Reykjavik Shore Excursion: Puffin Sightseeing Cruise

Reykjavik , Iceland

Reykjavik Shore Excursion: Puffin Sightseeing Cruise

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(56 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

When your cruise ship docks at Reykjavik Port, take a 1-hour shore excursion to Akurey Island to see where one of Iceland’s largest colony of puffins live! Choose from four different start times, and after a 15-minute cruise, glide around the island, seeing its puffins and other native bird life like Black Guillemots and Arctic Terns. Learn about the captivating wildlife from an onboard guide and then return to Reykjavik.

Available options

Puffin Express Departures

Pickup included

What's included

Worry-free Shore Excursion Guarantee - round trip transfers from Skarfabakki Harbour

Expert guide on every tour

Binoculars to use on board

NEW - Special Tours App (available in English, German, French, Spanish, and Chinese)

What you'll see

Choose from one of four start times, and then leave the city behind as you glide away from the capital on your 1-hour puffin sightseeing cruise! The rocky little outcrop of Akurey Island is your destination – home to some of Iceland’s most unspoiled scenery as well as a large colony of nesting puffins. The cruise there takes roughly 15 minutes and as you travel, your on board guide will keep you entertained with tales of the island’s fascinating geology and wildlife.

As you near the island, cruise around it, admiring the hills and slopes while keeping an eye out for the colorful bird life that abounds. The shoreline is rocky, but your modern sightseeing boat is specially designed to get as close in as possible, enabling some of the best close-up views of puffins and other native seabirds; Northern Fulmars, Arctic Terns and Black Guillemots are just a few species that have made the island their home.

After circling Akurey Island, the captain of your boat will turn the engine off, allowing you to enjoy the peace and quiet of Iceland’s natural treasures. Pose for photos in front of a backdrop of rolling hills and get ready to capture pictures of seabirds nesting or diving into the sea for food. You will return to Reykjavík's Old Harbour, where your transfer back to Reykjavik's Port will be waiting for you.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to Reykjavik for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.1

40 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.4

16 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note that complimentary transfers are only applicable for passengers from Skarfabakki Harbour. Miðbakki (the alternative dock) is a very short walk to the departure point for this tour.

Important notes

Please check in at the Special Tours ticket office to exchange your voucher for the boarding pass.

About Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural surroundings, and unique Icelandic charm. It offers a blend of modern amenities and ancient geothermal wonders, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Hallgrímskirkja

This iconic church is a landmark of Reykjavik, known for its distinctive architecture and towering spire. It offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.

Architecture/Religious 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1000 for the tower)

Harpa Concert Hall

A stunning modern concert hall with a glass facade that reflects the surrounding landscape. It hosts a variety of performances and events.

Architecture/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free to enter, performance tickets vary

Blue Lagoon

A geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters rich in minerals. It's a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Nature/Relaxation Half a day Expensive (ISK 49,900 and up)

Reykjavik Art Museum

A museum showcasing contemporary Icelandic and international art. It's housed in a striking building with a glass facade.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1400)

Perlan Museum

A unique museum located in a glass dome that offers a variety of exhibits, including a glacier exhibit and a planetarium.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (ISK 3,990 and up)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plokkfiskur

A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.

Main Course Contains fish and dairy

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy known for its strong smell and taste.

Snack Contains fish

Skyr

A thick, creamy Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.

Dessert Contains dairy

Rúgbrauð

A dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.

Bread Vegan

Popular Activities

Glacier hiking and ice climbing Whale watching Snowmobiling on a glacier Caving and lava tunnel exploration Visiting geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon Enjoying a traditional Icelandic massage or spa treatment Taking a leisurely walk around Tjörnin Lake in Reykjavik Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F) 46°F to 55°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Iceland is a very safe country with low crime rates. However, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and only use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas
• Research tour operators and rental companies before booking to ensure they are reputable and legitimate

Getting there

By air

Keflavík International Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik

By bus

BSÍ Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and easy-to-use ticketing.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bustravel, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Reykjavik Hlemmur Vesturbær

Day trips

Golden Circle

230 km (143 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day

A popular day trip route that includes three of Iceland's most famous attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

South Coast

150-200 km (93-124 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic drive along Iceland's south coast, offering a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

240 km (149 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic peninsula known as 'Iceland in Miniature' due to its diverse landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, lava fields, and beaches.

Festivals

Reykjavik Arts Festival • Late May to early June Iceland Airwaves • Early November Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February

Pro tips

Visit the Blue Lagoon or another geothermal spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience
Explore Reykjavik's street art and murals, which can be found throughout the city
Take a day trip to the Golden Circle or another nearby attraction for a taste of Iceland's natural wonders
Try traditional Icelandic food, such as lamb soup, fish stew, and fermented shark
Visit a local brewery or distillery and sample Icelandic craft beer or spirits