Vestmannaeyjar: Puffin, Island, and Volcano Boat Tour

Exploring Iceland by boat often promises memorable sights and stories, but this particular tour in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago offers a blend of wildlife, volcanic history, and scenic beauty that’s hard to beat. Taking about an hour, it’s a compact adventure with plenty packed inside—perfect if you’re short on time but eager for an authentic glimpse of Iceland’s Westman Islands.

What truly makes this experience stand out? We love the opportunity to see puffins up close in their natural habitat, the chance to peer at the “loneliest house in the world,” and the thrill of sailing past volcanic landscapes shaped by eruptions. The guides’ local knowledge adds a layer of authenticity that enhances every moment. But, there’s one thing to keep in mind: the tour is weather-dependent, so rough seas could impact visibility or comfort.

This boat trip is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, geology buffs, or anyone curious about Iceland’s volcanic and maritime environment. If you enjoy scenic, educational, and slightly adventurous outings, you’ll likely find this tour a highlight of your visit to the Southern Region.

Good To Know

• Wildlife Viewing: Spot puffins, kitty-wakes, gannets, and fulmars in their natural habitat.
• Unique Landmarks: See the famed “loneliest house in the world” on Elliðaey.
• Volcanic Insights: Sail past newly formed lava from the 1973 eruption.
• Cave Experience: Visit a sea cave with impressive acoustics and enjoy some music.
• Expert Guides: Local guides share stories about the islands’ history, wildlife, and volcanic activity.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund, offering peace of mind.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from a spot conveniently located just about 100 meters from the ferry dock in Vestmannaeyjar. The meeting point is a large white and yellow house situated by the children’s playground at the harbor, which makes it easy to find after arriving by ferry or other local transport. The tour lasts approximately one hour, with the exact starting time depending on the day’s schedule, so checking availability in advance is a good idea.

The boat itself is designed for passenger comfort, accommodating up to 35 guests, with a minimum requirement of 15—meaning sometimes you might find yourself sharing the experience with a cozy, intimate group or a slightly larger one.

The Itinerary and Highlights

Puffin Colonies on Elliðaey and Bjarnaey

One of the most engaging parts of this tour is the chance to observe puffins in their natural environment. The islands of Elliðaey and Bjarnaey are renowned for their thriving puffin colonies. As you sail close to these islands, you’ll see these charismatic seabirds fluttering around in their breeding grounds—an unforgettable sight for bird lovers and casual observers alike.

Some reviews specifically mention how “close and accessible” the puffins are, with guides providing insightful commentary on their behavior and nesting sites. Because puffins are most active during the breeding season, visiting from June to mid-August maximizes your chances of seeing them.

The Loneliest House on Elliðaey

On Elliðaey, you’ll get a glimpse of the famous “loneliest house in the world”—a remote, solitary building perched on the island. Its solitary charm captures the imagination, and some passengers enjoy imagining the stories behind its existence. This house was built as a hunting lodge, but today it’s more of an iconic photo opportunity and a symbol of the islands’ rugged isolation.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Sights of Heimaey and Recent Lava

Sailing past Heimaey—the only inhabited island—provides a perspective on the island’s resilience. You’ll see the new lava from the 1973 eruption, which dramatically altered parts of the landscape. Guides tend to share details about the eruption’s impact, explaining how lava flows and ash reshaped the island’s geography. For geology buffs, this offers a clear view of active volcanic processes, and the sight of fresh black lava on the coastline is striking.

Sea Cave Visit and Musical Moment

Another highlight is the visit to a sea cave, renowned for its excellent acoustics. Passengers often take a moment to enjoy music or sing along, creating a spontaneous, musical atmosphere amid the natural surroundings. The cave’s structure amplifies sound beautifully and provides a sudden sense of intimacy in the vastness of the ocean.

Learning from the Guides

Throughout the trip, the local guides provide a wealth of information—covering everything from the islands’ volcanic history to the wildlife’s behavior patterns. Several reviews mention guides like “Einar,” who are known for their friendly demeanor and depth of knowledge, making the experience both educational and engaging.

What to Expect on the Boat

The boat tour is relatively short but packed with diverse sights. The vessel offers outdoor viewing, so dress warmly and bring rain gear if weather looks uncertain. Sun protection isn’t usually necessary, but sunglasses can make the ride more comfortable. Many travelers also bring binoculars for closer wildlife viewing, especially for the puffins and sea birds.

Since the tour is weather-dependent, rough seas or fog can limit visibility or make the experience less comfortable. However, guides are experienced at navigating these conditions, and safety is always a priority.

The Value and Pricing

At a cost that generally represents a good value for the unique sights and educational content, this tour is accessible for most travelers. The price includes all the stops, the visit to the sea cave, and the guidance from local experts. Since food and drinks aren’t included, packing a small snack or water is recommended if you’re sensitive to long periods on the water.

Given the short duration—just one hour—this tour is an efficient way to see a variety of natural features and wildlife without taking up an entire day. For those wanting a quick but meaningful Icelandic experience, it’s an excellent choice.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Dress warmly and in weather-appropriate clothing, especially if the wind picks up.
• Bring sunglasses and binoculars if you wish for a closer look at the birds and landscape.
• Capture the moments with a camera, especially of puffins, volcanic scenery, and the house.
• Be aware that it’s not suitable for those prone to seasickness; if you are, consider taking precautions.
• Check availability in advance, especially during peak season (June to mid-August).

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wildlife lovers eager to see puffins in their natural environment, geology enthusiasts interested in volcanic landscapes, and travelers seeking a quick, scenic boat ride with plenty of storytelling. It’s especially suitable for families, birdwatchers, and those wanting authentic Icelandic coastal scenery without a lengthy commitment.

The Vestmannaeyjar Puffin, Island, and Volcano Boat Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Iceland’s diverse coastal environment. It combines wildlife watching, volcanic history, and scenic beauty in a compact, one-hour journey that’s both educational and fun. With knowledgeable guides and opportunities to see iconic sights like the puffin colonies and the “loneliest house,” this tour highlights the unique charm of the Westman Islands.

While weather can influence the experience, proper planning and packing ensure you’ll enjoy the highlights safely. It’s an authentic way to connect with Iceland’s natural forces and wildlife—perfect for curious travelers wanting an insider’s view of this volcanic archipelago.

The Sum Up

This boat tour provides excellent value for those looking to combine wildlife, geology, and scenic beauty into a short, memorable trip. It’s especially suited for travelers with a keen interest in birds, volcanoes, or Icelandic islands, and those who want an intimate, guided experience. While weather considerations are worth noting, the rich stories and stunning views make it a rewarding outing.

For anyone visiting the Southern Region of Iceland and wanting a taste of the islands’ natural wonder, this tour is a safe bet to enrich your trip with fascinating sights and local insights.

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a perfect quick activity to include in your day.

What are the departure times?
The tour runs at 1:00 pm from June to mid-August, but always check availability beforehand.

Are there group size limits?
Yes, a maximum of 35 passengers per trip, with a minimum of 15. Sometimes you may be moved to another trip if the minimum isn’t reached.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, sunglasses, a camera, weather-appropriate gear, and binoculars if you want closer wildlife views.

Is it suitable for children?
Generally, yes, but consider seasickness susceptibility since the tour involves boat travel.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is food or drink included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

Are guides bilingual?
The tours are conducted in Icelandic and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

This detailed guide should help you decide if the Vestmannaeyjar Puffin, Island, and Volcano Boat Tour fits your Iceland adventure plans. It’s a fantastic way to see the wild side of the Westman Islands in a short, engaging trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: