small groups, and those looking for a fast, engaging outing from Reykjavik. It’s ideal if you want to see puffins without committing to a longer boat trip or a more complex tour.

Travelers with a love of scenic views, birds, and fun boat rides will find this tour enjoyable. It’s not designed for very young children or those with mobility issues due to the boat ride and safety considerations. Also, since the tour depends on weather, flexible schedules and patience are helpful.

The Reykjavik Puffin Watching Tour by RIB Speedboat offers a lively, educational glimpse into Iceland’s seabird life. Its strength lies in the close-up views of thousands of puffins and the expert guidance that makes the experience memorable. The short duration and small group size keep it intimate and manageable, perfect for travelers who want a quick wildlife fix.

While it’s weather-dependent and not the longest or most relaxed tour available, it’s an exciting option for those eager to see puffins from a different perspective. If you love birds, fun boat rides, and scenic island views, this tour is likely to hit the spot.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts exactly 1 hour, making it easy to fit into your sightseeing schedule.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You’ll meet at a small wooden hut in the Old Harbour area in Reykjavik, marked REYKJAVIK BY BOAT. Arriving 30 minutes early is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not suitable for small children under 4 ft 6 in (140 cm), mainly due to safety and suitability for boat conditions. It’s best for older kids and adults.

What should I wear?
Full-body waterproof suits and goggles are provided, but bring waterproof shoes and dress in layers underneath—weather in Iceland can change quickly.

Can I cancel if the weather isn’t good?
Yes, the tour offers full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance. The captain will decide on sailing based on weather conditions.

Are there guides on board?
Yes, licensed guides are onboard providing plenty of information about puffins and other bird species.

Is food or drinks included?
No, you’ll need to bring your own if you want snacks or drinks, as these aren’t provided.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to the meeting point is not included but can be purchased as an add-on.

If you’re after a fun, quick peek at Iceland’s adorable puffins and enjoy scenic boat rides, this tour offers a solid, memorable experience. Just remember to keep an eye on the weather and dress warmly — and get ready to see some very cute birds up close.

You can check availability for your dates here: