Traditional Oak Ship Whale Watching Tour From Husavik

If you’re dreaming of seeing whales in their natural home, then this traditional oak ship whale-watching tour from Husavík might be just what you need. Husavík has earned its reputation as the whale-watching capital of Iceland, and this tour, offered by North Sailing, is one of the most popular ways to connect with these gentle giants. With an average rating of 4.5 from over 400 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience memorable, and for good reason.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the use of a classic Icelandic oak ship adds a charming, authentic touch that’s both scenic and historically interesting. Second, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and friendly crew, who make the trip both safe and educational. At the same time, one thing to keep in mind is that wildlife sightings, while frequent, are not guaranteed—this is nature, after all. This tour suits those who appreciate a well-organized, respectful approach to wildlife watching and are prepared for a boat trip that focuses on patience and appreciation of the environment.

In this review, we’ll walk through what you can expect from the tour, weigh its pros and cons, and give you honest insights to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Iceland adventure. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler eager for a sea-bound wildlife encounter, there’s plenty here to consider.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: The tour takes place on a traditional Icelandic oak ship, adding charm and character.
• Wildlife sightings: Many travelers see humpback whales, dolphins, and even other species, but sightings are not guaranteed.
• Expert guides: The crew provides informative commentary, enhancing your understanding of whale behavior and the local environment.
• Comfort and safety: Waterproof overalls and hot beverages keep you warm and dry during the roughly 3-hour trip.
• Flexible schedule: Multiple departure times—morning, afternoon, or evening—allow you to choose what works best.
• Customer satisfaction: The overall rating of 4.5 reflects consistent positive experiences, with many noting the friendly crew and stunning views.

The Experience: What to Expect on the Traditional Oak Ship Whale Watching Tour

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for an approximately three-hour journey exploring the waters of Skjálfandi Bay, a renowned habitat for whales, dolphins, and seabirds. The tour departs from Husavík, the famed whale-watching town, and sets sail aboard a beautiful, traditional Icelandic oak vessel. This kind of boat isn’t just a pretty face—it’s a part of Iceland’s maritime heritage, and many travelers find it adds a special, nostalgic feeling to the experience.

Boarding and Departure

You’ll meet at North Sailing’s office in Husavík, where the crew will assist with safety gear and give a brief overview of the day. The meeting point is straightforward: Garðarsbraut, right in the heart of Husavík. The crew is highly praised for their friendliness and professionalism, often engaging with travelers and setting expectations about wildlife sightings.

Once onboard, most travelers comment on how comfortable and well-organized the trip feels. The boat provides light refreshments, hot chocolate, and cinnamon rolls, which many reviews highlight as a lovely way to enjoy the scenic views and stay warm. The waterproof overalls supplied are a thoughtful addition, especially on chilly days, ensuring you stay dry and cozy as you scan the waters.

The Scenic Voyage

For most, the highlight is watching humpback whales breach, dive, and lazily swim past. The guide’s live commentary offers insights into whale behavior—their feeding and breeding habits—and makes the experience more meaningful. Some reviews mention that guides are very knowledgeable, adding depth to the trip, especially for those interested in marine life.

Travelers report seeing not only humpbacks but also dolphins, fin whales, and even puffins, depending on the day. One user noted, “We saw a lot of whales, and the scenery was spectacular.” Though sightings are not guaranteed, the crew’s familiarity with the area and the wildlife hotspots greatly increase the chances of a successful viewing.

The Wildlife Encounters

From the reviews, it’s clear that many guests are lucky enough to see whales during their trip. For example, some travelers managed to see three whales, while others saw a pod of six humpbacks swimming together. The guides are committed to responsible viewing, keeping the viewing duration respectful for the animals—many reviews commend the crew for protecting the whales and avoiding distressing them.

But it’s worth noting that wildlife is unpredictable. Several reviews mention that animals can be far away or may not appear at all, which can be disappointing if expectations aren’t managed. One traveler pointed out, “Nature is not a zoo; sightings depend on luck and animal behavior.” The overall sentiment is positive, with many feeling they got good value for their time and money.

The End of the Trip: Warmth and Comfort

After a scenic and hopefully whale-filled voyage, you’ll return to Husavík with warm drinks, often hot chocolate, and cinnamon buns in hand. The reviews consistently mention how the hot beverages and baked goods add a cozy touch and are a perfect reward after gazing into the ocean.

Some travelers also appreciate the waterproof suits provided, which keep them dry and warm despite the cold sea breeze. This thoughtful detail makes the experience accessible even in windier conditions, and many reviews emphasize how comfortable they felt throughout.

Analyzing the Value: Price, Duration, and Overall Satisfaction

At a price of $101.01 per person, this tour offers a balance of affordability and memorable experience. Considering that the trip includes light refreshments, expert commentary, and the charm of sailing aboard a traditional ship, many find it provides good value—especially given the positive reviews about the guides and the scenery.

Booking about 42 days in advance is typical, reflecting its popularity. The flexible schedule with multiple departure times makes it easier for travelers to fit this experience into their Iceland itinerary.

The three-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to increase the chances of whale sightings but not so long as to become tiring. Reviewers repeatedly mention the friendly, knowledgeable crew and the stunning views, which enhance the overall value.

The Realities: Pros and Cons

While the tour scores high, a few considerations are worth mentioning.

Pros:
– The authenticity of sailing on a traditional Icelandic oak ship adds character.
– Expert guides provide valuable insights that elevate the experience.
– The scenic boat ride offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy Iceland’s marine environment.
– Hot drinks and snacks make the cold weather much more bearable.
– Responsibly managed wildlife viewing respects animals’ needs.

Cons:
– Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed; patience is sometimes required.
– The trip can be crowded, which might reduce comfort for some travelers.
– Weather conditions can impact the experience, and trips may be canceled in poor weather (with a full refund or rescheduling available).
– The cost might seem high to some, especially if no whales are seen, but many reviews suggest it’s worth it for the chance and the experience itself.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This whale-watching adventure is ideal for travelers who value authenticity and a responsible wildlife experience. If you enjoy scenic boat rides, learning about marine life, and don’t mind the elements, you’ll likely find it rewarding. Families with children who are comfortable on boats seem to enjoy it—many reviews mention their kids loved the experience, especially the hot chocolate.

However, if your primary goal is guaranteed whale sightings or you’re particularly sensitive to weather conditions, keep in mind that nature can be unpredictable, and the trip might be less impressive if no whales appear. It’s best suited for those who appreciate the journey and are eager to be part of an authentic Icelandic maritime tradition.

FAQs

• How long does the tour last? The tour is approximately 3 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.
• What is included in the price? Light refreshments, live commentary, and the use of waterproof overalls are included.
• Are there departure times throughout the day? Yes, multiple departure options are available—morning, afternoon, or evening.
• What should I wear? Waterproof overalls are provided, but warm clothes, waterproof shoes, and layers are recommended.
• Can I bring my own binoculars? The tour doesn’t specify, but bringing binoculars could enhance your viewing experience, especially for distant animals.
• Will I definitely see whales? Sightings are common but not guaranteed, as wildlife behavior varies.
• Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, children are welcome, and many reviews mention kids enjoying the trip.
• What if the weather is bad? Tours may be canceled due to poor weather, in which case you’ll receive a full refund or reschedule.
• How do I book? Booking is recommended 42 days in advance, and you can reserve through Viator or directly with North Sailing.
• Is there a cancellation policy? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the trip, with a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Traditional Oak Ship Whale Watching Tour from Husavík offers a genuine, atmospheric way to experience Iceland’s marine life. With its combination of a historic vessel, expert guides, and scenic views, it’s a solid choice for those looking to connect with nature in an authentic way. The chance to see humpback whales and other wildlife, paired with warm drinks and a cozy boat experience, makes this tour a memorable part of any Iceland trip.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate a respectful, responsible approach to wildlife viewing and are open to a bit of unpredictability—because, after all, the ocean’s creatures don’t always cooperate. If you’re after a fun, educational, and beautifully scenic adventure, this tour is worth considering.

Final Recommendation

If you’re in Husavík and eager to see whales in their natural environment while enjoying Iceland’s maritime heritage, this tour checks many boxes. It balances comfort, authenticity, and education, all wrapped into a manageable three-hour experience. Just be ready for the possibility that wildlife sightings depend on the day’s conditions—and keep your expectations in check. For lovers of scenic boat rides, responsible wildlife encounters, and cozy refreshments, it’s a delightful way to enjoy Iceland’s beautiful waters.