Reykjavik: Puffin Watching Tour

Get set for an exhilarating 1-hour puffin watching tour from Reykjavik, offered by Whale Safari. For $95 per person, this small-group experience takes you out into Faxaflói Bay aboard a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) to see hundreds of puffins along with other seabirds like gannets, auks, fulmars, and Arctic terns. Departing from the Reykjavik Old Harbour, this tour is perfect for wildlife lovers and those seeking a quick yet immersive adventure on the water.

The tour stands out because it uses a small, fast boat that gets closer to the islands and bird colonies than larger vessels typically do. While the one-hour duration makes it a short but lively trip, it offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and expert-guided commentary. This experience suits those prepared for a speedy ride, dressed warmly, and eager to see puffins in their natural environment, with no food or drinks provided and no hotel pickups.

Key Points

• Fast-paced RIB boat tour lasting around 1 hour from Reykjavik Old Harbour
• See hundreds of puffins along with gannets, auks, and Arctic terns
• Expert guides provide informative commentary on puffin habits and habitat
• Binoculars and safety gear included, warm coveralls provided
• Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a close-up view in a short time frame
• Not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or people with mobility issues

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Starting Point at Reykjavik Old Harbour

The adventure begins at the Whale Safari office located at the Reykjavik Old Harbour. After a brief safety orientation, participants are supplied with coveralls and safety equipment to handle the cold and wind on the open water. The small-group setting ensures plenty of space and a more personal experience, with professional guides and a skilled captain leading the trip.

The Thrill of the RIB Boat Ride

Cruising out into Faxaflói Bay, the RIB boat zips over the waves at a lively pace, making the journey as thrilling as the wildlife viewing. The boat’s open design ensures unobstructed views, and everyone gets a chance to spot seabirds soaring above and swimming around. The speed of the boat helps you cover a larger area and get closer to the islands where puffins nest.

Close Encounters with Puffins and Seabirds

As the boat approaches the rocky islands and sea cliffs, puffins become the star of the show. They nest on the islands between May and August, and the boat’s proximity allows for great photo opportunities of puffins flying, diving, and nesting. The guide shares fascinating facts about the puffins’ feeding habits, flight behavior, and diet, enriching the experience.

Along With puffins, the tour offers sights of gannets, auks, fulmars, and Arctic terns. These seabirds add to the vibrant scene, often seen flying overhead or swimming on the water. The guide’s expertise ensures that you understand each bird’s role in this lively ecosystem.

Expert Guides and Photography Tips

Knowledgeable guides like Rob and Miquel stand out for their friendly attitude and informative commentary. They are happy to answer questions and take photos of the puffins and seabirds, often sharing these images via email at no extra charge. This makes capturing great memories easy, even for amateur photographers.

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What to Bring for Comfort and Safety

Participants should come prepared with warm clothing and comfortable, closed-toe shoes. The provided coveralls are designed to protect against the wind and splashes, but dressing in layers is recommended for comfort on the open water. Since luggage and large bags are not allowed, it’s best to travel light. Binoculars are available for enhanced wildlife viewing.

Duration and Pacing of the Tour

The 1-hour cruise is designed to be a fast and lively experience, making it suitable for those with limited time or looking for a quick wildlife fix. The trip’s pacing is energetic, with the boat bumping over waves and speeding between islands, providing both adventure and wildlife observation.

Weather Considerations and Best Time

The best time to see puffins in Iceland is between May and August, aligning with their nesting season. Weather conditions can vary, so participants should be prepared for cold, windy, or possibly rainy weather. The tour’s safety equipment helps mitigate some of these conditions.

How This Tour Differs from Larger Vessel Tours

Unlike larger, slower boats, the RIB used in this tour can navigate closer to the islands and reach more remote nesting sites. This allows for more intimate bird sightings and better photo opportunities. The small size also means fewer passengers, providing a more personalized experience.

Booking, Cancellation, and Accessibility

Bookings can be made in advance, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour. The tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility or back problems. No hotel pickup is provided, and guests meet directly at the Old Harbour.

The Overall Experience and Summary

This puffin watching adventure offers a thrilling, close-up view of Iceland’s seabirds from a fast, open boat. The combination of expert guides, safety gear, and binoculars makes it a convenient, immersive wildlife experience. While the one-hour duration limits the time on the water, it provides excellent opportunities to see hundreds of puffins and learn about their behaviors.

The tour’s high ratings of 4.8 out of 5 from over 200 reviews underline its popularity and quality. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge of guides like Rob and Miquel, as well as the close encounters with puffins and other seabirds. Many mention how speeding around the bay adds to the fun, making it a memorable highlight of their Iceland trip.

This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts, photography lovers, and anyone eager to see puffins in their natural habitat within a short, exciting trip. Its small-group format and focus on close-up viewing make it a standout choice for those seeking an authentic birdwatching adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to see puffins on this tour?
The tour operates and provides the best puffin sightings during the nesting months of May through August.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for children under 10 years old, due to the nature of the high-speed boat ride and safety considerations.

What should I wear for the trip?
Dressing in warm, comfortable clothes with closed-toe shoes is recommended. The coveralls supplied help protect against wind and splashes.

Can I book this tour and cancel later?
Yes, bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby