The charming port of Húsavík stands as Europe’s premier whale-watching destination. The town’s eco-conscious tours last 3 hours aboard traditional oak boats equipped with hybrid engines – a thoughtful blend of old and new. I’m especially fond of the traditional boat tours, which include warm overalls and hot drinks while naturalist guides share their expertise. For a speedier alternative, the rigid inflatable boat tours zip you straight to the whales and nearby Puffin Island (minimum age: 8 years).

We particularly love the classic oak boat experience for its perfect mix of comfort, sustainability, and authenticity – it’s the way whale watching should be done.

Our tested and recommended Húsavík whale watching tours follow below:

Key Points

  • Húsavík, recognized as the whale watching capital of Europe, offers carbon-neutral whale watching tours on hybrid propulsion system-powered oak boats.
  • Guided whale watching expeditions through Skjálfandi Bay provide opportunities to observe whales, dolphins, and seabirds with knowledgeable guides and light refreshments.
  • Speedboat tours and puffin island visits offer a chance to spot diverse marine wildlife, with safety briefings and warm overalls provided.
  • Comprehensive whale-watching cruises on traditional oak boats include spotting opportunities for whales, dolphins, and puffins, as well as hot beverages.
  • Family-run whale watching tours provide affordable options with flexible booking, live commentary, and discounts for the Whale Museum.

Húsavík: Whale Watching on a Carbon Neutral Oak Boat

Húsavík: Whale Watching on a Carbon Neutral Oak Boat

Húsavík, the whale watching capital of Europe, offers an eco-friendly adventure aboard a carbon-neutral oak boat.

You’ll embark on a 3-hour tour to observe whales, dolphins, and seabirds in the breathtaking Skjálfandi Bay. The tour operator has adopted a sustainable approach, becoming the first to offer carbon-neutral whale watching in 2015.

You’ll benefit from their unique hybrid propulsion system powered by renewable energy. During the trip, you’ll enjoy light refreshments and can cozy up in warm overalls.

With an overall rating of 4.5/5, this tour promises an informative and comfortable experience, whether you’re hoping to spot humpback whales or puffins on Puffin Island.

Read our full review: Húsavík: Whale Watching on a Carbon Neutral Oak Boat Review
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Húsavík: Whale Watching Tour With Guide

Húsavík: Whale Watching Tour With Guide

Situated in the heart of Iceland’s renowned whale watching destination, Húsavík, this captivating tour invites you to embark on a 3-hour expedition through the awe-inspiring Skjálfandi Bay.

Observe whales, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitat aboard a traditional oak boat, accompanied by knowledgeable guides. Enjoy light refreshments, including hot chocolate and cinnamon buns, as you witness the diverse marine wildlife.

With a 4.6/5 rating based on over 2,000 reviews, this authentic wildlife activity is a must-do, offering an unforgettable opportunity to encounter whales up close.

Dress appropriately, as the tour is subject to weather conditions, and be prepared for a rescheduling or full refund if canceled.

Read our full review: Húsavík: Whale Watching Tour With Guide Review
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Húsavík: Big Whales and Puffin Island Speedboat Tour

Húsavík: Big Whales and Puffin Island Speedboat Tour

Set out on a captivating 2-hour speedboat tour from Húsavík Adventures, where you’ll have the chance to spot diverse whale species and visit the famous Puffin Island.

This €140 per person tour allows you to observe Humpback, Minke, and White-beaked dolphins that frequent the Skjálfandi Bay.

During puffin season (April 15 – August 20), you’ll get to explore Lundey Island.

Safety is a priority, with a briefing and warm overalls provided.

This tour is suitable for ages 8+ or 130 cm in height, though pregnant women, those with back/heart issues, or individuals under 4’3″ should avoid it.

With an exceptional 4.8/5 rating, this tour offers an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Read our full review: Húsavík: Big Whales and Puffin Island Speedboat Tour Review
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Húsavík: Whale-Watching Cruise and Puffins Guided Tour

Húsavík: Whale-Watching Cruise and Puffins Guided Tour

Perched on the shores of Skjálfandi Bay, Húsavík’s whale-watching cruise and puffin-guided tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the region’s captivating marine life.

Over 3.5 hours, you’ll sail on a traditional oak boat, spotting whales, dolphins, and thousands of puffins on Puffin Island. Enjoy hot chocolate and freshly baked cinnamon buns as a knowledgeable guide provides commentary in English.

While some guests found puffin viewing less impressive, the majority raved about the guides’ expertise and the incredible wildlife sightings.

Dress warmly, as cold conditions are expected, and note the tour may be canceled due to inclement weather, with options to reschedule or receive a refund.

Read our full review: Húsavík: Whale-Watching Cruise and Puffins Guided Tour Review
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Húsavík: Family-Run and Guided Whale Watching Tour

Húsavík: Family-Run and Guided Whale Watching Tour

For those seeking a more intimate and personal whale-watching experience in Húsavík, the Family-Run and Guided Whale Watching Tour is a fantastic option.

Priced from $82.45 per person, this 3-hour tour on a traditional oak boat offers the chance to spot various whale species, including Humpback, Minke, Blue, Fin, and Killer whales.

You’ll also have the opportunity to see White-beaked dolphins, seals, and Atlantic Puffins. The knowledgeable guides provide live commentary and insights, and the tour includes a 20% discount for the Whale Museum.

With a free cancellation policy and reserve now & pay later option, this tour is a great value for money.

Read our full review: Húsavík: Family-Run and Guided Whale Watching Tour Review
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Húsavík: Big Whale Safari & Puffin Island Tour

Húsavík: Big Whale Safari & Puffin Island Tour

A captivating 2-hour Big Whale Safari & Puffin Island Tour awaits you in Húsavík, the renowned “Whale Capital of Iceland.”

Departing from Gentle Giants – Húsavík Whale Watching, this thrilling excursion promises to immerse you in the breathtaking natural beauty of Skjálfandi Bay and the opportunity to witness the majestic presence of blue and humpback whales.

Cruise in a modern RIB speedboat accommodating up to 12 passengers, equipped with warm safety overalls and life jackets.

With high chances of observing puffins on Puffin Island and learning about Iceland’s wildlife from an expert guide, this tour offers an exceptional value of $147.99 per person.

Flexible travel plans are available with the free cancellation policy and reserve now & pay later option.

Read our full review: Húsavík: Big Whale Safari & Puffin Island Tour Review
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From Húsavík: Traditional Whale Watching Tour

From Húsavík: Traditional Whale Watching Tour

The traditional whale watching tour in Húsavík offers a unique opportunity to observe the majestic marine wildlife that inhabits the waters of Skjálfandi Bay.

Aboard a traditional Icelandic oak boat, you’ll enjoy live commentary from specialized guides as you search for humpback and blue whales in their natural habitat.

The tour lasts 3 hours and costs $84.56 per person, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

Warm safety gear is provided, and you’re free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

With an impressive 4.5/5 rating from over 1,680 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable whale watching experience.

Read our full review: From Húsavík: Traditional Whale Watching Tour Review
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The Sum Up

Húsavík offers several excellent whale watching tours to suit your needs. Whether you prefer a carbon-neutral oak boat, a speedy puffin island excursion, or a family-run guided experience, you’ll have the chance to spot majestic whales in their natural habitat. With a variety of options, you’re sure to find the perfect whale watching adventure in this beautiful Icelandic town.