Reykjavik: Puffin Watching Boat Tour
Reykjavik: Puffin Watching Boat Tour
Duration: 1 hour (approx.)
1 hour (approx.)
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Experience puffins up close on this 1-hour guided boat tour departing from Reykjavik, Iceland’s Old Harbor. Led by local experts with guaranteed sightings, you'll set sail for the tiny islands of Akurey and Lundey in Faxaflói Bay, home to thousands of these charming seabirds. The journey begins at Special Tours office where your guide provides an overview before boarding a traditional wooden boat equipped with binoculars.
Experience puffins up close on this 1-hour guided boat tour departing from Reykjavik, Iceland’s Old Harbor. Led by local experts with guaranteed sightings, you'll set sail for the tiny islands of Akurey and Lundey in Faxaflói Bay, home to thousands of these charming seabirds. The journey begins at Special Tours office where your guide provides an overview before boarding a traditional wooden boat equipped with binoculars.
From Reykjavik's Old Harbour, set sail on the specially designed wooden boat named The Old Skuli. Equipped with binoculars for observing puffins up close and accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.
In just 15 minutes from the city, discover Atlantic puffin nesting sites on nearby islands during this tour where sightings are guaranteed each time you go.
During your journey past Akurey and other bird-rich islands, absorb fascinating facts about local wildlife and geography shared with you throughout the ride.
Access informative text and audio commentary in five languages through the Special Tours Iceland app, which provides insights into puffins, nearby islands, and Reykjavik’s coastline.
Use of a Traditional wooden boat for the tour
Guaranteed puffin sightings at 100%
Access to a Knowledgeable guide during the experience
Entry into a Small-group setting ensures an intimate experience
Ticket includes Binoculars on board
App available in 5 languages
Transportation
Meals
Puffins on a grassy cliff during a boat tour from Reykjavik.
Your experience
Journey on a 1-hour small-group boat tour departing from Reykjavik for an intimate encounter with puffins. Local experts guide you, ensuring 100% guaranteed sightings of these fascinating birds.
Getting started
- The adventure begins at the Special Tours office located in Reykjavik’s Old Harbor. Here, your knowledgeable guide will welcome you and provide a brief overview before boarding the traditional wooden boat equipped with binoculars for optimal viewing experiences.
What to expect
Your tour sets sail from the scenic Old Harbour of Reykjavík, navigating through Faxaflói Bay towards Akurey and Lundey islands. These tiny islands are bustling habitats for thousands of puffins and various seabirds.
- As your boat approaches these islands, engines will be silenced to allow you a quiet observation opportunity with minimal disturbance to the birds’ natural environment.
About the vessel
The Old Skuli (Skúlaskeið), renowned for its traditional wooden construction and shallow draft, is perfectly designed for puffin watching tours departing from Reykjavik. This design enables close encounters with both Lundey and Akurey islands’ seabirds in their natural settings.
Puffin watching boat near rocky shore with passengers, Iceland flag visible.
Tour guide assisting guest with life jacket on Reykjavik puffin watching boat tour.
Puffins on a grassy cliff during a boat tour from Reykjavik.
Puffin watching boat near rocky shore with passengers, Iceland flag visible.
Tour guide assisting guest with life jacket on Reykjavik puffin watching boat tour.
Puffins on a grassy cliff during a Reykjavik boat tour.
What to bring
- Dress in warm layers since it can be chillier on the water than in Reykjavík.
- Come prepared with a windproof or waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes for walking on the boat deck.
- If you tend to get seasick, consider taking medication as the ride may have rough patches.
Ensure you carry a valid photo ID for check-in at the Special Tours Ticket Office.
What’s not allowed
- No outside food or drinks are permitted on board.
- Pets aren't allowed, except registered service animals.
The consumption of alcohol and drugs is strictly prohibited, as well as boarding under the influence.
Accessibility
Boarding accessibility varies by vessel. The Old Skúli has limited space, making it potentially uncomfortable for wheelchair users to board.
Additional information
- Tours are weather-dependent; they may be cancelled due to rough conditions, with a full refund assured.
- The tour provides binoculars on board to enhance viewing of puffins and other wildlife.
- Gather at the Special Tours Ticket Office located at Geirsgata 11, 101 Reykjavík near Old Harbour. Arrive no less than 15 minutes before departure. If you choose hotel pick-up, it's available 30 minutes prior to departure.
- A knowledgeable guide will accompany your tour, and the Special Tours Iceland app offers commentary in five languages via audio and text.
There is no direct parking at the harbour; however, paid parking options are within walking distance from a nearby garage.
Puffin flying with fish during Reykjavik boat tour.
Puffins on a grassy cliff during a Reykjavik boat tour.
Puffin flying with fish during Reykjavik boat tour.
Book your tour in advance during peak season to ensure availability and avoid any sold-out sessions.
Dress warmly with layers, as it can be colder on the water than in Reykjavík itself; bring a windproof or waterproof jacket along with sturdy shoes for the boat deck.
If you are prone to seasickness, consider taking medication beforehand since the ride might get choppy at times.
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