Combine a 1-hour puffin cruise around Akurey with a 2.5–3.5 hour whale-watching tour in Faxaflói Bay for a concentrated dose of Icelandic marine life. Expect provided overalls, binoculars, and high odds of whale sightings; pack layers and sea-sickness remedies.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The harbor air bites with salt and the first gulls wheel as the boat slips free from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour; layers flap, cameras come up and the sound of the engines becomes the rhythm of the trip. On the Puffin Express you circle Akurey, a scraggy rock where puffins hop like small, feathered daredevils, diving into the bay and returning with beaks full of sandeels. Later, the whale-watch pushes into Faxaflói Bay—currents spool past the hull, and guides scan the horizon for blows and flicks of tail.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4.5 hours (combined)
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to board a boat and stand on deck for viewing periods
Wildlife
History
Faxaflói Bay and Reykjavik developed around maritime trade and fishing; small islands like Akurey served as bird colonies long before tourism brought systematic viewing.
Conservation
Operators follow distance guidelines to minimize disturbance; choose licensed tours that practice no-chase policies and support local monitoring efforts.
Reserve your spot on the Iceland Super Saver: Puffin Cruise plus Whale-Watching Tour from Reykjavik today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in insulated layers
Icelandic sea spray and wind make conditions colder than on land—pack a waterproof outer layer and warm mid-layers.
Bring sea-sickness medication
Even short bay crossings can be choppy; take medication before boarding if you're prone to nausea.
Use binoculars and a telephoto lens
Binoculars are supplied for puffin viewing but a compact telephoto helps capture distant whales.
Protect camera gear
Waterproof cases or dry bags prevent salt damage when shooting from deck.
Waterproof jacket with hood
Wind and spray protection critical when on exposed deck.
spring
Warm mid-layer (fleece or wool)
Retains heat even when wet and during cold sea breezes.
summer
Sea-sickness remedies (medication or wristbands)
Helps prevent nausea on choppy waters common in Faxaflói Bay.
fall
Binoculars or telephoto camera lens
Improves sightings of small seabirds and distant whale blows.
winter