Reykjavik Shore Excursion: Puffin Sightseeing Cruise

Explore Puffin Habitat with a Reykjavik Shore Excursion for $62.90

This Reykjavik Shore Excursion: Puffin Sightseeing Cruise offers a unique opportunity to see Iceland’s native puffins and seabirds in their natural environment. Priced at $62.90 per person, the tour lasts approximately 1 hour and departs from the Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal in Reykjavik. It’s a popular choice, with over 20 bookings last month, making it a well-established and reliable option for wildlife lovers and curious travelers alike.

The tour includes round-trip transfers from the port, making logistics straightforward for cruise visitors. The cruise’s main highlight is the chance to see puffins, Arctic terns, and black guillemots on Akurey Island, a designated seabird habitat just outside Reykjavik. While the duration is short, the experience offers plenty of opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and learning about local flora and fauna, led by an expert guide.

Key Points

• Price: $62.90 per person, with pick-up included from Skarfabakki Harbour
• Duration: approximately 1 hour, including transfers
• Focus: Wildlife viewing of puffins, Arctic terns, and black guillemots on Akurey Island
• Boat type: Smaller, shallow-draft vessel capable of reaching close to rocky shoreline
• Expert guides provide bird identification and facts, with binoculars supplied
• Flexible departure times to suit your schedule

Starting Point at Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal in Reykjavik

The excursion begins at the Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal in Reykjavik, one of the main docking spots for cruise ships. Complimentary transfers are available for guests arriving from Skarfabakki Harbour, making it easy to connect from the port. The meeting point is in close proximity to public transportation, simplifying arrival for most travelers.

Guests should note that Miðbakki is a short walk away from the departure point, but the included minivan transfer ensures a comfortable start to the tour. The small group size, with a maximum of 33 travelers, helps create an intimate and engaging experience with fewer crowds.

The 15-Minute Journey to Akurey Island

Once onboard the state-of-the-art sightseeing boat, the cruise departs from Reykjavik and heads toward Akurey Island. This 15-minute trip offers a relaxed setting to enjoy scenic views of Iceland’s coastline and listen to the guides’ onboard commentary about the local environment.

The boat’s shallow draft allows it to approach the rocky shoreline of Akurey closely, providing a stable platform to observe nesting sites and bird activity. During the cruise, binoculars are available for guests to get a closer look at the puffins and other seabirds flying overhead.

Close Encounters with Puffins and Other Seabirds

Cruising around Akurey Island, the guides lead you to areas where puffins nest and feed. While environmental restrictions prevent the boat from getting too close directly to the nesting sites, the viewing distance still offers excellent opportunities to see and photograph thousands of puffins. Several reviews mention the spectacle of puffins flying overhead and bobbing on the water, often with fish in their beaks.

Along With puffins, you may spot Arctic terns and black guillemots, adding to the diversity of seabirds observed. The guides’ knowledge ensures you learn about each species’ behavior, habits, and nesting patterns, enriching the wildlife experience.

The Experience of Watching Birds from the Water

After completing the circular tour around Akurey Island, the boat pauses momentarily with the engine silenced. This quiet period allows for calm photography and a chance to soak in the scenery. Many appreciate this tranquil moment as an excellent photo opportunity.

Guests frequently comment that the guides’ commentary enhances the experience, providing insights into bird behavior, local flora, and the history of Akurey Island. The binoculars supplied onboard make it easier to see the small puffins clearly, even from a distance.

Onboard Amenities: Coffee and Guided Commentary

During the cruise, coffee is served onboard, adding a bit of comfort to the wildlife viewing. The expert guides share informative commentary in multiple languages via a special tour app available in English, German, French, Spanish, and Chinese. Although some reviews mention a sound system that could be clearer, the guides’ knowledge and friendliness shine through.

This tour emphasizes education and observation, making it suitable for those interested in nature, birdwatching, and Iceland’s coastal environment. The short duration, combined with the small boat size, creates an up-close and personal wildlife encounter.

Weather Considerations and Seasonality

The tour operates in good weather conditions, with weather-dependent cancellations possible. Some reviews note that late in the season, some of the seabirds have already left, but enough puffins remain to make the trip worthwhile. The rescheduling option ensures flexibility, and a full refund is available if the tour is canceled due to weather.

Travelers should prepare for potentially wet conditions, especially late in the season, and consider bringing appropriate clothing. The small boat means that seas can be choppy, so the tour may not be suitable for those with severe motion sickness.

The Pros and Cons Based on Real Feedback

The tour’s strengths include knowledgeable guides, close views of puffins, and an intimate small-boat experience. Many guests highlight the enthusiasm and expertise of the guides, especially the ability to get really close to the island. The supply of binoculars and the informative commentary are also praised.

On the other hand, some limitations are noted. The small boat can make it difficult to capture good photos unless you sit on the starboard side, and environmental restrictions prevent getting very close to the birds for photography. Weather can influence visibility and the number of puffins seen, so timing matters.

The Value of This Puffin Cruise in Reykjavik

For $62.90, this tour provides a compact, informative wildlife experience with round-trip transfers and binoculars included. The 1-hour duration makes it an efficient add-on for cruise passengers or visitors short on time but eager to see local seabirds.

Reviews consistently mention that despite being late in the season, the trip still delivers plenty of puffin sightings and educational value. The small group and personalized guidance make this a friendly, engaging activity that suits nature enthusiasts and families alike.

Final Thoughts on the Puffin Sightseeing Cruise

This Reykjavik puffin cruise stands out for its close-up birdwatching, expert guides, and easy logistics. While weather and environmental restrictions can limit how close you get to the birds, the opportunity to see thousands of puffins flying and nesting is enough to satisfy most bird lovers.

It’s an ideal short excursion for cruise passengers wanting a quick, educational wildlife experience with stunning scenic views. The small boat size contributes to a more personal and intimate encounter with Iceland’s seabirds, making it a worthwhile addition to any Reykjavik itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, including transfers and the cruise itself.

What is included in the price?
The price covers round-trip transfers from Skarfabakki Harbour, binoculars, expert guide, coffee onboard, and the boat cruise.

Can I see puffins from the boat?
Yes, the boat is designed to approach Akurey Island closely enough for good birdwatching and photography, even though environmental restrictions prevent direct nesting site access.

What departure times are available?
Multiple departure times are offered, allowing you to choose a schedule that fits your plans.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the short duration and nature-focused experience make it suitable for children, especially with guides who keep the experience engaging.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing and rain gear if needed, as weather can vary. The binoculars are provided, but bringing your own can enhance the experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent; if canceled, you receive a full refund or rescheduling.

Is this tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the short walk to the departure point. The boat’s size limits access for some.

What makes this tour different from other wildlife excursions in Reykjavik?
Its focus on birdwatching on Akurey Island, small boat design for closer views, and knowledgeable guides are key differentiators.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings can be made through the provided platform, with full cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.