How close do we actually get to the puffins?

The boat's shallow draft allows approach to rocky shores that larger vessels cannot reach. The guide cuts the engine at the islands to allow peaceful observation. Binoculars are recommended for detailed viewing, as puffins typically remain on cliff ledges and rocky outcrops.

What's the distance from Reykjavík, and how long is the journey?

Lundey and Akurey islands are located 15 minutes from Reykjavík's Old Harbour by boat. The total tour duration is 1 hour, including travel and observation time.

What other birds are we likely to see?

Beyond puffins, the tour regularly features Northern Fulmars, Arctic Terns, Black Guillemots, and various gull species. A licensed guide provides live identification and information on behaviour.

Is this tour weather-dependent, and what should I wear?

Yes, tours are subject to Icelandic bay conditions. Waterproof, layered clothing is essential—winds and spray are common even in summer. Confirm departure with the operator on the day if conditions are severe.

Why choose this operator over other puffin tours?

Special Tours has over 20 years of experience and pioneered puffin watching in Iceland. The 'Old Skúli' is purpose-built with shallow draft for safe, close approach. The 1-hour format is ideal for time-constrained schedules while avoiding overcrowded longer tours.

Are there any onboard amenities or technology features?

The operator offers a multilingual app (English, German, French, Spanish, Simplified Chinese) available on Android and Apple for enhanced interpretation and bird identification during the tour.

Top Deal1 / 10

Top Deal

1 / 10

Puffin Express

(3)

Reykjavík, Iceland

Nature ToursBirdwatchingBoat Tours

Instant confirmationSecure checkoutNo hidden fees

About this activity

A streamlined one-hour puffin-watching expedition from Reykjavík's Old Harbour to the nearby islands of Lundey and Akurey in the bay. Led by a specialist operator with over 20 years of experience, this intimate boat tour uses a shallow-draft vessel designed to approach nesting colonies while minimizing disturbance to wildlife.

The Puffin Watching tours with Special Tours, Puffin Express, have been popular for over a decade! Special Tours is a pioneer in Puffin Watching in Iceland.

Our expertise, more than 20 years of experience, and our especially designed boat, Skúlaskeið or “Old Skuli”, make us the leading expert in the area. The Puffin Express adventure starts at the Old Harbour of Reykjavík and they only take one hour. It is an inexpensive and charming option for everyone.

Lundey and Akurey are two small islands located in the Reykjavík bay area, only 15 minutes away from Reykjavík‘s Old harbour, from where we depart. The islands are covered with small hills and slopes and both are well known for their colorful birdlife. The island‘s shores are rocky but Old Skuli is especially designed to take us as close to the islands as possible due to its shallow draft. When we arrive to the islands we turn off the engine so our passengers can observe the birds and the beautiful surroundings. Our licensed guide tells all about the Puffins and other birds of interest that are often seen on the Puffin watching tours.

Other birds spotted include Northern Fulmars, Gulls, Arctic Terns, and Black Guillemots.

Our Puffin Watching Tours are very cozy and comfortable, and they only take one hour, which is convenient for Iceland‘s tourists’ precious time.

NEW

Special Tours Iceland app with 5 languages (English, German, French, Spanish and simplified Chinese) available for Android and Apple. It is available for all clients to download during their tour, with both text and audio information. The app is as close to an audio guided wildlife adventure as possible

Highlights

✓Close encounters with Atlantic puffins in their natural breeding habitat
✓Shallow-draft boat allows approach to rocky shores other vessels cannot reach
✓Spotting of Northern Fulmars, Arctic Terns, Black Guillemots, and gulls
✓Just 15 minutes from central Reykjavík—perfect for time-constrained itineraries
✓Licensed naturalist guide provides live commentary on bird behaviour and ecology
✓Engine cut at islands for peaceful observation and photography

Insider tips

★Bring binoculars and a zoom lens if you have one; puffins perch on cliffs and are best appreciated up close
★Dress in waterproof, layered clothing—Icelandic bay conditions are unpredictable even in summer
★Download the Special Tours app (available in 5 languages) before departure for enhanced onboard content and bird identification

Good to know

•Duration is 1 hour total; departure and return from Old Harbour in central Reykjavík
•Tour operates in open boat; exposed to weather—waterproof outerwear essential
•Maximum capacity designed for comfort; small group setting
•No specific accessibility restrictions mentioned; confirm with operator regarding mobility needs

Who it's for

Birdwatchers and nature photographers seeking Iceland wildlife without a full-day commitmentTime-pressed visitors (families, business travellers) wanting a authentic nature experience in 1 hourInternational tourists new to Icelandic coastal ecosystems

Best time to visit

Late spring through early autumn (May–August) offers the highest puffin activity and breeding season visibility. Early morning or late evening departures provide the calmest sea conditions and best lighting for photography.