Puffin Watching Speedboat Express

An Up-Close Encounter with Puffins on a Speedboat

This Puffin Watching Speedboat Express offers a unique way to see Iceland’s charming puffins in their natural habitat, just outside Reykjavik. The tour uses a luxury rigid inflatable boat (RIB), designed for speed and agility, allowing you to quickly reach the islands where these seabirds nest. What makes this experience stand out is the combination of small-group intimacy—with only 12 travelers—and expert guidance, making for a personal and educational outing.

Two things I especially appreciate about this tour are the close proximity to the puffins—which gives you a chance for memorable photos—and the professional, friendly guidance that enriches the experience with interesting facts about puffins and local wildlife. The supplied warm waterproof gear ensures you stay comfortable despite the sometimes cool Icelandic breeze, and the short, 1-hour duration makes it easy to fit into a busy Reykjavik itinerary.

A potential consideration is the dependence on weather conditions—since the tour is canceled or rescheduled if the sea gets too rough or the weather turns poor. The fact that it’s a short tour, with no hotel pickup included, might not suit travelers seeking a more leisurely or comprehensive wildlife experience. The efficiency and focus of this trip make it an excellent choice for anyone wanting a quick, authentic puffin encounter.

Key points/Takeaways

• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and plenty of time for questions.
• Close-up views of puffins in their natural environment are a highlight, with opportunities to see both flying and swimming puffins.
• Speed and comfort of the RIB boat allow rapid access to nesting islands, with engines turned off near wildlife for a quiet viewing.
• Expert guidance provides insightful commentary about puffins, local wildlife, and the surrounding landscape.
• Practical gear including waterproof overalls, gloves, and goggles helps you stay cozy regardless of weather.
• Flexible timing with the tour starting at noon, leaving mornings and afternoons free for other Reykjavik activities.

A Detailed Look at the Puffin Watching Speedboat Experience

How the Tour Begins: Meeting in Reykjavik

Starting at Reykjavik by Boat, Ægisgarður 5F, the experience is designed for travelers who want a quick yet meaningful wildlife encounter. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, which is great if you’re staying in the city center. Since the tour begins at 12:00 pm, it leaves your morning free for exploring Reykjavik’s other sights or grabbing a hearty breakfast.

The Speedboat: A Thrilling Ride to the Islands

Once aboard the luxury, 12-seat RIB, I loved how fast and nimble the boat was—it’s a true adrenaline rush that gets you to the puffin nesting grounds efficiently. Your guide, often part of a father and son team, makes the journey both fun and informative. The boat’s design allows you to get as close as possible to the islands, with the engines turned off when near the puffins, so you can listen to their calls and observe their behavior without disturbance.

Wildlife Encounters: Puffins in Action

The main goal is to see puffins—a highlight of Icelandic wildlife—and this tour delivers. The reviews are glowing: “We saw lots of puffins, in a couple of locations,” notes a passenger, who appreciated the proximity and the chance to see puffins both swimming and flying. The fact that the boat turns off its engines near the islands means you don’t get the typical engine noise that can scare away wildlife, making your viewing experience quieter and more natural.

Weather and Gear: Staying Comfortable

Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, but the tour’s inclusion of warm waterproof overalls, gloves, and goggles makes a big difference. You’ll stay dry and warm, even if the wind picks up or if you encounter some spray from the sea. The reviews mention how the gear helps participants stay comfortable, which is crucial for enjoying this type of tour.

The Guide’s Role: Knowledge and Engagement

The commentary from guides—often described as “very nice” and providing excellent information—adds depth to the trip. Expect to learn about puffins, their nesting habits, and the local ecosystem, which enhances the experience beyond just sightseeing. This personal touch is appreciated, especially in a small group setting where questions are encouraged.

Duration and Flexibility: The Short but Sweet Tour

At just around one hour, this tour fits easily into a day of sightseeing. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick wildlife fix without dedicating a large chunk of their day. The tour ends back at the starting point, leaving you free to explore Reykjavik further or enjoy other activities.

Value and Cost: Is It Worth It?

At $76 per person, this experience offers a good value considering the small-group size, the quality of the boat, and the opportunity for close wildlife encounters. You won’t get the extensive sightseeing of a full-day tour, but the intimacy and focus on puffins make it worthwhile—especially if seeing these charming birds is a priority.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those who appreciate quick, memorable adventures. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling with children (who meet the height requirement of 140 cm) or if you prefer a more personal, less crowded tour. It’s a good option for travelers with limited time who still want a genuine Icelandic wildlife encounter.

The Sum Up: A Swift, Authentic Puffin Experience

The Puffin Watching Speedboat Express is a cleverly designed tour that balances excitement, education, and comfort. Its small-group approach ensures that everyone gets quality time with the puffins and the natural surroundings, making for memorable photos and stories. The speedy access to the islands, combined with expert guides and warm gear, means you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy a genuinely close-up experience.

While weather can influence plans—so flexibility and good gear are key—this tour offers quick, quality wildlife viewing without the need for long boat rides or complex logistics. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic, personal encounter with puffins in a short time frame, and who value informative guides and a relaxed, fun atmosphere.

If you’re hoping to tick off Iceland’s adorable seabirds from your bucket list on a comfortable, well-organized trip, this tour will meet your expectations. Just remember to check the weather forecast and book a few days in advance—it’s popular for good reason.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately one hour, making it an excellent quick activity that fits well into a busy sightseeing schedule.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Reykjavík by Boat, Ægisgarður 5F, near the city center and public transportation options.

What should I wear?
A full set of warm waterproof overalls, gloves, and goggles are provided, so you’ll stay comfortable even if it’s windy or a bit rainy.

Is there a minimum age or height requirement?
Yes, children must be at least 140 cm tall to participate in the RIB tour.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled because of poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, it does not. You need to meet directly at the designated location.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Absolutely. The boat ride is on water, but lifejackets are provided, and no swimming is required.

What if I want to see more wildlife or explore further?
This tour focuses specifically on puffins and the surrounding islands. For broader wildlife or landscape tours, you might consider other options in Reykjavik.

This puffin tour combines speed, intimacy, and education, making it a standout choice for those wanting a genuine glimpse of Iceland’s seabirds in just an hour. It’s a fun, well-organized outing that offers a taste of Icelandic nature with a personal touch.