Puffin Rescue & Aquarium in Heimaey

Discover the Wonders of Heimaey: Beluga Whale Sanctuary and Puffin Hospital Tour

Welcome to Heimaey, the largest island in the Westman archipelago, located off the south coast of Iceland! This exciting tour offers a unique opportunity to visit the world’s first Beluga Whale Sanctuary and learn about these magnificent creatures, as well as the vital conservation efforts to protect the island’s puffin population.

Tour Highlights

• Beluga Whale Sanctuary: Get up close with Little White and Little Grey, the sanctuary’s first residents.
• Native Species Aquarium: Explore the aquarium to see the new marine neighbors of the beluga whales.
• Puffin Hospital: Learn about the efforts to nurse puffins back to health and prepare them for release.
• Accessibility: The facilities are wheelchair, stroller, and pram accessible, making it easy for visitors with limited mobility or eyesight.

Itinerary

1. Visitor Center Tour:
   • Begin your adventure with a visit to the Beluga Whale Sanctuary Visitor Center. Here, you’ll learn about the beluga whales, their journey to Iceland, and why they are now residents of this sanctuary.
   • Explore the native species aquarium and learn about the marine life that shares the waters with the beluga whales.
2. Puffin Hospital:
   • Visit the puffin hospital and see firsthand the efforts to protect and rehabilitate the puffin population on Heimaey. Watch as dedicated professionals care for these adorable birds and prepare them for release back into the wild.
3. Photo Opportunities:
   • Throughout the tour, there are plenty of chances to take photos and ask questions. Capture memories of your visit and the incredible work being done to protect Iceland’s wildlife.

Ideal for Cruise Passengers

This tour is perfect for cruise passengers looking for an engaging and educational activity while docked at Heimaey. The tour duration allows ample time to return to your ship, making it a convenient option for those with limited time on the island.

Meeting Points

Check-In:

• Ribsafari Offices at 12:45, Tangagata 7, Vestmannaeyjabær 900, near the children’s playground.

Directions:

• From the cruise ship port, follow this link for directions: Ribsafari Office Directions

What’s Included?

• Entry or admission fee
• One-hour boat trip
• Admission to the Visitor Centre on the same date

Exclusions

• Food and drinks are not included, but there are dining options nearby.
• Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.

What to Bring?

• Camera
• Suitable outdoor clothing (closed-toe, non-slip shoes recommended)

Cancellation Policy

• No refund if the cruise cannot dock.
• 100% cancellation fee if booking is canceled 4 days or less before the event.
• 96.5% refund if booking is canceled with more than 4 days’ notice (3.5% is a non-refundable merchant fee).

Detailed Information about the Visited Places

Beluga Whale Sanctuary Visitor Center

The Beluga Whale Sanctuary Visitor Center is a world-renowned facility dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of beluga whales. Here, you’ll have the chance to learn about the sanctuary’s mission and the unique stories of its residents, Little White and Little Grey. The center provides detailed exhibits on the belugas’ journey from captivity to their new home in Iceland, highlighting the importance of marine conservation.

Native Species Aquarium

Adjacent to the sanctuary, the Native Species Aquarium offers a fascinating look at the diverse marine life found around Heimaey. This includes a variety of fish, invertebrates, and other sea creatures that share the waters with the belugas. The aquarium is designed to educate visitors on the ecological significance of these species and the delicate balance of the marine ecosystem.

Puffin Hospital

The Puffin Hospital is a crucial facility for the rescue and rehabilitation of puffins, a beloved species in Iceland. During your visit, you’ll witness the dedicated efforts of the team as they care for injured or orphaned puffins. The hospital not only focuses on the physical well-being of the birds but also on preparing them for a successful release back into the wild. This facility is a testament to the island’s commitment to wildlife conservation.

Puffin Colonies

As part of the boat tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see the puffin colonies along the cliffs of Vestmannaeyjar. These colonies are among the largest in the world, and the sight of these colorful birds nesting and flying is truly spectacular. The tour provides a unique perspective on the life cycle of puffins and the challenges they face in their natural habitat.

Ideal for Cruise Passengers

This tour is designed with cruise passengers in mind. The timing and location of the tour ensure that you can make the most of your time on Heimaey without worrying about missing your ship. The short duration allows you to explore other parts of the island or simply relax and enjoy the local scenery before re-embarking.

Convenient and Accessible

The facilities at the Beluga Whale Sanctuary and the Puffin Hospital are fully accessible, ensuring that all visitors, regardless of mobility, can enjoy the tour. Whether you’re traveling with young children in strollers or require wheelchair access, you’ll find that the tour is accommodating and inclusive.

Enhance Your Experience

While food and drinks are not included in the tour, Heimaey offers a variety of dining options to suit all tastes. From traditional Icelandic cuisine to international fare, you’ll find plenty of places to enjoy a meal before or after your tour. Public transportation is also available for those who wish to explore the island further, making it easy to visit other attractions and points of interest.

Why Choose This Tour?

Choosing this tour not only provides you with a memorable experience but also supports vital conservation efforts. The proceeds from your visit directly fund the care and rehabilitation of Little White and Little Grey, as well as the rescue and release programs for puffins. Your participation helps ensure that these beautiful creatures continue to thrive in their natural environments.

Book Your Tour Today!

Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the world’s first Beluga Whale Sanctuary and learn about the incredible work being done to protect the island’s wildlife. Book your tour today and immerse yourself in the captivating world of marine conservation on Heimaey!