Húsavík: Traditional Whale Watching by Local Family Company

Húsavík, often called Europe’s whale-watching capital, draws travelers eager to see whales in their natural habitat. The tour offered by Gentle Giants Whale Watching promises a cozy, authentically Icelandic experience aboard a classic oak boat. We’ve reviewed this adventure based on hundreds of glowing reviews, detailed descriptions, and honest insights from travelers who’ve been there.

What attracted us most? The use of traditional Icelandic oak boats, the knowledgeable guides, and the authentic local vibe of a family-run company. The three-hour duration is perfect—it’s long enough to see whales without feeling exhausted, and the price, around $91 per person, seems fair given what’s included. One thing to keep in mind: weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so you might face some chilly moments or cancellations if conditions aren’t favorable.

This tour is ideal for wildlife lovers, families, or anyone wanting a genuine Icelandic experience with a high chance of whale sightings. If you’re after a well-organized, local-led adventure with a focus on safety and comfort, this is a strong choice.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Travel on a traditional Icelandic oak boat run by a family-owned company.
• High Success Rate: Expect high chances of whale sightings, including humpbacks and blue whales.
• Expert Guides: Guides provide live commentary, sharing knowledge and fun facts with humor and care.
• Comfort & Safety: Warm safety overalls and rain jackets are provided to keep you dry and cozy.
• Flexible & Fair: 3-hour tours with full refund options if weather cancels the trip or no whales are seen.
• Ideal for Nature Enthusiasts: Perfect for those who love wildlife and authentic, small-group tours.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Setting – Húsavík & Skjálfandi Bay

Starting from a central location in Húsavík, the tour kicks off with a safety briefing at the Gentle Giants ticket center, marked by bright blue flags. The town’s charm adds to the anticipation—picturesque harbor views and a friendly, laid-back vibe make it an inviting spot to begin your adventure.

Once aboard the traditional Icelandic oak boat, the atmosphere feels special. These boats, made from local oak, aren’t just charming—they also highlight Iceland’s dedication to preserving its maritime heritage. This authenticity sets the tone for an experience that’s both scenic and meaningful.

Skjálfandi Bay, where the tour takes place, is renowned for its thriving marine life. Its rich waters are home to numerous whale species, including humpbacks, blue whales, and even rare sightings of orcas. The bay’s natural beauty also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline, which you’ll enjoy during the cruise.

The Itinerary – What to Expect

The tour begins with a safety demonstration onboard, where guides like Rui and Nicoliene are frequently praised for their friendly professionalism and humor—reviewers note they go above and beyond, especially with families or first-time whale watchers. You’ll then cruise out into Skjálfandi Bay, where the real adventure starts.

The main focus is whale spotting. Expect to see humpbacks, which are notably acrobatic and often breach the surface, making for memorable photos. Several reviewers share stories of seeing up to five humpbacks during a single trip, even in challenging weather. One traveler excitedly mentioned spotting a blue whale, a rare but thrilling sight.

Guides provide live commentary throughout—sharing insights about the whales, their behaviors, and local marine ecosystems. Several reviews emphasize how knowledgeable guides like Catherina and Nicoliene enhance the experience, blending entertainment with education.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Local Operation: As a family-run company, Gentle Giants offers a genuine Icelandic vibe, more personal than big commercial operators. Many reviews mention how caring and helpful the staff are—notably, they’re carefully attentive to children, seasickness, and comfort.

Traditional Boat Charm: The oak boats add a nostalgic touch, making the journey feel connected to Iceland’s maritime roots. The use of high-quality safety overalls and rain jackets ensures you stay warm and dry, even if the weather turns sour. Seal and dolphin sightings are also common, adding further variety.

High Success Rate & Value: Reviewers consistently praise the high likelihood of whale sightings—“so many whales, even in snow”—and the professionalism of guides. The cost of $91 is considered reasonable given the length, safety gear, and expert guidance provided.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Weather & Its Impact

Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable—snow, wind, or rain might greet you, which can affect visibility and the chance of spotting whales. Several travelers mention that despite challenging conditions, they still saw whales multiple times, thanks to the guides’ expertise in locating marine giants. If bad weather cancels, you’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Many reviewers highlight that 3 hours is the perfect duration—long enough to see whales comfortably, but not so long that you tire. Some mention seas can be a bit rough—so packing warm, waterproof clothing is essential.

The View & Wildlife Encounters

The tour’s scenic aspect shouldn’t be overlooked. Skjálfandi Bay’s rugged coastline and surrounding mountains provide a stunning backdrop for whale watching. Reviews describe the thrill of watching humpbacks breach or see dolphins and puffins flying past the boat.

One traveler shared their joy in seeing five humpback whales and numerous times, even during snow. Such sightings, combined with the guides’ enthusiasm, make this trip feel like a wildlife documentary come alive.

Final Thoughts

This whale-watching tour from Húsavík ticks many boxes: it’s authentic, well-organized, and led by passionate guides who truly care. The traditional oak boats bring a nostalgic feel, and the live commentary keeps you engaged and informed. The chance of multiple whale sightings, paired with scenic views, makes it a worthwhile experience for anyone interested in marine life or Iceland’s natural beauty.

The price point of $91 is more than fair considering the quality of the experience, the safety equipment, and the small-group intimacy. Plus, the flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind, especially given Iceland’s fickle weather.

If you’re after a genuinely Icelandic adventure, love animals, and want to learn from expert guides in a cozy, family-run environment, this whale watching tour will not disappoint. It’s especially perfect for first-timers and families looking for a memorable, educational, and fun day at sea.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own waterproof clothing? No, the tour provides high-quality safety overalls and rain jackets to keep you warm and dry during the cruise.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, a good length to see whales without fatigue.

Can I see blue whales on this trip? While it’s not guaranteed, some travelers have reported sightings of blue whales, which are rare but possible in Skjálfandi Bay.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, reviews mention that guides are very accommodating to families and children. Just dress warmly and prepare for some time at sea.

What if I don’t see any whales? If no whales (or dolphins) are spotted, you will be offered a voucher for a free trip later. Weather cancellations also qualify for a full refund.

Are the boats accessible for wheelchairs? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible—just contact the operator beforehand to confirm.

What kind of wildlife might I see besides whales? Expect to see dolphins, puffins, and other marine life, depending on the day.

Is the tour weather-dependent? Yes, it’s subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

What makes this tour different from others? The use of traditional Icelandic oak boats and the focus on local, family-run operations give it an authentic, personal touch.

How many people usually go on the tour? While the exact number varies, reviews mention a cozy, small-group atmosphere, making it easier to see whales and ask questions.

In essence, this Húsavík whale-watching tour stands out for its genuine local vibe, expert guides, and scenic, wildlife-rich waters. It’s a solid choice for anyone eager to see whales in a friendly, authentic setting that captures the spirit of Iceland’s maritime traditions.

You can check if your dates are available here: