Húsavík: Traditional Whale Watching by Local Family Company

Introduction

If you’re heading to Iceland, especially to the charming town of Húsavík, a whale watching tour is one of those bucket-list experiences that truly lives up to the hype. This particular trip, offered by a family-owned company called Gentle Giants, promises an authentic and memorable adventure in Skjálfandi Bay. Although we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a compelling picture.

What stands out is the traditional Icelandic oak boat—a beautifully crafted vessel that adds a touch of history and charm to the outing. Plus, guided by locals who seem passionate about their marine environment, you’re bound to learn a lot while keeping warm and comfortable thanks to the included safety overalls and rain gear.

One thing to consider is that, like all outdoor nature excursions, this tour’s success depends on the weather. If the seas are rough or conditions turn foul, the trip might be canceled — but the company offers flexible rescheduling or full refunds. This experience is perfect for travelers who love nature, wildlife, and a touch of local authenticity, especially those willing to brave part of the Icelandic weather for a chance to see whales in their natural setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic experience with a traditional Icelandic oak boat.
• High success rate for whale sightings, including humpbacks and even blue whales.
• Knowledgeable guides who provide engaging live commentary.
• Warm and dry thanks to safety overalls and rain jackets.
• Family-friendly with wheelchair accessibility and a friendly, caring crew.
• Cost-effective at around $91, offering great value for a 3-hour marine adventure.

What to Expect on the Tour

This three-hour excursion from Húsavík offers a mix of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and educational insights. Starting at the Gentle Giants ticket center, you’ll check in and receive a briefing before boarding a traditional Icelandic oak boat. These vessels are part of Iceland’s maritime heritage, making the entire trip feel more authentic than larger, modern cruise ships.

Once on board, the crew supplies warm safety overalls and rain jackets—a smart touch, considering Iceland’s unpredictable weather. This ensures you stay warm and dry, even if the wind and rain pick up. The boat departs into Skjálfandi Bay, a marine paradise known for its abundance of whales, dolphins, and other marine life.

Your guide will give a thorough safety demonstration before the adventure begins. As the vessel cruises around the bay, you’ll get a detailed commentary about the local environment, whale species, and marine ecosystem. They’re generally very knowledgeable, and many reviews praise guides who go beyond standard facts to make the experience lively and engaging.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Gentle Giants Ticket Center

Located centrally in Húsavík, the ticket office is where your adventure begins. Look for the big blue flags. It’s a straightforward check-in process, and you’ll meet your crew and fellow travelers.

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Safety Briefing and Preparation

Before setting sail, the crew provides a safety demonstration. This includes instructions on what to do if the seas get rough and how to best enjoy whale sightings. The crew’s focus on safety and comfort is evident, and their friendly attitude helps ease any first-time fears.

The Cruise in Skjálfandi Bay

This is where the magic happens. The bay’s waters are known for their wildlife richness, and your chances of seeing whales are very high. The trip includes guidance on marine life, with opportunities to spot humpback whales, dolphins, and potentially even blue whales—the largest animals on Earth.

Many reviews mention the guides’ skill in locating whales, with one enthusiast sharing, “We saw 5 different specimens, all humpback whales,” even amid challenging weather conditions like snow at sea. That resilience and dedication to finding wildlife make the trip highly rewarding.

Returning to Húsavík

After approximately three hours at sea, you’ll head back to the harbor. The scenery on the way back is often stunning, with views of the rugged Icelandic coastline, making the entire experience picturesque and peaceful.

Value and Price Analysis

At roughly $91 per person, this tour offers excellent value, considering the quality of the experience and the inclusion of warm protective gear. Given that many whale watching excursions in other destinations can cost more and last longer, this shorter trip still packs a punch—especially with the potential to see multiple whale species in their natural habitat.

The reviews highlight the great guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm, which enhance the value. Many travelers are impressed by how much they learn about whales and the local environment, making this not just a sightseeing trip but an educational experience as well.

Authenticity and Local Flair

Booking with a locally owned family company adds a special layer of authenticity. You’re not just a tourist on a generic cruise but engaging with people who are genuinely passionate about their marine environment and their community. Many reviews mention the helpful, caring staff who go above and beyond to make everyone comfortable and informed.

This personal touch is what makes the experience stand out. It’s clear that Gentle Giants takes pride in blending tradition, safety, and education, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all ages.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Dress warmly and waterproof, even if the weather looks clear, as Icelandic weather can change quickly.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended since you might be standing or walking on a boat surface.
• Arrive early at the ticket center to ensure a smooth check-in.
• Book in advance during peak seasons, as this is a popular activity with many positive reviews.
• Expect seasickness if you’re sensitive; overalls help, but staying hydrated and taking motion sickness medication if necessary can improve your experience.
• Wheelchair accessibility is available—just contact the operator beforehand to ensure arrangements.

Reviews in Context

Many travelers rave about the guides’ expertise and friendliness. One reviewer noted, “The guides were absolutely amazing,” emphasizing the personalized service. Others highlight the abundance of whale sightings, with reports of seeing 4-6 whales, including rare sightings like hybrid whales and multiple breaching moments.

Even those caught in less-than-ideal weather, such as snow while at sea, still felt rewarded. One said, “Despite the weather conditions, we saw many whales many times.” Clearly, the guides’ skill and the bay’s wildlife richness make this trip worth every penny.

The Sum Up

This whale watching tour from Húsavík by Gentle Giants offers a well-rounded mix of authenticity, expert guidance, and wildlife encounters. The use of a traditional Icelandic oak boat and the intimate size of the trip provide a genuine experience that many travelers find memorable. The friendly, knowledgeable guides are often praised for their enthusiasm and expertise, making each trip both educational and fun.

For those interested in wildlife, scenic beauty, and local culture, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a small-group, family-run operation and are prepared for the variable Icelandic weather. With excellent reviews and a solid reputation, it offers a cost-effective way to see some of the most incredible marine life Iceland has to offer.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including check-in, safety briefing, and the boat cruise.

Where does the tour start?
Meet at the Gentle Giants ticket center in central Húsavík, identifiable by the big blue flags.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible and family-friendly. Just inform the operator beforehand for any special needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and waterproof outdoor gear are recommended. The crew provides safety overalls and rain jackets.

What if I don’t see whales?
If no whales or dolphins are sighted, you’ll receive a voucher for a free future whale watching trip, though no cash refund is given.

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

How likely am I to see whales?
Your chances are high, especially in Skjálfandi Bay, which is known for frequent whale sightings, including humpbacks and blue whales.

What’s the best time of year to go?
While not specified here, whale watching is popular from spring through early autumn, with reviews indicating good sightings during the summer months.

This tour offers a genuine chance to connect with Iceland’s marine environment while supporting a friendly, local business. With stunning scenery, expert guides, and the thrill of spotting whales in the wild, it’s a standout activity for any nature lover visiting Húsavík.

You can check availability for your dates here: