Whales and Puffins Tour from Husavik

Planning a trip to Iceland and looking for a tour that offers both spectacular wildlife sightings and a taste of local charm? The Whales and Puffins Tour from Husavik might just be your perfect match. This half-day adventure, run by Salka Whale Watching, combines iconic Icelandic species with a cozy vintage boat vibe, making it a favorite for nature lovers.

We love that this tour offers a combination of puffin colony visits and whale watching—a rare blend that captures the essence of Iceland’s marine wildlife. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable explanations and friendly attitude, making the experience relaxing and informative. Plus, the hot drinks and warm overalls included mean comfort is prioritized, even when the weather turns brisk.

However, it’s worth noting that seasonality impacts the puffin sightings—after mid-August, puffins head out to sea for winter, so the tour then focuses solely on whales. Another aspect to consider is that, like any wildlife tour, sightings aren’t guaranteed—some days are more fruitful than others. Still, if you love marine life and are visiting during puffin breeding season, this tour is a fantastic choice.

This experience caters best to travelers who crave authentic wildlife encounters in a relaxed setting, appreciate expert guidance, and don’t mind the unpredictability of nature. Families, couples, and solo travelers will all find value here, especially with reviews highlighting the knowledgeable crew and stunning scenery.

This experience made our article of 14 Top Tours In Akureyri (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• Wildlife diversity: Opportunity to see whales, dolphins, puffins, and other seabirds.
• Expert guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Seasonal timing: Puffins are present from end of April to mid-August; after that, only whale watching.
• Comfort included: Warm overalls and hot refreshments make the experience more enjoyable.
• Authentic adventure: Small group sizes (up to 75 travelers) and personalized attention.
• Value for money: At $106 per person, the experience offers good value given the wildlife encounters.

What to Expect on the Tour

This 3.5-hour trip begins at North Sailing in Husavik, a town known as Iceland’s whale-watching capital. The vessel is a vintage fishing boat, which adds a charming, nostalgic feel—imagine classic wood, flaking paint, and a cozy cabin. This setup isn’t just aesthetic; it’s practical, giving you a stable platform for wildlife spotting and easy access to the water.

The first leg of your journey takes you to Puffin Island, a site known for hosting one of Iceland’s largest puffin colonies. During breeding season (roughly April to August), around 100,000 puffins gather here, creating a lively spectacle of black-and-white birds with orange beaks fluttering over the rocky cliffs. Reviewers mention how the puffins are adorable and surprisingly curious, often nesting close enough for good photos.

Note: After August 15th, puffins leave Iceland to winter in the open ocean. If you book outside the puffin season, the tour switches focus exclusively to whale watching.

Once the puffin viewing completes, the boat moves into Skjálfandi Bay, renowned for its rich whale population. Common species include humpback whales, Minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and porpoises. Early summer can even bring sightings of blue whales and fin whales, adding an extra thrill to the trip.

The Wildlife Encounters

Expect the crew to actively point out whales and birds, sharing insights into their behavior. Reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable guides enhance the trip, providing context that transforms a simple boat ride into an educational adventure.

Some lucky travelers have reported seeing multiple whales, with some sightings lasting over an hour. One reviewer noted, “We stayed with a whale for over an hour and a half,” which is quite impressive in the wild. Others saw several humpback whales, often just the tops of their backs or their tails flipping out of the water during active movements.

Dolphins and porpoises are common companions, sometimes seen frolicking alongside the boat. Birdlife around Puffin Island is equally engaging, with puffins being “super exciting to see” according to many reviews. Keep your camera ready—reviewers mention missing fantastic photo opportunities because of spray or distance, so a waterproof camera might be wise.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour typically starts with a check-in at North Sailing in Husavik, a quaint town with a lovely harbor. You’re then assigned to the vintage vessel, which can accommodate up to 75 people but often feels more intimate, especially if you’re a smaller group.

Puffin Island visit: Usually takes around 30-45 minutes, during which you can observe the bustling bird colony. Reviewers highlight how guides are attentive and enthusiastic, offering detailed info about puffin nesting behaviors and conservation efforts. Some mention that puffins are quite close to the boat, and the sight of hundreds of them nesting is a real highlight.

Whale watching segment: The second part of the trip involves sailing into prime whale habitat. Here, the guides leverage their expertise to seek out different species, often changing routes based on whale activity. Some reviewers mention that wildlife sightings vary day-to-day. One said, “Every trip is different, and sometimes the whales are more elusive,” but they still enjoyed the scenic boat ride and appreciated the crew’s effort.

Refreshments and comfort: Throughout the trip, light snacks, hot chocolate, and warm overalls are provided, which reviewers find notably helpful given Iceland’s unpredictable weather. The boat’s design ensures good visibility, and the crew is praised for their friendly, informative approach.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

• Authentic vintage vessel: Adds a nostalgic touch and stable ride.
• Expert guides: They are described as very knowledgeable, with some reviewers mentioning specific crew members by name.
• Seasonality: The timing of puffin presence makes this tour particularly special between April and August.
• Breathtaking scenery: Sailing through Skjálfandi Bay offers striking views, especially when whales breach or tails flip.
• Safety and comfort: The inclusion of warm overalls and hot drinks means comfort is prioritized, even if the weather is brisk or rainy.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

While the tour is typically praised, some reviews highlight minor hiccups. For example, parking in Husavik is free but can become tight on busy days. Also, because wildlife is unpredictable, sightings may vary, and some guests might not see whales or puffins if the animals are elsewhere.

A few reviewers share frustrations about last-minute cancellations or route changes, often due to weather or operational decisions. One reviewer was disappointed that their tour was moved to Akureyri and missed puffin sightings, emphasizing the importance of clear communication.

Another aspect to consider is seasonality — outside of puffin season, the experience shifts solely to whale watching, which still offers fantastic marine life but lacks the colorful puffin colony spectacle.

This tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers wanting to see Iceland’s marine species in their natural habitat. It suits those who appreciate a relaxed, informative atmosphere and are comfortable on a boat for a few hours. Families with children, couples, and solo travelers will all find something to enjoy, especially since reviews commend the friendly crew and scenic views.

If you’re visiting during the puffin season and want a balanced mix of birdwatching and whale sightings, this tour hits the mark. People looking for a value-packed experience—at around $106—will find this tour a worthwhile investment for the chance to see multiple species in one outing.

The Whales and Puffins Tour from Husavik offers a genuine look at Iceland’s marine wildlife with the added charm of a vintage fishing boat. Its combination of puffin colony visits and whale watching creates a well-rounded, memorable adventure that captures Iceland’s coastal beauty.

With knowledgeable guides, good value, and stunning scenery, this tour is a top choice for travelers eager to see whales and puffins in a relaxed, friendly environment. The included comfort measures, such as hot drinks and warm overalls, make it accessible even on cooler days.

While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed and seasonality matters, the overall experience is highly praised by past guests. If you’re seeking an authentic, educational, and scenic outing that showcases Iceland’s unique coastal ecosystem, this tour is likely to delight.

FAQ

When is the best time to see puffins on this tour?
Puffins are present from late April to mid-August. After mid-August, they leave Iceland for wintering at sea.

What if I only want to see whales?
After August 15th, the tour is focused solely on whale watching since puffins are no longer around.

Is there a limit to how many people can join?
Yes, the tour has a maximum of 75 travelers, but reviews suggest it often feels intimate, especially if the group is smaller.

What should I bring for the trip?
Warm overalls are provided, but bringing waterproof clothing and a camera with a strap is advisable, especially for photography.

Are the guides multilingual?
The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, ensuring clear explanations for international visitors.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours require good weather, and if canceled due to sea conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Always check the weather forecast before booking.

In summary, this whale and puffin tour offers a genuine chance to observe Iceland’s iconic wildlife in a friendly, well-organized setting. Perfect for those wanting a memorable, nature-filled adventure—weather permitting, of course.