Puffin Express Cruise to Akurey — Reykjavik Puffin-Watching Boat Tour
A brisk, 60-minute wildlife cruise from Reykjavik to Akurey that brings you within sight of Atlantic puffins nesting on rocky shores. Ideal May–August, the guided tour mixes up-close viewing with expert commentary and easy logistics.
The Experience
Before You Go
Time your visit for puffin season
Puffins nest on Akurey between May and August — book peak-season departures for the best chance to see large colonies.
Dress windproof and layered
Sea spray and bay winds make a waterproof shell and warm mid-layer essential even on sunny days.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
Short crossing can still be choppy; take anti-nausea medication if you're prone to seasickness.
Use the onboard binoculars and stay quiet
Guides supply binoculars and the captain will cut engines for quiet observation — keep noise low to avoid disturbing nesting birds.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Viðey island walking paths for longer birdwatching and Reykjavík skyline views
- •Grótta Lighthouse and headland for evening bird activity and sunset silhouettes
Wildlife
- •Atlantic puffin
- •Arctic tern
Conservation Note
Operators avoid landings and emphasize quiet observation to protect nesting birds; seabird populations are sensitive to fishing pressure and climate shifts, so follow guides’ instructions to minimize disturbance.
Akurey and nearby skerries have long been used by coastal communities for seasonal bird harvesting and are part of Reykjavík’s maritime heritage, reflecting the city's growth from fishing outpost to modern capital.
What to Bring
BinocularsEssential
Helps you pick out puffins and other seabirds on cliffs and in the water.
Waterproof wind shellEssential
Shields against spray and sharp bay winds during the short cruise.
Warm mid-layerEssential
Keeps you comfortable when the temperature drops on the water.
Non-slip shoesEssential
Stabilizes footing on wet decks during boarding and observation.
Common Questions
When is the best time to see puffins on this cruise?
Puffin nesting runs from May through August, with the largest numbers and most regular sightings in June and July.
How close does the boat get to Akurey?
The boat is designed to approach the rocky shoreline closely for clear views, but landing on the island is not permitted to protect nesting birds.
Is the cruise suitable for children and infants?
Yes — the tour is family-friendly, though infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap and small children should be supervised on deck.
What happens if weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled or rescheduled for rough seas or poor conditions; the operator typically offers a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours ahead or due to unsafe weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1 hour
Location
Reykjavik, Capital Region
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal mobility required for boarding a small vessel
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