Puffin Safari by Boat
Join a dedicated three-hour boat and photography experience focused on puffins and the rich seabird life found along Svalbard’s dramatic coastline.
During the breeding season, puffins gather around coastal bird cliffs. From the boat, we may observe and photograph them resting on the water, flying low above the sea or returning towards their nesting sites.
Travelling with a maximum of three passengers gives us space, flexibility and time to position the boat carefully for both observation and photography while keeping disturbance to a minimum.
Every wildlife encounter is genuine and unpredictable. The exact route and species observed depend on weather, sea conditions and natural bird activity on the day.
Puffins and seabirds along Svalbard’s coast
The bird cliffs support a diverse Arctic seabird community, creating opportunities for behaviour, flight and environmental photography from the water.
What makes this experience special
Puffins at sea
Observe one of the Arctic’s most colourful and charismatic seabirds from the water.
Maximum three guests
A very small group provides space, flexibility and better photographic opportunities.
Photography focused
Your guide helps photographers and wildlife enthusiasts make the most of the conditions.
Rich seabird diversity
Possible species include fulmars, black guillemots, kittiwakes, Brünnich’s guillemots and little auks.
Responsible observation
The boat is positioned carefully to create good views while minimising disturbance.
Authentic Arctic wildlife
Bird activity is natural and unpredictable, making every departure different.
Positioned for behaviour, flight and atmosphere
From sea level, we can watch puffins take off from the water, fly along the coastline and move between feeding areas and their nesting cliffs.
Time to observe the birds without rushing
Puffins are the main focus of the safari. During the breeding season, they gather near the bird cliffs and may be seen resting on the sea, nesting on the slopes or flying back towards the colony.
The boat gives us the flexibility to adjust our position according to light, waves and bird movement. We spend time studying their behaviour rather than simply passing the colony.
Experienced photographers can concentrate on flight and action, while guests with a general interest in wildlife can enjoy close observation and interpretation from the guide.
How the three-hour safari may unfold
The route and timing are adapted to wind, waves, visibility and current bird activity.
Pickup in Longyearbyen
Pickup from your accommodation is included.
Boarding and safety briefing
Meet the guide, board the enclosed boat and review the conditions.
Travel towards the bird cliffs
Head along the coast towards suitable seabird habitat.
Puffin observation
Spend time observing and photographing puffins on the sea and in flight.
Other Arctic seabirds
Look for fulmars, guillemots, kittiwakes, little auks and other species.
Return and drop-off
Return by boat and receive transport back to your accommodation.
Everything you need to know
Included in the tour
- Three-hour guided boat safari
- Maximum of three passengers
- Experienced wildlife and photography guide
- Transport in an enclosed boat
- Pickup from your accommodation
- Return to your accommodation
- Hot coffee, tea, toddy and biscuits
What to bring
- Warm layered clothing
- Windproof and water-resistant outerwear
- Hat and gloves, even during summer
- Camera with a telephoto lens
- Binoculars if available
- Personal medication
- Motion-sickness medication when required
Sea conditions and weather policy
The boat may move in rough seas. Guests should assess their own seaworthiness before booking, particularly when they are sensitive to motion sickness.
Should the tour be cancelled because of strong wind or unsuitable weather, the full amount will be refunded. An alternative programme cannot be guaranteed, but assistance with suggestions and further planning will be provided.
Wildlife sightings and individual species cannot be guaranteed. Bird welfare, safe navigation, weather and sea conditions always determine how the tour is operated.
Planning your Puffin Safari by Boat
How many guests join the tour?
The tour is limited to a maximum of three passengers, providing excellent space and flexibility.
Are puffin sightings guaranteed?
No wildlife sighting can be guaranteed. The guide selects the route according to current conditions and natural bird activity.
Which other seabirds may we see?
Depending on conditions, possible species include northern fulmars, black guillemots, kittiwakes, Brünnich’s guillemots, little auks and other coastal birds.
Is the tour suitable for photographers?
Yes. The small group and flexible boat positioning are particularly well suited to wildlife photography.
What happens if the weather is unsuitable?
If strong wind or unsuitable weather requires cancellation, the full tour price will be refunded.
Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes. Hot coffee, tea, toddy and biscuits are included in the tour price.
Where will I be picked up?
Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Longyearbyen are included.
Which languages are available?
The tour can be guided in English, Norwegian, German and Swiss German.
Photograph Svalbard’s puffins from the sea
Join a small-group wildlife experience with space, flexibility and time to focus on one of the Arctic’s most charismatic seabirds.
