Húsavík: Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat

Húsavík: Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat — A Detailed Review

If you’re heading to Iceland and want to see whales and puffins in their natural habitat, the Húsavík Big Whale Safari & Puffins tour is often at the top of travelers’ lists. This experience offers a stunning two-hour boat ride that combines wildlife viewing, a high-speed adventure, and expert-guided insights. The fact that it consistently earns a high rating—4.8 out of 5 from nearly 1,000 reviews—speaks to its popularity and quality.

What we really love about this tour is its spacious RIB speedboat which offers a more comfortable ride than many traditional whale-watching vessels, and the knowledgeable guides who bring marine life to life with lively commentary. Plus, seeing thousands of puffins at Puffin Island during nesting season adds a delightful splash of color and cuteness. A potential downside? Since it’s weather-dependent, if the sea turns rough or weather turns foul, the tour might be canceled or limited. Still, that’s common with outdoor activities at sea, and the company offers flexible rescheduling or full refunds.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, families with older children, and wildlife enthusiasts who appreciate a personal touch and are comfortable on a speedboat. Those looking for a relaxed, slow-paced cruise might prefer other options, but if you love speed, nature, and authentic Icelandic wildlife encounters, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• High-speed thrill combined with wildlife viewing provides a dynamic experience.
• Personalized small-group setting (up to 12 passengers) enhances comfort and interaction.
• Expert guides deliver lively, informative commentary about whales, puffins, and the local environment.
• Seasonal puffin viewing (April 15 – August 15) adds a vibrant visual element.
• Weather dependence means flexibility is essential; tours can be canceled if conditions are poor.
• Value for money is high, considering the personal experience, expert guides, and chances to see multiple species.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Introduction to the Experience

This particular whale safari from Husavík is designed to be fast-paced and intimate. The speedboat itself is a step above standard whale-watching vessels—more spacious and stable, with a maximum of 12 passengers. We loved the idea that you’re not crammed into a large, noisy boat but instead enjoy a more personal journey where spotting whales and puffins becomes more than just a chance—it’s an adventure.

A standout feature is the local family-owned operation, which means you’re supporting a business rooted in the community, often with better personal service and local knowledge. The price point of $159 per person might seem steep for some, but the hefty reviews and positive feedback about quality guides, comfort, and wildlife sightings suggest it offers good value.

The Itinerary and What Makes Each Stop Special

Start point: The tour begins at the Gentle Giants Ticket Center in Husavík, marked clearly with big blue flags, making it easy to find. After a brief safety briefing—an essential part of the experience—you’ll gear up in specially made warm overalls and a life jacket, preparing for the unpredictable weather of the North Atlantic.

Puffin Island: During the nesting season (April 15 – August 15), this stop is one of the highlights. You’ll cruise close enough to observe thousands of puffins, often called “the Clowns of the Ocean” thanks to their bright beaks. Several reviews mention how surprised and charmed everyone is by their adorable antics and vibrant colors. A guide will explain puffin behavior and habitat, enriching the experience.

Skjálfandi Bay: The main focus is whale watching, with the boat heading out into the bay’s expansive waters. The high speeds of the RIB allow your guide to cover a larger area than traditional boats, thus increasing your chances of spotting big whales such as humpbacks and blue whales, along with dolphins and other marine life. Many reviewers have captured the thrill of seeing multiple humpbacks in one trip and described the experience as “unforgettable”.

What You Can Expect on the Ride

Once aboard, your guide will demonstrate safety protocols and provide live commentary. Expect a bumpy but exhilarating ride, especially if the weather isn’t perfectly calm. Many reviews mention how the boat’s speed adds to the adventure—it’s like a roller coaster for your sea legs.

The modern RIB boat is designed for comfort, with plenty of space around each passenger to move and take pictures. During the ride, you’ll have opportunities to spot dolphins, whales, and birds—if you’re lucky, like some travelers, you’ll see up to five different whale species.

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Wildlife Viewing and Photography

The main attraction is the chance to see whales, with many reviewers noting their luck in spotting humpbacks and occasionally blue whales. Several travelers emphasize the value of the guide’s expertise, with marine biologists on board who explain whale behaviors and habits, making the sighting more meaningful.

Photos can be impressive thanks to the boat’s stability and the guides’ tips on positioning. The puffins on Puffin Island are equally captivating, especially during the nesting season when they’re most abundant.

The Experience for Different Travelers

Reviewers describe the tour as “magical,” “fun,” and “educational”. It’s perfect if you enjoy a speedy trip with a high chance of wildlife encounters. The small group size enhances the feeling of exclusivity and allows guides to give more personalized attention.

However, it’s important to prepare for cold, windy conditions. Many reviews highlight the importance of dressing in layers, with some suggesting bringing extra socks, hats, and scarves. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions—some mention that the boat ride can be quite bumpy, especially in rough weather.

Value Analysis

While $159 per person isn’t the cheapest activity in Husavík, the quality of guides, small-group comfort, and high likelihood of sightings justify the price for many travelers. The speedboat experience provides a more dynamic and fun atmosphere compared to traditional tours. Several reviews mention that seeing whales up close from a fast boat offers a view of these gentle giants that is hard to match.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

The tour is weather dependent. If conditions are unfavorable, the tour may be canceled, but the company offers full refunds or rescheduling options. This flexibility is reassuring, especially given Iceland’s unpredictable weather. Travelers should understand that if no whales are seen, they’ll receive a voucher for a future trip, which many consider a fair compromise.

Final Thoughts

This Husavík speedboat tour offers a combination of adventure, education, and wildlife sightings that few other experiences can match. The small group size, expert guides, and speedy boat make it ideal for travelers who want to maximize their chances of seeing whales and puffins while feeling the thrill of a fast boat ride.

Travelers who value authentic, locally owned experiences will appreciate supporting a family business, and those who enjoy a bit of adrenaline will find the speedboat ride incredibly fun. The tour’s high reviews and consistent praise for professional guides and stunning wildlife encounters suggest that it’s well worth the price.

However, it’s best suited for adventurous, mobile travelers comfortable with outdoor conditions and speed. If you prefer a relaxed, slower-paced cruise or are sensitive to rough seas, it might be worth considering other options. Still, for those seeking a memorable, intimate, and lively wildlife adventure, this tour is hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is recommended for travelers aged 8 and above. It’s not suitable for younger children due to the speed and outdoor conditions.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and outdoor gear. You’ll be provided with warm safety overalls, but layering is key to staying comfortable.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The company also offers rescheduling options if needed.

What happens if I don’t see any whales?
If no whales are spotted, you’ll be given a voucher for a traditional whale-watching tour on oak boats, free of charge. No cash refund is provided.

What species of whales might I see?
Expect to see the big whales like humpbacks and blue whales, along with dolphins. Sightings depend on the day’s conditions.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, bad weather can lead to cancellations. The tour operates only in favorable conditions for safety and animal welfare.

How many people are on each boat?
The boat carries a maximum of 12 passengers, ensuring a personal and comfortable experience.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the round-trip RIB speedboat cruise, specialized guide, live commentary, and safety gear.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, or children under 8.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at the Gentle Giants Ticket Center in Husavík, easily identifiable by big blue flags.

To sum it up, if you’re after a fun, authentic, and wildlife-rich experience in Husavík, this speedboat whale and puffin tour offers tremendous value. It’s perfect for those who want a personalized adventure that combines speed, stunning scenery, and wildlife in a way that’s both exciting and educational. Keep in mind weather conditions and dress accordingly, and you’re set for a memorable day in Iceland’s whale capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: