Reykjavik: Whales and Puffins Express Cruise Combo Tour

A practical look at Reykjavik’s whale and puffin experience

If you’re in Reykjavik and eager to see some of Iceland’s iconic wildlife, the Whales and Puffins Express Cruise Combo Tour offers a well-rounded, family-friendly outing. It combines a classic 3 to 3.5-hour whale watching cruise aboard the Andrea, Iceland’s largest whale boat, with a more intimate puffin tour on the smaller Old Skuli boat. This pairing lets you get close to the ocean’s most charming residents—whales, dolphins, and puffins—without wasting half your day or breaking the bank.

What I love about this trip is how well-organized it seems, with knowledgeable guides like Celine and Patrick making the experience both educational and fun. Plus, the warm overalls and binoculars supplied ensure comfort and clarity during your wildlife spotting. The second thing I appreciate is the flexibility of the tour options—whether you prefer the slower, spacious classic cruise or the faster, more adrenaline-pumping express, there’s a choice to suit your style.

One thing to keep in mind is seasonality—the best time for whale spotting is during Iceland’s summer months (April to September). Outside that, the chances of a sighting may be lower, but the tour’s 100% sightings guarantee means you can rebook for free if you come up empty-handed. Also, if weather conditions are poor, the captains will make safety decisions, which might mean a last-minute cancellation or reschedule, so staying flexible helps.

Key points / Takeaways from the Reykjavik Whales and Puffins Tour

• Wildlife Guarantee: If no whales are seen, you get another ticket for free, making it less stressful for travelers worried about missing out.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Celine and Patrick are praised for their energy, knowledge, and engaging stories, enhancing your understanding of the wildlife.
• Comfort & Convenience: Overalls, inside seating, and binoculars are included, making it easier to stay warm and see clearly.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a slower, classic boat or a faster express boat, depending on your preferred pace and time constraints.
• Ideal for Families and Solo Travelers: The spacious Andrea and small Skúlaskeið boats cater to different comfort levels and group sizes.
• Seasonal Considerations: Best booked in summer months for higher chances of whale sightings; however, the tours run year-round with a sighting guarantee.

Exploring the marine highlights of Reykjavik in detail

If you’re visiting Iceland’s vibrant capital, this tour offers a rare chance to encounter whales, dolphins, and puffins just off the coast. I love the way the tour starts with a spacious, stable vessel—the Andrea—that provides inside seating, a cafeteria, and educational commentary. It’s obvious that special attention has been paid to making the experience enjoyable for families and curious travelers alike. The guides, in particular, seem dedicated to sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm, which elevates the trip beyond just watching animals swim by.

Most common whale sightings include minke whales, humpback whales, and even white-beaked dolphins. The reviews highlight some magical moments, like seeing a humpback whale right next to the boat, or spotting playful dolphins. One reviewer, Dani, called it “one of the highlights of my Iceland trip,” emphasizing the guides’ professionalism and the thrill of actual whale sightings. Even if whales are shy or the weather is rough, the tour’s rebooking policy ensures you won’t lose out entirely.

The second part is the puffin tour, which occurs on a small, shallow-draught boat called Old Skuli. This vessel is perfect for getting close to puffin colonies on tiny islands, giving you a more personal encounter with these adorable birds. The guides here are very knowledgeable about bird life, and the binoculars provided really help you appreciate the tiny details of puffin plumage. One reviewer, Maarja, raved about the interesting facts about puffins and how close they got to the birds: “the trip was perfect way to see the amazing puffins.”

A noteworthy aspect is the timing—the tours are scheduled to maximize your chances of wildlife sightings with options starting at 9:00 am or 10:00 am for whale tours, and typically ending with the puffin cruise at 12:30 pm or 2:00 pm. This flexibility is appreciated by travelers who want to tailor their day.

The practicality of the tour: logistics, duration, and value

This tour is designed with convenience in mind. Starting at the Reykjavik Old Harbor, check-in is straightforward, and the group sizes are manageable—large enough to be lively but not overwhelming. The duration of around 4 hours means you get a substantial wildlife experience without feeling like you’ve committed an entire day.

The price includes warm inside seating, overalls, binoculars, and guides—all essentials for a comfortable and informative trip. The cost per activity might seem high for some, but considering the shared boat experience, the chance to see multiple species, and the quality of guides, it often represents good value. Many reviewers comment on how well-organized and informative the tours are, with some emphasizing how knowledgeable and friendly guides like Celine and Patrick make the difference.

You should, however, be prepared for potential weather variability. Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, and rough seas can lead to cancellations or limited sightings. This is why the sightings guarantee is a smart feature—it offers peace of mind, knowing you can rebook if you’re unlucky the first time.

Another point worth noting is that the whale and puffin tours are separate. You don’t have to do both on the same day, which lets you plan your trip more flexibly. The faster boat used in the express whale tour is ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time, though it might be a bit more exhilarating (or choppy).

Who should consider this tour?

This experience is perfect for families with kids, couples, solo travelers, and wildlife enthusiasts who want a comprehensive yet manageable introduction to Iceland’s marine life. If you’re looking for an educational trip with plenty of opportunities to see whales and puffins, this tour delivers. It’s also a good pick if you want value for money, given the all-included gear and sightings guarantee.

However, if your main goal is to see rare or particularly large whales, or if you’re planning outside Iceland’s peak summer months, you might want to manage expectations. The experience is shaped by seasonal wildlife activity and weather, both of which are outside the operator’s control.

Final thoughts: Is it worth it?

This combo tour offers a balanced, engaging, and value-packed way to explore Iceland’s abundant marine wildlife. You’ll love the knowledgeable guides, the stunning sea views, and the chance to encounter whales, dolphins, and puffins up close. The flexibility in boat choice and the sighting guarantee make it a smart pick for any curious traveler.

For those who enjoy educational experiences with a dash of adventure, this trip is hard to beat. The professional organization and friendly guides ensure you’re comfortable and well-informed every step of the way. And if the weather doesn’t cooperate, the free rebooking policy means you won’t walk away empty-handed.

This tour is best suited for nature lovers, families with kids, or anyone eager to see Iceland’s extraordinary wildlife without overextending their schedule. It’s a genuine, approachable way to connect with the ocean and its creatures—something many travelers find unforgettable.

FAQ: Your practical questions answered

When is the best time to go whale watching in Reykjavik?
The optimal period is from April to September, when whale activity is highest, but the tours operate year-round with a sighting guarantee.

What if I don’t see any whales?
If no whales are spotted, you’ll receive a free ticket to try again, giving you peace of mind that you won’t miss out.

Are the boats comfortable and suitable for families?
Yes, the Andrea is spacious and family-friendly, with inside seating and amenities, while the Old Skuli is small and perfect for close-up puffin viewing.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly and comfortably—layers are best—as weather can change quickly. The tour supplies overalls to keep you dry and warm.

Are binoculars provided?
Yes, binoculars are included for the puffin tour, which help you see birds clearly even at a distance.

Can I book the whale and puffin tours on different days?
Absolutely. They are separate tours, so you can plan them to fit your schedule.

How long does each part of the tour last?
The whale watching takes about 3 to 3.5 hours, and the puffin tour is around 1 hour, totaling roughly 4 hours of wildlife adventure.

Is the tour suitable for people prone to seasickness?
The operator offers sea sickness pills if needed, and the boat stability on the larger Andrea helps reduce discomfort.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers cruise trips, warm seating, overalls, binoculars, guides, and the sighting guarantee.

Is there food onboard?
A cafeteria is available on the Andrea, but hot drinks and refreshments are available for purchase.

To sum it up, the Reykjavik Whales and Puffins Express Cruise Combo is a practical, well-organized way to experience Iceland’s marine wildlife. It offers a good mix of comfort, education, and adventure—making it a worthwhile choice for anyone eager to see whales and puffins in their natural habitat while enjoying a hassle-free, guided trip.