Puffin & Sea Life Cruise from Vestmannaeyjar

The World's Puffin Capital

The Westman Islands — Vestmannaeyjar — host the largest Atlantic puffin colony on the planet. During summer months, millions of these distinctive black-and-white birds with their oversized orange beaks descend on the volcanic cliffs to nest and raise their young. Viking Tours has been running boat cruises around these cliffs for years, and their operation is the best way to experience this remarkable wildlife spectacle up close.

The cruise departs from Vestmannaeyjar harbor on Heimaey, the only inhabited island in the archipelago. Within minutes of leaving port, you are surrounded by towering sea cliffs teeming with birdlife.

The Cruise Experience

The boat follows a route along the southern and western cliffs of the island chain, passing beneath sheer rock faces where puffins nest in burrows among the grassy cliff tops. From the water, you see them in constant motion — perched on ledges in rows, launching clumsily into flight, and returning with beaks comically packed with silvery fish.

Puffins are not the only attraction. The cliffs host guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, and kittiwakes in large numbers. The guide provides commentary on each species and points out interesting behavior. Sea caves carved into the volcanic basalt add geological drama, and the boat navigates close enough to some that you can feel the cool air flowing out of them.

The boat maintains a respectful distance that avoids disturbing the nesting birds while still providing excellent viewing. Most passengers find that a decent zoom camera lens captures remarkable shots, though even phone cameras produce good results given the proximity.

Why Vestmannaeyjar

There are several puffin-watching locations around Iceland, but the Westman Islands are in a league of their own. The sheer density of birds is staggering — this is not a case of spotting one or two puffins on a distant rock. You are looking at thousands of them simultaneously, covering every available surface on the cliffs. The setting is also uniquely dramatic, with volcanic rock formations and sea stacks providing a striking backdrop.

The islands themselves have a fascinating history. The 1973 eruption of Eldfell volcano forced the evacuation of the entire population, and the lava flow is still visible, partially burying houses on the edge of town. Spending a few hours on the island before or after your puffin cruise adds valuable context.

Planning Your Visit

The ferry from Landeyjahofn takes 30 minutes and runs several times daily in summer. It is entirely possible to visit the Westman Islands as a day trip from Reykjavik, though many visitors find the islands charming enough to warrant an overnight stay. Book the puffin cruise in advance during July and August when demand peaks. The combination of affordable pricing, short duration, and virtually guaranteed sightings makes this one of Iceland's best wildlife experiences.