Big Whales & Puffins RIB boat tour from Húsavík

You’re heading out from Húsavík in a RIB speedboat for a focused wildlife hunt in Skjálfandi Bay. This is a tight, efficient 2-hour outing with seats for up to 12 people, plus warm, water-resistant gear that makes the cold feel manageable. Two things I really like: how fast the boat can reposition when whales surface, and how the small crowd helps everyone get a good viewing angle.

One possible drawback: weather and sea conditions can be rough, and sightings can be a little “hit or miss,” especially with the ocean constantly changing. Still, the crew’s expertise and quick searching style are a big part of why many people end up calling it a highlight of their trip.

This tour is a great fit for whale lovers who want an efficient, lively boat ride and for travelers who prefer a smaller group over the big-deck tour vibe.

The Route That Sets You Up for Whale Spotting

The trip starts with a sail to Skjálfandi Bay, known for multiple marine species that show up in different patterns throughout the year. You’ll be covering ground quickly enough to chase the best opportunities, rather than spending the day slowly drifting in the wrong place.

Commonly sighted wildlife in this area includes humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and porpoises—plus other surprises when conditions line up. It’s not a guaranteed zoo tour, but the whole format is built to maximize your odds.

Lundey Puffin Island Stop (Seasonal)

A big feature here is the chance to see puffins at Lundey (Puffin Island). Puffin season runs approximately from April 15 to August 20. If you book outside that window, the tour shifts to big whales only, since puffins aren’t in their nesting areas.

Either way, you’ll be close to the kind of bird action Iceland is famous for—especially when the timing is right. If you want puffins, double-check your dates before you book.

Tjörnes Peninsula Fossils: Wildlife Meets Deep Time

You’ll also pass the Tjörnes peninsula, a landscape famous for fossil layers—one particularly ancient layer dates back about two million years. This isn’t just “scenery,” it adds a satisfying Icelandic geography and geology layer to the trip, so the day feels more than just a chase for whales.

Why the RIB Boat Changes Everything for Views

This is not one of those tours where you’re stuck behind tall railings. With a small boat capacity (up to 12 passengers or fewer), you’re more likely to be positioned where you can see the animals clearly when they surface.

And because it’s a RIB, the captain can drive fast to reach promising areas—then slow down and reposition carefully when you’re near wildlife. That combination is a big reason guests report seeing whales up close, including moments where animals come very near the boat.

Gear and Safety: What You’ll Wear (and What You Must Bring)

Warm, water-resistant overall suits and a life vest are included and required by law in Iceland. A raincoat is provided when needed, which matters because “cold” in Iceland can turn into “cold and wet” fast.

What you should bring: hat and gloves (and you’ll definitely want them). Many guests also recommend wearing warm layers underneath, including warm socks, because the cold can sneak upward in windy conditions.

Crew Style: Guide Knowledge + Captain Skills

A standout element is that the guide and captain function as a team, with the guide providing live commentary while the captain focuses on navigation and positioning. Guests often mention guides being exceptionally knowledgeable—people like Austin and Alessandra come up frequently in the stories—plus captains who work hard to keep the ride as smooth as conditions allow.

Responsible viewing is part of the game, too. The approach is guided by distance and animal behavior: faster searching to minimize wasted time, then slowing down or adjusting propeller use when animals are closer, and stepping back if the animals show signs of stress.

Itinerary at a Glance

• Meet at Husavík Adventures, Garðarsbraut, 640 Húsavík, Iceland
• Sail into Skjálfandi Bay for whale watching
• Stop to see Lundey (Puffin Island) when in season
• View Tjörnes peninsula fossil country as you travel
• Return to the meeting point in Husavík

The Weather Reality Check (Honest Planning Tips)

This tour requires good weather. When conditions are unfavorable, it can affect both ride comfort and sightings, and sometimes the experience may be rescheduled or canceled. A late weather-related change is especially frustrating if you’ve built your day around this one departure time—so if you can, leave yourself some flexibility with other activities.

Should You Book This Tour?

I’d book it if you want the best mix of up-close wildlife chances and small-group viewing from a fast RIB boat. It’s especially compelling if your travel dates fall within puffin season and you want the Lundey stop.

I’d think twice if you’re extremely sensitive to cold or bumpy water, or if you can’t handle the possibility of weather disrupting your plans. And if puffins are your must-see, confirm your dates first—outside the April–August window, the tour becomes a whale-focused outing.

FAQ

How long is the tour?

It’s approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Husavík Adventures on Garðarsbraut, 640 Húsavík, Iceland, and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

What’s included in the ticket price?

Included are the driver/guide, live commentary on board, warm water-resistant overalls, and a life jacket (compulsory to wear), plus a raincoat when needed and local taxes/handling charges.

What should I bring?

Bring gloves and a hat. Gloves and hats are not included.

What are the child age rules?

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum age onboard is 8 years old or 130 centimeters in height.

How many people are on the boat?

The maximum group size is 12 travelers.

When are puffins usually included?

Puffin season is approximately April 15 to August 20. Outside that window, the tours focus on big whales only.

What’s the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for a full refund if you do it at least 24 hours before the experience start time. The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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If you tell me your travel month and whether puffins are a priority, I can help you decide which departure time to target and how to plan your day around Iceland’s fast-changing weather.