Húsavík: Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat

Imagine speeding across a glassy bay, your heart pounding with excitement as you scan the horizon for whales and puffins. That’s exactly what this speedboat whale safari from Húsavík promises — and often delivers — in a way that makes it stand out among Iceland’s many marine tours. This experience, run by Gentle Giants Whale Watching, has earned glowing reviews and a solid 4.8-star rating from nearly a thousand travelers.

What makes this tour appealing? For starters, the larger, more comfortable RIB speedboat allows for a spacious and personal adventure, often with fewer than 12 passengers. Second, the expert guides, many with marine biology backgrounds, ensure you get insightful commentary and a real sense of connection to the wildlife. Lastly, the chance to see big whales like humpbacks and blue whales, plus thousands of puffins, makes the two hours feel like a journey through Iceland’s marine life highlights.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather dependency — the tour is subject to favorable conditions, and if the weather is bad, it might be canceled or rescheduled. This is common with ocean activities, but worth considering if you’re visiting outside of the puffin season or during Iceland’s unpredictable weather swings.

This tour segment suits those looking for a dynamic, close-up wildlife experience with a touch of adventure. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy speed, scenery, and learning from knowledgeable guides. If your main goal involves spotting whales and puffins in their natural habitat, this tour hits the mark.

Good To Know

• Spacious RIB Speedboat: Offers higher comfort and a more personal atmosphere.
• Expert Guides: Marine biologists and nature lovers who enhance your understanding.
• Wildlife Viewing: Focuses on whales, dolphins, puffins, and other marine creatures.
• Flexible Insurance: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, with options to reschedule.
• Seasonal Focus: Puffin season runs from mid-April to mid-August; outside these months, whale sightings are prioritized.
• Cost-Value Balance: At $159, the tour offers a memorable experience, especially considering the intimate size and expert guidance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Check-In

You’ll meet your guide at the Gentle Giants Ticket Center in Húsavík, conveniently marked with big blue flags. This simplicity in location makes it easy to find your way, and the staff are friendly and ready to provide a quick safety briefing. From there, you’ll be fitted with warm safety overalls — a must-have gear for Iceland’s often chilly and windy conditions — and a life jacket. Some reviews mention bringing extra layers, especially on colder days, aligning well with the advice to dress warmly in outdoor clothing.

Puffin Island: A Colorful Bird Encounter

The first highlight is the visit to Puffin Island, especially during nesting season (mid-April to mid-August). As you cruise past, you’ll notice thousands of puffins with their vibrant beaks and comically large beady eyes, often called “the clowns of the ocean.” Reviewers frequently comment on how cute and plentiful they are, with one mentioning being surprised at how many puffins they saw and how adorable they found them.

Your guide will point out the nesting sites and share stories about these charming birds’ habits. For bird lovers or families, this is a perfect mix of wildlife and scenery, offering plenty of photo opportunities. Since puffins tend to be active during daylight hours, the timing of your tour can greatly influence what you see.

Cruising Skjálfandi Bay: A Wildlife Wonderland

After Puffin Island, the boat heads towards Skjálfandi Bay, known for its rich marine biodiversity. The speedboat’s high speed increases your chances of spotting the larger whales, such as humpbacks, blue whales, and possibly even more elusive species. The guides, many of whom are marine biologists, provide live commentary — sharing fascinating facts about whale behaviors and local marine ecosystems.

Travelers have noted the professionalism and enthusiasm of guides like Mateo and Serena, who seem genuinely passionate about marine life. One reviewer appreciated how their guide, Zara, was a marine biologist who could answer all questions about whale behavior, making the experience both fun and educational.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Whale & Dolphin Watching: A Thrilling Encounter

The core of this tour revolves around spotting big whales. Thanks to the boat’s speed and agility, you can quickly approach whales when they surface, often leading to more exciting and closer encounters than traditional slow-moving whale watching boats. Several travelers describe seeing up to three humpback whales in one trip, often in relaxed or active states, which greatly enhances the viewing experience.

Many reviews mention the thrill of seeing humpback whales and blue whales so close that you can almost hear their breaths. One guest recalled seeing a whale in relaxation mode, while another was thrilled to see an active whale breaching or flapping its fins. In addition, dolphins are often spotted along the way, adding a playful touch to the trip.

Duration and Comfort

The entire tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable commitment even for those with tight schedules. With a maximum of 12 passengers, the experience feels intimate without sacrificing the excitement of speed and movement. Reviewers often praise the smooth ride provided by the skipper, Sarah, who is known for her expert handling and ability to make everyone comfortable, even in choppier waters.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your ticket covers the round-trip cruise, live commentary, and warm overalls (rain jackets if needed). Not included are hotel transfers, which many travelers consider a minor inconvenience given the tour’s central departure point. Some guests have emphasized bringing extra warm clothing, hats, and socks, especially in colder months, to stay comfortable.

Weather and Wildlife Guarantee

Since Iceland’s weather can change rapidly, the tour is weather-dependent. If weather conditions aren’t favorable, your trip might be canceled or rescheduled. However, if no whales are seen, you’ll receive a voucher for a future whale tour on oak boats, which is a generous gesture appreciated by many travelers.

The puffin season is quite short (April 15 to August 15), so if you’re visiting outside this window, you might find more focus on whales and marine life rather than puffins.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love marine wildlife, speed, and small-group intimacy, this is a fantastic choice. It suits those looking for a more personal, engaging experience with wildlife, combining scenic beauty with educational commentary. Families with children over 8, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts will find it particularly rewarding.

It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate expert guides and want to learn more about Iceland’s ocean life. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions, as the boat’s high speed can make the ride bumpy in rough weather.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

At $159 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, education, and wildlife sightings. Smaller groups and knowledgeable guides mean you get more than just a boat ride — you get a chance to connect with Iceland’s marine environment on a deeper level. The speedboat’s design ensures you’re not just watching from a distance but actively engaged in close, dynamic encounters with whales and puffins.

Travelers consistently mention the professionalism of the crew and the amazing sightings, making this tour a highlight for many visiting Húsavík. The ability to see multiple whale species and thousands of puffins in a short time makes it a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

This safari is best suited for those who aren’t afraid of a bit of speed and wind — and who crave an immersive, wildlife-rich adventure in Iceland’s stunning northern waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for children over 8 years old, mainly because of the boat’s speed and the outdoor environment.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in outdoor clothing, including layers, and bring extra socks or hats if needed. The tour provides safety overalls, but extra warmth is advised.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reschedule if needed, offering flexibility in case of bad weather.

Are whales guaranteed to be seen?
While sightings depend on weather and wildlife activity, if no whales are spotted, you’ll receive a voucher for a future whale tour on oak boats.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, guests meet at the Gentle Giants Ticket Center in Húsavík, which is centrally located and easy to find.

To sum it up, this whale and puffin speedboat tour from Húsavík combines the thrill of high-speed marine adventures with the opportunity to witness Iceland’s iconic wildlife in their natural environment. With expert guides, a cozy group size, and the chance to see multiple species up close, it offers excellent value for travelers eager for an active and authentic experience. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, an adventure junkie, or simply seeking a memorable day on Iceland’s waters, this tour is likely to leave a lasting impression.

You can check if your dates are available here: