Whale Watching Tours from Husavik

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

• Starting point: Husavik harbor. No road transfer included
• 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.
• Species spotted: Look for humpback whales and blue whales in Skjálfandi Bay. Puffins can be observed on Puffin Island during 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 & waterproof overalls & life vests

Exclusions #

• Food & drinks

What to bring

• Bring warm and waterproof clothes, sturdy footwear, and protective bags for cameras as it can be cold and wet out at sea.

What's not allowed

• 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).

Additional information

• 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. This may include skipping the visit to Puffin Island.
• 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.
• Tours require a minimum number of participants; if not met, departures may be changed or canceled, with alternatives offered.

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.

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

• Starting point: Husavik's Harbour. No road transfer included.
• 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.
• Species spotted: Humpback whales and minke whales are regularly seen in the bay. Puffins nest on Puffin Island from mid-April to late August.
• Why choose this: Combines two of North Iceland's most iconic wildlife experiences in a single cruise, with dedicated time for both puffins and whales

Inclusions #

• 3.5-hour whale & puffin watching tour

• Visit to Puffin Island

• Whale watching near Husavík

• Expert whale watching guide

• Hot chocolate & cinnamon buns

• Warm overalls & raincoats if needed

Exclusions #

• Hotel transfers

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.

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.
• Species spotted: Humpback whales are regularly encountered in Skjálfandi Bay. Blue whales can also be seen during the season.
• Ethical considerations: Electric propulsion reduces noise pollution, while specially trained guides follow responsible whale-watching practices.
• Why choose this: The near-silent vessel lets you hear whale blows and observe natural behaviour with less disturbance than conventional boats.

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.

Whale watching aboard a traditional Icelandic oak ship operated by one of Husavik's pioneering whale-watching companies.

• Starting point: Depart from Husavik Harbour. No road transfer included.
• Everything you get: A 3-hour cruise on a traditional Icelandic oak ship, guided by whale watching experts, with warm overalls and raincoats provided if needed. Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and cinnamon cookies as you spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitat.
• Species spotted: Minke whales and humpback whales are regularly seen in Skjálfandi Bay. Dolphins and blue whales are also possible sightings.
• Why choose this: With a 97%+ success rate for whale sightings and cruises aboard traditional Icelandic boats, this is a must-do experience for wildlife lovers.

Inclusions #

• 3-hour whale watching tour

• Sail on a traditional Icelandic oak ship

• See minke whales, breaching humpbacks, dolphins & blue whales

• Expert whale watching guide

• Hot chocolate & a cinnamon cookie

• Warm overalls & raincoats (upon request)

What to bring

• Dress warmly and in layers, as weather conditions at sea can be cold and unpredictable.
• Bring a hat, gloves, and scarf for added warmth.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended for sun protection.
• Bring a camera or binoculars if you wish to capture wildlife sightings.
• Carry a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.

What’s not allowed

• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted on board for safety reasons.
• 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 not wheelchair accessible.

Additional information

• Warm overalls and raincoats are provided if needed, but it is best to dress appropriately for the weather.
• Suitable for all ages. Children under 7 years join for free but must be accompanied by an adult.
• Complimentary hot chocolate and cinnamon cookies are served on board.
• Tours depart from Húsavík, Iceland. Please arrive at the departure point at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time.
• Whale sightings are highly likely but cannot be guaranteed, as these are wild animals in their natural habitat.

Family-run whale watching in Húsavík aboard either a traditional oak boat or Vinur, the only whale-watching vessel with indoor seating.

• Starting point: Depart from Húsavík Harbour. No road transfer included.
• Everything you get: Experienced local captain, knowledgeable guide, flotation suit, children's lifejackets, and a discount for the Húsavík Whale Museum.
• Species spotted: Humpback whales are frequent visitors to Skjálfandi Bay. Minke whales and white-beaked dolphins are commonly seen. Blue whales appear occasionally.
• Why choose this: Choose between open-deck viewing or the comfort of indoor seating while exploring one of Iceland’s premier whale-watching bays.

Inclusions #

• 3-hour whale watching cruise from Húsavík

• Windproof & waterproof flotation suits

• Highly qualified guides

• Safety equipment, including life jackets

• 20% off on Whale Museum entrance

Exclusions #

• Food and beverages

What to bring

• Bring warm clothes, including layers, a hat, gloves, and closed-toe shoes; safety overalls are provided, but it is colder at sea.
• Bring sunglasses or ski goggles with good UV protection; reflections from the sea can be very strong.
• Bring a camera or phone; a strap is recommended for safety.
• Carry light snacks & water; no service available on the boat.

What’s not allowed

• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed on the boat; only bring necessities.
• Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
• Smoking onboard is strictly prohibited.
• Drones are prohibited on the tours.
• Single-use plastic is not allowed onboard; carry back all the waste to land.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
• Infant seats are unavailable on board.

Additional information

• The tour operates on two different boat types, depending on the season. Vinur is a ferry-style boat with heated indoor space & multiple outdoor viewing platforms; operates from March to December.
• Moby Dick is a traditional Icelandic oak boat with a wide open deck; operates in July, August, & September.
• If you're traveling with infants, they must sit on your lap; infant seats are unavailable.
• Whale and dolphin sightings are not guaranteed. If neither are seen, you may join another tour (subject to availability); refunds are not provided.
• If you have big bags or luggage, they can be stored at the office before boarding.