English
EUR
Language
Currency

Whale Watching Tours from Husavik

4.5(146)

Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.

























Guests photographing a whale's tail near a RIB speedboat on a Husavik whale watching tour.
Whale tail emerging from water on Iceland coast in Husavik with snowy mountains in background.
RIB speedboat with passengers on Husavik waters during whale and puffin tour, Iceland.
Puffin flapping wings on Husavik waters during whale and puffin watching tour.
RIB speedboat with tourists whale watching in Husavik, North Iceland, with snow-capped mountains.
Lundey Island in Husavik, Iceland with ocean and snow-capped mountains in the background.
Flock of puffins flying over Husavik towards Lundey Island during whale and puffin tour.
Guests on a RIB speedboat near Lundey, Puffin Island, Husavik, with birds flying overhead.
Puffins with fish on Lundey Island during Husavik whale and puffin tour.
Humpback whale breaching in Husavik waters, Iceland.
Guests photographing a whale's tail near a RIB speedboat on a Husavik whale watching tour.
Whale tail emerging from water on Iceland coast in Husavik with snowy mountains in background.
RIB speedboat with passengers on Husavik waters during whale and puffin tour, Iceland.
Puffin flapping wings on Husavik waters during whale and puffin watching tour.
RIB speedboat with tourists whale watching in Husavik, North Iceland, with snow-capped mountains.
Lundey Island in Husavik, Iceland with ocean and snow-capped mountains in the background.
Flock of puffins flying over Husavik towards Lundey Island during whale and puffin tour.
Guests on a RIB speedboat near Lundey, Puffin Island, Husavik, with birds flying overhead.
Puffins with fish on Lundey Island during Husavik whale and puffin tour.
Humpback whale breaching in Husavik waters, Iceland.
Guests photographing a whale's tail near a RIB speedboat on a Husavik whale watching tour.
Whale tail emerging from water on Iceland coast in Husavik with snowy mountains in background.
RIB speedboat with passengers on Husavik waters during whale and puffin tour, Iceland.
Puffin flapping wings on Husavik waters during whale and puffin watching tour.
RIB speedboat with tourists whale watching in Husavik, North Iceland, with snow-capped mountains.
Lundey Island in Husavik, Iceland with ocean and snow-capped mountains in the background.
Flock of puffins flying over Husavik towards Lundey Island during whale and puffin tour.
Guests on a RIB speedboat near Lundey, Puffin Island, Husavik, with birds flying overhead.
Puffins with fish on Lundey Island during Husavik whale and puffin tour.
Humpback whale breaching in Husavik waters, Iceland.
Sightseeing Cruises
4.7(11)

Husavik: Whale Watching and Puffin Tour on RIB speedboat

from
€149
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

2 hr
Guided tour
Itinerary
MODE OF TRANSFERSpeedboat
Timeline
Map
Husavik harbor
Start point

Husavik harbor

Get direction
Puffin Island

1. Puffin Island

Skjálfandi Bay

2. Skjálfandi Bay

3 activities

Things to do

Whale-watching
Whale-watching
Included in price
Dolphin-spotting
Dolphin-spotting
Included in price
Porpoise-spotting
Porpoise-spotting
Included in price
Husavik harbor
End point

Husavik harbor

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

High-speed RIB tour for close-up whale and puffin encounters in Husavik’s Skjálfandi Bay.

  • Starting point: Husavik harbor, the heart of Iceland’s whale watching capital.
  • Everything you get: 2-hour adventure on a modern 12-seater RIB speedboat, English-speaking wildlife guide, live commentary, visit to Puffin Island (April 15-August 15), close-up whale watching, waterproof overalls, and life vests for warmth and safety.
  • Sights covered: Skjálfandi Bay, blue whales, humpback whales, and Puffin Island hosting thousands of puffins during the nesting season.
  • Why choose this: With small group sizes and a fast RIB boat, this tour delivers a personal, up-close experience. Spot more wildlife in less time.

High-speed RIB tour for close-up whale and puffin encounters in Husavik’s Skjálfandi Bay.

  • Starting point: Husavik harbor, the heart of Iceland’s whale watching capital.
  • Everything you get: 2-hour adventure on a modern 12-seater RIB speedboat, English-speaking wildlife guide, live commentary, visit to Puffin Island (April 15-August 15), close-up whale watching, waterproof overalls, and life vests for warmth and safety.
  • Sights covered: Skjálfandi Bay, blue whales, humpback whales, and Puffin Island hosting thousands of puffins during the nesting season.
  • Why choose this: With small group sizes and a fast RIB boat, this tour delivers a personal, up-close experience. Spot more wildlife in less time.

Inclusions

  • 2-hour whale watching tour on an RIB speedboat
  • English-speaking expert guide
  • Small group; 12-seater boat
  • Warm and waterproof overalls and life vests

Exclusions

  • Food & drinks
  • Please wear warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear. It's also a good idea to bring protective bags for cameras.
  • This experience is not suitable for pregnant women or those with heart or back conditions.
  • This experience is not allowed for guests under 8 years and those under the height of 130 cm (4.25ft).
  • The puffin season typically runs from April 15 to August 15.
  • For your safety and comfort, tours may be rescheduled or altered on short notice due to weather or sea conditions. You'll be notified via the contact information shared at the time of booking.
  • For your safety and comfort, tours may be rescheduled or altered on short notice due to weather or sea conditions. You'll be notified via the contact information shared at the time of booking.
  • Sightings are highly likely (up to 99%) but not guaranteed; if no whales or dolphins appear, you can join a GG1 Whale Watching tour free of charge, subject to availability.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Visiting between May and August?

Choose a whale watching and puffin combo tour to spot puffins alongside whales. Puffins are highly seasonal and only visible during the summer nesting months along the Húsavík coastline.

Guests on a boat tour in Husavik watching a whale fluke emerge from the water.
Humpback whale breaching during Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour in Husavik.
Guests observing a whale fluke on a boat tour in Husavik.
Whales surfacing in the ocean during the Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour in Husavik.
Dolphins swimming in the ocean at a whale watching spot in Iceland.
Blue whale spouting water in Husavik during Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour.
Guide explaining sea map to guests during Whale Watching tour in Husavik.
Orca swimming in the ocean near Husavik during Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour.
Whale fluke with birds during Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour in Husavik.
Guests on a boat tour in Husavik watching a whale fluke emerge from the water.
Humpback whale breaching during Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour in Husavik.
Guests observing a whale fluke on a boat tour in Husavik.
Whales surfacing in the ocean during the Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour in Husavik.
Dolphins swimming in the ocean at a whale watching spot in Iceland.
Blue whale spouting water in Husavik during Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour.
Guide explaining sea map to guests during Whale Watching tour in Husavik.
Orca swimming in the ocean near Husavik during Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour.
Whale fluke with birds during Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour in Husavik.
Guests on a boat tour in Husavik watching a whale fluke emerge from the water.
Humpback whale breaching during Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour in Husavik.
Guests observing a whale fluke on a boat tour in Husavik.
Whales surfacing in the ocean during the Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour in Husavik.
Dolphins swimming in the ocean at a whale watching spot in Iceland.
Blue whale spouting water in Husavik during Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour.
Guide explaining sea map to guests during Whale Watching tour in Husavik.
Orca swimming in the ocean near Husavik during Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour.
Whale fluke with birds during Gentle Giants Whale Watching Tour in Husavik.
Day Trips
4.7(28)

Husavik: Whale Watching Boat Tour

from
€85
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

3 hr
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
Timeline
Map
Husavik harbor
Start point

Husavik harbor

Get direction
Husavik Coastline

1. Husavik Coastline

Things to do

 Skjálfandi Bay

2. Skjálfandi Bay

Free Admission
3 activities

Things to do

Husavik harbor
End point

Husavik harbor

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

Traditional oak-boat whale watching in Europe's whale capital with expert guides and rich marine life.

  • Starting point: Husavik Harbor, Iceland’s whale-watching capital
  • Everything you get: A 3-hour whale-watching cruise on a traditional oak boat with an expert wildlife guide offering live commentary. Stay warm with included overalls and rain jackets as you explore Skjálfandi Bay’s rich marine life and stunning scenery.
  • Sights covered: Spot humpback whales, blue whales, minke whales, dolphins, porpoises, seabirds, and experience sweeping views of Skjálfandi Bay and surrounding mountains.
  • Why choose this: With near-guaranteed sightings and expert guidance, it’s your best shot at seeing whales on your very first try.

Traditional oak-boat whale watching in Europe's whale capital with expert guides and rich marine life.

  • Starting point: Husavik Harbor, Iceland’s whale-watching capital
  • Everything you get: A 3-hour whale-watching cruise on a traditional oak boat with an expert wildlife guide offering live commentary. Stay warm with included overalls and rain jackets as you explore Skjálfandi Bay’s rich marine life and stunning scenery.
  • Sights covered: Spot humpback whales, blue whales, minke whales, dolphins, porpoises, seabirds, and experience sweeping views of Skjálfandi Bay and surrounding mountains.
  • Why choose this: With near-guaranteed sightings and expert guidance, it’s your best shot at seeing whales on your very first try.

Inclusions

  • 3-hour whale-watching boat tour on a traditional Icelandic oak boat
  • English-speaking specialized wildlife guide
  • Thermal suits & safety gear
  • Rain jackets (if needed)

Exclusions

  • Hotel pickup & drop-off
  • Food and drinks
  • Seasickness medication

What to bring

  • You should dress in warm layers, including thermal base layers and a fleece or sweater.
  • A waterproof and windproof jacket will help protect you from sudden weather changes.
  • Make sure to wear closed, warm shoes or waterproof boots for comfort at sea.
  • Bringing a hat, gloves, scarf, and extra woollen socks will keep you better insulated.
  • Cameras and phones are recommended to be stored in protective waterproof bags to prevent damage.
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen can help with glare and UV exposure on the water.
  • Seasickness medication is recommended if you are prone to motion sickness.
  • Carrying a small backpack with snacks, a water bottle, and optional binoculars can enhance your trip.

What’s not allowed

  • Smoking, including the use of e-cigarettes, is prohibited on all boats and premises.
  • Large bags or bulky backpacks are not permitted on board due to limited space.
  • Drones are not allowed on any scheduled tours.
  • You're not allowed to get alcoholic beverages on board.

Accessibility

  • Guests using wheelchairs can join the tour aboard the larger oak boat Sylvía, depending on conditions.
  • Assistance may be required when boarding due to the narrow entrance of approximately 57 cm.
  • The crew is available to help, although full lifting support must be provided by accompanying companions.
  • Afternoon or evening departures offer more space and may be more comfortable for guests with mobility needs.
  • Informing the operator in advance ensures that the crew can prepare appropriate assistance.

Additional information

  • Arriving at least 40 minutes before departure ensures enough time for check-in and boarding.
  • Tours may be altered or cancelled due to weather changes to maintain guest safety and comfort.
  • A free return voucher is offered if no whales or dolphins are seen during the tour.
  • Children are required to wear life jackets, which are provided by the crew.
  • Although toilets are available onboard, guests are encouraged to use on-land facilities beforehand.
  • Food and drinks are not sold on the boats, so guests should bring their own if needed.
  • The operator does not provide secure luggage storage and cannot take responsibility for personal items.
  • Boats remain within Skjálfandi Bay, where rich wildlife offers the best viewing opportunities.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Humpback whale breaching near a tour boat during a whale watching cruise in Iceland.
Whale breaching during a whale watching tour in Husavik, Iceland.
Humpback whale tail near tour boat on whale watching cruise.
Puffins on grassy cliff during whale watching and puffin tour cruise.
Puffin Island near Husavik with grassy cliffs and surrounding ocean.
Puffins on grassy cliff during whale watching and puffin tour.
Hot chocolate in a white cup with star-shaped cookies on a plate.
Humpback whale breaching near a tour boat during a whale watching cruise in Iceland.
Whale breaching during a whale watching tour in Husavik, Iceland.
Humpback whale tail near tour boat on whale watching cruise.
Puffins on grassy cliff during whale watching and puffin tour cruise.
Puffin Island near Husavik with grassy cliffs and surrounding ocean.
Puffins on grassy cliff during whale watching and puffin tour.
Hot chocolate in a white cup with star-shaped cookies on a plate.
Humpback whale breaching near a tour boat during a whale watching cruise in Iceland.
Whale breaching during a whale watching tour in Husavik, Iceland.
Humpback whale tail near tour boat on whale watching cruise.
Puffins on grassy cliff during whale watching and puffin tour cruise.
Puffin Island near Husavik with grassy cliffs and surrounding ocean.
Puffins on grassy cliff during whale watching and puffin tour.
Hot chocolate in a white cup with star-shaped cookies on a plate.
Day Trips
NEW

Husavik: Whale Watching and Puffin Boat Tour

from
€115
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

3 hr 30 min
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
North Sailing ticket office
Start point

North Sailing ticket office

Get direction

Passes By

North Sailing ticket office
End point

North Sailing ticket office

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

Combine whale watching and puffin spotting on a scenic cruise from Husavík—two Icelandic icons in one trip.

  • Starting point: Husavik's Harbour
  • Everything you get: 3.5 hour whale- and puffin-watching tour on a traditional oak boat, with hot chocolate and cinnamon buns served onboard, indoor and outdoor seating, and expert crew commentary.
  • Sights covered: Visit Puffin Island to see puffins nesting and flying, then cruise Skjálfandi Bay for whales and dolphins. Sights Covered: Puffins, whales, dolphins.
  • Why choose this: Experience the ultimate Icelandic wildlife adventure, spotting whales and puffins in their natural surroundings.

Combine whale watching and puffin spotting on a scenic cruise from Husavík—two Icelandic icons in one trip.

  • Starting point: Husavik's Harbour
  • Everything you get: 3.5 hour whale- and puffin-watching tour on a traditional oak boat, with hot chocolate and cinnamon buns served onboard, indoor and outdoor seating, and expert crew commentary.
  • Sights covered: Visit Puffin Island to see puffins nesting and flying, then cruise Skjálfandi Bay for whales and dolphins. Sights Covered: Puffins, whales, dolphins.
  • Why choose this: Experience the ultimate Icelandic wildlife adventure, spotting whales and puffins in their natural surroundings.

Inclusions

  • 3.5-hour whale and puffin watching tour
  • Visit to Puffin Island
  • Whale watching near Husavík
  • Expert whale watching guide
  • Hot chocolate and cinnamon buns
  • Warm overalls and raincoats if needed

Exclusions

  • Hotel pickup

What to bring

  • Dress warm as weather conditions at sea can be unpredictable.
  • Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
  • Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are advised for sun protection.
  • Camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

What’s not allowed

  • Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted on board.
  • Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.
  • Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited during the tour.
  • Smoking is not permitted on the vessel.

Accessibility

  • This experience is wheelchair accessible.

Additional information

  • The tour operates daily from April to August and lasts approximately 3.5 hours.
  • Puffins are present from mid-April to the end of August, but sightings cannot be guaranteed.
  • Warm overalls and raincoats are provided if needed.
  • Children aged 0–6 join for free but must be included in your booking.
  • The tour departs from Húsavík, Iceland. Please arrive at the meeting point at least 15-20 minutes before departure.
  • The experience may be subject to weather and sea conditions; in case of cancellation, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
  • If you don't see any whales, you will be offered another whale-watching tour free of charge.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guests observing whale from Silent boat in Husavik, Iceland.
Whale tail splashing in the water near Husavik, Iceland, with seagulls flying above.
Guests observing a whale from a Silent boat in Husavik.
Whales spouting water in Husavik bay, Iceland, viewed from a silent boat.
Guests observing a whale from the Silent boat in Husavik, Iceland.
Guests observing whale from Silent boat in Husavik, Iceland.
Whale tail splashing in the water near Husavik, Iceland, with seagulls flying above.
Guests observing a whale from a Silent boat in Husavik.
Whales spouting water in Husavik bay, Iceland, viewed from a silent boat.
Guests observing a whale from the Silent boat in Husavik, Iceland.
Guests observing whale from Silent boat in Husavik, Iceland.
Whale tail splashing in the water near Husavik, Iceland, with seagulls flying above.
Guests observing a whale from a Silent boat in Husavik.
Whales spouting water in Husavik bay, Iceland, viewed from a silent boat.
Guests observing a whale from the Silent boat in Husavik, Iceland.
Day Trips
4.4(107)

Husavik: Silent Whale Watching Tour On Carbon Neutral Oak Boat

from
€112
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

3 hr
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
North Sailing ticket office
Start point

North Sailing ticket office

Get direction
Skjálfandi Bay

1. Skjálfandi Bay

Whale watching

North Sailing ticket office
End point

North Sailing ticket office

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

Experience Iceland’s original silent whale watching on a carbon-neutral oak boat from Husavík.

  • Starting point: Husavík Harbour
  • Everything you get: A 3–3.5 hour silent whale-watching tour on a carbon-neutral electric oak boat. Warm overalls and raincoats are provided if needed, along with expert guidance, hot chocolate, and freshly baked cinnamon buns.
  • Sights covered: Glide through Skjálfandi Bay to see humpback and minke whales, along with other marine life, in their natural habitat.
  • Why choose this: This eco-friendly tour offers Iceland’s most sustainable wildlife experience, perfect for eco-conscious travelers.

Experience Iceland’s original silent whale watching on a carbon-neutral oak boat from Husavík.

  • Starting point: Husavík Harbour
  • Everything you get: A 3–3.5 hour silent whale-watching tour on a carbon-neutral electric oak boat. Warm overalls and raincoats are provided if needed, along with expert guidance, hot chocolate, and freshly baked cinnamon buns.
  • Sights covered: Glide through Skjálfandi Bay to see humpback and minke whales, along with other marine life, in their natural habitat.
  • Why choose this: This eco-friendly tour offers Iceland’s most sustainable wildlife experience, perfect for eco-conscious travelers.

Inclusions

  • 3-3.5 hour whale-watching tour
  • Silent carbon-neutral oak boat
  • Hot chocolate and cinnamon buns served onboard
  • Expert whale watching guide
  • Warm overalls and raincoats (if needed)

Exclusions

  • Hotel pickup

What to bring

  • Dress warmly in layers and bring a windproof, waterproof jacket, as conditions on the bay can shift quickly.
  • Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear suitable for a boat deck.
  • Bring a hat, gloves, and scarf for added warmth.
  • Bring a camera or binoculars if you want to capture or observe wildlife up close. Avoid using flashlight though.
  • Pack any necessary medications you may need.

What’s not allowed

  • Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted on board for safety reasons.
  • Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited during the tour.
  • Smoking is not allowed on the boat.
  • Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.

Accessibility

  • This experience is wheelchair accessible.
  • The experience is not recommended for pregnant guests or those with back or neck problems due to potential boat movement.

Additional information

  • Tours may be canceled or rescheduled in case of severe weather.
  • Whale sightings are not guaranteed, as the animals are in the wild.
  • Children under 7 years board for free but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
  • Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure.
  • If no whales are seen during your trip then you can come back another day for free of cost.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Húsavík whale watching tours | Explore Iceland’s prime whale habitat on Skjálfandi Bay

Húsavík sits on the edge of Skjálfandi Bay, a rich feeding ground known for its cold Arctic currents and nutrient-heavy waters. Boats head toward Lundey and Flatey, two islands that attract seabirds and mark the route into prime whale territory. This region sees consistent humpback activity through the summer, and sightings often begin within minutes of leaving the harbor. The town has a long history with marine research making it a clear choice for travellers who want to explore one of Iceland’s most reliable whale watching areas.

Overview:

  • Whale capital of Iceland: Húsavík sits on Skjálfandi Bay and offers the country’s highest whale sighting success rates.
  • Average distance travelled from Husavik: Within Skjálfandi Bay, usually 5–15 km.
  • What you’ll see: Humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and porpoises.
  • Tour formats: Choose from classic wooden boats for comfort or RIB speedboats for faster, closer encounters.
  • Best time to go: April to October is peak season, with May–August offering the highest success rates.

Things to know before booking your whale watching tour in Husavik

  • Choose your boat type: Classic cruise boats offer a steady ride with space to move around, best for families and relaxed viewing. RIB boats are faster and closer to the water for high-intensity wildlife spotting. The carbon-neutral oak boat is quiet, eco-friendly, and ideal for a calm, low-noise experience.
  • Tour duration varies: Oak boat tours run about 3 to 3.5 hours, giving time to explore feeding areas and seabird islands. {experience type="POPUP" id="35328" text="RIB tours"" are shorter, around 2 hours, but cover more distance and can reach whales faster.
  • Make an eco-friendly choice: The silent whale watching tour on the carbon neutral oak boat minimizes engine noise and emissions, allowing whales to behave naturally while supporting sustainable tourism practices.
  • Group size and atmosphere: Oak boats and classic cruise boats host larger groups, which is good for a social, guided experience. RIBs limit passengers to 12, creating a more personal and active adventure.
  • Check the focus of the tour: Some tours include whales + puffin watching at Lundey or Flatey, while others prioritize whale sightings only. If you want both whales and puffins in one trip, choose accordingly.
  • Inclusions across tours: Expect warm overalls, live commentary, and on some tours even light refreshments like hot chocolate or cinnamon buns. All tours provide flotation gear and follow whale-safe guidelines.
  • Accessibility considerations: Most oak boat tours are wheelchair accessible, but RIBs may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility. Advance notice can ensure the crew is prepared.
  • Ethical whale encounters: All the tours comply with the IceWhale Code of Conduct to safeguard marine life through low-impact navigation, safe proximity rules, and strict limits on interaction time.

Find you perfect whale watching tours in Husavik 

Tour
Boarding point
Duration
Boat type
RIB speedboat
Ideal For
Húsavík: Whale Watching Boat Tour
Gentle Giants ticket center, Húsavík
3 hours
Traditional oak boat
Whale watching cruise, specialized guide, live commentary, warm safety overalls and rain jackets, wheelchair accessible, free cancellation up to 24 hours, voucher if no whales seen
First-time visitors, those seeking a classic, steady-paced experience
Húsavík: Whale Watching and Puffin Tour on Cruise
North Sailing ticket office, Húsavík
3.5 hours
Traditional oak boat
Whale and puffin watching, live commentary, light refreshments (hot chocolate, cinnamon buns), warm overalls, wheelchair accessible, free cancellation up to 24 hours, voucher if no whales seen
Visitors wanting both whales and puffins in one tour, family-friendly
Húsavík: Silent Whale Watching Tour on Carbon Neutral Oak Boat
Húsavík harbour
3 hours
Carbon neutral oak boat
Eco-friendly whale watching cruise, live commentary, light refreshments, warm overalls, wheelchair accessible, free cancellation up to 24 hours, voucher if no whales seen
Environmentally conscious travelers, those seeking quieter, eco-friendly experience
Húsavík: Whale Watching and Puffin Tour on RIB Speedboat
Gentle Giants ticket center, Húsavík
2 hours
RIB speedboat
Round-trip speedboat cruise, specialized guide, live commentary, warm safety overalls and rain jackets, small group (max 12), free cancellation up to 24 hours, voucher if no whales seen
Thrill-seekers, small groups, faster-paced adventure, closer encounters with whales and puffins

Your Husavik whale watching tour itinerary

Whale-safe practice and eco standards in Húsavík

The tours follow a clear, research-based code of conduct developed and promoted through IceWhale and local industry groups. That code sets approach distances, speed limits, and rules for how boats position relative to feeding or nursing animals. It exists to protect whales’ feeding time and energy budgets while keeping encounters safe and meaningful for guests.

Silent watching and noise control
Skjálfandi Bay tours reduce engine noise during sightings: captains slow down to low speeds or cut engines and allow whales to choose the distance. Guides use quiet observation, binoculars, and slow maneuvering so animals are not chased or encircled. These simple steps lower stress on the animals and improve the quality of encounters for passengers.

Plan your Husavik whale watching tour

Timings & duration
Boarding point & getting there
Facilities
Tips
Rules
Timings of Whale watching Iceland
  • RIB tours from Húsavík usually run in two departures, one at 9:30am and another at 12:30pm.
  • Standard tours last for about 3 hours and usually begin at 9.45am.

Best time to go whale watching in Húsavík

May to September is the prime window in Húsavík because Skjálfandi Bay reaches peak productivity. Cold Arctic currents mix with nutrient-heavy coastal waters, drawing humpbacks and minkes into reliable feeding patterns close to shore.

Summer (June–August) brings steady sea conditions and long daylight that make tracking whales easier. Puffins settle on Lundey and Flatey, and humpbacks stay in the bay for weeks at a time, feeding in predictable loops.

Late spring and early autumn still deliver strong activity, with fewer boats on the water and calmer transitions between weather systems that help with stable viewing.

Reykjavík: Husavik Harbour | Find on map

  • By car — Drive north on the main Ring Road (Route 1), then take Route 85 toward Húsavík. From Akureyri it’s about a 1-hour drive.
  • By bus from Akureyri — Take bus line 79 from “Akureyri – Hof” to the Húsavík stop. From that stop the harbour is a short walk. The ride takes around 1 hour 10–15 minutes.
  • By bus from Reykjavík — The main bus route from Reykjavík to Akureyri is served by Strætó bus 57, which typically takes about 6½ hours. After arriving at Akureyri (Hof stop), you transfer to bus 79 to Húsavík, which takes around 1 hour 10–15 minutes.
Facilities during Whale watching tour
  • Safety briefing
  • Outdoor decks (on select boats)
  • Heated indoor seating (on select boats)
  • Restrooms (on select boats)
  • Snack bars and refreshments (on select boats)
  • Free WiFi (on select boats)
  • Warm flotation suits and life jackets
  • Safety equipment
  • Onboard guides and educational commentary
Guest choosing winter clothings
  • Bring an extra layer even in summer: Skjálfandi Bay can shift from calm to cold within minutes. The wind funneled off the Tjörnes peninsula makes the return journey colder than the outbound one.
  • Choose the right boat for your style: Oak boats give you steadier platforms for photography and longer viewing windows. RIBs reach feeding grounds near Lundey and the deeper channels faster, which helps if sightings are concentrated in one area.
  • Stand on the port side when leaving the harbor: Many early sightings happen along the left-hand side as boats pass the breakwater and enter the bay’s inner feeding zone.
  • Watch the sea, not the horizon: In Skjálfandi Bay, humpbacks often surface in slow, predictable intervals. Follow the ripples and slick patches rather than scanning in wide arcs.
  • Look for seabird clusters: Kittiwakes and arctic terns often hover above whales that are preparing to feed. This behaviour is common near the bay’s mid-channel and is one of the quickest ways to anticipate where a whale will surface.
Stay options in Reykjavik
  • Follow all crew instructions during boarding and while moving around the vessel, as decks can shift quickly with changing sea conditions.
  • Remain within designated viewing areas at all times to prevent blocking crew pathways and to maintain safe balance on deck.
  • Keep hands, cameras, and loose items inside the railings when the boat is in motion to avoid accidental drops.
  • Avoid leaning over the bow or attempting to touch the water, especially when wildlife is nearby.
  • Keep noise levels low during sightings so whales and dolphins can behave naturally and guides can communicate clearly.
  • Dispose of any personal waste onshore after the tour, as nothing may be thrown into Skjálfandi Bay under any circumstances.

Frequently asked questions about whale watching tours from Husavik

What is the best whale tour in Husavik for first-time visitors?

For first-time visitors, the classic oak boat tour is usually the best choice. It moves steadily through Skjálfandi Bay, gives you plenty of space to watch the water, and stays long enough in each feeding area for relaxed sightings.

How do whale watching Húsavík tours differ from those in Reykjavik and Akureyri?

Húsavík tours stand out because they operate inside Skjálfandi Bay, a feeding ground where whales return in steady patterns through the summer. Sightings often happen closer to the harbor, and the route usually passes Lundey and Flatey, giving you a mix of whales and seabirds in one circuit.

When is the best time to go on a whale trip from Húsavík?

The best time to go whale watching from Húsavík is May to September, when Skjálfandi Bay reaches peak productivity and whales feed close to shore. Humpbacks stay in steady loops through the bay, minkes use the inner channels, and puffins nest on Lundey and Flatey. Summer also brings calmer seas and long daylight, which makes spotting easier and gives you more viewing time.

How close do we get to the whales?

In Húsavík, boats follow strict guidelines that balance safety with close observation. Oak boats and RIBs often approach whales within tens of meters, close enough to see blows, tail slaps, and bubble feeding, but far enough to avoid disturbing their natural behaviour.

How long does a typical whale watching tour last?

Most tours last around 3 hours, including time navigating to the feeding areas near Lundey and Flatey, observing whales, and returning to the harbor.

Can I take photos or videos on the tour?

Yes, you can but avoid using flash. Items should be secured with straps or stored in waterproof cases. Crew may advise on the best angles for capturing whales and seabirds.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Tours may be rescheduled, altered, or canceled for safety if sea or weather conditions change. Guests are notified via the contact information provided at booking.

Is it possible to combine whale watching with other activities in Húsavík?

Many visitors pair tours with visits to the Húsavík Whale Museum, puffin watching near Lundey, or exploring the Tjörnes peninsula.

From happy customers

JOSE ANTONIO SANCHEZ LLORIA
ES

Jose

Spain
Sep, 2025
review-image
Punctual departure and arrival times. We had the opportunity to see the humpback whales up close, we could almost touch them. They lent us suits to protect us from the cold and the water and offered us a hot chocolate. The guide was very good. Fantastic experience.
View original review in Spanish
Husavik: Whale Watching Boat Tour
Gallotti Fabio
IT

Gallotti

Italy
Sep, 2025
review-image
The ability of the captain and the entire crew to give us an experience that was unique to us but hopefully repeatable as soon as we return to Iceland from Italy.
View original review in Italian
Husavik: Whale Watching Boat Tour
Sandra Medina Rodríguez
ES

Sandra

Spain
Jul, 2025
review-image
review-image
Clara was an amazing guide! We were lucky to talk with her before and after the activity, and you can truly feel how passionate she is about marine biology. We had a great time and spotted four different animals!
Husavik: Whale Watching and Puffin Tour on RIB speedboat
Jose

Jose

Sep, 2025
Booked last minute with my cousin. Weather was pretty cold but clear skies. We saw a humpback breach twice (!!) and everyone cheered. The boat is super quiet, you can actually hear the whales breathe. The guides had loads of info, even showed us a dried baleen which was kinda gross but cool. Don’t skip the free hot choc at the end!
Husavik: Silent Whale Watching Tour On Carbon Neutral Oak Boat
Fatima

Fatima

Jul, 2025
We got lucky with sunshine and calm seas. Saw minke whales and a bunch of birds I’ve never heard of. Crew gave us free hot chocolate and buns, which was a cute surprise. Would’ve liked more time on the water but overall a great morning out.
Husavik: Silent Whale Watching Tour On Carbon Neutral Oak Boat