Húsavík Whale Watching Tour, family owned and operated

If you’re heading to Iceland and want to tick off the spectacular sight of whales in their natural habitat, the Húsavík Whale Watching Tour from Akureyri is a fantastic choice. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 84 reviews and a reputation for knowledgeable guides and genuine wildlife encounters, this tour has become a favorite among travelers seeking an authentic marine adventure. It’s family-owned, which often translates into a more personal touch, and it offers a three-hour excursion that balances ample whale spotting opportunities with comfortable, guided storytelling.

What we particularly love about this experience is how committed the operators are to respectful whale watching—they prioritize the whales’ wellbeing, ensuring you get close enough for breathtaking views without disturbing them. A notable plus is that the tour includes life jackets and protective overalls, making it accessible and comfortable even in Iceland’s unpredictable weather. However, some travelers should consider that the tour’s success depends largely on weather conditions, and planned sightings are not guaranteed. Still, if you’re eager for a small-group, intimate experience with expert guides, this tour is suited for anyone keen on marine life, nature lovers, or families with children who want a safe yet exhilarating outing.

Key Points

• Highly rated and recommended: With a 5-star overall rating, travelers consistently praise the guides, especially Mada, for their knowledge and passion.
• Authentic wildlife encounters: Expect to see whales such as Humpback, Minke, Blue, Fin, and Killer whales, depending on the day.
• Respectful and educational: Guides provide fascinating insights about marine life and whale ecology, emphasizing responsible viewing.
• Family-friendly and inclusive: Life jackets and overalls are provided, making it suitable for all ages and weather conditions.
• Excellent value: For roughly $95 per person, the three-hour tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and expert commentary.
• Small group size: Max 40 travelers, but reviews often highlight smaller, more intimate groups, enhancing the experience.

What You Can Expect on the Húsavík Whale Watching Tour

From the moment you arrive at the meeting point in Húsavík, you immediately get a sense of the tour’s intimate, family-owned vibe. The meeting spot at Friends of Moby Dick, located at Hafnarstétt 35, feels welcoming and relaxed—perfect for pre-departure nerves or excitement.

The Boat: Comfort and Confidence

The tour is conducted aboard the Moby Dick, a vessel praised repeatedly in reviews for being comfortable and well-maintained. Travelers mention the boat’s space in the cabin and on deck, which means everyone has a good vantage point. The boat also provides warm protective overalls, essential for Iceland’s cool and sometimes choppy waters, and life jackets for added safety. The crew’s professionalism and friendly attitude are often highlighted, making even a rocky day feel manageable.

The Route and Scenery

The boat heads west from Húsavík towards the Kinnarfjöll mountain range, with the highest point at Syðri Háganga (1284m). This scenic backdrop makes the journey itself worth it, with views of Iceland’s rugged coastline and distant mountains creating a perfect frame for whale watching.

Wildlife and Whale Sightings

The core highlight of this tour, naturally, is the chance to see whales. The waters around Húsavík are home to several species of cetaceans, and the guides work hard to locate and interpret their movements. Expect to see Humpback and Minke whales regularly, with occasional sightings of Blue, Fin, and Killer whales—some of the most majestic and elusive marine creatures Iceland has to offer.

Reviewers frequently mention the thrill of seeing whales “close enough”—a testament to the boat’s maneuverability and the skill of the guides. One guest described witnessing a Humpback whale taking a dive with its tail fin fully revealed, a moment that sticks with many.

Additional Marine Life and Bird Watching

Besides whales, you’ll be on the lookout for Atlantic puffins (best seen between May and August), sea birds, and even white-beaked dolphins, which some tours report. The guides offer insights into the marine ecosystem, making the trip educational as well as exciting.

Time and Duration

Most tours last around 3 hours, providing enough time to venture out into the bay while keeping your interest high and fatigue at bay. It’s a pace that suits families, first-time whale watchers, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet engaging experience.

The Experience: An Authentic, Responsible Approach

The guides are well-reviewed for their knowledge and friendliness. Mada, in particular, receives glowing praise for her passion and informative commentary. Several guests note that she patiently answers questions and shares fascinating facts about the whales’ ecology and behaviors.

An important aspect that reviewers appreciate is the respectful approach to wildlife watching—no rushing, no encroaching on the whales’ space. One guest mentioned how the crew “really respected the whales and allowed us to watch without encroaching,” ensuring the animals’ safety and your enjoyment.

The Cost and Value

At $95.21 per person, this tour offers remarkable value for the chance to see up to eight whales and enjoy Iceland’s stunning coastline for three hours. Many reviews describe the experience as “worth it 100%”, especially given the small group sizes and the quality of guides. The inclusion of discounts at the Whale Museum with the boarding pass adds an extra perk, making the overall trip even more worthwhile.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is weather dependency. Some tours have been canceled due to poor weather, which is common in Iceland. Travelers should book with flexible cancellation options in mind. Also, the rocky waters mean some might experience seasickness—taking precautions like travel sickness tablets is advisable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This whale watching tour is ideal for families, solo travelers, couples, and groups looking for a genuine Icelandic wildlife encounter. The small-group atmosphere enhances the personal feel, making it a good choice for those who prefer more intimate adventures. Since the tour emphasizes responsible viewing and educational commentary, it suits travelers who want more than just a spectacle—they want to understand what they’re seeing.

If you’re after a straightforward, well-reviewed whale watching experience that combines scenic beauty, expert guides, and the chance to see multiple whale species, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suitable during the whale migration seasons from May to August, but the team operates year-round, adapting to Iceland’s ever-changing weather.

The Sum Up

The Húsavík Whale Watching Tour from Akureyri is a superb example of a small, family-run operation delivering authentic, educational, and memorable wildlife encounters. With expert guides like Mada, who are passionate about sharing their knowledge, you’re in good hands whether you see a single whale or a pod of eight. The comfortable boat, responsible approach, and stunning scenery all contribute to a fantastic value experience that many reviewers consider a highlight of their Iceland trip.

This tour is particularly well-suited for nature lovers, families with children, and anyone wanting a genuine, respectful encounter with whales. While weather can influence sightings, the overall reputation and reviews suggest that most guests leave with extraordinary memories and a new appreciation for Iceland’s marine life.

If you’re looking for a balance of fun, learning, and wildlife, this whale watching tour is a prime choice—one that leaves you with stories to tell long after your trip is over.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 3 hours long, providing enough time to explore the bay and see whales without being overly lengthy.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers all fees and taxes, along with warm protective overalls and life jackets. You also receive a 20% discount at the Whale Museum when showing your boarding pass.

Are children allowed on the tour?
While specific age restrictions aren’t listed, the tour is suitable for most travelers. The small group size and safety equipment make it family-friendly, but it’s best to consider seasickness precautions for young children.

What whale species might I see?
Common sightings include Humpback and Minke whales, with possibilities for Blue, Fin, and Killer whales. White-beaked dolphins can sometimes be spotted, especially in good weather.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours can be canceled due to poor weather, in which case you’ll be offered a rescheduled date or full refund. It’s recommended to book with flexible options if weather concerns you.

Is the tour suitable for people prone to seasickness?
Yes, but travelers warned about the rocky waters should take sea-sickness tablets beforehand, especially if they are sensitive.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at Friends of Moby Dick located at Hafnarstétt 35 in Húsavík, and the tour ends back at the same spot.

This whale watching experience offers an excellent blend of wildlife, scenery, and responsible guiding. Whether you’re a first-timer or an avid wildlife enthusiast, it promises moments that are both awe-inspiring and educational—a true highlight of any Iceland adventure.