The Puffin and Volcano Boat Tour in Heimaey, Iceland, promises an unforgettable experience for adventure-seekers. Guided by a lifelong resident, travelers can expect stunning views of dramatic volcanic landscapes and the chance to observe charming puffin colonies up close. With a small group size and a delicious buffet lunch included, this tour offers excellent value. But there’s more to discover beyond the tour’s standard inclusions – hidden gems that reveal the island’s rich history and the guide’s personal insights into the 1973 eruption. For those eager to enjoy Iceland’s natural wonders, this tour could be the perfect starting point.
This experience made our list of the 9 Best Tours In Heimaey Island.
Key Points
- Exceptional 5.0-star rated tour with 94% recommendation rate, offering immersive exploration of Heimaey Island’s natural wonders and history.
- Guided by a local with personal accounts of the 1973 volcanic eruption, providing captivating narratives.
- Intimate boat tour with maximum group size of 8, allowing for personalized experiences and close encounters with puffin colonies.
- Includes a hearty buffet lunch at Tanginn restaurant, praised for quality and enhancing the overall tour value.
- While the tour price exceeds $200 per person, the unique experiences and personalized guidance justify the cost for many.
Tour Overview
The Puffin and Volcano Boat Tour is a popular excursion located on Heimaey Island, Iceland. The tour has a maximum group size of 8 travelers and starts at 9:30 am, departing from the meeting point opposite the Sea Life Trust.
With a 5.0-star rating based on 17 reviews, 94% of travelers recommend this experience. The tour includes a buffet lunch at the Tanginn restaurant and covers all fees and taxes.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or serious medical conditions should exercise caution.
The knowledgeable local guide, Halli, provides personal insights into the island’s history and volcanic activity, enhancing the boat tour’s exploration of caves and puffin colonies.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Heimaey Island.
Inclusions and Pricing
The Puffin and Volcano Boat Tour includes a buffet lunch at the Tanginn restaurant, with the tour fees and taxes covered in the overall price.
The lunch spread is highly praised by past travelers, featuring a selection of soup, salad, and a taco bar. This all-inclusive package provides convenience and value for the tour.
However, some guests have noted the tour’s high cost, which exceeds $200 per person. While the unique experiences and personalized guidance justify the price for many, budget-conscious travelers may find it steep.
Accessibility and Restrictions
Typically, the Puffin and Volcano Boat Tour is not wheelchair accessible. However, public transportation is available nearby for those who need it. Infants must sit on laps during the tour. While the tour is suitable for most travelers, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions.
| Accessibility | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Not Wheelchair Accessible | Most Travelers Can Participate |
| Public Transportation Nearby | Not Recommended for Those With: – Back Problems – Pregnancy – Serious Medical Conditions |
Guiding and Activities
The guiding and activities on the Puffin and Volcano Boat Tour enhance the overall experience, as Halli, a lifelong resident of Heimaey, shares personal anecdotes and insights into the island’s captivating history.
The tour includes:
- Boat excursions around the island, exploring caves and observing birdlife, particularly puffins
- Engaging historical narratives about the island’s past and volcanic activity
- Opportunities for personal interactions with the knowledgeable guide
- Stunning scenic views from the boat
- Insights into the local culture and way of life on Heimaey
These elements combine to create a truly immersive and memorable experience for participants.
Dining Experience
A highlight of the Puffin and Volcano Boat Tour is its dining experience.
Travelers rave about the buffet lunch at Tanginn restaurant, which is included in the tour price. The spread features a delicious selection of soup, salad, and a taco bar, all praised for their quality.
This hearty meal is the perfect way to refuel after the boat tour and exploration of the island’s natural wonders. Reviewers consistently highlight the lunch as a standout part of the overall tour, complementing the exceptional guiding and unique experiences.
With its tasty and satisfying offerings, the dining component adds to the tour’s value and memorability.
Customer Reviews
Reviewers consistently applaud the Puffin and Volcano Boat Tour, highlighting its exceptional guides and unique experiences.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable and personable Halli, whose firsthand accounts of the 1973 volcano eruption captivate audiences. The boat ride itself is a major draw, offering stunning views and close encounters with puffins.
While some found the tour pricey, most agreed the experience was well worth the cost. However, a few noted discomfort due to seating arrangements, and weather-related cancellations, though promptly refunded, disappointed some travelers.
The Puffin and Volcano Boat Tour provides an immersive and memorable exploration of Heimaey Island’s natural and cultural wonders.
Key Highlights:
- Exceptional, knowledgeable guides
- Unique, engaging experiences
- Breathtaking boat tour and wildlife sightings
- Some concerns over cost and seating comfort
- Weather-related cancellations handled well
Why Choose This Tour
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Heimaey Island’s natural wonders and captivating history, the Puffin and Volcano Boat Tour stands out as a must-do excursion.
Led by a lifelong resident who experienced the 1973 eruption firsthand, this intimate boat tour offers unparalleled insights into the island’s past. Guests will marvel at the island’s dramatic volcanic landscapes, encounter the charismatic puffin colonies, and savor a delectable buffet lunch.
With a maximum group size of 8, the tour provides a personalized experience that immerses travelers in the island’s rich culture and natural beauty.
For those craving an unforgettable adventure in Iceland, the Puffin and Volcano Boat Tour delivers an exceptional and highly recommended experience.
Since You Asked
What Is the Total Duration of the Tour?
The tour duration is not explicitly stated in the knowledge provided. However, the tour starts at 9:30 am and returns to the meeting point, so it likely lasts several hours, likely around 3-4 hours in total.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate?
The tour doesn’t have a stated minimum age requirement. Infants must sit on laps, but most travelers can participate as long as they meet the health restrictions outlined in the tour overview.
Can Visitors Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?
Visitors can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a buffet lunch at the Tanginn restaurant, which is praised for its quality. Bringing outside items is not permitted during the boat excursion.
What Type of Boat Is Used for the Tour?
The tour uses a small boat that allows for close encounters with the island’s puffin colonies and volcanic formations. The boat’s size creates an intimate experience, though some guests have noted discomfort with the seating arrangements.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?
According to the information provided, weather-related cancellations are handled promptly with refunds. The tour operator appears to have a flexible cancellation policy to accommodate any unexpected weather conditions during the boat tour.
The Sum Up
The Puffin and Volcano Boat Tour in Heimaey, Iceland, offers an unparalleled adventure. With stunning volcanic landscapes, captivating puffin colonies, and an engaging local guide, it’s a must-do for anyone seeking an immersive experience. The personalized attention, convenient lunch, and glowing customer reviews make this tour a top choice for thrill-seekers exploring Iceland’s natural wonders.