Húsavík: Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat

If you’re heading to the northern coast of Iceland, chances are you’re dreaming of spotting whales and puffins in their natural habitat. This tour from Húsavík, often called the Whale Capital of Iceland, promises an exhilarating way to do just that — aboard a speedy RIB boat, with knowledgeable guides leading the way. We’ve looked into what makes this experience stand out (and what to keep in mind), so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your Iceland adventure.

What we love about this tour is its dynamic approach to wildlife viewing, the personalized experience on a more spacious boat, and the expert commentary that turns a boat ride into a mini marine biology class. The one possible drawback? The tour’s success depends heavily on weather conditions, meaning sightings aren’t guaranteed. But if you’re someone who loves a bit of thrill, quick-paced rides, and authentic wildlife encounters, this could be perfect for you.

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers seeking an active, engaging experience with nature, who don’t mind getting a little wet or cold, and want to see whales and puffins in a natural setting. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate small-group settings and expert guides who share their knowledge with enthusiasm.

Good To Know

• Speedboat Advantage: RIB boats are faster and more spacious than traditional whale-watching vessels, offering an exciting and comfortable ride.
• Wildlife Focus: The tour maximizes chances to see big whales like humpbacks and blue whales, as well as puffins during the nesting season.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Miro and Josephine are highlighted for their extensive knowledge, making the trip as informative as it is thrilling.
• Weather Dependency: The tour is subject to weather conditions; bad weather might mean canceled sightings, but options for rescheduling or vouchers are available.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for travelers over 8 years old, but not recommended for pregnant women, those with back or heart issues, or wheelchair users.
• Value for Money: While pricier than traditional tours, many reviews emphasize how the personal attention and close encounters justify the cost.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins at the Gentle Giants Ticket Center in Húsavík, indicated by bright blue flags — an easy spot to find. The tour lasts about 2 hours, with specific start times available depending on the day, so checking in advance is wise. The tour includes all necessary safety gear, notably warm safety overalls (a must for Icelandic waters) and rain jackets if needed. Since there’s no pickup included, you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point, which is straightforward in this small, charming town.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Safety Briefing
Before heading out, guides like Miro and Josephine emphasize safety, explaining how to behave on the boat and what to do if you encounter wildlife. This sets the tone for an informed and respectful wildlife viewing experience.

Stop 2: Puffin Island (April 15 – August 15)
Your first stop takes you to Puffin Island, home to thousands of these colorful birds, often called “the Clowns of the Ocean.” Reviewers mention that, during nesting season, the puffins are quite close and adorable, making for fantastic photo opportunities. However, some note that the puffins are not up close but are still a delight to observe from a distance, especially with a guide pointing out their behaviors.

Stop 3: Skjálfandi Bay
The main event is whale watching in Skjálfandi Bay, where the boat’s speed and agility make it easier to spot larger whales like humpbacks and blue whales. Multiple reviewers speak of spotting 5-6 humpbacks or even more, sometimes catching whales in relaxed or playful moods — a highlight for many. One guest shared that their guide, Alberto, was “great and competent,” ensuring everyone was well-informed about each sighting, and the skipper, Sarah, handled the boat smoothly even in choppy waters.

Stop 4: Wildlife and Scenic Views
Throughout the 2-hour trip, guides provide commentary on the marine life, the local ecosystem, and the significance of the sightings. Guests often mention how much they appreciated the live commentary, which turned the experience into an educational one. Many reviewers say that the guides, like Serena and Matteo, are passionate about whales and puffins, sharing interesting facts without overwhelming.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Speed and Space: Unlike conventional whale-watching boats, this RIB (rigid inflatable boat) offers a more spacious experience, with a maximum of 12 passengers, allowing for comfortable movement and better views. Reviewers often comment on how close they got to the whales, with some even saying they could see whales “in relaxation mode” or doing acrobatic jumps.

Wildlife Encounters: The focus on big whales is a major selling point. Many guests note that their chances of seeing humpbacks and even blue whales are increased thanks to the boat’s ability to cover larger areas quickly. The thrill of seeing whales breach or tail slap is frequently highlighted.

Authenticity and Local Ownership: The tour is run by a locally owned family company, adding a layer of authenticity and personal touch that travelers tend to appreciate. The guides are knowledgeable, often marine biologists, which means the commentary isn’t just surface-level.

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The Realities: Weather and Sightings

A common theme in reviews is that whale sightings are weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t ideal, you might not see whales — but the tour offers a voucher for a future trip, which many travelers find reassuring. Several reviewers, like Sushma and Andrea, mention that even on days with poor weather, the guides did their best to find wildlife, and the experience remained enjoyable.

Price and Value

While this tour isn’t the cheapest option in Húsavík, reviews consistently mention the value for money. The smaller group size, the speedboat thrill, and the chance to see multiple whale species from close range make it worth the upfront cost for many. As Riccardo pointed out, the RIB experience is more fun and less crowded than traditional boats, which adds to the overall value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure-loving travelers who want to combine wildlife watching with an adrenaline rush. If you’re comfortable on a boat, don’t mind chilly weather, and are eager to get close to whales in their natural habitat, you’ll love the speed and intimacy of this trip.

It’s also ideal for those who value expert guides and small-group settings. For families over 8 years old, this could be a memorable adventure, especially for kids who enjoy a faster-paced ride. However, it’s not suited for pregnant women, or travelers with back, heart, or mobility issues.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children should be over 8 years old. The tour involves fast boat rides, so younger children may find it too bumpy or cold.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, outdoor gear, and rain jackets are recommended. It’s best to layer up since it can be chilly, especially at sea.

What happens if no whales are seen?
If no whales or dolphins are spotted, you will be offered a voucher for a traditional whale-watching trip on oak boats at no extra cost. However, if weather cancels the trip altogether, a full refund or reschedule is available.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including safety briefings, wildlife viewing, and scenic cruising.

Can I join the tour if I have health issues or mobility problems?
This tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, or those under 4 ft 3 in (130 cm). The boat’s speed and movement might be challenging.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Miro, Josephine, and Serena for their passion, knowledge, and friendly approach, making each trip both fun and educational.

Final Thoughts

For thrill-seekers and wildlife enthusiasts alike, the Húsavík Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat offers a blend of adventure, education, and incredible scenery. The smaller, more comfortable RIB boats allow for closer encounters with whales, while guides share fascinating insights that enhance the experience. While weather can influence sighting success, the tour’s flexible policies and knowledgeable crew help ensure every trip is rewarding.

If you’re eager to see humpbacks, blue whales, and puffins in their natural environment — and don’t mind a splash or two — this tour is one of the best options in Iceland’s whale capital. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value authentic, small-group adventures and are ready for a lively, fast-paced ride through Iceland’s stunning waters.

To sum it up, this tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting a personalized, dynamic wildlife experience with the added thrill of speedboat riding. It’s a memorable way to connect with Iceland’s marine life, especially if you’re eager to get up close to whales and puffins in a setting that balances excitement with education. For anyone who loves nature, adventure, and the beauty of the Arctic waters, this is a trip you won’t forget.

Note: Always check the weather forecast and dress appropriately, as the success of sightings can depend heavily on conditions. Pre-booking is recommended, and keep an open mind — sometimes, the best part is just being out on the water, no matter what wildlife you see!

You can check if your dates are available here: