Classic Puffin Watching Cruise from Downtown Reykjavík

Travelers often seek out Iceland’s puffins because these charming birds symbolize the country’s wild, untouched nature. This one-hour to hour-and-a-half boat tour from Reykjavik offers a chance to see them in their natural habitat without the need for a long trek or hiking gear. We’ve gathered all the details to help you decide if this birdwatching trip is worth your time, money, and weather luck.

What we love about this tour is the close proximity to puffin nesting sites, the expert guidance offered by friendly crew members, and the opportunity to see Reykjavik from a different angle with iconic sights like Harpa and Sun Voyager in view. That said, the nature of the Icelandic weather means the trip can be canceled, and boat space is limited—so best to book early and be prepared for possible weather shifts.

This tour is ideal for families, bird lovers, and travelers eager for a quick, scenic escape from the city. If you’re after a memorable, nature-focused experience that combines wildlife spotting with great views, this cruise ticks those boxes. Just remember, it’s not a land-based excursion—you’ll want your binoculars and camera ready!

Key Points

• Close-up views of puffins in their nesting environment, with boat proximity carefully managed
• Expert guidance from knowledgeable crew members who share interesting bird facts
• Binoculars provided, so no need to bring your own to enjoy clear views
• Flexible departure times to fit into your Reykjavik schedule
• Weather dependent, with potential cancellations on poor days
• Great for families and wildlife enthusiasts wanting a quick, scenic boat trip

An Authentic Look at the Puffin Watching Experience

If you’re visiting Reykjavík and love birds or nature, this boat tour offers a straightforward but memorable activity. The itinerary is simple and well-thought-out, focused on maximizing your chances of spotting puffins and other seabirds while providing a scenic cruise around the islands outside Reykjavik.

Meeting Point and Duration

You’ll meet at the Old Harbour in Reykjavík, at Elding Whale Watching (Ægisgarður 5c). The trip lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours, making it a perfect morning or afternoon activity without taking up your entire day. The boat is described as smaller, which contributes to a more intimate atmosphere, but can also mean less space if you’re early or if the boat fills up—something to consider if you prefer more room or are traveling with children.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour takes you to one of three islands—Engey, Akurey, or Lundey—each known for their bird populations. Since they’re designated as nature reserves, the crew cannot step on land, but they aim to sail as close as possible to the nesting sites. This means you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the puffins and other seabirds, often with binoculars supplied on board for better viewing.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy a unique perspective of Reykjavik, catching sight of landmarks like Harpa Concert Hall, the Hallgrímskirkja Church, and the Sun Voyager sculpture. It’s a refreshing way to see the city from the water, blending wildlife spotting with iconic cityscapes.

What the Guides Do Well

Multiple reviews mention the knowledgeable and friendly guides—they’re eager to share facts about puffins, their habits, and Iceland’s birdlife in general. Reviewers like Valerie talk about the “extremely friendly crew eager to share information,” while others note the biologist onboard who offers useful insights.

Some guests, like Leela, appreciated the opportunity to ask questions and receive detailed answers, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The crew also takes photos during the trip—some even email them later, which is a nice touch.

What To Expect During the Cruise

Expect a relaxed and scenic ride with a boat that may be a bit tight if you’re not early to board. The deck is described as slippery when wet, so good footwear is advised. During the trip, you’ll watch flocks of puffins fly, swim, and feed, often in their thousands. Many reviewers mention the “puffin frenzy”, where the birds are so active, it feels like a bird version of a busy city square.

The trip generally includes raincoats—a practical measure, given the unpredictable Icelandic weather—and binoculars provided for guests. Some reviewers suggest bringing your own zoom camera or tripod for better pictures, especially since puffins are small and can be tricky to photograph clearly without good equipment.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

• Valerie describes the tour as “easily accessible from her hotel,” highlighting how convenient it is to just walk to the harbor and hop on.
• Courtney shares that the trip was extended because the first island didn’t have many puffins, but the crew took them to multiple sites to improve the experience—and even sent photos afterward.
• Many highlight the abundance of puffins—“so many puffins,” as Carla put it—making the trip well worth the short ride.
• The guides’ storytelling really adds to the experience, with guests like Kyle noting how insightful and safety-conscious the crew was.

Considerations and Limitations

A key consideration is the weather dependency—like many outdoor activities in Iceland, this trip can be canceled due to poor weather, usually at short notice. Several reviews mention cancellations, with some guests being unaware until they arrived, so keeping an eye on the weather forecast and checking before heading out is wise.

The cost of $60 per person is generally viewed as good value, considering the experience, guide expertise, and the chance to see a beloved bird species so close. However, the limited boat space means early booking is recommended to secure your spot.

Why This Tour Works Well for Certain Travelers

This cruise appeals most to bird enthusiasts, families, and travelers seeking a quick nature fix without leaving the city. It’s an activity that combines wildlife viewing with scenic waterside views, making it suitable for those who prefer a relaxed pace and a shorter trip. The small group size, guided commentary, and binoculars help make it an engaging, educational outing.

If you’re visiting Reykjavík and want to check a box for Icelandic wildlife, this tour delivers in a straightforward, enjoyable way. Just remember, seasickness can be an issue for some, and the weather can turn the trip into a different experience—either magical or canceled.

Final thoughts

The Classic Puffin Watching Cruise from Reykjavík offers a value-packed opportunity to see one of Iceland’s most iconic birds in the wild. The combination of expert guides, scenic water routes, and the chance to get close to puffins makes this a worthwhile addition to your Iceland itinerary, especially if you’re keen on wildlife or photography.

While weather can be unpredictable and boat space limited, most reviewers agree that the experience is worthwhile. It’s particularly suited for those who love nature, family groups, or anyone eager for a short but memorable outdoor adventure in Reykjavík.

If you’re after a fun, educational, and photogenic outing that leaves you with great stories—and possibly some puffin photos—you’ll find this cruise hard to beat. Just don’t forget to book early and check the forecast!

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The trip is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, making it perfect for a quick morning or afternoon activity.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at Elding Whale Watching, Ægisgarður 5c, in the Old Harbour of Reykjavík.

Are binoculars provided?
Yes, binoculars are included in the tour, so you can enjoy clear views without bringing your own.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather dependent. If conditions are unfavorable, the trip may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I bring food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, but you can bring your own or purchase snacks on board.

Is the tour suitable for children and people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but the boat’s deck can be slippery, and the fleet isn’t fully accessible for low mobility due to stairs and high thresholds. Children are welcome, but parents should consider the boat size and weather conditions.

This puffin cruise combines fun, education, and fantastic wildlife encounters—all in a compact, well-organized package ideal for those wanting a taste of Icelandic nature without leaving the city.