Húsavík: Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat

Travelers looking to see whales and puffins in Iceland’s famous Whale Capital will find this tour a solid choice. Operating from Húsavík, often called the Whale Capital of Iceland, this adventure combines the thrill of a speedboat ride with the chance to observe some of the ocean’s most gentle giants. With rave reviews and a strong focus on wildlife viewing, it’s a compelling option for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

What we love about this tour are its personalized experience and the expert guides who bring marine life to life with engaging commentary. Plus, the speedboat adds an element of fun and adventure that traditional whale-watching boats might lack. One possible downside? Because it’s weather-dependent, your plans might get disrupted if the ocean turns choppy. But for those who love a bit of the unpredictable, this can be part of the fun.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate close encounters with nature, enjoy adventure on the water, and want a more intimate whale-watching outing. It’s particularly attractive for those who value local ownership and a small-group feel. Families with children over 8, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a lively, immersive experience will likely find this tour a highlight of their Iceland trip.

Key Points

• Personalized & Comfortable: Small group size (max 12) means more space and less crowding.
• Expert Guides: Guides with marine biology knowledge enhance the experience with detailed insights.
• Flexibility & Weather: Tours are weather-dependent; if canceled due to bad weather, you get a full refund or reschedule.
• Wildlife Focus: High chances to see whales like humpbacks, blue whales, and even dolphins; puffins are also a seasonal highlight.
• Speed & Fun: The RIB speedboat offers a faster, more exhilarating ride compared to larger vessels.
• Authentic & Local: Operated by a family-owned company, emphasizing local expertise and atmosphere.
• All-Inclusive Gear: Warm overalls and rain jackets provided, ensuring comfort in Iceland’s unpredictable weather.
• Seasons & Timing: Puffin season runs from mid-April to mid-August; outside this, the focus shifts more to whale sightings.
• Value for Money: Many reviews highlight the tour’s excellent guide knowledge and plentiful whale sightings, making it a strong value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point & Meeting

Your adventure begins at the Gentle Giants Ticket Center in Húsavík, marked clearly with big blue flags. It’s a straightforward meeting spot, perfect for travelers arriving on foot or by local transport. Expect to check in and listen to a brief safety talk before setting off. The tour lasts around 2 hours, with departure times varying throughout the day—so be sure to check the schedule and arrive a little early.

Gear and Safety

One of the first things you’ll notice is the specialized warm overalls provided. Iceland’s weather can turn brisk, especially out at sea, so dressing in layers is key. These overalls are obligatory, keeping you warm and dry even on a windy day. Plus, everyone gets a life jacket and a rain jacket if needed, which adds comfort and peace of mind in rough waters.

The Speedboat Ride

Once aboard the modern RIB speedboat, the real fun begins. With a maximum of just 12 passengers, the boat feels spacious compared to larger traditional whale-watching vessels. The speed adds a lively element, making the trip exciting and increasing your chances of getting close to the whales without disturbing their environment.

The captain and guide work as a team, with the captain maneuvering smoothly through the waves and the guide providing commentary on marine life. Many reviews commend the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm, describing them as both professional and personable. The high speeds mean you’ll cover a larger area of Skjálfandi Bay, boosting the likelihood of sightings.

More Great Tours Nearby

Puffin Island & Wildlife Viewing

Your first stop is Puffin Island, during the nesting season (April 15 to August 15). Here, you can observe thousands of puffins, often called “the Clowns of the Ocean,” with their vibrant beaks and comical antics. While some reviewers note that puffins are not always up close (“You don’t get to see them up close”), they still find the sight of thousands of these colorful birds impressive.

Beyond puffins, the guide will point out other marine life, including dolphins, harbor porpoises, and, if luck is on your side, blue whales or humpbacks. Several guests highlight how many whales they saw—sometimes up to 7 or more—making this more than just a chance encounter. A review from a marine biologist guide mentions that visibility and wildlife activity depend on the day, but overall, sightings are plentiful.

Whale Watching Highlights

The main event—whale spotting—can be truly spectacular. Many visitors have commented on how they saw large whales such as humpbacks and blue whales. The speedboat approach allows a closer, more dynamic view and a feeling of intimacy with these gentle giants. Several reviews mention seeing 5-6 humpbacks or multiple whales in one outing, with some lucky travelers witnessing whales “jumping up and down” or breaching.

One guest noted, “We saw 3 whales and it was amazing and unforgettable,” emphasizing how memorable these encounters can be. The guides’ ability to locate and follow whales, combined with the boat’s agility, creates a more active and engaging experience than larger, slower vessels.

The Seasonal Considerations

While the tour is active year-round, the seasonality of puffins influences the focus. During the puffin season, your experience combines birdwatching and whale spotting. Outside of this period, the emphasis shifts more toward locating whales, especially larger species like blue whales, which are more visible during certain times of the year.

The Return & Post-Tour

After about two hours on the water, you’ll return to the starting point. Many reviews commend the smooth navigation and the friendly, informative guides who wrap up the tour with additional insights or answers to questions. If you didn’t see whales or puffins, the company offers a voucher for a future whale-watching trip on traditional oak boats—an excellent backup for the adventurous.

The Value of This Tour

Considering the small group size, expert guides, and the ability to get close to whales, this tour offers excellent value for anyone eager to maximize wildlife sightings in a short time. The cost might seem steep to some, but many reviewers feel the quality, intimacy, and excitement justify the price. Plus, the gear and safety equipment make it comfortable in Iceland’s often chilly weather.

The tour’s flexibility—with options to reschedule or receive a voucher if no whales are spotted—adds peace of mind. And since it’s run by a locally owned family company, you’re supporting a small business that’s deeply connected to the community and environment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

• Wildlife enthusiasts eager to see whales in their natural habitat.
• Adventure travelers seeking a lively, fast-paced boat ride.
• Those interested in puffin and seabird watching during the season.
• Travelers who appreciate small-group, personalized tours.
• Families with children over 8 and those with good mobility who want a fun, engaging experience.
• Visitors who value local expertise and honest, knowledgeable guides.

The Sum Up

This whale safari from Húsavík offers a genuine chance to see some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures up close, all while enjoying the thrill of a speedboat adventure. The small group size and dedicated guides boost both comfort and educational value, making it perfect for travelers who want more than just a boat trip—they want a connection with the wildlife.

While the weather can sometimes be unpredictable, most guests find that the experience—whether whale sightings or puffin encounters—is well worth it. The local family-run operation adds a warm, authentic touch that larger tours often lack. The tour strikes a careful balance between adventure and education, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable, nature-focused outing in Iceland.

If you’re after close-up whale encounters, a lively atmosphere, and the chance to learn from passionate guides, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip to Húsavík. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a day of marine marvels.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for children over 8 years old, as the ride can be bumpy and the boat fast, which might be less comfortable for younger kids.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and outdoor gear. The tour provides warm overalls and rain jackets, but layering will help you stay comfortable.

What if I don’t see any whales?
If no whales (including dolphins) are spotted, you’ll receive a voucher for a traditional whale-watching tour on oak boats for free—no cash refund, but a good backup.

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, with departure times varying; check availability when booking.

Is transportation included?
No, the tour begins at the Gentle Giants Ticket Center. You need to make your own way there.

What species might I see?
Expect to see humpback whales, blue whales, and possibly dolphins and harbor porpoises. Puffins are seasonal.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 12 passengers, creating a more personal and comfortable experience.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, if the weather is unfavorable, the tour may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

Is this tour good value?
Many reviews highlight the quality of guides and sightings, making it a worthwhile investment for wildlife lovers.

You can check availability for your dates here: