Two-In-One: Whale & Puffin Watching Tours from Reykjavik

Discover the unique opportunity to see whales and puffins in their natural habitats with this two-in-one boat tour from Reykjavik. Priced at $140 per person, this half-day experience offers both a puffin watching trip on a smaller vessel and a longer whale watching adventure on a larger boat, making it ideal for nature lovers. With a total duration of 4 to 6 hours, the tour combines wildlife encounters with free time to explore Reykjavik’s charming Old Harbour. The activity is well-rated at 4.5 out of 5 based on 30 reviews, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and stunning wildlife sightings.

While the tour provides protection gear, heated indoor viewing areas, and free WiFi onboard, it’s important to note that food and drinks are available for purchase, and pickup/dropoff options may incur extra costs. Perfect for those eager to combine wildlife observation with a relaxed pace, this tour suits most travelers, although unpredictable weather can affect the experience.

Key Points

• Price of $140 per person includes two separate boat tours.
• Tour duration spans approximately 4 to 6 hours, with puffin and whale watching segments.
• Puffin watch on a smaller vessel at Lundey Island, with binoculars provided.
• Whale watching in Faxaflói Bay with a sighting guarantee — if whales aren’t seen, you can ride again for free.
• Heated indoor saloons and protective gear ensure comfort during the tours.
• Live commentary enhances understanding of wildlife, with some reviews highlighting marine biologist guides.

Starting Point and Meeting Details in Reykjavik

This tour begins at Elding Whale Watching’s base at Ægisgarður 5c in Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. The meeting point is easy to access, and public transportation nearby makes it convenient to arrive on time. The activity ends back at the same location, simplifying logistics. If needed, additional pickup or dropoff services can be arranged for a fee.

Exploring Lundey Island for Puffin Watching

The first stop takes you on a small passenger boat to Lundey Island, home to thousands of puffins during breeding season. The one-hour tour offers excellent views of these charming birds, which are often seen fluttering near the water or resting on the cliffs. Binoculars are available for rent, or travelers can bring their own zoom cameras for better photos.

Some reviews mention that the puffins can be distant or fast-moving, making them difficult to photograph at times. The boat’s small size allows for closer proximity, but nature’s unpredictability remains a factor.

Free Time in Reykjavik’s Old Harbour for Lunch

After the puffin tour, travelers enjoy about 1.5 hours of free time in the Old Harbour area. This is an excellent chance to grab lunch at one of the many local restaurants, many of which offer fresh seafood and Icelandic specialties. Staff are happy to recommend venues, ensuring a relaxing break before heading out for whale watching.

This downtime is appreciated by those wanting a casual meal or some light shopping in the vibrant harbor district, which buzzes with boats and maritime activity.

Whale Watching in Faxaflói Bay with a Sightings Guarantee

The second part of the tour takes place on a larger, more stable vessel sailing out into Faxaflói Bay, Iceland’s largest bay. This three-hour cruise searches for minke whales, humpback whales, porpoises, and dolphins. The sighting guarantee offers peace of mind: if no whales are seen, travelers can join another whale watch free of charge.

Protective clothing and heated indoor saloons with large viewing windows make this experience comfortable, even in cooler weather. The onboard live commentary provides insight into the whales’ behaviors, feeding habits, and the marine ecosystem.

Wildlife Viewing and Expert Guides

Throughout both tours, knowledgeable guides share insider facts and stories about the wildlife. Several reviews highlight that marine biologists or guides with extensive wildlife expertise lead the trips, enriching the experience with interesting commentary.

Guests often observe dolphins, humpback whales, and minke whales breaching, along with hundreds of puffins fluttering around Lundey Island. Some reviews mention seeing whales with white bellies or a pod of dolphins, making these trips memorable for wildlife sightings.

Comfort and Safety Features on Board

The tour ensures visitor comfort with heated indoor lounges, large viewing windows, and protective gear to handle the weather. Travelers also benefit from complimentary WiFi onboard, allowing easy sharing of wildlife photos or information during the trip.

For families, children under 13 must wear life vests for safety. The group size is limited to 30 travelers, maintaining an intimate and manageable experience.

Additional Benefits: Wildlife Exhibition and Free Re-ride

Participants gain access to an exhibit showcasing local wildlife, enhancing understanding of the species seen during the trips. The wildlife focus and live commentary elevate the tour beyond just boat rides.

If the weather prevents sightings, the sighting guarantee allows travelers to try again at no extra cost, adding reassurance to the value of this experience.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While most travelers can participate, it’s advisable to dress warmly and bring rain gear if needed. Food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase onboard. The tour’s scheduling allows for lunch breaks in Reykjavik, fitting well into a half-day plan.

Many reviews mention that the tour is well-paced, with easy-to-follow instructions and friendly staff. However, some note that wildlife sightings are unpredictable, which is typical for nature-based tours.

Who Should Book This Tour

This two-in-one experience appeals most to wildlife enthusiasts seeking a relaxed, informative outing. It’s suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see whales and puffins. The combination of boat trips and free time for sightseeing makes it flexible for different schedules.

Those who appreciate guided commentary and comfortable onboard facilities will find this tour satisfying. It’s ideal for those wanting a comprehensive wildlife experience with a guarantee of sightings.

Reykjavik’s Two-in-One Wildlife Adventure: Final Thoughts

The Whales & Puffins Combo Tour from Elding offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, combining close-up puffin viewing with exciting whale watching. The expert guides and well-equipped boats contribute to a comfortable and educational experience.

While sightings are never guaranteed in nature, the sighting guarantee and large Bay excursions help achieve impressive wildlife views most days. The $140 investment includes two boat trips, wildlife exhibition, and onboard amenities, making it a strong value for wildlife lovers.

This tour suits those looking for a relaxed, informative day on the water, eager to learn about Iceland’s marine life, and willing to accept the unpredictable nature of wildlife sightings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers two boat tours—a 1-hour puffin trip and a 3-hour whale watching excursion—as well as protective gear, binoculars, heated indoor lounges, and live commentary.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are available to purchase onboard, but are not included in the ticket price.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Ægisgarður 5c in Reykjavik’s Old Harbour and ends at the same location.

Can I see whales and puffins in the same trip?
Yes, the combo tour combines both puffin watching on Lundey Island and whale watching in Faxaflói Bay, but note they are on separate boats.

What if I don’t see whales?
The whale tour features a sighting guarantee—if no whales are seen, you can ride again free of charge.

How long does the entire experience last?
The total duration is approximately 4 to 6 hours, including free time for lunch and transfer between the stops.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 13 are required to wear life vests, and the tour is generally suitable for most ages.

What should I wear?
Warm, waterproof clothing is recommended due to Iceland’s often cool and unpredictable weather.

How many people are on each tour?
The group size is limited to 30 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Can I arrange pickup or dropoff?
Yes, pickup/dropoff services are available for an additional fee, but are not included in the standard package.

Is the tour flexible in case of bad weather?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled, travelers are offered an alternative date or a full refund.