Seals: The Other Stars of our Puffin Tours

While puffins may be the main attraction on our tours, they aren’t the only fascinating wildlife you can spot along the way. Iceland’s coastal waters are home to both harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) and grey seals (Halichoerus grypus), and we often encounter them during our puffin watching cruises. These curious marine mammals can be seen lounging on the rocky shores, gracefully swimming through the waves, or even enjoying a meal in their natural habitat.

Harbour Seals: The Coastal Residents

Harbour seals are one of the most common seal species around Iceland and can often be spotted near the islands where puffins nest. They have a more compact and rounded face, giving them a friendly, almost dog-like appearance. These seals prefer to stay close to the coast, where they haul out on rocks or sandy beaches to rest and warm themselves in the sun.

A common behaviour we observe is “bottling”, where harbour seals float vertically in the water with just their heads above the surface. This allows them to rest while staying partially submerged, a clever adaptation that keeps them safe from predators. If you see a seal bobbing like a cork in the water, it's likely enjoying a peaceful break!

Grey Seals: The Larger, Bolder Cousins

Grey seals, the larger of the two species, are easily recognised by their long, horse-like snouts and mottled fur patterns. They tend to be more solitary than harbour seals but can sometimes be seen resting on the shore or swimming near our boat. Grey seals are powerful hunters, feeding on a variety of fish, and if you’re lucky, you might even witness one catching its meal during a tour. Unlike harbour seals, grey seals are known to dive deeper and for longer periods, spending a good amount of time below the surface before reappearing.

Spotting Seals on Our Tours

Seals, like puffins, are highly adapted to life at sea, and watching them in their natural habitat is always a special experience. Whether they are lazily sunbathing on the rocks, curiously peering at our boat from the water, or actively hunting fish, they add an extra layer of excitement to our tours. Their playful and inquisitive nature often makes them a favourite among visitors, offering a unique opportunity to observe Iceland’s diverse marine life up close.

With both puffins and seals making regular appearances on our tours, every trip is a chance to witness the incredible wildlife that thrives in Iceland’s coastal waters. Keep your camera ready - you never know when a curious seal might pop up to say hello!