Reykjavik: Puffin Watching Boat Tour
Reykjavik: Puffin Watching Boat Tour
Duration: 1 hour (approx.)
1 hour (approx.)
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Cruise out from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour aboard the specially designed Old Skúli, with a knowledgeable guide and binoculars for up-close puffin encounters.
See Atlantic puffins nesting on nearby islands just 15 minutes from the city. The sightings are guaranteed on every tour.
Glide past Akurey and surrounding bird-rich islands while learning fascinating facts about the wildlife and local geography.
You can access the Special Tours Iceland app which is available in 5 languages, offering text and audio commentary about puffins, islands, and Reykjavík’s coastline.
Traditional wooden boat tour
100% guaranteed puffin sightings
Knowledgeable guide
Small-group experience
Binoculars on board
App available in 5 languages
Transfers
Food and drink
Puffins on a grassy cliff during a boat tour from Reykjavik.
Spot puffins up close on a 1-hour small-group boat tour from Reykjavik, guided by local experts with 100% guaranteed sightings.
Getting started
Begin at the Special Tours office on Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, where your guide welcomes you and provides a quick overview. After a brief introduction, board the traditional wooden boat and receive binoculars for the journey.
What to expect
Set sail from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour and glide across the Faxaflói Bay to visit the tiny islands of Akurey and Lundey, home to thousands of puffins and a variety of seabirds. As the boat nears the islands, the engine is switched off, letting you observe the birds quietly and up close, with minimal disturbance to their natural habitat.
About the vessel
The Old Skuli (Skúlaskeið) is a traditional wooden boat with a shallow draft, designed for puffin watching tours from Reykjavík. Its unique design lets passengers get close to Lundey and Akurey islands, offering up-close views of puffins and other seabirds in their natural habitat.
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
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Dress in warm layers, as it can feel colder on the water than in Reykjavík.
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Bring a windproof or waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes suitable for the boat deck.
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If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking medication, as the ride can be choppy.
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A valid photo ID is required for check-in at the Special Tours Ticket Office.
What’s not allowed
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Do not bring outside food or drinks on board.
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Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
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Alcohol, drugs, or boarding under the influence are strictly forbidden.
Accessibility
- Accessibility depends on the vessel. Old Skúli has limited space, so wheelchair users may not be able to board comfortably.
Additional information
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Tours operate weather permitting; trips may be cancelled for safety in rough conditions, with a full refund provided.
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Binoculars are provided on board to get a closer view of the puffins and surrounding wildlife.
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Meet at the Special Tours Ticket Office, Geirsgata 11, 101 Reykjavík, near the Old Harbour. Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure. Hotel pick-up is available 30 minutes before if selected.
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A knowledgeable guide accompanies you, and the Special Tours Iceland app offers audio and text commentary in five languages.
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There is no direct parking at the harbour, but paid parking and a nearby garage are available within walking distance.
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.
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