Reykjavik: Puffin Watching Tour

Western Region, Iceland, Reykjavik



Get up-close views of Iceland’s beautiful puffins from a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) on a 1-hour cruise from Reykjavik. Board your RIB and whiz across Faxaflói Bay to see the puffins congregated on its islands and cliffs.

This puffin watching cruise by RIB boat departs from Reykjavik Old Harbour and suits nature lovers interested in Icelandic seabirds.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a puffin watching cruise by RIB boat from Reykjavik
  • Whizz out into Faxaflói Bay to watch puffins and seabirds
  • Cruise around sea cliffs and islands to observe nesting birds
  • Learn about these colorful birds from your expert guide
  • Watch for gannets, auks, and Arctic terns

Description

Discover Iceland’s puffins on a wildlife tour by RIB boat, which can cover larger areas and get closer to birds than conventional vessels. Observe puffins as they nest, dive, and fly while cruising near rocks and cliffs.

Make your own way to Reykjavik Old Harbour in the early morning to meet your captain. After a safety briefing and putting on provided coveralls, board the boat and hold the grab rail as it sets off.

Take in views of Faxaflói Bay as the RIB speeds over cold waters. Watch for various sea birds including puffins, gannets, auks, fulmars, and Arctic terns that frequent the bay and its islands in summer.

The boat approaches rocky islands and sea cliffs where puffins nest between May and August. Listen to your guide and captain share facts about puffin behavior, diet, and natural habits while you photograph the birds nesting, diving, and flying.

After about one hour at sea, the cruise returns to Reykjavik Harbour where the tour concludes.

Includes

  • Professional captain and wildlife guide
  • Use of coveralls
  • All necessary safety equipment
  • Binoculars

Excludes

  • Food and drinks
  • Tips (optional)
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Important Information

  • To participate in the tour guests must:
    • Be at least 145 cm (4ft 9in) tall
    • Weigh less than 140 kg (308 lb)
    • Have no history of back or knee problems

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Wear warm clothing and sturdy shoes. The best time to see puffins is between May and August. Book early to secure your preferred departure time.

Frequently Asked Questions

You will cruise by RIB boat from Reykjavik Old Harbour to Faxaflói Bay to observe puffins, seabirds, and learn about them from an expert guide.
The tour departs from Reykjavik Old Harbour.
The RIB boat allows you to get closer to puffins and seabird nesting areas than conventional vessels.
You may also see gannets, auks, and Arctic terns during the cruise around islands and sea cliffs.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for nature lovers of all ages interested in seabirds.
Puffin watching is best during the nesting season, typically from late spring to early summer; check the website for current tour availability.
The duration varies by operator, so check the website for specific times.
Yes, booking online is available through the activity provider's website.
Wear warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes as conditions on Faxaflói Bay can be cool and breezy.

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