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Husavik Puffin Tour

4.5(146)
Expert guides. Unique insights.
Expert guides. Unique insights.
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Tours in multiple languages
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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.
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
Guided tour
Meals included
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.
Watch both whales and puffins in one sail 

This 3.5-hour cruise explores Skjálfandi Bay, where whales return to feed every summer and puffins gather on nearby islands to nest. Bonus: Hot chocolate and cinnamon buns served on board. 

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.
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.
  • 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.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
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.
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
Guided tour
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
Timeline
Map
Husavik harbor
Start point

Husavik harbor

Get direction
Husavik Coastline

1. Husavik Coastline

 Skjálfandi Bay

2. Skjálfandi Bay

Free Admission
2 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.
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.
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
Guided tour
Meals included
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.
Guests on a boat watching a humpback whale's tail in Husavik, Iceland.
Guests watch a humpback whale breaching in Husavik during a whale watching tour.
Whale watching tour in Husavik with guests observing two whale tails in the ocean.
Whale breaching near tour boat in Husavik, Iceland.
Guests on a boat watching a whale dive in Husavik, Iceland.
Guests on a boat watching a humpback whale's tail in Husavik, Iceland.
Guests watch a humpback whale breaching in Husavik during a whale watching tour.
Whale watching tour in Husavik with guests observing two whale tails in the ocean.
Whale breaching near tour boat in Husavik, Iceland.
Guests on a boat watching a whale dive in Husavik, Iceland.
Guests on a boat watching a humpback whale's tail in Husavik, Iceland.
Guests watch a humpback whale breaching in Husavik during a whale watching tour.
Whale watching tour in Husavik with guests observing two whale tails in the ocean.
Whale breaching near tour boat in Husavik, Iceland.
Guests on a boat watching a whale dive in Husavik, Iceland.
NEW

Husavik: Whale Watching Tour With a Guide

from
€98
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
Guided tour

Sail Skjálfandi Bay for an unforgettable whale watching adventure with expert local guides

  • 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.
  • 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.

Sail Skjálfandi Bay for an unforgettable whale watching adventure with expert local guides

  • 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.
  • 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

  • Hot chocolate and cinnamon cookies
  • Expert tour guide
  • Warm overalls and 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

  • The tour duration is approximately 3 hours.
  • Warm overalls and raincoats are provided if needed, but it is recommended to dress appropriately for the weather.
  • The tour operates daily from 1 March to 30 November.
  • 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.
  • Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure.
  • Whale sightings are highly likely but cannot be guaranteed, as these are wild animals in their natural habitat.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Why choose a Husavik Puffin tour 

✔️ Puffin watching during peak season 

✔️ Opt for a standard boat tour or a RIB boat

✔️ Expert guide on board

✔️ Warm overalls and safety equipment provided

Things to know before booking your Husavik Puffin tour

  • Choose your boat style wisely: You can join a standard whale and puffin cruise for a relaxed, scenic experience, or opt for a RIB speedboat for faster travel and closer approaches around Puffin Island.
  • Standard cruise experience: The standard tour lasts about 3.5 hours, sails deep into Skjálfandi Bay, and includes hot chocolate and freshly baked cinnamon buns served onboard.
  • RIB tour experience: RIB tours are shorter and more dynamic, using low seating and high speed to cover larger feeding areas, increasing the chances of close-up whale and puffin sightings.
  • Weather-ready gear included: Both tours provide warm flotation overalls and essential safety equipment, which is especially important given North Iceland’s cooler sea temperatures.
  • Responsible wildlife viewing: All Húsavík tours strictly follow the IceWhale code of conduct, meaning slow approaches, limited boat numbers, and respectful distances that protect puffin nesting sites and whale feeding behavior.
  • Conditions can change: Tours operate in an open Arctic environment, so routes and puffin island visits may adjust slightly based on weather and sea conditions to ensure safety and wildlife protection.

All your Husavik Puffin watching tour option

Tour
Duration
Boarding point
Inclusions
Price
3.5 hours
Husavik harbour

Visit to Puffin Island, expert whale watching guide, Hot chocolate and cinnamon buns, warm overalls and raincoats if needed

2 hours
North Sailing ticket office
English-speaking expert guide, small group tour (max 12 people), warm and waterproof overalls, life vests

When is puffin watching season in Husavik?

The puffin watching season in Húsavík typically runs from mid-April to early August, with the most reliable sightings between May and July. This is when Atlantic puffins return from the open North Atlantic to nest on coastal islands near Skjálfandi Bay. Puffins are highly site-faithful birds, meaning they return to the same nesting grounds every year. The small islands off Húsavík provide grassy slopes and rocky burrows that are ideal for breeding, while the surrounding cold waters remain rich in food.

The science behind puffin season is closely tied to ocean temperature and fish availability. As Arctic and Atlantic currents mix off North Iceland, plankton blooms increase, attracting sand eels and small fish that puffins rely on to feed their chicks. Once breeding is complete and food availability begins to shift offshore in late summer, puffins quietly leave the islands and return to life at sea. This predictable cycle is why puffin tours operate seasonally and why sightings are so dependable during these months in Húsavík.

How to make the most of your Husavik Puffin tour

  • Time your visit with the nesting season: Puffin tours from Húsavík run during the breeding months, typically from mid-April through July. This is when puffins return daily to land, making sightings consistent and close.
  • Know where to look on Puffin Island: Puffins spend most of their time on the water. Look low along the surface near rocky ledges rather than scanning the sky. You’ll often spot their orange beaks first.
  • Early departures work best: Morning tours tend to be calmer, with less boat traffic around the island. Puffins are also more active during feeding runs before midday winds pick up.
  • Use Húsavík’s proximity to your advantage: Puffin Island sits just minutes from the harbor, which means less travel time and more time observing birds rather than cruising long distances.
  • Bring optics, not just a camera: Puffins are small. Binoculars or a zoom lens will help you observe some behaviors most visitors miss, like fish transfers and burrow hopping along the cliffs.

Frequently asked questions about Husavik Puffin tour

How close do you actually get to puffins on a Húsavík tour?

RIB boats give you close-up encounters with whales and puffins. Boats are allowed to approach Puffin Island carefully, often within a few meters, so you can clearly see puffins on the water and along nesting cliffs.

Are puffin sightings really reliable from Húsavík?

Yes, during the nesting season. Puffins return to the same island every year, and tours run only when colonies are active, which keeps success rates consistently high.

Is the puffin tour suitable if I’m prone to seasickness?

Húsavík’s puffin routes are short and usually calm. Standard boats are steady and slow-moving, making them a safer choice if you are sensitive to motion.

Do puffins fly around the boat or stay on the island?

Both. You’ll see puffins resting on the water, flying low with fish in their beaks, and gathering on rocky ledges. The action is constant but subtle.

What happens if weather conditions change suddenly?

Tours are adjusted or canceled if conditions affect safety or wildlife behavior. In such cases, operators offer rescheduling or refunds, depending on the situation.

Can I combine puffin watching with whale watching in Húsavík?

Yes, many tours do exactly that. Puffin Island lies on the way to Skjálfandi Bay’s whale feeding areas, making Húsavík one of the few places where both fit naturally into one trip.