Best Whale Watching & Puffin Tours in Iceland — Largest Selection & Cheapest Prices Guaranteed

Iceland’s coastal waters are among the best places in the world to see whales and puffins in their natural habitat. The mixing of warm and cold ocean currents creates a nutrient-rich environment that attracts a wide range of marine life.

From May to August, towering cliffs become home to millions of nesting puffins, while the open sea hosts a variety of whale species, from playful dolphins to massive humpbacks. Whether you're watching a puffin dive for fish or witnessing a whale breach the surface, these tours offer unforgettable encounters with Iceland’s marine wildlife.

Many tours combine whale watching and puffin spotting, allowing you to experience both in a single trip. Puffin-watching boat tours take you close to their nesting sites on remote islands and cliffs, while whale-watching excursions venture into deeper waters for a chance to see minke whales, humpbacks, and even orcas. Since Iceland is home to around 60% of the Atlantic puffin population and over 20 whale species, it’s one of the best destinations for a marine wildlife adventure.

Puffins in Iceland: The Charismatic Seabirds of the North

Puffins are one of Iceland’s most iconic birds, known for their black-and-white plumage, colorful beaks, and clumsy yet charming waddle. They nest in large colonies on cliffs and small islands, with the best viewing locations, including the Latrabjarg cliffs in the Westfjords, the Westman Islands, Eastfjords, and coastal archipelagos near Reykjavik.

Since puffins spend most of their lives at sea, boat tours provide the best chance to observe them up close during the nesting season from May to August. For the best experience, it’s recommended to go in the early morning or evening when puffins are most active. Since many tours maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the birds, bringing binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens is highly recommended.

Best Puffin Spotting Tours in Iceland

Iceland’s rugged coastline and offshore islands offer some of the best puffin-watching experiences in the world. These tours take you to puffin habitats, where expert guides provide insights into their behaviors, nesting patterns, and conservation efforts. Whether you prefer a quick boat trip from Reykjavik or a remote adventure, these tours ensure an unforgettable encounter with Iceland’s beloved seabirds.

1. Family-Run Whale Watching & Puffin Safari RIB Boat Tour from Husavik: Embark on an intimate RIB (rigid inflatable boat) adventure to spot majestic whales and adorable puffins up close in Iceland’s stunning waters.
2. Whale & Puffin Watching Boat Tour from Reykjavik: Enjoy a combined wildlife tour from Reykjavik’s harbor, offering the chance to see playful puffins and awe-inspiring whales in one unforgettable experience.
3. Family-Friendly 1-Hour Puffin Boat Tour from Reykjavik Harbor: Take a quick and family-friendly boat ride to see Iceland’s charming puffins nesting on coastal islands, perfect for a summer outing.
4. Exciting 1.5-Hour Puffin-Watching Tour on Breidafjordur Bay: Enjoy a boat ride through Breidafjordur bay, home to charming puffins, abundant seabirds, and breathtaking views of the rugged Icelandic coastline.

Whales in Iceland: The Gentle Giants of the Sea

Iceland’s waters are home to an incredible variety of whales and dolphins, making it a prime destination for whale-watching tours. The most commonly spotted species include minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and humpback whales, while lucky visitors may see orcas, pilot whales, or even the elusive blue whale. Whale-watching tours run year-round, but summer (May–September) offers the highest chance of sightings due to calmer seas and longer daylight hours.

Winter whale-watching tours are available, particularly from Reykjavik, but rougher seas and fewer daylight hours can affect visibility. Some tours in North Iceland, particularly from Husavik, operate with eco-friendly, quiet electric boats to minimize disturbance to marine life.

The Best Reykjavik Whale Watching Tours

Reykjavik is the ideal starting point for a whale-watching Iceland adventure, combining urban convenience with access to Iceland’s abundant marine wildlife. Departing directly from the city’s Old Harbor, these tours provide a seamless experience for visitors who want to maximize their time.

1. The Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik: Set sail from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor to experience the magic of Iceland’s marine life, including minke whales, humpbacks, and playful dolphins.
2. Affordable Whale Watching Boat Tour from Reykjavik: Enjoy a budget-friendly yet unforgettable adventure spotting whales and seabirds in Iceland’s rich coastal waters.
3. 3-Hour Whale Watching & Wildlife Yacht Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik: Experience a more intimate whale-watching adventure with expert guides and close-up encounters in a small group setting.
4. 8-Hour Horse Riding & Whale Watching Day Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik: Combine the thrill of horseback riding and whale watching for a unique day of Icelandic nature and wildlife.
5. 6-Hour Whale Watching & Northern Lights Boat Tour Combo with Transfer from Reykjavik: Maximize your Icelandic adventure by spotting majestic whales by day and chasing the enchanting northern lights by night.

Best Whale-Watching Tours in North Iceland

North Iceland is an excellent location for whale-watching, particularly Akureyri and the town of Husavik, which is often called the whale-watching capital of the country. Situated on the shores of Skjalfandi bay, Husavik offers some of the best opportunities for Iceland whale watching, with a high likelihood of spotting humpback whales, minke whales, and even the elusive blue whale. The bay’s nutrient-rich waters attract a diverse array of marine life, making it a hotspot for cetacean activity.

1. Whale-Watching Tour with Transfer from Akureyri: Discover Iceland’s marine wildlife with a relaxing whale-watching tour from Akureyri, offering stunning fjord views and frequent sightings of humpback whales.
2. 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour in Traditional Oak Boat with Transfer from Husavik: Experience the charm of Husavik, Iceland’s whale-watching capital, on this classic tour featuring majestic whales and expert local guides.
3. 3-Hour Sailing & Whale Watching Boat Tour from Husavik: Enjoy a unique sailing experience from Husavik as you spot whales and take in the serene beauty of Skjalfandi bay.
4. 2.5-Hour Whale Watching Tour in North Iceland from Hauganes: An immersive and educational marine adventure awaits in the North of Iceland.
5. Family-friendly 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour in North Iceland From Dalvik: Combine whale watching with optional sea angling on this tour from Dalvik, offering close encounters with Iceland’s incredible marine life.
6. Combo 6-Hour Whale Watching and River Snorkeling Tour in North Iceland: Pair whale watching with a one-of-a-kind snorkeling experience over bubbling geothermal sands, showcasing Husavik’s unique underwater landscapes.

Best Whale-Watching Tours in West Iceland

West Iceland offers a tranquil and scenic backdrop for whale-watching tours, with its jagged coastline, fjords, and charming fishing villages. Tours in this region often include sightings of orcas, which are more frequently spotted in the West than in other parts of Iceland. The quieter waters and smaller tour groups ensure a more personalized and serene experience, perfect for those seeking to escape the crowds.

1. 2-Hour Whale Watching Boat Tour in the Westfjords starting from Holmavik: Discover the remote beauty of the Westfjords on a whale-watching tour from Holmavik, offering a tranquil and intimate encounter with Iceland’s majestic marine wildlife.
2. Whale Watching Tour in Breidafjordur Bay from Olafsvik Port in Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Explore the pristine waters of the Snaefellsnes peninsula on a whale-watching tour, where you can spot orcas, sperm whales, and other marine giants against the backdrop of dramatic coastal scenery.
3. Whale Watching Tour in the Westfjords of Iceland from Isafjordur: Embark on an unforgettable journey through the tranquil waters of Isafjardardjup in the Westfjords, where you’ll encounter whales, seals, and seabirds amidst Iceland’s stunning fjord landscapes.

Practical Information for Whale Watching Tours in Iceland

Both puffin and whale-watching tours are fantastic, family-friendly activities, typically lasting around three hours. Experienced guides provide expert commentary, ensuring you gain valuable insights into Iceland’s vibrant marine ecosystem. Whale-watching tours are available year-round, but the best season is from May to September, when sightings are most frequent. Puffin tours run from May to August, coinciding with their nesting season.

No matter when you go, it’s essential to dress warmly, as the sea winds can be cold even in summer. A hat, gloves, and windproof layers will help keep you comfortable on the water. Larger boats offer a stable ride, while RIB boats provide a closer and more adventurous experience. Operators follow responsible tourism practices to minimize disturbance to marine life, ensuring a sustainable way to enjoy these incredible creatures.

Whether you’re captivated by the graceful giants of the sea or the endearing antics of puffins, Iceland whale-watching and puffin tours offer a unique opportunity to connect with the country’s extraordinary wildlife. Explore the selection of tours and find the perfect one for your trip.