Reykjavík: RIB Speed-Boat Puffin Watching Tour

This Reykjavík puffin watching tour is interesting because it mixes two things people actually want in Iceland: up-close wildlife viewing and fast, water-level travel on a RIB speed boat. You cruise along the Reykjavík waterfront and then head toward puffin-rich islands where the colonies are dense enough to make the whole trip feel action-packed.

What I like most is that you’re outfitted with a full-body waterproof suit and goggles, so you can focus on spotting birds instead of worrying about getting soaked. I also like the route includes coastline cruising with a sea-level view of Harpa Concert Hall, which adds variety beyond just scanning the water for puffins.

One thing to consider: the boat experience can be a bit physical. Even with suspension seats, some people find the boat seating hard on the back, so bring a small cushion if you’re picky about comfort.

Key Things That Make This Tour Worth Your Time

• Small-time, big-sightings setup: a tight 1-hour format that keeps the focus on puffins.
• Speed-boat access: a RIB lets you get closer to colonies than larger vessels typically can.
• Cold-weather protection built in: full-body waterproof suit plus goggles and life vest.
• Coastal bonus: you see Reykjavík’s shoreline and Harpa from the water.
• Conservation talk included: your English guide explains puffin hunting impacts and how to help stop it.
• Multiple approach areas (on some runs): the experience can include stops at different spots near the colonies.

Reykjavik Puffins Close-Up From a RIB Speed-Boat

If you’re doing Reykjavík as your base, this is one of the more direct ways to get real puffin time without turning the day into a full expedition. Iceland is home to about 60% of the world’s puffins, and the tour heads toward islands where the colonies are especially thick. That matters because puffins aren’t just one bird you spot and move on from. When colonies are concentrated, you spend more time watching behavior, not constantly searching.

The format is also built for results. A RIB speed boat is fast and maneuverable, so you can approach the puffin areas in a way that feels more intimate than bigger tour boats. That closeness improves your odds of spotting puffins that are perched, swimming, or popping in and out of their nesting areas.

And you’re not just on the water with no structure. The trip is guided in English, with commentary that covers puffins and human impacts. One of the best parts is the conservation angle, including how puffin hunting is harmful and what people can do to help reduce it. It gives the whole outing more meaning than a simple sightseeing cruise.

The 1-Hour Route: From Harpa Views to Puffin Islands

The timeline is simple, which I appreciate when weather is changeable. You’ll start near Reykjavík’s harbor area and then head toward the Bay of Reykjavík on a custom-built speedboat with suspension seats. As you go, you cruise along the coastline, and that’s where you get the sea-level Harpa Concert Hall view. It’s a nice “two-for-one” moment, especially if you’re also seeing Reykjavík’s highlights on land.

Then the focus shifts to the main target: puffins on the islands. You travel out toward puffin-populated areas, which are described as home to roughly 40,000 puffins. With numbers like that, you’re not just hoping for a glimpse. You’re aiming for sustained viewing.

Because the trip is only 1 hour, you shouldn’t expect long pauses or extended time on any one spot. Instead, the tour is designed for efficient wildlife viewing. On some departures, the boat visits more than one puffin area, which can increase variety within the short duration. You might see birds around different clusters, depending on where the captain positions the boat.

At the end of the hour, you return to your starting point. So you get a memorable wildlife hit without wiping out your entire day.

What the Waterproof Suit and Goggles Change (A Lot)

This tour includes gear that makes the difference between enjoying cold weather and just enduring it: a full-body waterproof suit, goggles, and a life vest. When you’re on a speedboat, wind and spray are guaranteed at some level. Having a suit that keeps you warm and dry helps you stay present and watch birds instead of pulling your attention back to discomfort.

The goggles are also a practical touch. On open water, wind-driven mist and glare can make it hard to track fast-moving seabirds. Goggles help you keep your eyes on the action for longer, which is exactly what you want when puffins are at their most interesting, calling, moving, and taking short swims.

What’s not included is waterproof shoes. You’re told to bring comfortable shoes, plus warm clothing. That’s a hint to plan for wet conditions without turning your feet into the weak link of your trip. If you have experience with Icelandic weather, you already know that the water always finds a way. Your best move is to wear footwear that can handle splashy conditions and to dress in layers so you can adjust if the wind calms down.

Also note the tour is not for everyone physically. It isn’t suitable for people with back problems or pregnant women, and it isn’t suitable for anyone under 140 cm. If that applies, look for another puffin option that’s steadier.

How Close You Really Get, and Why It Matters for Photos

On paper, this is a puffin watching tour. In practice, what makes it special is the proximity. The tour is specifically designed so you can get much closer to puffin colonies than you would on bigger boats. That matters because puffins are small and quick, and their behavior is what you came to see, not just the fact that puffins exist in Iceland.

When you’re closer, you’ll notice details that are easy to miss from farther out: how they move along the water, how they pop in and out near nesting areas, and how they react to the surrounding activity. It’s also the difference between “I saw a bird” and “I’m watching the birds.”

Photo opportunities are a big part of the pitch, and closeness helps. You’re more likely to frame a puffin in a way that shows the head shape and posture clearly, rather than capturing a distant dot. If you’re bringing a camera, be ready for motion and wind. Keep your grip tight and keep your attention on spotting before trying to fine-tune settings.

There’s also a psychological benefit to the closeness. Short tours can feel rushed if you’re far from the action. Here, the boat’s approach keeps the “spotting excitement” high, so the hour doesn’t feel like a waiting game.

Price and Value: Is $81 Worth It for a 1-Hour Trip?

At $81 per person, this isn’t the cheapest thing you can do from Reykjavík. But it also isn’t priced like a full-day cruise. For me, the value comes down to two points.

First, you’re paying for time efficiency. This is a 1-hour trip, so you can fit it into a busy itinerary and still get a standout wildlife experience. Second, you’re paying for the speed-boat format and the viewing style. The included full-body suit, goggles, and life vest are part of the package, and you’re using specialized water access to get close to colonies.

If you hate wasting time on long rides with limited viewing, this tour’s format makes more sense. If your idea of value is staying comfortable for hours while watching distant birds, you might feel underwhelmed.

It’s also worth considering what you’re actually doing in Reykjavík. If you’re balancing city sights on land with nature time, a short, energetic puffin trip is a smart contrast. The sea-level view of Harpa, plus wildlife on islands, gives you two visual “wins” without needing a car or a long day away.

Practical Tips Before You Go to the REYKJAVIK BY BOAT Hut

The meeting point is simple, but you should treat it seriously. You’re looking for a small wooden hut (in a row of wooden huts) marked REYKJAVIK BY BOAT. Arrive no later than 30 minutes before departure so you can check in and get geared up without feeling rushed.

One practical note I want you to take seriously: the meeting point can be confusing if you expect one specific building. If the hut is locked or hard to find in a first glance, keep scanning the nearby huts in that row until you locate the one with the correct marking. The tour is quick, so don’t gamble on arriving late and hoping things sort themselves out.

For what to wear: warm layers matter, even if you’re dressed for a walk around Reykjavík. You’ll be in a suit, but you still need warm clothing underneath. Bring comfortable shoes and something you can handle if there’s splash.

Not allowed: luggage or large bags. If you’re doing Reykjavík sightseeing the same day, pack light. A small day bag is the better approach if you can keep everything minimal.

Who Should Book This Puffin Tour (and Who Should Skip)

This is a good fit if you want:

• Fast, close wildlife viewing rather than a long boat day
• A guided experience with English commentary
• Included winter protection, especially if you don’t want to buy your own gear

It’s less suitable if:

• You’re pregnant
• You have back problems
• You’re under 140 cm
• You’re looking for maximum comfort on hard seating for a full ride

The good news is that the tour includes what most people struggle with in Icelandic weather: staying warm and keeping your eyes protected. The speed-boat format is the trade-off. It’s part of why you can get close to the colonies, but it also means you should expect a more active ride.

If you’re traveling with kids, this tour is only an option for taller children based on the height limit. For anyone else with mobility or spine concerns, a different puffin option may feel safer and calmer.

Should You Book This Reykjavik RIB Puffin Watching Tour?

If you want a short, high-impact puffin outing with speed-boat access, included cold-weather gear, and sea views that add variety, this tour is an easy yes. The $81 price makes sense when you factor in the specialized boat approach and the included suit, goggles, and life vest.

I’d skip it only if your main goal is comfort first, or if you fall into the groups that the tour lists as not suitable. If you can handle a brisk ride and you’re prepared for cold wind off the water, you’ll likely come away feeling like you got real puffin time, not just a quick look.

FAQ

How long is the Reykjavík RIB puffin watching tour?

The tour lasts 1 hour.

What is included in the ticket price?

It includes a guided tour, a full-body waterproof suit, goggles, and a life vest.

Is pickup and drop-off included?

No. Pickup and drop-off are available for purchase as an add-on.

Where do I meet the guide?

Go to a small wooden hut (in a row of wooden huts) marked REYKJAVIK BY BOAT.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable shoes and warm clothing.

Are waterproof shoes included?

No. Waterproof shoes are not included.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for everyone?

No. It is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, and people under 140 cm.

What languages are available?

The live tour guide speaks English.

Are luggage and large bags allowed?

No. Luggage or large bags are not allowed.