Reykjavik’s Puffin Watching Tour is an exciting opportunity to witness these charming seabirds up close. Visitors can explore the stunning Faxaflói Bay aboard a fast RIB boat, guided by experts who provide fascinating insights into the puffins’ behavior. With up to an hour spent on the water, travelers can expect breathtaking views and the chance to spot not only puffins but other diverse wildlife. This tour has received rave reviews, leaving many eager to embark on their own unforgettable puffin adventure.
Key Points

- The Puffin Watching Tour in Reykjavik’s Faxaflói Bay lasts 1 hour and costs between $82.07 and $91.19 per person.
- Participants can expect up-close views of puffins, as well as other seabirds, during the tour.
- The tour includes a RIB boat ride, an expert guide, and binoculars for enhanced viewing.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues.
- The tour has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 173 customer reviews.
Tour Overview

This Puffin Watching Tour from Reykjavik offers a 1-hour adventure to spot the iconic seabirds in their natural habitat.
Priced from $82.07 to $91.19 per person, the tour provides up-close views of puffins and other seabirds in Faxaflói Bay. Guests can observe the puffins nesting, diving, and flying while learning about their behavior and diet from an expert guide.
The RIB boat offers faster access to the islands and cliffs, enhancing the wildlife-viewing experience.
Free cancellation with a full refund is available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
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Experience Highlights

The Puffin Watching Tour offers visitors up-close views of puffins and other seabirds in Faxaflói Bay.
The RIB boat provides faster access to the islands and cliffs, allowing you to observe puffins nesting, diving, and flying. An expert guide will share insights about puffin behavior and diet, helping you gain a deeper appreciation for these captivating creatures.
Additional wildlife, including gannets, auks, and Arctic terns, can also be spotted during the tour. With binoculars provided, you’ll have enhanced viewing for an unforgettable experience observing the vibrant seabird colony.
Tour Inclusions

The Puffin Watching Tour includes a professional captain and wildlife guide to provide expertise throughout the excursion. Coveralls and necessary safety equipment are provided to keep passengers comfortable and secure. Binoculars are also available to enhance the viewing experience.
| Tour Inclusions | Included |
| — | — |
| Professional captain and wildlife guide | ✓ |
| Coveralls and safety equipment | ✓ |
| Binoculars for enhanced viewing | ✓ |
| Food and drinks | ✗ |
| Hotel pickup and drop-off | ✗ |
Guests are responsible for their own food and drinks, and hotel transportation is not provided. Tips for the crew are optional.
Participant Restrictions

Although the Puffin Watching Tour offers a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating seabirds, there are some participant restrictions in place.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old, pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or those with mobility impairments. There’s also a minimum height requirement of 4 ft 8 in (145 cm).
For safety reasons, luggage and large bags aren’t allowed on the boat. These restrictions ensure the tour remains an enjoyable and safe experience for all participants.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Puffin Watching Tour, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 173 reviews.
Reviewers highlighted the knowledgeable guides, rating them 5/5, as well as the tour’s value for money at 4.7/5. The transportation also received high marks at 4.8/5.
Key points from customer feedback include:
-
The short, 1-hour duration allowing for close encounters with puffins and other seabirds
-
The use of safety gear and binoculars for an enhanced viewing experience
-
The opportunity to spot additional wildlife like humpback whales.
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Preparing for the Tour

To prepare for the Puffin Watching Tour, travelers should dress warmly and wear comfortable, water-resistant clothing.
Packing layers, a hat, and gloves is recommended, as the weather in Reykjavik can be chilly, even during the summer. Participants should also wear non-slip shoes or boots.
Packing layers, a hat, and gloves is recommended, as the weather in Reykjavik can be chilly, even during the summer. Wear non-slip shoes or boots.
Though coveralls and safety equipment are provided, bringing binoculars can enhance the viewing experience.
Travelers should leave large bags behind, as only small personal items are allowed on the RIB boat.
Adhering to the age and height restrictions is essential for a safe and enjoyable tour.
What to Expect on the Tour

Once travelers have prepared themselves for the tour, they’ll embark on an exhilarating journey to witness the enchanting puffins up close.
Aboard the RIB boat, guests will experience the thrill of speeding through Faxaflói Bay, reaching the islands and cliffs where puffins nest.
The tour offers:
-
Up-close sightings of puffins diving, flying, and nesting
-
Opportunities to observe other seabirds, including gannets and Arctic terns
-
Knowledgeable guides who share insights about puffin behavior and ecology
Throughout the 1-hour tour, you will be captivated by the puffins’ charismatic antics and the stunning natural scenery of the Icelandic coastline.
Making the Most of Your Puffin Watching Adventure

Though the puffin watching tour is relatively short in duration, there are several ways for participants to make the most of their adventure.
Bring binoculars to observe the puffins up close as they nest, dive, and fly. Ask the knowledgeable guide questions to learn more about the birds’ behavior and diet.
Dress warmly and in layers to stay comfortable on the RIB boat. Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth departure.
With these tips, travelers can maximize their time and opportunities to witness the captivating puffins in their natural habitat.
Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need a Specific Camera or Lens for Puffin Photography?
While a DSLR with a telephoto lens can capture excellent puffin shots, compact cameras with good zoom capabilities also work well. The tour operator can provide guidance on the best camera settings for capturing these charismatic seabirds up close.
What Is the Best Season to See Puffins in Iceland?
The best season to see puffins in Iceland is from May to August. This is when the birds return to their nesting grounds and are most active. During this time, they can be observed flying, diving, and tending to their young.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
No, food and drinks are not included on the tour and participants can’t bring their own. The tour only provides necessary safety equipment and binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement for the Tour?
There is no minimum group size requirement for the tour. Individuals can book the tour alone or with others. The tour operates with a single professional captain and wildlife guide.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?
Yes, the tour offers a 10% discount per person, bringing the price down from $91.19 to $82.07. There’s also free cancellation with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
The Sum Up
Embark on an unforgettable Puffin Watching Tour in Reykjavik and explore the stunning Faxaflói Bay. This tour offers up-close views of puffins and other seabirds, guided by an expert who shares fascinating insights. With a fast RIB boat and binoculars provided, you’ll have an enhanced experience. Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, this tour has received rave reviews and is a must-do for your Reykjavik adventure.
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