Husavik stands out as a top destination for whale watching and marine adventures, thanks to its rich waters and authentic local operators. Whether you’re eager for a high-speed whale safari, a traditional boat trip, or learning about whales at the museum, Husavik offers a variety of options that appeal to different interests and comfort levels. Our favorite? The Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat—it combines the thrill of speed with close encounters of the gentle giant kind, plus a chance to see puffins in their natural setting. If you prefer a more relaxed, culturally rich experience, the Whale Museum provides a detailed look into these fascinating creatures’ lives. For a splash of adventure, the Bubbling Sands Snorkeling Tour offers a unique underwater glimpse into geothermal waters. We’ll walk you through each option to help you decide which best suits your style.
Quick Overview
Husavik is packed with wildlife tours, boat trips, and cultural visits. You can choose from speedboat safaris, like the Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins, which deliver a fast-paced, close-up experience of whales and puffins. Or opt for the Traditional Whale Watching by Local Family Company, a more relaxed, three-hour guided trip aboard a historic Icelandic oak boat. For underwater exploration, the Bubbling Sands Snorkeling Tour takes you into geothermal waters heated to 20°C, revealing bubbling sands and green algae. Finally, the Whale Museum offers an educational visit that complements the outdoor adventures perfectly.
1. Húsavíkur: Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat
For those seeking a fast, exciting way to see whales, this speedboat tour gets you out on Skjálfandi Bay aboard a modern RIB boat. It’s about 2 hours long, and you’ll be led by guides who know where to find the whales. What makes this trip stand out is the speedboat’s ability to cover a larger area, giving you a better shot at spotting big whales like humpbacks and dolphins. Plus, they’ve got specially designed overalls to keep you warm in Iceland’s chill.
The tour also combines a visit to Puffin Island, where, despite some criticism about how close you can get, you’ll still enjoy seeing the cute seabirds in their natural habitat. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, with some travelers seeing up to 7 whales during their trip. The boat’s speed means you get closer to the animals without feeling cramped, making it ideal for adrenaline lovers or those eager to maximize wildlife sightings.
Bottom Line: If you love speed, close encounters, and an energetic atmosphere, this is your best option. It’s popular, so booking ahead is wise.
2. Husavík: Traditional Whale Watching by Local Family Company
For around 3 hours, this traditional whale-watching tour offers a more laid-back, classic experience aboard an Icelandic oak boat. It’s run by a locally owned family, which appeals to travelers seeking an authentic, community-driven adventure. The emphasis here is on learning from experienced guides about the whales, dolphins, and marine life in Skjálfandi Bay.
Many guests appreciate the calmer pace and the chance to see whales in their natural habitat—something the reviews praise highly. People report seeing humpback whales, with one traveler noting, “This was my second trip with Gentle Giants in one day, and I loved both.” The tour provides warm overalls to combat Icelandic weather, making it comfortable even if the sea gets rough. While not as high-speed as the RIB trips, this option offers a more relaxed, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a traditional, educational experience and enjoy a slower, more comfortable pace.
3. Husavík: Bubbling Sands Snorkeling Tour
Looking for a completely different way to connect with Husavik’s geothermal environment? The Bubbling Sands Snorkeling Tour takes you into the warm waters of Brunnar lagoon, heated naturally by geothermal activity. At around 2.5 hours, this tour is perfect for those comfortable with snorkeling and eager to see geothermal features up close.
The highlight is floating over bubbling sands and green algae fields, with sightings of brown trout and sticklebacks. The lagoon’s water stays around 20°C, making it surprisingly comfortable despite Iceland’s chill. Afterward, enjoy hot chocolate and cookies—a nice touch that rounds out the experience. Guides emphasize safety and provide all necessary gear, so even novice snorkelers can join in.
This tour is unique because it combines underwater geothermal exploration with scenic river views, appealing especially to travelers interested in geology or looking for a gentle adventure. It’s a family-friendly option and offers a chance to see nature in a quiet, peaceful setting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers looking for an unusual aquatic experience, or those wanting a relaxing way to explore geothermal activity.
4. Husavík: Whale Museum Entry Ticket
If you’re interested in learning more about whales without venturing out on the water, the Whale Museum is a must-visit. It’s a self-guided experience with 8 exhibition spaces and 13 whale skeletons on display, offering an in-depth look at whale biology, behavior, and Iceland’s whaling history.
The museum is particularly strong for those who want context before or after their outdoor adventures. It also benefits conservation efforts—by purchasing souvenirs, you support ongoing research and education. The exhibits are detailed but accessible, making it a great stop for families or anyone who appreciates learning at their own pace.
While less interactive than a boat trip, it’s a good complement to outdoor tours or for rainy days. Reviews note that it’s an informative, well-maintained museum, providing a broader understanding of whales beyond sighting tours.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who prefer indoor learning and want to deepen their understanding of whales and Iceland’s history with them.
How to Choose the Right Husavik Tour
When deciding which experience suits you best, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you’re after up-close, high-speed whale encounters, the Big Whale Safari is hard to beat. For a more relaxed, educational trip, the traditional boat tour offers a slower pace and personal touch.
If underwater exploration intrigues you, the snorkeling tour provides a compelling geothermal adventure, ideal for active travelers. And for a deeper understanding of whales’ biology and history, the Whale Museum is a solid choice, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and tour type. Think about whether you want a fast-paced speedboat, a traditional vessel, or a cultural visit, and select accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Husavik offers a remarkable range of tours and experiences that cater to different tastes and comfort levels. For thrill-seekers, the speedboat safari delivers excitement and close encounters. For those who enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, the traditional whale-watching trip offers a genuine connection with marine life. Geothermal lovers or snorkelers will appreciate the bubbling sands adventure, while history buffs will find the Whale Museum fascinating.
If you’re planning your trip, we recommend booking well in advance, especially for popular tours like the Big Whale Safari. Whether you’re after a high-energy speedboat ride or a quiet museum visit, Husavik ensures a memorable experience rooted in Iceland’s stunning natural environment.