Magpie
4.7(348 reviews)

Classic Puffin Watching Cruise in Reykjavik

From$65
1 hour
Reykjavik, Iceland

About this activity

Set sail from Reykjavik's harbor on a guided cruise to observe puffins in their natural environment, guided by expert naturalists, offering panoramic city views and wildlife photography opportunities.

Highlights

  • Cruise from Reykjavik harbor
  • Spot puffins in their natural habitat
  • Learn from expert naturalist guides
  • Enjoy panoramic city views
  • Capture memorable wildlife photos

Full description

Set sail from Reykjavik's bustling harbor on a guided cruise designed for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. This tour offers a unique opportunity to observe puffins in their natural habitat, guided by expert naturalists who share fascinating insights into these charming seabirds. As you cruise along the coastline, enjoy panoramic views of Reykjavik's skyline and the surrounding landscapes, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture these unforgettable moments. This tour is perfect for families, photographers, and anyone eager to experience Iceland's rich avian life up close.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided boat tour from downtown Reykjavik
  • Expert naturalist guide
  • Binoculars for optimal viewing
  • Food and beverages

Meeting point

Start Location

Elding Whale Watching, Ægisgarður 5c, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tour operates in all weather conditions; cancellations are rare
  • Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
  • Pets are not permitted on the boat

Know before you go

  • Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions
  • Bring a camera with a zoom lens for wildlife photography
  • Wear non-slip footwear suitable for boat decks

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • As the birds are small in size, we recommend bringing a tripod and a good zoom lens for 'close up' photography and/or binoculars (also available to lend on board)
  • The deck on the boat can be slippery. We recommend wearing good sturdy footwear. For optimal viewing and a more enjoyable cruise this tour is weather dependent.

Traveler reviews

4.7
348 reviews
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Fantastic trip and highlight of our visit to Reykjavik

Fantastic trip with very knowledgable and friendly crew and guide. Highly recommended. We will return.

516julianlJul 26, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Reykjavik Puffin boat trip is poor

This boat trip to see puffins was certainly not a good use of money. On this big boat it could not get close enough to the island d to see muffins. Although they were flying all around and in the water, no one could get a picture of them even with cameras with good zoom lens. The "biologist" commenting on them was also average at best. If you want to try and get a better puffin trip then try one where you ride a Rib boat (like a Zodiac boat). I attached the best picture I could get with a phone camera. It stinks!

Eric_SJul 26, 2026VIATOR

Highly recommend!

Wonderful tour. The puffins are so cute!

Julie PJul 26, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Lots of puffins

The guide was very informative and we were able yo see many puffins. Receiving photos taken by our guide was a real bonus.

V9013ZIlindasJul 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR

A little puffin magic!

Watching the little puffins was a highlight of our trip to Iceland. The boat was great and the crew were kind and knowledgeable.

melinda_FJul 25, 2026VIATOR

Additional information

As the birds are small in size, we recommend bringing a tripod and a good zoom lens for 'close up' photography and/or binoculars (also available to lend on board) The deck on the boat can be slippery. We recommend wearing good sturdy footwear. For optimal viewing and a more enjoyable cruise this tour is weather dependent.
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