The island is full of life
Watch puffins and other seabirds around Melrakkaey during the breeding season. Look for birds flying between the colony and the sea.
Puffin boat tour from Grundarfjörður
Sail from Grundarfjörður to Melrakkaey to watch puffins and other seabirds, with Kirkjufell and the Snæfellsnes coast as your backdrop.
An Atlantic puffin in West Iceland; a species photograph, not a promised close encounter.
Photo 1 of 7: An Atlantic puffin standing on a grassy rock above blue water.Tour at a glance
- Duration
- Around 1–1½ hours
- Joining point
- Grundarfjörður harbour, Norðurgarður
- Season
- 1 June–20 August
- Guide
- English
- Children
- Ages 0–6 free; 7–15 half price
- Experience
- Seabird watching by boat
Description
Sail from Grundarfjörður to Melrakkaey to watch puffins and other seabirds, with Kirkjufell and the Snæfellsnes coast as your backdrop.
Read moreRead less about this tour
Leave Grundarfjörður harbour for a short boat trip around Melrakkaey, where puffins and other seabirds gather during the summer. Watch for birds on the water, in flight and around the island while your guide explains the life of the colony.
The trip takes around 1–1½ hours and stays focused on birdlife and coastal scenery. Your captain keeps a respectful distance from the protected island and its birds. Wildlife, visibility and sea conditions vary, so every trip is different.
A summer hour among seabirds
A different view of Snæfellsnes
See the coast from the water, with Kirkjufell in the surrounding landscape when visibility allows.
Included in your boat trip
- Boat trip around Melrakkaey
- English-speaking guide
Not included
- Transport to and from Grundarfjörður
- Warm overalls — these are not provided on the puffin trip
What to bring
- Warm layers, a hat and gloves
- Sturdy, closed shoes
- Your camera or binoculars
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
Your experience
- Part 1
Watch the birdlife around Melrakkaey
Sail around the island and look for puffins and other seabirds with your guide. The captain adapts the trip to the sea conditions and keeps a respectful distance from the colony.
Before you sail
Starting time
Choose a date to see departure times.
Starting location
Make your own way to Grundarfjörður harbour, Norðurgarður. Follow your confirmation for the arrival instructions. Pickup isn’t offered for this tour option.
Meet at Grundarfjörður harbour
Meet at Grundarfjörður harbour, Norðurgarður, 350 Grundarfjörður. Arrive 15 minutes before your selected departure.
Get directionsWho can join
See traveller age categories and requirements in Travel details and the tour’s activity guidance.
Accessibility
Contact us before booking if you have mobility needs so we can check boarding arrangements.
Cancellation terms
Cancel at least 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Later cancellations and no-shows are not refunded. Cancellation policy.
A few useful answers
Where do I join the boat?
Meet at Grundarfjörður harbour on Norðurgarður, 350 Grundarfjörður, 15 minutes before departure. Make your own way there; no hotel transfers are available.
Will I definitely see puffins?
The trip visits the waters around Melrakkaey during the summer breeding season. You are watching wild birds, so sightings, distance and photographic opportunities vary.
Can children join?
Yes. Ages 0–6 travel free and ages 7–15 pay the youth price. Select every traveller in Travel details, including children with free tickets.
Are warm overalls included?
No. Overalls are not provided on this puffin trip. Wear warm layers, a hat, gloves and sturdy closed shoes.
Can I book one ticket?
Yes, the booking minimum is one traveller. Departures still depend on weather and sufficient bookings across the boat. Check your email before travelling for changes.
What if the weather prevents sailing?
If the trip is cancelled because of weather, you can reschedule to an available departure or receive a full refund. Another departure is subject to availability.
Can I cancel my booking?
Cancel at least 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Later cancellations and no-shows are not refunded. Cancellation policy.