If you’re thinking about a whale watching trip in Iceland, the Husavík tour offered by North Sailing is worth serious consideration. It’s not just a chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment; it’s also a thoughtfully eco-friendly experience that prioritizes sustainability. For those who want to enjoy Iceland’s marine wildlife while keeping their carbon footprint low, this tour strikes a good balance.
What really catches our eye are the eco-conscious approach—they became the first whale watching company in the world to offer a carbon-neutral experience— and the traditional oak boat, which adds a touch of authenticity and charm to your adventure. Plus, a cozy cup of hot chocolate and a cinnamon bun at the end make the experience feel even more welcoming.
That said, it’s worth noting that whale sightings are never guaranteed—a common reality with wildlife tours. If you’re hoping to see whales at all costs, be prepared for some variability. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a responsible, well-organized wildlife outing and don’t mind the possibility of a quiet day on the water.
Key Points
- Eco-friendly and sustainable: Carbon neutral since 2015, using hybrid propulsion for minimal environmental impact.
- Traditional charm: Sails aboard a traditional oak boat, adding authenticity and a classic maritime feel.
- Wildlife in their natural habitat: Expect to see whales, dolphins, and seabirds, but sightings depend on luck and weather.
- Comfort and safety: Warm overalls provided, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
- Relaxed 3-hour experience: Perfect for those who want a quality wildlife outing without a long day at sea.
- Includes a cozy finish: Hot chocolate and cinnamon buns to warm up after your aquatic adventure.
An Honest Look at the Experience
When it comes to whale watching in Husavík, this tour from North Sailing has built a solid reputation. It’s great to see a focus on environmental responsibility—they’ve been pioneers in the industry, making their trip carbon neutral through innovative hybrid propulsion. This means you can indulge your love for wildlife without feeling guilty about your carbon footprint, which is a big plus today.
The tour runs for about three hours, which strikes a nice balance. It’s long enough to give you a meaningful chance to catch sight of whales but not so lengthy that it drags or exhausts everyone, especially in Iceland’s sometimes chilly weather. Speaking of weather, it’s crucial to dress appropriately—think comfortable shoes, a hat, and gloves—since the conditions out in the bay can be quite cool, even in the summer.
The boat itself is a traditional oak vessel, which adds a lovely historic touch. It’s not a modern speedboat or a giant cruise ship but a more intimate vessel, which means fewer crowds and a more personal feel. This is the kind of setting that allows for a more relaxed and attentive wildlife viewing experience. Plus, the boat is wheelchair accessible—something that’s often overlooked but appreciated by travelers with mobility considerations.
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The Wildlife and What You Might See
Wildlife tours are inherently unpredictable. Some days, you’ll be fortunate enough to spot a pod of whales breaching or a curious dolphin swimming near the boat. Others might be quieter, especially if the whales are further out or hiding. According to reviews, whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the guides do their best to extend the tour if whales are spotted late or if dolphins are close by.
One traveler from Hungary shared that, although they didn’t see whales, they enjoyed many dolphins and appreciated the well-organized trip, including warm overalls to stay comfortable. Another from Spain mentioned that the silent boat was highly recommended, and despite seeing only a couple of whales from a distance, the extra 30 minutes they spent searching paid off with a large group of dolphins.
This kind of honesty is reassuring—wildlife is unpredictable, but the guides are dedicated to maximizing your chances. If no whales are seen, the tour operator offers you a free return trip, which demonstrates their confidence and commitment to providing a valuable experience.
Comfort and Practicalities
The tour is designed with comfort in mind. The warm overalls provided help you withstand the potentially chilly conditions, and the indoor seating options ensure you’re not entirely exposed to wind and spray. The hot chocolate and cinnamon buns at the end are a cozy treat, especially after a chilly outing—though some reviews suggested that a warm drink like tea and some salty snacks could be more satisfying.
Timing-wise, check the schedule for available starting hours. The three-hour duration makes it accessible for most, whether you’re on a tight itinerary or want to avoid a long day on the water. Since it’s a group tour, expect a reasonable-sized group, but it’s not crowded like some larger cruise options.
Pricing and Value
While the exact price isn’t specified here, the experience seems to offer solid value, especially considering the environmental benefits. The inclusion of warm gear and the scenic, authentic vessel makes this feel more intimate and special than some mass-market tours. If you’re someone who values sustainability and a more traditional maritime atmosphere, this tour delivers both.
It’s also worth noting the flexibility—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve now, pay later. That’s handy if your plans are still a bit flexible or if you’re trying to weigh options.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Would Love This Tour?
This experience is particularly well-suited for travelers who are environmentally conscious and want to support sustainable tourism. It’s also perfect if you’re after a more authentic, relaxed maritime vibe rather than an overly commercialized cruise. Wildlife enthusiasts who are okay with some unpredictability in sightings will find this a worthwhile outing.
While kids who are comfortable on boats can certainly enjoy it, this isn’t specifically marketed as a family tour, but it’s suitable for those who enjoy quiet, scenic outings. If you’re a solo traveler or in a small group, the intimate nature of the vessel will likely appeal.
Final Thoughts
In a nutshell, Husavík’s carbon-neutral whale watching tour on a traditional oak boat is a thoughtful choice for those who want to combine wildlife viewing with sustainability. It strikes a good balance between comfort, authenticity, and environmental responsibility. The chance to see whales, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural surroundings makes it a memorable experience—just be prepared for some variability in sightings.
While it may not guarantee whales every time, the effort to keep the trip eco-friendly and authentic makes it stand out. If your trip to Iceland includes Husavík and you’re interested in a responsible marine adventure, this tour deserves a spot on your list.
Husavik: Whale Watching on a Carbon Neutral Oak Boat
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible. It’s best to contact the operator beforehand to confirm any specific needs.
What should I bring for the trip?
Dress in comfortable shoes, a hat, and gloves. Out in the bay, it can get quite cold, so layering is recommended.
What happens if I don’t see any whales?
If no whales are sighted, you’re offered another whale watching tour free of charge, which shows the confidence the operator has in providing a good experience.
How long does the tour last?
The tour duration is about 3 hours, making it a manageable outing for most travelers.
Are hot drinks provided?
Yes, you’ll be treated to hot chocolate and cinnamon buns at the end of your trip.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or choose to reserve now and pay later.
What’s the best time of year to go?
While not explicitly stated, whale watching generally depends on the season and weather, so check availability and weather forecasts.
Is the boat loud or silent?
The boat is described as silent, which is highly recommended and beneficial for wildlife observation and a peaceful experience.
If you’re after an eco-friendly, authentic, and relaxed wildlife tour in Husavík, this carbon-neutral whale watching trip on a traditional oak boat might just be your best bet. It’s a responsible way to connect with Iceland’s marine life without compromising the environment—and that’s a pretty special combination.
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