Puffin Watching Yacht Cruise from Downtown Reykjavík

If you’re looking to combine wildlife viewing with stunning waterway scenery, a puffin yacht cruise from Reykjavík offers just that. This 1-hour adventure takes you around Faxaflói Bay and the small islands of Engey, Lundey, and Viðey, where puffins and other migrating birds gather in large colonies. While the tour is relatively short, it packs in enough natural beauty and wildlife sightings to make it a worthwhile addition to your Iceland itinerary.

What we love about this experience is how close you get to the birds in their natural habitat, especially the charming puffins—a sight that often exceeds expectations. Plus, the panoramic views of Reykjavik’s coastline and Mount Esja add a spectacular backdrop to your wildlife spotting. On the downside, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, so patience and a bit of luck are part of the package. This tour is best suited for those wanting a gentle, intimate encounter with nature rather than a high-intensity adventure.

If you’re an avid bird lover, a peace-seeker, or simply curious about Iceland’s coastal ecosystem, this cruise offers a relaxed and authentic way to connect with the environment. It’s also a good option for travelers who prefer small-group tours, ensuring more space and a personal experience on the water.

Key Points

• Close encounters with puffins and migratory birds in their natural habitat.
• Stunning views of Reykjavík’s coastline and Faxaflói Bay.
• Opportunity to possibly see seals, dolphins, and whales, depending on the season.
• Small-group setting for a more personal and comfortable experience.
• Weather-dependent — wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
• Tour duration of just 1 hour, perfect for a quick nature fix.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Wildlife Experience in Reykjavík

This puffin yacht cruise is a lovely way to see Iceland’s coast from the water without the crowded feel of larger tours. The length of the trip—just about an hour—means it’s easy to fit into a busy day, and it’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, focused wildlife viewing experience. Expect to start from the Old Harbour in Reykjavík, where the boat departs for a gentle cruise around Faxaflói Bay.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on bird colonies and marine life. Puffins are the highlight, with their distinctive orange beaks and tuxedo-like black and white plumage. You’ll get a chance to see these charming birds in their natural habitat, often perched on small islands or flying overhead. According to one enthusiastic reviewer, “We were lucky to see puffins, jumping dolphins, and some other species,” which indicates that wildlife can sometimes surprise even seasoned nature lovers.

The route includes visits to Engey, Lundey, and Viðey islands. Each offers something different: Lundey (“Lundy Island”) is known specifically for puffin colonies. The islands also provide a good vantage point for spotting other seabirds and marine mammals. The cruise passes through Faxaflói Bay, a waterway that offers panoramic views of Reykjavík’s cityscape, Mount Esja, and the surrounding hills. These views are especially striking when the landscape transitions through the seasons—from snowy peaks in winter to wildflowers and lupins in summer.

What to Expect During the Tour

The departure point is the Old Harbour House at Ægisgarður 2, Reykjavík. It’s recommended to arrive about 30 minutes early to check in. The boat itself is equipped with restrooms, and guides are knowledgeable, providing commentary in English throughout the trip.

The boat is a smaller vessel, which enhances the feeling of intimacy and allows for closer wildlife viewing. The experience is relaxed, with plenty of space to observe and take photographs. During the cruise, you’ll glide close to islands where puffins nest, sometimes only a few meters away from these adorable birds. The guides are generally well-informed, helping visitors identify the various bird species and sharing interesting facts about their behavior and habitat.

One of the tour’s strengths, according to reviews, is the professional guides. As one reviewer pointed out, “Our guide was fantastic,” making the experience not only educational but also enjoyable. The guides’ knowledge adds richness to the trip, especially if you’re interested in learning about bird migration patterns and marine life.

The possibility of seeing seals, dolphins, and whales is an added bonus, although sightings depend heavily on weather and season. The tour is primarily focused on puffins and birds, with whale watching usually an optional, additional activity for those who opt to extend their trip.

Wildlife and Birdwatching Highlights

Since puffins are the main attraction, it’s worth understanding why they’re so special. These birds spend most of their lives at sea but come ashore during the breeding season, which typically runs from late spring to early summer. Seeing them in the wild, fluttering around rocky islands or nesting in burrows, is a real treat.

The tour is especially good during the warmer months, from April to September, when bird activity peaks and whale sightings are more likely. That said, wildlife cannot be guaranteed on any given day, which is worth keeping in mind. If you don’t see puffins or whales, the tour offers a complimentary ticket to try again, reflecting the operator’s commitment to a memorable experience.

Passengers have appreciated the stunning views of Reykjavik’s coastline, which add a scenic dimension to the wildlife sightings. The boat’s small size means it’s more nimble and able to approach wildlife without disturbing them—a critical factor for a good viewing experience.

Value and Pricing

The tour is priced for a one-hour experience, and considering the personalized nature of a small-group cruise, it’s quite reasonable. For wildlife lovers, especially those eager to see puffins up close, the cost represents good value. The inclusion of professional guides and panoramic views enhances the overall experience, making it a worthwhile investment.

It’s also flexible—reserve now and pay later—which adds convenience for travelers with uncertain schedules. If the weather is unfavorable or wildlife is elusive, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring peace of mind.

Adding optional pickup service at extra charge can be helpful if you’re staying centrally in Reykjavík. Plus, the tour’s brief duration makes it accessible even for families with young children or those with limited time.

More Great Tours Nearby

Weather and Seasonality

Weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, especially on the coast. The captain and crew are experienced in making safety decisions based on conditions, so departures can be canceled if the weather is unsuitable. If the tour is canceled due to weather, the operator offers a full refund or the chance to reschedule.

The best time for whale sightings is during summer months, from April to September, but puffins are present mainly in the nesting season. Early summer often delivers the best chance for puffins, with their distinctive flight and adorable appearance making for compelling viewing. Remember that wildlife is never guaranteed on any trip, but the scenic beauty and chance to spot seabirds make this cruise worthwhile all the same.

Authenticity and Experience

One aspect that stands out is the small-group setting. This means you won’t be crammed onto a large vessel with dozens of other travelers. Instead, you get more space to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. This atmosphere, combined with the knowledgeable guides, helps turn a simple boat ride into a memorable encounter with Iceland’s coastal nature.

Reviews describe the experience as “fantastic,” with some noting how close they got to puffins and even dolphins. Such personal encounters are what many wildlife enthusiasts seek, and the small boat makes that possible.

The tour also offers a chance to see Reykjavik’s city skyline from a new perspective, adding a scenic element that complements the wildlife observation. The combination of urban and natural views makes for a well-rounded adventure.

This puffin yacht cruise from Reykjavík provides a relaxed, intimate way to observe Iceland’s seabird colonies and marine life. It’s particularly suited for those who value quality over quantity—expect friendly guides, scenic water routes, and a good chance of seeing puffins, seals, and possibly whales. The short duration makes it accessible for most schedules and a good way to break up a day of sightseeing.

While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, the knowledgeable guides and small-group setting maximize your chances and ensure you’re comfortable throughout. The stunning views of Reykjavík, Mount Esja, and Faxaflói Bay add a scenic backdrop that elevates an already special experience.

If you’re eager to see puffins in their natural environment and enjoy a peaceful boat ride close to the Icelandic coast, this tour is a solid choice—especially when balanced against its reasonable price and personal approach.

What is the duration of the tour?
The cruise lasts about 1 hour, making it a quick but rewarding wildlife viewing experience.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No, sightings of puffins, seals, dolphins, or whales depend on weather and animal behavior. If you don’t see anything, you can get a complimentary ticket to try again.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and warm clothing, as weather on the water can be cooler and unpredictable.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the short duration and gentle cruise make it suitable for families, provided everyone is comfortable on a boat.

Can I get picked up from my hotel?
Pickup is available for an extra charge, but you should arrive at the Old Harbour House at Ægisgarður 2, Reykjavík, 30 minutes before departure.

What are the best months for this tour?
June to August are prime months for puffin viewing, but it’s available from April to September with good chances for sightings.

What if the weather is bad?
The captain will decide whether to sail based on weather conditions. Tours canceled due to weather will be fully refunded or rescheduled.

In summary, this puffin cruise offers a charming, eco-friendly way to explore Iceland’s coastal wildlife without the crowds or fuss. Ideal for bird lovers, water enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a peaceful escape from city sightseeing, it delivers authentic encounters with nature amidst stunning scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: