Tours & experiences

Wildlife Whale Watching and Puffin Tour in Reykjavik

About this experience

Delight in the wonders of Iceland's wildlife as we set sail into Faxaflói bay, seeking out Minke and Humpback whales, Dolphins, Harbour porpoises, and even the elusive Killer whales. Revel in the panoramic vistas of Reykjavik's majestic mountains and picturesque islands while being surrounded by an array of captivating bird species.
Your specially crafted vessel, Skúlaskeið (“Old Skúli“), offers an intimate experience perfect for observing puffins up close as we navigate the shallow waters near their nesting grounds.

Please note that this combo booking includes two different and separate tours with two departures.
Puffin Tour: conducted on a smaller boat, approximately 1 hour in duration.
Whale Watching: conducted on a larger vessel, approximately 3 to 3.5 hours in duration.
When booking, you are choosing the whale watching departure time.

Here are the available combos:
Whale Watching 09:00 departure & Puffin 12:30 departure
Whale Watching 13:00 departure & Puffin 17:00 departure

At a glance

  • Duration: 4 hr 30 min

Choose your tour option

Select a date and travellers to compare current prices and departure times.

Wildlife Whale Watching and Puffin Tour in Reykjavik

Plan your experience

Time on the tour4 hr 30 min
Guide languagesEnglish (live guide)

Set aside 4 hr 30 min for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Before you go

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What is included

  • Puffin tour: Specially designed boat to get as close to the islands as possible
  • Free WiFi on board
  • Free ticket to join again in case of no sightings
  • Puffin tour: Binoculars are provided on board
  • Experienced and professional guides
  • Complimentary seasickness tablets available

Not included

  • Pick up service is not included

Itinerary and highlights

Your adventure begins at Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, where you’ll board one of our comfortable whale watching boats. As you set sail into Faxaflói Bay, take in panoramic views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains while the crew shares insights about Iceland’s marine wildlife and natural environment.

Your adventure begins at Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, where you’ll board one of our comfortable whale watching boats. As you set sail into Faxaflói Bay, take in panoramic views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains while the crew shares insights about Iceland’s marine wildlife and natural environment.

As you depart or return to the harbour, enjoy views of Harpa, Reykjavík’s iconic glass concert hall. Its shimmering façade reflects the light of the bay, making it one of Iceland’s most photographed landmarks.

Sail to Akurey Island, known for its lively puffin colonies. From the boat, you’ll get excellent views of puffins in their natural habitat—perched on cliffs or gliding above the waves. Binoculars are provided for an even closer look.

On clear days, admire breathtaking views of Mount Esja rising behind Reykjavík and, in the distance, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula — often called “Iceland in Miniature” for its diverse landscapes and volcanic peaks.

After few hours at sea, the tour concludes back at Reykjavík’s Old Harbour. Warm up with complimentary overalls and enjoy a hot drink on board as you reflect on your unforgettable whale watching experience.

Meeting and pickup information

  • Meet us at Geirsgata 11, Special Tours ticket office, for your upcoming tour. Please arrive 30 minutes early at the meeting point.

Languages and tickets

  • English — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Reykjavik Sailors

Meeting points and locations

Accessibility and practical details

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

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

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 4 hr 30 min.
Which guide languages are listed?
English (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Child tickets: age 0–3; Youth tickets: age 7–15; Adult tickets: age 16+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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