Reykjavík2h 30m
Sky Lagoon Transfer
5.0(3)
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About this activity
Experience Iceland's most charismatic seabirds on an intimate small-boat excursion from Reykjavík's Old Harbour, circling pristine islands where puffins nest in their natural colonies. Your expert captain navigates close to rocky shores without disturbing wildlife, offering genuine wildlife encounters and photographic opportunities in one of Europe's best puffin-watching locations.
Our classic puffin tours are intimate, fun and a comfortable adventure on a small boat! Here is your chance to experience the 'clowns of the sea' in their natural environment.
Available: 1 May - 15 August
Duration: 1-1,5 hrs.
Stop by our ticket office at the Old Harbour in downtown Reykjavík and exchange your prepaid voucher for admission tickets. One of our expert guides will meet you on board one of our comfortable and stable boats, docked at the floating pier in front of our Wildlife Exhibition. Depending on the tides and conditions on the islands our captains will take you to either Engey, Akurey or Lundey, one of three islands well known for their plentiful birdlife. We cannot go on the islands, but try and get as close as possible without disturbing the nesting birds. In addition to puffins you have the opportunity to view other birds such as eider ducks, arctic terns, guillemots and cormorants.
The island's shores are rocky but our captains know the best spots to get close to the puffins without disturbing any natural behaviour. If the weather is right we might even turn off the engines so that you can enjoy the nature better and listen to the bird's calls. During the tour the crew will tell you interesting facts and tales about the puffins and the surroundings. As the birds are small in size, we recommend bringing a good zoom lens for 'close up' photography or binoculars (also available board).
Combine this tour with whale watching or try our premium puffin tour that will take you closer and faster to the birds!
Highlights
- ✓View Atlantic puffins in their natural breeding habitat on protected islands
- ✓Small-group boat tour with knowledgeable local captain and crew
- ✓Spot additional seabirds including eider ducks, arctic terns, guillemots, and cormorants
- ✓Option for quiet engine-off moments to hear bird calls and enjoy immersive nature
- ✓Comfortable, stable vessel with access to binoculars on board
- ✓Tours depart from convenient Old Harbour location in downtown Reykjavík
Insider tips
- ★Bring or rent a quality zoom lens or binoculars—puffins are small, and magnification transforms the experience from distant shapes to detailed viewing
- ★Peak puffin activity occurs mid-May through July; early August sees declining numbers as birds begin departing
- ★Dress in waterproof layers; open-water conditions mean wind and spray even on calm-looking days
Good to know
- •Duration is 1–1.5 hours depending on conditions; exchange your prepaid voucher at the ticket office before boarding
- •Tours run 1 May–15 August only; availability depends on weather and tidal conditions
- •No landing on islands; the boat circles Engey, Akurey, or Lundey based on captain's assessment of wildlife and conditions
- •Binoculars available on board, but bringing your own camera gear is recommended for serious photographers
Who it's for
Wildlife and birdwatching enthusiastsNature photographers seeking close-range seabird shotsFamilies and casual travellers seeking iconic Icelandic experiencesVisitors combining multiple activity tours (whale watching, city sightseeing)
Best time to visit
Visit between mid-May and early July for the densest puffin populations; the breed leaves rapidly through August. Early morning or late afternoon sailings often offer calmer seas and better lighting for photography.
Frequently asked questions
Available
From€59
per person
