Big Whales & Puffins RIB boat tour from Húsavík

If you’re eyeing Iceland’s whale-watching scene, the Big Whales & Puffins RIB boat tour from Húsavík is one option that’s been catching attention for good reason. Designed for those who want a more intimate, up-close wildlife experience, this tour on a speedy RIB boat limits the group size to just 12 passengers. That means no pushing and shoving for the best view — just plenty of room to see, hear, and enjoy the spectacular marine life.

What really appeals to us about this trip are the personalized attention from guides and the chance to get closer to the whales thanks to the boat’s speed and maneuverability. Plus, it includes a warm water-resistant overall and life jacket, which makes a big difference when the weather turns breezy or rainy. But, a heads-up: the ride can be a little bumpy, and the tours are best suited for those comfortable with small boat outings.

A key consideration is timing and weather. Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, and even the best plans can sometimes be thwarted by rain or wind, which can cancel the tour or make the ride less comfortable. However, the company’s flexible cancellation policy and optional rescheduling help ease this concern. This experience is perfect for travelers who seek a personalized, adventurous encounter with whales and puffins, and who are ready for a brisk, fun boat ride.

If you’re someone who appreciates good guides, values wildlife sightings, and prefers a less crowded experience, this tour hits all those marks. It’s especially well-suited for those eager to see whales in action from a boat that reacts quickly to sightings and for those wanting to tick puffins off their birdwatching list during the right season.

Key Points

• Small group size means plenty of space and better views for everyone
• Expert guides ensure informative and respectful wildlife encounters
• Speedy RIB boats allow for quicker travel and closer whale sightings
• Includes warm gear and life jackets to keep you comfortable in Iceland’s chill
• Seasonal puffin visits from mid-April to mid-August
• Weather-dependent; tours can be canceled due to poor conditions

The Details: What to Expect on the Big Whales & Puffins RIB Boat Tour

The Itinerary and Route

This tour kicks off at Husavik Adventures, located on Garðarsbraut, where you’ll meet your small group. After a quick safety briefing, you’ll don warm, water-resistant overalls, a life jacket, and a raincoat if needed. This gear is especially helpful because Iceland’s weather can surprise you — even in summer.

Once suited up, the boat departs for Skjálfandi Bay, a renowned hotspot for whale sightings. This bay hosts over 10 different whale species annually, including Humpback, Minke, and White-beaked dolphins, plus porpoises. The boat’s speed lets the guide cover more ground, increasing your chances of spotting these gentle giants.

Closer Encounters with Whales

Many reviews highlight how the small boat makes a big difference. With only 12 passengers, you’re not fighting for space; instead, you get a prime view of the action. The boat’s agility allows it to chase whales and get closer, which is a big plus for wildlife sightings.

Passengers have reported seeing multiple whales up close, with some even describing breaches and tail slaps. One reviewer noted that they spent the entire two hours “seeing whales multiple times,” which suggests that patience and timing pay off here. Guides are knowledgeable and attentive, often staying with a whale longer once they spot one — a huge advantage over larger tours that rush from sighting to sighting.

Puffin Island and Other Highlights

Along With whales, the tour includes a visit to Lundey, Puffin Island, where during the season (roughly mid-April to mid-August), you’ll see large colonies of puffins. The reviews mention the puffins as “amazing” and “super cute,” making this part of the trip especially appealing for bird lovers or families with children (minimum age of 8 or 130 cm height).

The boat also passes the Tjörnes peninsula, known for fossil-rich layers dating back two million years. While you won’t have time for a fossil dig, the scenery and geological history add an extra layer of interest to your ride.

The Experience and the Weather

The reviews applaud the crew for being knowledgeable, friendly, and safe, with many describing the guides as “fabulous” and “outstanding.” The captain’s quick maneuvering often results in excellent opportunities for photos and whale watching. Expect a lively ride—this isn’t a smooth, leisurely cruise but rather a fun, sometimes bumpy adventure, especially in windy conditions.

Many travelers mention that even if no whales are spotted at first, persistence pays off. One noted that despite seeing no whales initially, they ended up encountering four humpbacks, with one whale doing a 15-minute tail slap. So, patience and luck go hand-in-hand here.

Price and Value

At $162.20 per person, this tour offers a solid value for the personalized experience. The small group, expert guides, and the chance for intimate wildlife encounters make it worth the slightly higher price compared to larger, overcrowded boats. Plus, the gear provided keeps you warm and dry, minimizing discomfort during the trip.

Who is this tour perfect for?

It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who want a more interactive and less crowded whale-watching experience. Families with older children and birdwatchers will love the puffin island visit. It’s also suited for those who are comfortable on small, sometimes bumpy boats and eager to get close to whales in a natural environment without the noise and chaos of bigger tour boats.

Final thoughts: Is this tour right for you?

If you’re after a personalized, wildlife-focused outing and don’t mind a bit of a boat ride, this tour hits all the right notes. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see whales doing breaches or tail slaps make it a memorable experience. Plus, the inclusion of warm gear is a thoughtful touch that helps you stay comfortable despite Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

That said, the ride can be choppy, and weather cancellations are always a possibility, so be flexible with your plans and keep an eye on the forecast. If you’re visiting during puffin season, you’ll also get that extra delight of close-up birdwatching, which adds to the overall value.

For travelers who value quality over quantity and want to see whales with knowledgeable guides in a cozy setting, this tour is a smart pick. It’s not just about ticking off a wildlife sighting but really experiencing the thrill of Iceland’s wild coast.

FAQ

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 passengers, providing a more personal and less crowded experience.

What should I wear?
You’ll be provided with a warm, water-resistant overall suit, raincoat if needed, and a life jacket. Still, bringing a hat and gloves is recommended because the bay can be cold and windy.

Can I see puffins?
Yes, during the puffin season (roughly mid-April to mid-August), the tour visits Lundey Island, where you can see large puffin colonies.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Kids must be at least 8 years old or 130 centimeters tall. The ride’s nature means it’s best suited for those comfortable on small boats.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours can be canceled due to poor weather. If that happens, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Booking is flexible enough to accommodate weather changes.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you ample time to spot whales, puffins, and enjoy the scenery.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Whales (including humpbacks, minkes, and white-beaked dolphins), puffins, and sometimes porpoises. Sightings depend on the day’s conditions, but the guides do their best to find and share the animals.

In the end, this Big Whales & Puffins RIB boat tour offers a fantastic balance of adventure, intimacy, and wildlife watching. Perfect for those who want a more personal experience and are excited by the possibility of close-up encounters with some of Iceland’s most beloved marine creatures.