Reykjavik Premium Puffin tour | Close Up and Personal

Discover the Reykjavik Premium Puffin Tour: Close Encounters in Faxaflói Bay

The Reykjavik Premium Puffin tour offers a unique opportunity to observe puffins in their natural habitat just off the coast of Iceland’s capital. For $85 per person, this 1-hour small-group adventure departs from the Old Harbour and provides an engaging, close-up view of these charming seabirds during their breeding season. Traveling aboard a custom-made rigid inflatable boat (RIB), the tour maximizes your chances of spotting puffins and other seabirds within a well-organized, safety-conscious environment. It’s an ideal experience for those with moderate physical fitness who seek a quick but memorable wildlife encounter, combining expert guidance with the thrill of being close to nature.

While the tour is praised for its personalized small-group setting capped at 12 participants, it’s worth noting that rough seas can affect your ride, and snacks are not included. Booking 53 days in advance on average, this tour suits travelers who want a flexible, well-equipped, and informative puffin adventure that fits into a busy Reykjavik itinerary.

Key Points

• Close-up puffin sightings aboard a high-speed RIB boat in Faxaflói Bay
• Small-group size of up to 12 participants for personal attention
• Warm flotation suits and safety gear provided for comfort and safety
• Expert live guidance enhances wildlife identification and ecology understanding
• Approximately 1-hour duration fits easily into a day of Reykjavik sightseeing
• Rough water conditions may cause a bumpy ride, especially for sensitive guests

The Unique Experience of Puffins in Iceland’s Wild Habitat

This tour’s core appeal lies in getting as close as possible to puffins breeding on the islands near Reykjavik. The islands of Faxaflói Bay, particularly Lundey, serve as the breeding grounds during summer months. The 40-minute boat ride takes participants directly to these islands, where hundreds of puffins can be observed flying and swimming, often with fish in their beaks. The expert guide provides enlightening commentary about puffin behavior, ecology, and other seabirds encountered along the way, turning the trip into a mini wildlife lesson.

The custom-made RIB boat is designed for speed and agility, allowing the tour to approach the puffin nesting sites closer than traditional boat tours. The small group setting enhances the experience, allowing plenty of opportunities for questions, photo-taking, and wildlife observation without the crowds.

Meeting Point and Departure Details at Elding Whale Watching

The tour begins at Ægisgarður 5c in Reykjavík, right in the Old Harbour area, a location that’s near public transportation. The meeting point is easy to find, with no hotel pickup included, so guests should plan to arrive on time. After the 1-hour tour, the activity concludes back at the same meeting spot, making logistics straightforward for those exploring Reykjavik on their own.

The mobility requirements are moderate, with a need for guests to have moderate physical fitness and be comfortable on a speedy boat. The warm flotation suits, along with hats, gloves, and goggles provided, ensure guests remain comfortable despite Iceland’s often brisk and windy conditions.

Why Safety and Comfort Matter in Puffin Watching

Safety is a top priority on this tour, with necessary safety equipment included for every participant. The high-speed RIB can be rough in windy conditions, a detail acknowledged by some reviews noting bumpy rides. Guests prone to seasickness might want to prepare accordingly or consider the timing of their trip, especially during choppy weather.

The provided warm flotation suits—designed to keep participants warm and dry—are highly appreciated, especially given the speed of the boat and potential splashes. The cushioned seats on the boat contribute to a more comfortable ride, allowing everyone to focus on the birds and scenery.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Engaging Wildlife Experts

The live guidance on this tour is consistently praised for being knowledgeable and friendly. Guides share interesting facts about puffins, other seabirds, and local ecology, making each trip both fun and educational. Many reviews highlight the guide’s patience and ability to explain bird behaviors, helping even casual birdwatchers appreciate the sights.

Guides also provide photo tips, encouraging guests to capture the puffins despite their small size and constant movement. Bringing binoculars is recommended for a better view, and many guests find that the guides’ photos help them remember the experience.

Wildlife Encounters: Puffins and Beyond

The main highlight is observing hundreds of puffins in their natural environment, with many flying, swimming, or perched on cliffs. Puffins are known for their distinctive beaks and comical appearance, and the close proximity of the boat allows for memorable photos.

Some tours have the added bonus of spotting other seabirds or marine life, such as humpback whales or various fish, which can make the experience even more special. Notably, rough waters can lead to a more exciting ride, though that may not appeal to everyone.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

Guests should note the moderate physical fitness requirement. The tour involves getting on and off the boat and enduring a speedy ride that may be rough or bumpy. Guests with seasickness sensitivity might want to consider this, especially during windy or choppy weather conditions.

The age restriction begins at 10 years old or a height of 145 cm, making it suitable for older children and adults. The small group size ensures an intimate environment, but it also means that seats and spots are best secured through advance booking.

Comparing the Premium Experience to Other Bird Tours

This tour distinguishes itself by focusing on close-up puffin sightings with a small, personalized group. Many other tours are longer or involve larger boats, but the speed and proximity offered here provide a more intimate birdwatching opportunity. The $85 price point offers good value, especially considering the expert guidance and quality safety gear.

However, the rough water conditions can be a concern for some, and snacks are not included, so guests should plan accordingly. The 1-hour duration is a quick, convenient option for those who want a brief but scenic wildlife experience without taking up a large part of the day.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Reykjavik Wildlife Experiences

The key features that make this puffin tour stand out include its high-speed RIB boat that allows closer encounters and the small-group setting that enhances interaction and comfort. The expert guides and well-organized safety protocols ensure a reliable and educational outing.

Compared to other tours, this experience offers the best chance to see puffins in the wild from Reykjavik, especially during the breeding season. The warm gear and professional crew help mitigate some of the challenges of sea conditions, providing a safer and more comfortable ride.

Final Thoughts on the Reykjavik Premium Puffin Tour

For those eager to see puffins up close and learn about their ecology, this tour presents a solid choice. The small-group format and expert guidance make it a reliable, engaging wildlife outing, especially for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts.

While the rough seas can tame the ride, they also add a dash of excitement for those seeking an adrenaline boost. The duration makes it ideal for a half-day activity that complements other Reykjavik sightseeing.

This tour offers a memorable wildlife experience with excellent value for the price, especially when booked in advance. It’s best suited for those comfortable on a boat and curious about seabirds, eager to get close to puffins in their natural habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 10 years old or 145 cm in height, making it suitable for older children and adults. The ride’s speed and water conditions should be considered for sensitive guests.

What should I bring on the tour?
Guests are provided with warm flotation suits, but bringing additional warm clothing, binoculars, and a camera can enhance the experience. Snacks are not included, so plan accordingly.

How rough is the boat ride?
The ride can be rough or bumpy, especially in windy conditions. Some reviews mention sea sickness or fast, choppy water, so guests prone to seasickness should take precautions.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
The main focus is on puffins, but other seabirds and marine life, such as humpback whales, may be spotted depending on the day and conditions.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, and the tour is weather-dependent, with alternative dates or refunds offered if canceled due to poor weather.