If you’re dreaming of seeing whales in their natural Greenlandic playground or snapping photos of adorable puffins, the Húsavík Big Whale Safari with speedboat rides might be just what you need. This tour promises a blend of adventure, education, and spectacular wildlife viewing, all wrapped into a compact two-hour experience. The fact that it’s highly rated—an impressive 4.8 out of 5 based on over a thousand reviews—speaks to its popularity and reliability.
What makes this trip stand out? First, the chance to zoooom across Skjálfandi Bay in a modern RIB speedboat means better coverage and more sightings. Second, your guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more enriching. Third, the tour includes specialized gear to keep you warm and comfortable, which is essential in Iceland’s unpredictable weather. The only hitch? If you’re not comfortable on a bumpy ride or are traveling with very young children, you might want to consider alternatives, as this adventure caters best to those seeking a lively, interactive experience.
Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and photographers eager to catch whales breaching or puffins in flight, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of fun and education. It’s particularly suited for travelers who love speed, nature, and authenticity—plus, it’s a fantastic way to see the whale capital of Iceland in action.
Key Points
- High-Quality Equipment: Spacious, modern RIB speedboats with safety gear, ensuring comfort and security.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides who share insights about whales, puffins, and local marine ecosystems.
- Wildlife Focus: Strong emphasis on spotting larger whales and thousands of puffins during nesting season.
- Limited Group Size: Small, intimate tours with a maximum of 12 passengers, providing a more personal experience.
- Flexible Booking: Free cancellation 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
- Weather-Dependent: Tours are subject to weather conditions; bad weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
The Experience in Detail
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Starting Point and Logistics
You’ll meet your guide at the Gentle Giants Ticket Center in Húsavík, marked by bright blue flags—easy to spot. The tour lasts around two hours, making it a perfect quick escape into Iceland’s marine world. Since the tour involves a speedboat ride, comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and outdoor gear are essential—think waterproof jackets and layers, as Iceland’s weather can surprise you.
Safety Briefing and Gear
Upon arrival, you’ll receive a safety briefing from your guide, who will demonstrate how to stay warm and secure in the specially made overalls provided. This gear is designed specifically for the cold, and many reviews highlight how important it is for making a chilly ride enjoyable. Rain jackets are available if needed, but most travelers find the overalls sufficient to stay dry and warm.
Puffin Island and Wildlife Viewing
Your first stop is Puffin Island during the nesting period (roughly mid-April to mid-August). Here, you can expect to see thousands of puffins, often called “the clowns of the ocean” for their colorful beaks. Reviewers find this part charming, though some note they don’t get as close as they’d like to the puffins—they’re wild after all.
While puffins steal the show visually, the real highlight occurs when the boat speeds out into Skjálfandi Bay. Many travelers have reported seeing multiple humpback whales and even blue whales, with some spotting up to five or six whales in a single trip. One reviewer praised their guide, Mateo, a marine biologist, for sharing fascinating facts that made each sighting even more meaningful.
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The high-speed nature of the RIB boat makes it easier to cover more ground, increasing your chances of spotting big whales. Guests frequently mention seeing humpbacks breaching or tail-slapping, along with occasional blue whales. The excitement of this part of the tour is heightened by the boat’s agility, allowing it to follow whales without disturbing them.
A recurring theme in reviews is the personalized experience: with only 12 passengers, you get closer to the action and more opportunities for photos. Many guides are praised for their live commentary, explaining whale behavior, marine ecology, and the importance of conservation.
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Additional Marine Life
Besides whales and puffins, you might encounter dolphins and harbor porpoises, with some guests reporting seeing multiple species during their trip. The scenic views of the surrounding landscape add to the overall experience, making it a feast for the eyes.
Return and Reflection
After roughly two hours, the boat returns to the harbor, with plenty of stories to share and photos to sort through. Many reviewers mention feeling that the tour offered excellent value for money, considering the quality of sightings and guides.
Why This Tour Works for Different Travelers
This tour is ideal if you’re seeking a fast-paced, wildlife-rich adventure. The small group size and expert guides mean you get a more intimate experience, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the sights. The focus on larger whales and puffins ensures you see some of Iceland’s most iconic marine animals.
If you’re traveling in the puffin season, you’ll love the chance to witness thousands of these charming birds. Outside that season, the tour still offers great whale sightings—one reviewer even said they saw seven whales in one go, which is quite impressive.
The Value Proposition
While this tour is priced higher than some traditional whale watching options, many guests see it as worth the expense—the speedboat’s ability to get closer to whales and the knowledgeable guides make the difference. Plus, the small group enhances the overall experience, removing the crowds often found on larger boats.
Potential Drawbacks
The main consideration is the weather dependency—bad weather can lead to cancellations or less optimal trips. The ride can also be bumpy, especially in rough seas, which might not suit everyone. It’s worth noting that if no whales are seen, you’ll get a voucher for a future trip, so the effort is not wasted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not recommended for children under 8 years old, mainly because of the boat ride’s nature and safety considerations.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm outdoor clothing, and layers are key. The tour provides rain jackets if needed, and the overalls help keep you dry.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour date. The flexible reservation policy allows you to book now and pay later.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours depend on favorable weather conditions. If the weather prevents the trip, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Will I see whales every trip?
While sightings can’t be guaranteed due to the nature of wild animals, many reviews report excellent success rates, with some guests seeing multiple whale species and dolphins.
Is there a limit to the group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 12 passengers, providing a more personal experience and better chances for photos and sightings.
Final Thoughts
The Húsavík Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat offers a lively, engaging way to connect with Iceland’s marine wildlife. With its modern boats, knowledgeable guides, and small groups, it delivers a memorable adventure for those eager to see whales and puffins up close.
This tour showcases the best of Húsavík’s natural wonders, making it perfect for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone craving an active, authentic Icelandic experience. While weather can be unpredictable, the high success rate and engaging guides make it well worth considering for your Iceland trip.
If you’re after a mix of thrill, education, and wildlife viewing in a compact, well-organized package, this tour could become one of your trip’s highlights. Just pack your warm clothes, prepare for a bumpy ride, and get ready for some unforgettable sightings.
Whether you’re chasing whales, snapping puffin photos, or simply soaking in the stunning scenery, this tour offers a compelling blend of adventure and authenticity that’s hard to beat.
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