Husavik, a picturesque town in northern Iceland, has become a renowned destination for whale watching enthusiasts. Nestled along the shores of Skjálfandi Bay, this quaint fishing village offers travelers a chance to witness the majestic creatures of the deep up close. Aboard traditional oak boats, visitors embark on a three-hour excursion, where they can spot humpback, blue, and Minke whales, as well as other marine life. With knowledgeable guides and cozy amenities, the whale watching experience in Husavik promises an unforgettable encounter with the wonders of nature. But what makes this town truly exceptional is the unique connection it fosters between humans and these magnificent marine mammals.
Key Points
- Husavik offers 3-hour whale watching tours exploring Skjálfandi Bay, with sightings of humpback, blue, and Minke whales, as well as white-beaked dolphins and porpoises.
- Tours include warm, weatherproof overalls, bathroom facilities, and hot cocoa and cinnamon buns on the return trip.
- Knowledgeable guides accompany the tours, and there are discounts available for the Husavik Whale Museum and Geosea warm sea baths.
- The tours depart from the North Sailing – Húsavík Whale Watching meeting point at Hafnarstétt 9 in the harbor.
- Whale watching tours in Husavik have received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with 92% of customers rating them 5 stars.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Overview of the Tour
The whale-watching tour from Husavik offers a 3-hour exploration of Skjálfandi Bay aboard a traditional oak boat.
Guests can expect to see a variety of marine life, including humpback, blue, and Minke whales, as well as white-beaked dolphins and porpoises.
The tour includes warm, weatherproof overalls to keep guests comfortable, and bathroom facilities are available.
On the way back, guests can warm up with hot cocoa and cinnamon buns.
The tour also provides a 20% discount to the Husavik Whale Museum and a 10% discount to Geosea, a warm sea bath in Husavik.
Inclusions and Amenities
A professional guide accompanies the tour, providing knowledgeable insights throughout the journey.
Warm, weatherproof overalls are also included to ensure guests’ comfort during the outdoor exploration.
Bathroom facilities are available on-site, offering convenience during the whale-watching excursion.
Plus, the package includes a 20% discount to the Husavik Whale Museum and a 10% discount to Geosea, a warm sea bath in Husavik.
These amenities and inclusions enhance the overall experience, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the adventure while staying comfortable and exploring local attractions.
The tour’s comprehensive offerings cater to the diverse needs of guests, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable whale-watching experience.
Meeting Point and Pickup
North Sailing – Húsavík Whale Watching, located at Garðarsbraut in Húsavík, serves as the meeting point for the 3-hour whale-watching tour.
From there, guests will depart for the harbor at Hafnarstétt 9 to embark on their adventure.
The tour includes:
- Exploring Skjálfandi Bay by traditional oak boat
- Watching for humpback, blue, and Minke whales, as well as white-beaked dolphins and porpoises
- Warming up with hot cocoa and cinnamon buns on the return trip
- Enjoying a 20% discount to the Húsavík Whale Museum and a 10% discount to Geosea, the warm sea bath in Húsavík.
Additional Information
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking for the whale-watching tour. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is wheelchair accessible with service animals allowed. Infants must sit on laps, and the maximum number of travelers is 100.
A full refund is offered if the tour is canceled 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes a professional guide, warm, weatherproof overalls, and bathroom facilities. Plus, guests receive a 20% discount to the Husavik Whale Museum and a 10% discount to Geosea, a warm sea bath in Husavik.
The tour departs from the Husavik harbor, Hafnarstétt 9, where guests can enjoy hot cocoa and cinnamon buns on the way back.
Exploring Skjálfandi Bay
During the whale-watching tour, visitors embark on a journey of discovery through the serene waters of Skjálfandi Bay aboard a traditional oak boat. This historic vessel allows for an immersive experience as guests explore the bay’s diverse marine life.
Observing the graceful movements of humpback, blue, and Minke whales as they surface and dive.
Spotting white-beaked dolphins and porpoises playfully swimming alongside the boat.
Taking in the breathtaking natural scenery, including the rugged coastline and nearby mountains.
Enjoying the salty sea air and tranquil atmosphere of the bay.
This intimate exploration of Skjálfandi Bay promises an unforgettable encounter with Iceland’s incredible whale population.
Wildlife Spotting Opportunities
Aboard the traditional oak boat, guests may catch sight of a variety of marine creatures, including the majestic humpback, blue, and Minke whales as they surface and dive through the serene waters of Skjálfandi Bay.
White-beaked dolphins and porpoises often make an appearance, delighting onlookers with their playful antics.
The expert guides are adept at spotting and identifying these magnificent animals, sharing their wealth of knowledge about the local wildlife.
With the breathtaking scenery as a backdrop, the whale-watching tour offers a truly immersive and unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to witness the beauty and wonder of Iceland’s marine life firsthand.
Warming Up on the Return
As the tour boat makes its way back to the harbor, guests can warm up with hot cocoa and cinnamon buns provided by the crew. The steaming hot drinks and freshly baked treats help thaw chilly passengers after their whale-watching adventure. Sipping the rich, chocolatey cocoa and savoring the aromatic cinnamon buns is a welcomed respite from the cool sea air.
The cozy onboard setting allows guests to:
- Recount the highlights of their whale sightings
- Discuss the unique biology and behaviors of the marine mammals
- Share photos and videos captured during the tour
- Plan their next visit to explore more of Iceland’s natural wonders
Trip Reviews and Ratings
Travelers consistently praise the whale-watching tours in Husavik, awarding them an impressive 100 reviews and a Badge of Excellence. The tours offer an exceptional experience, with visitors captivated by the breathtaking scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
| Rating | Percentage |
|---|---|
| 5 stars | 92% |
| 4 stars | 7% |
| 3 stars | 1% |
| 2 stars | 0% |
Guests consistently highlight the comfort and warmth of the traditional oak boats, the delightful hot cocoa and cinnamon buns, and the overall value of the tour. With its high ratings and enthusiastic reviews, the Husavik whale-watching experience is a must-do for any nature enthusiast visiting the region.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year for Whale Watching in Husavik?
The best time for whale watching in Husavik is from April to October when various whale species, such as humpback, blue, and minke whales, are most commonly spotted in the Skjálfandi Bay region.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink on the Tour?
Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour provider offers hot cocoa and cinnamon buns during the return trip, which are included in the tour price.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Whale Watching Tour?
There are no age restrictions for the whale watching tour. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and infants must sit on laps. The tour is suitable for all ages and abilities.
How Often Do the Tours Run During the Season?
The tours typically run multiple times per day during the peak season, which spans from April to October. The exact schedule can vary, so it’s best to check the company’s website or call for the current departure times.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Clothing?
No, you don’t need to bring any special equipment or clothing. The tour provider supplies warm, weatherproof overalls to keep you comfortable during the whale-watching excursion. Just remember to dress warmly in layers for the changeable weather.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Akureyri: Zipline Tour
- Akureyri: Arctic Coastline & Whale Watching
- Akureyri: Northern Lights Tour in North Iceland
- Akureyri North Iceland Waterfalls and Nature Baths Small Group Tour
- Akureyri: Goðafoss, Laufas & The Christmas House Tour
- Goðafoss Express: Big Bus Shore Excursion From Akureyri
- Akureyri: 3-Hour Classic Whale Watching Tour
- Akureyri: Lake Mývatn and Godafoss Waterfall Tour
- Husky Petting in Akureyri (private)
- Self-Drive: Complete Iceland Circle in 10 Days
- Akureyri: Hraundrangi Peak 10-Hour Private Climb
- Goðafoss Waterfall & Forest Lagoon From Akureyri Port
- From Akureyri: Lake Mývatn Guided Tour With Lunch
- Godafoss Express – Waterfall of the Gods, Lux Bus Round Trip
- Akureyri: Northern Light Chase by Super Jeep
Recap
Husavik’s whale watching tour provides an immersive and captivating encounter with Iceland’s marine life.
Aboard a traditional oak boat, visitors explore Skjálfandi Bay, spotting humpback, blue, and Minke whales, as well as dolphins and porpoises.
The tour’s inclusion of warm overalls, knowledgeable guides, and a cozy return with hot cocoa and cinnamon buns ensures a comfortable and unforgettable experience.
