Húsavík: Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat

Húsavík’s Fast-Paced Whale and Puffin Adventure by Speedboat

The Húsavík: Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat offers a lively, 2-hour journey that combines the thrill of speedboat whale watching with the charm of Puffin Island. Departing from the renowned Whale Capital of Iceland, this tour provides a chance to see blue whales, humpback whales, and harbor porpoises in their natural environment. The tour costs a set fee, includes a modern RIB speedboat, and is led by knowledgeable guides who deliver live commentary throughout. The maximum group size of 12 passengers ensures an intimate experience, while the specialized safety overalls keep everyone warm despite the open water.

This tour excels at combining adventure with education, making it ideal for those interested in marine wildlife and Icelandic nature. One consideration is that the tour is weather-dependent, and if conditions aren’t favorable, it might be canceled or replaced with a voucher for a future trip. Still, the high ratings and glowing reviews reflect consistent success in delivering memorable encounters with whales and puffins in a fast, fun setting.

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Key Points

• 2-hour speedboat whale and puffin tour starting from Húsavík
• Maximum 12 passengers for a personal experience
• Includes live commentary by expert guides
• Opportunity to see blue whales, humpback whales, and harbor porpoises
• Visit Puffin Island during the nesting season from April 15 to August 15
• Weather-dependent activity, with options for rescheduling or vouchers if no wildlife is seen

Starting Point at the Gentle Giants Ticket Center

This tour begins at the Gentle Giants Ticket Center in Húsavík, marked by large blue flags for easy spotting. The check-in process is straightforward, with guides providing a safety briefing upon arrival. It’s recommended to arrive a little early to gear up with your warm safety overalls and rain jackets if needed, ensuring comfort during the roughly 2-hour cruise.

The departure is organized and punctual, reflecting the professionalism of Gentle Giants Whale Watching. Since no hotel pickup or drop-off is included, travelers need to make their way to the meeting point independently. The experience ends back at the same location, making logistics simple for those staying nearby.

The Speedboat Experience and Its Unique Benefits

Traveling on a modern RIB speedboat is a highlight of this tour. With its spacious layout for up to 12 passengers, it offers more comfort than traditional whale-watching boats. The speed of the vessel enhances the chance of spotting larger whales, such as blue whales and humpbacks, which are often seen more easily from a swift boat.

Guides demonstrate safety procedures and provide live commentary during the ride, sharing insights about local marine life and Icelandic waters. The high speeds also contribute to an engaging, energetic atmosphere, making this tour feel more like an adventure than a typical boat cruise.

Exploring Puffin Island during Nesting Season

One of the main highlights is a visit to Puffin Island, especially during the nesting period from April 15 to August 15. Here, you’ll observe thousands of puffins, often called “the Clowns of the Ocean,” with their colorful beaks and lively behavior. While some reviews mention that the puffin sighting is “so-so” and you don’t get very close, the sheer number of puffins makes it a lively sight.

Guides offer explanations about puffin behavior and their nesting habits, enriching the experience. The cruise past Puffin Island also provides scenic views and opportunities to see other seabirds during the season.

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Whales Likely to Be Spotted on This Tour

The high speed of the boat, combined with expert guidance, increases the likelihood of seeing big whales such as blue whales and humpback whales. Reports from previous trips frequently mention sightings of 5-6 humpbacks, with some tours capturing 7 whales in a single outing.

Guides actively look for signs of whales and dolphins, adjusting course to maximize viewing chances. Several reviews highlight that the whale sightings are abundant and often include behavioral observations, like whales jumping or resting, making each trip potentially very rewarding.

Marine Wildlife and Other Sightings Beyond Whales

Along With whales and puffins, the tour often encounters harbor porpoises and dolphins. The scenic views of Skjálfandi Bay add to the overall enjoyment, with the boat passing pass by scenic coastlines and marine areas. The guides provide insights into marine life and the local ecosystem, turning each sighting into an educational moment.

The combination of wildlife viewing and scenic scenery creates a balanced experience that appeals to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Prepare

Included in the tour are the round-trip RIB speedboat cruise, a specialized guide, live commentary, and warm safety overalls. Rain jackets are provided if necessary, ensuring comfort regardless of weather. The activity does not include hotel transfers, so travelers need to meet at the Gentle Giants Ticket Center.

What to bring is straightforward: comfortable shoes, warm outdoor clothing, and an outdoor jacket. Since the activity is not suitable for children under 8 years, pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions, it’s best suited for active, adventurous travelers in good health.

Weather, Cancellations, and Wildlife Guarantee

The tour is weather-dependent, meaning unfavorable conditions might lead to cancellation. If canceled due to weather, travelers can reschedule or receive a full refund. If no whales are seen, a voucher for a future traditional whale watching tour on oak boats is offered — though no cash refund is available.

Sea sickness can affect some passengers, especially on the bumpy, high-speed ride, so taking seasickness pills is recommended if prone. The tour’s live guide and skipper focus heavily on safety and wildlife spotting to make each trip as successful as possible.

High Ratings and Customer Satisfaction

With a 4.8 out of 5 rating based on over 1002 reviews, this tour consistently impresses visitors. Review comments highlight knowledgeable guides, close whale encounters, and the exhilarating speedboat experience as major positives. Many reviews mention seeing multiple whales, including humpbacks and blue whales, alongside dolphins and puffins.

Guides like Mateo and Serena are praised for their enthusiasm and expertise, making the experience even more enjoyable. The personal atmosphere of the small group size and modern vessel are often noted as advantages.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This speedboat whale and puffin tour best suits adventurous travelers who enjoy fast-paced boat rides and wildlife encounters. It’s perfect for those who want more direct and closer views of whales and seabirds, thanks to the boat’s speed and size. The tour is ideal for those aged 8 and above, with no accessibility for wheelchairs or those with certain health issues.

Expect a lively, educational, and highly rewarding experience that balances thrill with learning. Since the tour is weather-dependent, flexible travelers who are prepared for possible rescheduling or voucher options will find this trip worth the effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The activity is not suitable for children under 8 years, focusing on more active participation and safety considerations.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and outdoor gear are recommended. Rain jackets are provided if needed.

Can I see whales during the puffin season?
Yes, during April 15 to August 15, the tour includes visiting Puffin Island, with many puffins visible. Whale sightings are frequent outside this season, especially in the warmer months.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on favorable weather conditions. Cancellation is possible, with options to reschedule or a full refund. If no whales are observed, a voucher is offered.

What makes this tour different from others?
The speed of the RIB boat offers a more personal and exhilarating experience, allowing closer and more frequent whale sightings, alongside expert guides providing lively commentary.

Is there any food or drinks included?
No, this tour does not include food or drinks. Passengers should bring their own essentials if desired.

How many whales can I expect to see?
Many past trips report sightings of multiple whales, with up to 7 whales observed in some tours, mainly humpbacks and blue whales.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 12 passengers, ensuring a personalized experience and fewer crowds.

The Húsavík: Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat offers an energetic, close-up look at marine life in Iceland’s waters. It combines speed, scenery, and wildlife with expert guidance, making it a top choice for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby