Húsavík: Big Whales and Puffin Island Speedboat Tour

Húsavík: Big Whales and Puffin Island Speedboat Tour — An Authentic Marine Adventure in Iceland

This guided speedboat tour from Húsavík offers an exhilarating way to see Iceland’s incredible marine wildlife. With a small group size, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and puffins, it’s perfect for lovers of nature and adventure alike. What we love most? The speed and agility of the RIB boat allow you to cover more ground quickly — increasing your chances of sightings — plus, the focus on responsible whale watching ensures you’re not just a spectator but a mindful observer.

A potential consideration? The tour can be cold, especially on the water at high speed, so packing warm, water-resistant clothing is essential. It’s also primarily suitable for those over 8 years old and comfortable with speed and water, making it less ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues. Overall, if you’re after an exciting, up-close marine experience in Iceland, this adventure hits all the right notes.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love wildlife, crave a bit of adrenaline, and want a more intimate view of Iceland’s sea life than traditional larger boat tours offer.

Key Points

• Speed and proximity: The RIB boat’s speed allows for quick reactions and close wildlife encounters.
• Wildlife diversity: Over 10 species, including whales, dolphins, and puffins, are common in Skjálfandi Bay.
• Small group experience: With only 12 passengers, you get unobstructed views and a personal touch.
• Seasonal magic: Puffin sightings are seasonal, from mid-April to August.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of the marine ecosystem.
• Value for money: At $159, it offers a high-energy, close-up experience worth every penny.

The Essence of the Tour: A Deep Dive

The adventure kicks off at Húsavík’s lively harbor, specifically at Hafnarstétt 11, where a friendly safety briefing sets the tone. The mention of sharing the ticket office with North Sailing is handy — you’ll find it easily across from the iconic Húsavík church. Once onboard your 12-seat RIB boat, the real fun begins as you speed across Skjálfandi Bay. The boat’s design and size mean you’re in for an experience that’s both intimate and thrilling.

What to Expect on Each Part of the Trip

First Stop: Puffin Island (Lundey)
During spring and summer, Lundey Island becomes a bird-watcher’s paradise, especially for puffin lovers. According to reviews, the puffins are abundant, flying and waddling around, offering fantastic photo opportunities. The guide will lead a quick walk on the island if conditions permit, sharing insights about these charming birds. Outside puffin season, this stop is replaced with exclusive whale-watching.

Second Stop: Skjálfandi Bay
This is the core of the experience. The boat will cruise through the bay, where over 10 different whale species visit, including humpback, minke, and white-beaked dolphins. The speed of the boat is a game-changer — it allows the crew to chase down sightings rapidly. Reviewers note how the boat’s agility meant they could catch up with whales quickly, making each sighting feel more immediate and close-up.

Wildlife Watching and Educational Narration
Your guides, often described as energetic and knowledgeable, will share details about the animals and their behaviors. Several reviews mention guides like Laura and Austin, who animatedly explain whale habits and bird facts, enhancing the experience beyond just watching. The captain, such as Roby, expertly maneuvers the boat, ensuring safety and excitement.

Final Stop: Scenic Views and Return
After about two hours on the water, the boat returns to the harbor, with plenty of opportunities for photos of the scenic coastline, the Tjörnes Peninsula’s fossil layers (some up to two million years old!), and sightings of dolphins or any lingering whales.

Why This Tour Offers Outstanding Value

While $159 might seem steep for a two-hour boat ride, the value heavily leans towards the personalized, up-close encounters and the expert guidance that make this tour stand out. The small group size ensures you’re not just a number, and the focus on responsible wildlife viewing means animals aren’t disturbed.

The inclusion of water-resistant overalls and life vests is practical, keeping you warm and safe in Iceland’s often chilly waters. Guest reviews frequently mention the importance of packing gloves, hats, and warm clothes, as the high speed can make it feel significantly colder than onshore.

Many travelers also highlight the thrill of the speedboat ride itself — it’s not just about the wildlife but the adrenaline rush of zipping across the bay. Several reviews commend the crew for their enthusiasm and professionalism, adding a layer of comfort and trust to the experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

The tour launches from Húsavík’s harbor, where a quick safety talk and briefing are given. You’ll meet your guides and crew, typically including a captain and marine biologist or naturalist. This initial step is crucial for understanding the plan and safety measures, especially if you’re new to speedboats or sea tours.

Puffin Island (Seasonal)

If visiting between April 15 and August 20, expect to see puffins in their natural habitat. Reviewers describe the island as “great for photos” and “full of puffins flying all around,” adding a delightful bird-watching element to the trip. The guided tour here enhances your understanding of these birds’ lives.

Marine Wildlife and Whale Watching in Skjálfandi Bay

This is the heart of the tour. Expect to see whales, dolphins, and porpoises. The guides typically update passengers on sightings in real time, with some reviews mentioning spotting up to six whales in one trip, including humpbacks and occasional blue whales. The high speed means you’re often racing to catch up with the animals, and many travelers appreciate this as it increases the likelihood of viewing.

Scenic and Educational Stops

Throughout the trip, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the coastline, fossil layers of the Tjörnes peninsula, and the chance to see marine life in action. Guides often share fascinating facts, such as the whales’ gentle nature and the importance of respectful viewing.

Return and Reflection

Back at the harbor, many guests feel the full impact of the experience — not just the sightings but the thrill of the ride and the wealth of knowledge gained from passionate guides.

Reviews: Authentic Insights from Travelers

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides like Austin and Laura, who make the experience more engaging. One traveler mentioned that their guide’s energy made the trip memorable, while others appreciated the respectful approach to whales, noting how the animals weren’t disturbed.

Several reviewers emphasized the value of the speedboat: “The boat was such fun and gave us an up-close and personal experience,” one said. The small group size (12 passengers max) meant no fighting for views, making it a more immersive experience overall.

The combination of whale sightings and puffins during season makes this tour feel like a full wildlife package. Even if you don’t see whales in every trip, the excitement and scenery are enough to justify the cost, according to seasoned travelers.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Dress warmly in water-resistant gear — layers, gloves, and a hat are recommended.
• Arrive 30 minutes early at the starting point for check-in and safety briefing.
• Bring your camera and binoculars for better wildlife viewing and photography.
• Limit seasickness risk by avoiding heavy meals before the trip; some reviews note that the boat’s quality helps prevent seasickness.
• Children over 8 years or 130 cm will enjoy the experience, but check with the provider if your child is slightly below this height.

Who Should Book This Tour?

Travelers seeking an active, fast-paced marine adventure will love the speedboat’s ability to chase sightings. If you’re passionate about wildlife, especially whales and puffins, this trip offers an intimate glimpse into their world, with the added thrill of high-speed travel. It’s perfect for those who enjoy small-group, personalized experiences and are prepared for the weather conditions typical of Iceland’s coast.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, leisurely cruise or are sensitive to cold or motion sickness, this might not be your best fit. Also, the tour’s suitability for children over 8 years old makes it less ideal for families with very young kids or those with mobility challenges.

The Sum Up

This Húsavík speedboat tour provides an authentic, exhilarating way to experience Iceland’s marine life. The combination of high-speed chase, personalized wildlife encounters, and expert guides makes for a memorable adventure. The small group size ensures you get a true feeling of connection with the environment and animals — plus, the thrill of the ride adds an extra layer of excitement.

If you’re after a dynamic, wildlife-focused tour that balances education, adventure, and responsible watching, this experience is a fantastic choice. It’s especially appealing for those who want to maximize sightings in a short amount of time and don’t mind bundling up for the chilly water.

For anyone visiting Húsavík with a love for nature and a craving for adventure, this tour promises to be one of the highlights of your trip, offering stories to tell for years to come.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 8 years old or taller than 130 cm are welcome. Always check with the provider if your child is close to the age or height limit.

What should I wear?
Bring warm, water-resistant clothing, including gloves and a hat. The provided overalls help, but layering is key since the water can be chilly, especially at speed.

Can I see puffins during this tour?
Yes, puffin sightings are seasonal, typically from April 15 to August 20, on Lundey Island. Outside this season, the tour focuses solely on whale watching.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 2 hours, including stops and the return to the harbor.

Will I get seasick?
The quality of the speedboat and the experience of the crew help minimize seasickness. It’s advisable to avoid heavy meals beforehand and bring seasickness remedies if needed.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect to see humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, porpoises, and during season, puffins. Some trips also catch sight of blue whales or walruses.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
The focus on gentle, responsible whale watching suggests efforts to minimize disturbance. The guides emphasize respecting the animals’ natural behaviors.

What if the weather is bad?
The operator reserves the right to cancel due to weather or low passenger numbers. If canceled, you’ll be notified in advance and offered alternative dates or a refund.

This tour offers a lively, intimate peek into Iceland’s marine life, combining speed, scenery, and stories in a way that few other experiences can match. It’s a must-try for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.