Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins Speedboat Tour from Húsavík

If you’re eyeing an adventure in Iceland that combines wildlife spotting with a splash of adrenaline, the Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins Speedboat Tour from Húsavík might just be your perfect pick. This tour offers a quick but intense peek into the incredible marine life that calls Skjálfandi Bay home, all from the deck of a high-powered RIB speedboat. It’s a chance to see some of the world’s most magnificent whales and colorful puffins in their natural environment, and you get the added thrill of a fast-paced ride along Iceland’s stunning coast.

What we really love about this experience is twofold: First, the expert guides and lively live commentary make every moment informative and engaging, helping us understand the animals’ behaviors and habits. Second, the speedboat format allows you to cover more ground—more water, more sightings—compared to traditional whale-watching boats. That said, a potential consideration is the weather dependency—since it’s Iceland, expect chilly conditions and rain, which means bringing good waterproof gear is a must.

This tour is best suited for adventurers who love wildlife and don’t mind a bit of splash and speed. It’s also perfect if you want a shorter, action-packed trip that still offers plenty of chances for memorable sightings. Families with kids over 8 years old and those comfortable with boat rides will find it fits well into their Iceland itinerary.

Key Points

• Quick but immersive: The 2-hour trip packs a surprising amount of wildlife viewing and excitement.
• High-speed thrills: The RIB speedboat offers a fun, dynamic way to explore Skjálfandi Bay.
• High success rate: The chance of seeing whales is reported to be up to 99%, making sightings quite likely.
• Seasonal highlight: Visit Puffin Island during breeding season (mid-April to mid-August) to see a thriving puffin colony.
• Expert-guided: Knowledgeable guides provide engaging commentary, enhancing the experience.
• Weather-aware: Tours are subject to weather conditions; poor weather may lead to cancellations or alternative dates.

The Route and What to Expect

When you book the Big Whale Safari & Puffins Tour, the adventure begins right from the bustling town of Húsavík, known as Europe’s whale watching capital. The meeting point at Gentle Giants is within walking distance from most local accommodations, making logistics straightforward. Once onboard, you’ll be fitted with warm safety overalls—important given the often chilly and unpredictable Icelandic weather—and rain jackets if needed.

The boat quickly accelerates out into Skjálfandi Bay, where you’ll cover a much larger stretch of water than traditional whale-watching boats. This means more chances to spot whales and porpoises and to enjoy the scenery from a different perspective—waves crashing, seabirds soaring, and the open sea all around. The live commentary helps fill the moments with fascinating facts about the marine mammals and local wildlife, which many reviewers say adds a layer of appreciation to the day.

Depending on the season, you’ll also visit Puffin Island (Lundey) during the breeding period from mid-April to mid-August. If you’re lucky, you’ll see these brightly-colored birds in their natural colonies—an image that stays with you long after the ride ends. Reviewers have expressed delight at spotting both puffins and whales, with some describing the sightings as “stunning” and “unforgettable.”

The speed of the RIB boat allows you to chase whales across the bay, often getting very close—though within responsible ecotourism boundaries. Many reviews highlight that guides are capable and passionate, ensuring your safety and maximizing your chances of sightings. As one reviewer says, “we saw a couple of humpback whales within the first 20 minutes, and then found a blue whale”—a pretty remarkable feat for a two-hour trip.

The Wildlife You Can Expect to See

The tour’s biggest draw is undoubtedly the chance to see whales in their natural habitat. The most common sightings include humpback whales, blue whales, and minke whales, along with porpoises and dolphins. Many travelers have described their sightings as “miraculous,” with some noting that they saw multiple species on the same trip.

The success rate for whale sightings is up to 99%, according to the tour provider, which is quite reassuring. Several reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who not only spot the animals but also share detailed stories about their behaviors and migration patterns. One reviewer mentioned their guide, Victoria, as “informative, passionate, and very helpful,” which speaks to the quality of the experience.

While puffins are more seasonal, during the breeding months from mid-April to mid-August, the tour includes a visit to Puffin Island, where a thriving colony of colorful birds can be observed. Many reviews note that puffins are best seen in the water around the boats, especially during this period, adding a delightful visual element to the trip.

The Speedboat Experience: A Unique Spin on Wildlife Tours

One of the most talked-about aspects of this tour is the RIB speedboat. Unlike traditional whale-watching vessels, this craft is designed for agility and thrill. It can reach higher speeds, giving you a sense of riding the waves and chasing the animals, rather than just observing from a distance.

Reviewers often mention that this format makes the experience more dynamic and memorable. As one reviewer puts it, “the boat went pretty fast but still feeling safe all the time.” The individual seats are akin to those on a motorcycle or snowmobile, which allows you to bend your knees or stand as needed—great for managing the boat’s jolts when hitting a wave.

This high-energy style appeals to many travelers seeking not just wildlife but adventure. The speedboat’s maneuverability allows guides to follow whales more effectively, increasing the likelihood of sightings. However, it’s worth noting that the thrill factor might be less suitable for those who are seasick or uncomfortable with rapid movement, especially in bad weather.

Practical Details and Value

At $162.20 per person, the tour presents a compelling value for those eager to combine wildlife encounters with a fun, fast ride. It’s a short trip—just under 3 hours in total—so it fits well into a busy Iceland itinerary. The price includes a professional guide, live commentary, and warm safety gear, which many reviews say makes the experience comfortable despite the cold conditions.

Most bookings are made around 52 days in advance, indicating strong interest and popularity. Keep in mind that tours are weather-dependent, and poor weather can lead to cancellations; the provider offers a full refund or alternative dates in such cases. The maximum group size is 12, ensuring an intimate experience, and children over 8 years old are welcome, making it a good choice for families with older kids who are comfortable on boats.

Many reviews highlight the excellent organization and friendly staff, with some noting perks like discounts at local restaurants. While the tour doesn’t include transportation to the meeting point, it’s within walking distance from most accommodations in Húsavík, simplifying logistics.

The Authenticity and Authenticity of the Experience

What sets this tour apart is the combination of expert guides and the up-close, high-speed experience. Many travelers comment on how fortunate they felt to see multiple whale species and the puffin colony, often describing the moments as “incredible” and “once-in-a-lifetime.” As one reviewer put it, “we saw a couple of humpback whales within the first 20 minutes, and then found a blue whale,” highlighting how quickly sightings can happen when guides know where to look.

Some reviews also touch on responsible ecotourism practices. One expressed concern about the proximity of the vessel to whales, emphasizing that the respect for marine life is taken seriously by the team, and they follow the right codes of conduct. This attention to responsible behavior is vital, especially when respecting such magnificent animals.

The Sum Up

The Big Whale Safari & Puffins Speedboat Tour from Húsavík offers a lively, adrenaline-fueled way to witness Iceland’s marine wildlife. Whether you’re thrilled by the idea of zipping across the bay on a fast boat or eager to catch glimpses of whales and puffins, it delivers both in spades. The knowledgeable guides and the possibility of multiple whale sightings make it a solid choice for wildlife enthusiasts, and the short duration makes it manageable even for travelers with tight schedules.

While weather can be unpredictable, the overall experience seems well worth the risk—many reviewers walk away with incredible stories and photos. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and are comfortable with boat rides, especially in colder climates. Families with older children who seek a memorable, active outing will also find it suitable.

If you’re after an authentic, exciting way to see Iceland’s whales—and don’t mind the speed—the speedboat safari is a fantastic choice. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your camera, and prepare for a day filled with awe and excitement in the beautiful waters of Skjálfandi Bay.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 8 and above are allowed, provided they are comfortable with boat rides and wearing safety gear. Always check with the operator if you’re unsure.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring warm, waterproof clothing, as the weather can be cold and rainy. The tour provides safety overalls and rain jackets if needed, but layering is recommended.

How likely am I to see whales?
The chances of whale sightings are up to 99%, according to the tour provider. Many guests have described their sightings as “stunning” and “unforgettable.”

What kind of whales might I see?
You could see humpback whales, blue whales, minke whales, and possibly porpoises. The specific species depend on the season and conditions.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour is subject to good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How long is the trip?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick but action-packed adventure.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 52 days ahead, especially during peak season (mid-April to mid-August).

What happens if no whales are sighted?
If no whales are seen, a refund isn’t typically available, but you may receive a voucher for a future whale-watching trip, depending on the circumstances.

This tour strikes a balance between wildlife exploration and adventure, making it a compelling choice for those wanting to add an exciting chapter to their Iceland visit.