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Whale Watching in Faxaflói Bay – Reykjavík Boat Tour
Pickup available · 3 hours
Reykjavík
From
14.500 ISK
Reykjavík: Puffin Watching Boat Tour – 1 Hour
Spot Atlantic puffins up close on a 1-hour small-boat tour from Reykjavík's Old Harbour. Cruise past Engey, Akurey, or Lundey islands to observe puffins and other seabirds in their natural habitat, with live English commentary and binoculars included.
- Duration
- 1 hour
- Starts From
- Reykjavík
- Pickup
- Pickup available
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Season
- All year
- Passengers
- Min 1
- Travel method
- Boat
About this experience
↓
Join Elding Adventure at Sea for a classic 1-hour puffin tour departing from Reykjavík's Old Harbour, just minutes from the city centre. Available from late April to mid-August, this intimate small-boat excursion brings you face to face with one of Iceland's most beloved seabirds — the Atlantic puffin, affectionately known as the "clown of the sea."
Depending on tides and conditions, the boat navigates to one of three puffin-rich islands: Engey, Akurey, or Lundey. The captain steers close to the rocky shores without landing, giving passengers an up-close view of nesting puffins while fully respecting their habitat. Alongside puffins, keep an eye out for arctic terns, eider ducks, guillemots, and cormorants — and occasionally seals resting along the shoreline.
The knowledgeable crew provides live commentary in English throughout, sharing fascinating facts about the birds and the surrounding marine environment. When conditions allow, the engines may be switched off so you can absorb the natural soundscape of the colony undisturbed.
This tour operates under a responsible wildlife-watching code of conduct, ensuring every encounter is on the animals' terms. A puffin guarantee means that if no puffins are spotted, you receive a complimentary ticket to try again on another day at no extra cost.
Highlights
↓
Pickup point
Pickup or meeting details are confirmed during booking.
Frequently asked questions
When does the puffin tour season run?↓
The classic puffin tour operates from late April to mid-August, which is when Atlantic puffins are present in Iceland to nest and breed. Outside this window, puffins have returned to the open ocean and the tour is not available.
Which island does the boat visit?↓
The captain selects one of three islands — Engey, Akurey, or Lundey — based on tides and conditions on the day. All three are known for their large puffin colonies and abundant birdlife.
What other wildlife might I see on the tour?↓
In addition to puffins, passengers commonly spot arctic terns, eider ducks, guillemots, and cormorants around the islands. There is also a chance of seeing seals along the rocky shorelines, though all wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions.
What should I wear and bring on the puffin tour?↓
Dress in warm, layered clothing suitable for changeable Icelandic weather. Raincoats and binoculars are provided on board. Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear as the boat deck can be slippery. A camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for close-up photos of the birds.
Is the tour suitable for children?↓
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and welcomes children. Separate pricing categories apply for children (ages 0–6) and youth (ages 7–15). The 1-hour duration and calm harbour departure make it accessible for most ages.
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