Whale Watching on a Traditional Oak Sailing Ship from Husavik

Imagine gliding quietly across icy waters on a classic Icelandic schooner, your eyes peeled for the gentle breaches of whales and the chance to learn about Iceland’s sailing traditions. That’s the vibe of this whale watching tour from Husavik, a cozy fishing town that’s become a favorite for wildlife lovers. We’re here to give you an honest look at what makes this experience special—and what you should keep in mind before booking.

What we really love about this tour is the authentic sailing experience on a beautifully restored wooden vessel, and the knowledgeable guides who share insightful commentary about the whales and local environment. Plus, the cozy touches like cinnamon buns and hot chocolate make the trip feel more like a friendly adventure than just a sightseeing outing.

One thing to consider is that, like any wildlife tour, seeing whales isn’t guaranteed—some days the whales are shy or conditions aren’t ideal. But if you’re patient and prepared, the chances are good you’ll make some memorable sightings.

This tour suits those looking for a more traditional, quieter whale watching experience, especially if you enjoy sailing or want to combine wildlife with a taste of local sailing culture. It’s also a nice pick for people who appreciate the added comfort of provided cold-weather gear and cozy refreshments.

Key Points

• Authentic sailing experience on a traditional wooden schooner.
• Guides provide engaging narration on whales and Icelandic sailing traditions.
• Warm gear and refreshments enhance comfort on colder days.
• Multiple departure times offer flexibility in planning.
• Whale sightings are common, but not guaranteed—shyness or weather can affect the experience.
• Perfect for travelers seeking a quieter, more authentic whale watching trip.

The Experience and Itinerary

This tour is approximately three hours long, departing from Husavik harbor, just a short walk from the ticket office. You’ll select your preferred departure time at checkout, with multiple options available for flexibility. It’s recommended to arrive about 30 minutes early to check in smoothly.

Once onboard, you’ll step onto one of three traditional wooden sailing vessels—the Haukur, the Opal, and the Hildur. The atmosphere is charming and an excellent way to tap into Icelandic maritime heritage. These are not your typical motorized whale watching boats; rather, they are authentic, handcrafted schooners that have been carefully maintained to preserve their historical charm.

What makes this tour stand out is the option to become a part of the crew if you like—hoisting sails, hauling ropes, and experiencing the sailing life firsthand. This is a wonderful chance to connect with Iceland’s nautical past, and many travelers find it makes the trip more memorable.

Guides will narrate throughout, sharing facts about the natural environment, whales, and sailing traditions. The experience of looking for whales while sailing on a quiet, traditional vessel is both peaceful and exciting. The guides’ commentary adds layers of insight, making it more than just a wildlife spotting trip.

What to Expect on the Water

Once out in Skjálfandi Bay, the crew and guides will help you gear up with special cold-weather suits designed to keep you warm and dry. Even if it’s a clear day, the wind and water can be chilly—so these suits are key to comfort.

The main goal is whale spotting. Depending on the day’s conditions, you might see humpback whales, minke whales, or even dolphins and puffins. Some reviews mention seeing multiple whales, with impressive sightings like three humpbacks with their flukes. Others note the whales being shy or a bit distant, which is normal in wildlife encounters.

The guides do a good job of balancing scientific facts with conservation messages, and many reviewers praise their knowledge and enthusiasm. If you’re lucky, you might even see a breaching whale or a whale surfacing nearby, which is quite a thrill.

During the trip, you’re encouraged to lend a hand with sailing if you want, which can be a fun, hands-on way to connect with the vessel. The boat itself is a visual highlight—beautiful, traditional, and well-maintained, making the whole trip feel like a step back in time.

The Comforts and Refreshments

Once the whale activity winds down or the weather takes a turn, you can relax with hot chocolate and cinnamon buns provided by the crew. Many travelers appreciate these little comforts, especially on colder days, adding a cozy touch to the adventure.

The provided cold-weather suits are also a big plus—they ensure you stay warm and dry, even if the wind picks up or the water splashes over the sides. The suits are water-resistant and designed for cold conditions, so dressing in layers underneath is still advisable.

Group Size and Departure Flexibility

This tour is designed for up to 45 travelers, but reviews mention that the vessel capacity has been reduced to give everyone more space, which is a smart move. The multiple departure times offer flexibility, minimizing the chance of weather-related cancellations. Just be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time to check in and get suited up.

Is the Price Worth It?

At $106, this tour offers good value, especially considering the authentic sailing experience and the expert guides. The fact that you get to help sail the vessel adds a unique touch not common in typical whale watching trips. Plus, the refreshments and high-quality gear are included, which can otherwise add to your costs.

Compare it to motorized whale tours, and this feels more intimate, quieter, and environmentally friendly. The experience is especially worthwhile if you’re after something more culturally connected and scenic rather than just quick whale glimpses.

What the Reviews Say

Positive reviews highlight the professional and helpful crew, the beauty of the traditional boats, and the chance to see whales—sometimes multiple humpbacks in one trip. Reviewers also mention the stunning scenery, the peacefulness of sailing, and the informative guides.

Some reviews mention the whales being shy or distant, which is normal, but many still find the experience worthwhile. A few reviewers appreciated the effort to stay flexible with weather cancellations, offering rescheduled trips or free re-bookings.

A standout comment was about the calm, ecological electric schooner Opal, which offers a quieter, more environmentally conscious alternative—something to consider if sustainability matters to you.

The Downsides

Of course, wildlife tours always carry a bit of uncertainty. Several reviews mention not seeing whales or only glimpsing them from afar, but this is part of nature. Weather can also be a factor—rough seas or fog might limit visibility, though the tour operator’s honesty and flexible policies help manage expectations.

Another point is that this isn’t a romantic or luxurious trip—it’s more about the authentic sailing experience and wildlife. If you’re expecting a relaxed, sit-back-and-watch trip without much physical activity, this might still suit you, but it’s good to know that helping with sailing is an option for those who want it.

Final Thoughts

This whale watching tour from Husavik on a traditional oak schooner offers a fantastic blend of authentic sailing, expert narration, and scenic beauty. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a quieter, more connected experience with nature and history. The chance to help sail the vessel, combined with cozy refreshments and knowledgeable guides, makes it a memorable outing—not just a quick wildlife viewing.

While sightings can never be guaranteed, the overall experience is warm, genuine, and respectful of both whales and the environment. If you’re looking for something a bit different from the usual motorized tours and value the ambiance of classic sailing, this is a solid choice.

For those with a love of maritime history, wildlife, or simply wanting to enjoy Iceland’s rugged coastline from a traditional ship, this tour will likely hit the mark. Just remember to dress warmly, be patient, and keep your camera ready.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, departing from Husavik harbor with multiple flexible departure times.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the sailing trip itself, guided narration, and light refreshments like hot chocolate and cinnamon buns.

Are the suits provided?
Yes, special cold-weather suits are provided to help you stay warm and dry during the trip, which are especially handy in Iceland’s chilly waters.

Can I help sail the boat?
Absolutely, if you’re interested, you can lend a hand with hoisting sails and hauling ropes, making the experience more interactive and memorable.

How likely am I to see whales?
While sightings depend on weather and whale activity, many reviews mention seeing humpbacks, minke whales, dolphins, and puffins. Some standout sightings include three humpbacks with flukes and breaching whales.

What if I don’t see any whales?
The operator offers a flexible policy—if you don’t see whales, you might be able to join another trip for free, or reschedule depending on weather and availability.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the experience is suitable for most travelers who can handle a boat trip and are comfortable with the weather conditions.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers, including warm clothing, since weather can change quickly. The provided suits will keep you dry, but thermal layers and waterproof gear are a good idea.

If you’re after a more traditional, scenic whale watching experience that combines sailing, education, and cozy touches, this trip from Husavik should definitely be on your list. It’s a chance to enjoy Iceland’s natural beauty in a way that’s respectful, quiet, and beautifully authentic.