Puffin Watching Speedboat Express

Discover Iceland’s Puffins on a Speedboat Adventure from Reykjavík

The Puffin Watching Speedboat Express offers an exciting way to see puffins in their natural habitat just outside Reykjavík. Priced at $76 per person, this one-hour tour takes you on a luxury rigid inflatable boat (RIB), ensuring a fast and intimate wildlife encounter. With a focus on proximity and comfort, the tour is ideal for those looking for a quick, engaging activity that leaves mornings and afternoons free for other adventures.

This tour is particularly popular, often booked 48 days in advance, reflecting its appeal among visitors. The experience is designed for small groups—up to 12 travelers—which enhances the chance to ask questions and learn about puffins and native wildlife from a knowledgeable guide. The tour is suitable for most, although children must be at least 140 cm tall to participate, making it a family-friendly option.

Key Points

• Price: $76 per person for one hour of wildlife-focused boat riding
• Group size: Small group with a maximum of 12 travelers
• Gear provided: Warm waterproof overalls, gloves, goggles, and lifejacket
• Departure point: Reykjavík, by BoatÆgisgarður 5F
• Timing: Starts at 12:00 pm, perfect for a lunchtime activity
• Booking: Typically booked around 48 days in advance; free cancellation available

The Speedboat That Brings You Close to Puffins and Islands

The luxury RIB speedboat is a standout feature of this tour. With 12 seats, it guarantees an intimate experience with plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the journey. The boat’s high speed means travelers reach the islands near Reykjavík quickly, maximizing time spent observing the puffins and other wildlife.

Once the boat arrives at the islands, the engines are turned off to allow a quiet, wildlife-friendly environment. This approach provides a peaceful setting where you can observe puffins, both sitting on the rocks and flying nearby, without the distraction of boat noise. The boat ride itself is described as very fun, combining the thrill of speed with the serenity of nature.

Visiting Puffin Nesting Islands Close Up

The main highlight of this tour is the opportunity to see puffins nesting and flying in their natural habitat. The 15-minute boat ride to the islands is swift, leaving plenty of time for wildlife observation once there. The proximity to the islands allows for close encounters, making it easier to see the colorful beaks and distinctive markings of puffins.

Along With puffins, the islands may also host other native wildlife, enriching the overall experience. Being able to be close to the puffins helps visitors appreciate these charming birds in a way that traditional viewing might not allow.

Comfort and Safety on the RIB Speedboats

For comfort and safety, the tour includes full guidance in English, with informative commentary about puffins, the islands, and general Icelandic wildlife. Travelers are provided with warm waterproof overalls, gloves, and goggles, ensuring they remain cozy even if the weather turns chilly or windy.

A lifejacket is also included, adding to the safety measures on the high-speed boat. The equipment and safety protocols are designed to make the experience comfortable and worry-free, especially considering Iceland’s variable weather conditions.

Meeting Point and Tour Timing Details

The tour departs from Reykjavík by BoatÆgisgarður 5F at 12:00 pm. The short duration—just one hour—makes it easy to slot into a busy sightseeing day. The tour concludes back at the starting point, so there’s no need for additional transportation arrangements.

Since this is a midday tour, it fits well with other Reykjavík activities and sightseeing plans. The tour is accessible for most, with most travelers able to participate, but children must meet the minimum height requirement of 140 cm.

Booking and Cancellation Flexibility

Booking for the Puffin Watching Speedboat Express is straightforward, with the tour generally booked around 48 days in advance. The provider, Katla Whale Watching ehf, offers a free cancellation policy if canceled more than 24 hours beforehand.

This policy provides peace of mind, especially given Iceland’s unpredictable weather, which can lead to cancellations. If weather conditions are poor, the tour is either rescheduled or fully refunded, ensuring travelers do not lose their booking fee.

Small-Group Experience and Personalized Interaction

The tour’s small-group size of up to 12 travelers creates an environment conducive to personalized questions and in-depth discussion. The guides are described as providing excellent commentary, making the wildlife, nature, and local environment accessible and interesting.

This setting allows for a more relaxed and engaging experience, especially for those eager to learn about puffins and their environment from knowledgeable guides. The father and son operated business adds a friendly, personal touch to the adventure.

Practical Tips for Participants

Travelers should arrive on time at the meeting point and be prepared for variable weather conditions by wearing the provided warm waterproof gear. The short tour duration makes it ideal for those with limited time in Reykjavík or seeking a quick wildlife fix.

Participants should also consider the height requirement if bringing children, and note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan transportation accordingly. The free cancellation policy allows flexibility if weather or other plans change.

Comparing This Tour with Other Icelandic Wildlife Activities

While this tour focuses specifically on puffin sightings, similar experiences include full-day South Coast tours, Golden Circle excursions, or visits to Blue Lagoon. However, this speedboat trip offers a focused, close-up wildlife encounter that larger bus tours cannot match.

The small-group format and fast boat ensure a more personal and intimate experience, ideal for nature enthusiasts wanting a behind-the-scenes look at puffin behavior and habitat.

Who Will Enjoy the Puffin Speedboat Tour?

This activity appeals most to wildlife lovers, photographers, and those seeking a short but memorable excursion from Reykjavík. Families with children meeting the height requirement will appreciate the family-friendly nature of the trip.

Since the tour includes warm, waterproof gear, it is suitable even in cooler or windier weather, offering a comfortable way to experience Iceland’s native wildlife. The free cancellation policy also makes it a flexible choice amid Iceland’s often unpredictable weather.

Final Thoughts on the Puffin Watching Speedboat Express

The Puffin Watching Speedboat Express stands out as a compact, engaging, and well-equipped wildlife tour near Reykjavík. The luxury RIB boats, small-group environment, and expert commentary ensure a high-quality experience for those eager to see puffins close-up.

While it’s a short tour, the speed and proximity make it rich in wildlife encounters and fun. The gear provided and flexible booking policies add to its appeal, especially for travelers looking for a hassle-free, nature-focused activity during a visit to Iceland.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately one hour.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $76, which includes gear, guidance, and the boat ride.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Reykjavík by BoatÆgisgarður 5F.

Is there a minimum age or height?
Children must be at least 140 cm tall to participate.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes full guidance in English, warm waterproof overalls, gloves, goggles, a lifejacket, and the boat ride itself.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

What if the weather is poor?
If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off.

How close can I get to the puffins?
The boat allows you to get as close as possible to the islands and puffins, with engines turned off on arrival for quiet wildlife viewing.

How many people are on each boat?
Each boat accommodates up to 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The speedboat offers fast access to puffin habitats, and the small-group setting enhances interaction and wildlife observation.