Traditional Oak Ship Whale Watching Tour From Husavik

Aboard a traditional Icelandic oak ship, the Whale Watching Tour from Husavík offers an authentic wildlife adventure in the waters of Skjálfandi bay. At $101.01 per person, the 3-hour tour departs from North Sailing in Husavík, renowned as Iceland’s whale-watching capital. The tour provides multiple departure options—morning, afternoon, or evening—making it flexible for different schedules. With an average booking window of 42 days, this tour attracts a steady stream of wildlife enthusiasts eager to see humpback whales and other marine creatures in their natural environment. The guided commentary enhances the experience, providing insights into whale behavior and breeding habits.

This tour stands out for its authenticity: traveling on a traditional oak ship offers a different feel compared to modern boats. Review scores of 4.5 out of 5 from over 400 reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction, though some note that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Warm waterproof overalls and hot refreshments like hot chocolate and cinnamon rolls are included, helping guests stay comfortable at sea. This experience suits those who appreciate nature, wildlife photography, or simply want to enjoy a scenic boat trip with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic oak ship adds charm and tradition to the whale-watching experience
• 3-hour trip with flexible departure times from Husavík, Iceland’s whale-watching hub
• Hot chocolate and cinnamon rolls included to keep you warm after sightings
• Live commentary from professional guides sharing whale behavior and ecology
• Up to 125 guests on board, with a high safety and comfort standard
• Wildlife sightings are probable but not guaranteed, so patience and luck are part of the journey

Husavík’s Traditional Oak Ship: The Heart of Icelandic Whale Watching

This tour takes place on a classic Icelandic oak ship, which has become a symbol of Husavík’s long-standing whale-watching tradition. The ship’s design emphasizes a traditional maritime experience, allowing guests to enjoy sailing around Skjálfandi bay with a sense of history and craftsmanship. The ship’s size accommodates up to 125 travelers, but the tour maintains a friendly, intimate atmosphere with live commentary from a professional guide.

The departure point at North Sailing on Garðarsbraut is conveniently located in Husavík, and the meeting process is straightforward. The timing flexibility—morning, afternoon, or evening—lets visitors choose based on their day’s plans and weather conditions. The tour’s duration of about 3 hours strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation, making it suitable for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or those seeking a scenic escape at sea.

Wildlife Sighting Expectations and Limitations

While the tour is praised for its large number of whale sightings—including at least three whales on some trips—it is important to understand that sightings are not guaranteed. The tour emphasizes respect for the whales by avoiding distress and limiting observation times, especially with maximum durations of 40 minutes per whale. Reviews highlight sightings of humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, Minke whales, and even a fin whale, seen from a distance.

Some guests observe several whales during their trip, with up to six humpbacks reported in one review. Others may see dolphins or puffins, along with spectacular scenery of the bay and surrounding mountains. The expert guides provide fascinating commentary throughout, making the experience informative regardless of whether whales are visible at every moment.

Because wildlife behavior varies, guests are encouraged to bring binoculars for better viewing, especially if whales are far away. The emphasis remains on sustainable whale watching, respecting the creatures’ natural habitat and behavior.

Navigating the Schedule: Morning, Afternoon, or Evening Trips

This tour offers multiple departures, making it easy to fit into different schedules. Morning trips tend to offer calmer waters and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for photography and wildlife observation. Afternoon and evening options provide beautiful light conditions and a peaceful setting, often with a chance to see dolphins or other species active during those times.

Travelers can select their preferred departure based on personal convenience or weather forecasts. The 3-hour duration ensures ample time to search for whales, observe their behaviors, and enjoy the scenic views without feeling rushed. The flexible schedule is a big plus, especially during the Icelandic summer when daylight hours are long.

What Makes the Traditional Oak Ship Stand Out?

The design and history of the oak ship are key highlights. Unlike more modern vessels, this traditional ship connects guests with Iceland’s maritime heritage. Its steady sailing experience allows guests to enjoy the sea breeze and marine environment authentically.

The ship’s craftsmanship and classic appearance appeal to travelers seeking a more traditional and romantic whale-watching experience. The interior offers ample space for viewing, while the outdoor deck provides unobstructed panoramic views of the bay. This vessel’s timeless charm adds a unique dimension to each trip.

Comfort and Practical Tips for the Sea Adventure

Comfort is a priority on this tour. Warm waterproof overalls are provided, which guests often praise for their effectiveness in cold, windy conditions. Shoes are not included, so it’s recommended to wear warm, waterproof footwear and thick socks. The hot chocolate and cinnamon rolls served at the end of the trip are popular treats, providing warmth and comfort after the sea adventure.

Guests are advised to dress appropriately for the weather, as conditions at sea can change quickly. The guided commentary enhances the experience by explaining whale behavior and responding to questions. In case of poor weather, the tour may be canceled, with options for a full refund or rescheduling.

Customer Service and Crew Professionalism

The crew on this tour is highly regarded for their friendliness, professionalism, and knowledge. Multiple reviews mention excellent guides who share fascinating insights into the whales and marine environment. They also manage expectations well, informing guests about what wildlife they might see and the importance of respecting the natural habitat.

Guests appreciate the personalized service, such as help with outerwear and assistance finding a good spot for photos. The friendly atmosphere ensures that even those new to whale watching feel comfortable and well-cared-for during the trip.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Booking, and Cancellation

The meeting point is at North Sailing’s office at Garðarsbraut in Husavík. The activity includes light refreshments—hot chocolate, cinnamon rolls, and live commentary. No shoes are provided, so bring warm footwear for comfort.

The tour is booked on average 42 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, with full refunds available if canceled due to bad weather or insufficient bookings. This flexible policy offers peace of mind for travelers concerned about Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

Why Choose This Tour: An Authentic Maritime Experience

Choosing the Traditional Oak Ship Whale Watching Tour means opting for a genuine Icelandic sailing experience. The heritage vessel paired with expert guides makes for a rich and respectful encounter with marine wildlife. The inclusion of refreshments and live commentary enhances comfort and knowledge, making this suitable for families, bird watchers, or wildlife enthusiasts.

While sightings are highly likely, the wild nature of the experience means patience is key. The small group feel combined with traditional sailing distinguishes this tour from more commercial alternatives. It’s especially well-suited for those wanting a more authentic, scenic, and educational adventure on the water.

Husavík Whale Watching: A Memorable Icelandic Adventure

This tour captures the essence of Iceland’s whale-watching tradition, combining historical craftsmanship with modern conservation. The 3-hour trip on a traditional oak ship offers a peaceful, scenic voyage where whales, dolphins, and seabirds provide natural highlights. The guides’ expertise and warm refreshments leave a lasting impression, making it a worthy addition to any Iceland travel itinerary.

Although wildlife sightings depend on luck, the high-quality vessel, friendly crew, and well-organized schedule ensure a rewarding experience for most participants. This tour excels at balancing education, comfort, and respect for nature—a true highlight for those seeking an authentic maritime adventure in Husavík.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the whale watching tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, providing enough time to search for whales and enjoy the scenic surroundings of Skjálfandi bay.

What is included in the price?
Light refreshments, such as hot chocolate and cinnamon rolls, are included, along with live commentary from a professional guide.

Is wildlife sighting guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on natural whale activity. However, many trips see several whales and dolphins, with up to six humpbacks reported in some reviews.

What should I wear?
Guests should wear warm, waterproof footwear and dress in layers. Overalls are provided, but good shoes and socks are recommended for comfort.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at North Sailing, Garðarsbraut in Husavík, Iceland. The activity ends back at the same location.

The Traditional Oak Ship Whale Watching Tour from Husavík offers a highly authentic and scenic experience that combines history, wildlife, and Icelandic maritime tradition. With expert guides, warm refreshments, and a classic vessel, it provides a memorable adventure suited for anyone eager to see whales in their natural habitat.