Iceland Super Saver: Puffin Cruise plus Whale-Watching Tour from Reykjavik

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and eager to see some of Iceland’s most captivating wildlife, the Iceland Super Saver offers a compelling way to do so. This package combines two boat tours—one focused on spotting puffins on Akurey Island and another dedicated to whale-watching in Faxaflói Bay—which means you get a chance to observe adorable birds and majestic marine mammals all in one day.

What makes this experience stand out are the knowledgeable guides who share insightful commentary, the spectacular scenery of Iceland’s rugged coastlines, and the cost-effective nature of booking both tours together. That said, wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed—especially for whales, which are wild animals and tend to keep us guessing. Still, for those who love nature, marine life, and a good boat ride, this tour hits many of the right notes.

This experience is ideally suited for travelers seeking value and variety in their Icelandic adventures. If you’re not fussed about strict schedules and are happy to embrace the unpredictability of wildlife watching, then this package could be your perfect fit. It’s also great if you want a compact, well-rounded introduction to Iceland’s marine environment without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Two-in-One Value: Combines puffin viewing and whale watching, saving money compared to booking separately.
• Wildlife Encounters: Chance to see humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, puffins, and other seabirds.
• Expert Guides & Commentary: Guides provide engaging insights about the animals and Iceland’s marine habitat.
• Flexible Scheduling: Tours can be done on the same day or spaced out during your trip.
• Weather Dependency: The tour relies on good weather, and wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
• Group Size & Comfort: Limited to 33 travelers, with amenities like Wi-Fi, warm overalls, and binoculars provided.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Puffin Express Cruise to Akurey Island

The day kicks off with a roughly one-hour trip from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour to Akurey Island, famous for its dense puffin colonies. If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing these charming birds up close, you’ll love the chance to spot them diving into the sea for fish or resting on the rocks. The boat is equipped with binoculars, and your guide offers commentary about puffin behavior, physiology, and the island’s ecosystem.

According to reviews, this part of the tour is generally very engaging. One traveler notes, “Saw so many active puffins near and on the island,” and another mentions the guides being “full of information.” The boat circles the island to give you multiple vantage points, so even if the puffins are shy, you’ll get decent opportunities for photos and birdwatching.

However, some visitors found the puffin experience a bit hurried or distant. Reviewers say that the boat can’t get super close, and binoculars are vital to really see the puffins well. If you’re a bird lover, bringing your own binoculars might be worth considering, as the provided ones, while helpful, are shared among guests.

Whale-Watching: From Leisurely to High-Speed

The second part is a whale-watching cruise of either 2.5 hours on a high-speed boat or 3.5 hours on a more relaxed vessel. Departing from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, the boat takes you into Faxaflói Bay where whales, dolphins, and porpoises are known to frequent.

The guides are praised for their expertise and enthusiasm—some reviews mention guides like Jo and Lucas who kept everyone informed and entertained. “Thanks to his sharp eye,” one reviewer recounts, “we saw several whales including humpbacks and minke whales, along with dramatic tail slaps.”

While the chances of spotting whales are high, marine wildlife is unpredictable. Some travelers, like one who saw four humpbacks and dolphins, felt lucky, while others acknowledged that not seeing whales is possible. The tour offers a complimentary ticket if no whales are spotted, which is a reassuring bonus.

The cruise also provides amenities such as warm overalls (crucial given Iceland’s brisk sea breeze), hot beverages (at your expense), and Wi-Fi, making the experience comfortable and well-supported.

Group Size & Comfort

Limited to 33 travelers, this tour strikes a balance between intimacy and the social aspect of group traveling. The small size helps guides provide more personalized commentary and ensures a more relaxed atmosphere.

Logistics and Practical Details

• You can opt for hotel pickup or meet at the Old Harbour directly.
• Tours are available across different times and can be scheduled on separate days or the same day.
• The entire experience lasts roughly 4.5 hours, which is well-paced for a morning or afternoon outing.
• Price at around $150.94 per person offers good value, considering the combined activities and included amenities like binoculars and Wi-Fi.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Reviewers consistently highlight the expert guides and the stunning scenery. One shared, “Our guide Blanca was excellent at pointing out whales, dolphins, and birds,” noting the importance of knowledgeable guides in wildlife tours. Others appreciate the warm clothing and comfort provided, which is essential given Iceland’s often chilly, windy weather.

Some reviews pointed out the unpredictability of wildlife sightings, especially for whales. One reviewer remarked, “It’s a very short puffin tour and hard to see the birds close up,” but still considered the trip worthwhile for the opportunity to see puffins and the overall experience.

A few travelers felt the puffin cruise was less satisfying, citing the boat’s small size and the distance from the island. Yet, many still suggested that the whale-watching leg was the highlight, with sightings of humpbacks and dolphins often cited as memorable moments.

What We Love About This Tour

• The combination of two wildlife experiences offers great variety for a single, reasonable price.
• The guides’ knowledge turns a boat ride into an educational adventure, making it engaging for all ages.
• The spectacular views of the Icelandic coastlines, bird colonies, and whales make every moment picture-worthy.
• The flexible scheduling and possibility to do tours separately or together suit different travel plans.

Potential Drawbacks

• Wildlife sightings, particularly whales, depend heavily on ocean conditions and animal behavior.
• The puffin tour might feel rushed or distant for bird enthusiasts, especially if binoculars are shared.
• Weather can be unpredictable, and tours may be canceled or shortened if conditions worsen.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This package is ideal for budget-conscious travelers wanting diversity in wildlife encounters without multiple bookings. Nature lovers, birdwatchers, and marine animal enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to see puffins and whales in Iceland—if they’re lucky with the animals’ schedules. It’s also suited for those comfortable with short boat rides and who enjoy guided commentary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup can be booked directly with the supplier for an additional fee. Alternatively, you can meet in Reykjavík’s Old Harbour.

How long does the entire tour last?
The combined tour lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, with each part lasting about an hour for puffins and around 2.5 to 3.5 hours for whale watching.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but hot beverages like coffee and hot chocolate are available for purchase onboard.

What should I wear?
Warm clothes are highly recommended, especially since the weather and sea conditions can be chilly and windy. The tour provides warm overalls for the whale-watching boat.

Can I do both tours on the same day?
Yes, you can choose to do the tours on the same day or on separate days during your Iceland trip.

What if I don’t see any whales?
You will receive a complimentary ticket to go whale-watching again if no whales are spotted during your trip.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 33 travelers, which allows for a more personal experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s wise to consider the weather and the length of the boat rides for younger children.

Final Thoughts

This Iceland Super Saver tour offers a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to explore the country’s marine wildlife. The combination of puffins and whales, guided by knowledgeable staff, makes for a memorable outing—even if nature’s unpredictable. The experience balances value with quality, making it a smart choice for those eager to add some wildlife encounters to their Iceland itinerary.

Whether you’re a birdwatcher crossing off a bucket list item or a marine life enthusiast eager for whale sightings, this tour provides a solid foundation, with enough flexibility to suit different schedules and interests. Just remember to keep your expectations realistic, prepare for the weather, and enjoy the thrill of spotting some of Iceland’s most charming and majestic animals.

The Sum Up

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a combination of wildlife, scenic views, and knowledgeable guides all at a reasonable price. It’s ideal if you’re happy with the unpredictability of wildlife sightings and value the convenience of a package deal. The small group sizes and included amenities maximize comfort, while the opportunity to see puffins and whales makes it a distinctive Icelandic adventure.

If you’re seeking a cost-effective, authentic wildlife experience that balances fun and education, this tour ticks many boxes. It offers a taste of Iceland’s natural beauty and marine life, perfect for making memories and filling your camera roll with stunning shots.