Húsavík: Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat — A Closer Look at Iceland’s Marine Marvels
If you’re headed to Iceland’s “Whale Capital,” Húsavík, you’ll likely want to dive into a whale watching experience. The Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat from Gentle Giants offers a lively, intimate way to see some of the North Atlantic’s most impressive creatures. Unlike traditional boat tours, this RIB speedboat adventure zooms across Skjálfandi Bay, increasing your chances of spotting whales and puffins in their natural habitat.
One thing I love about this tour is how it combines speed and agility with a focus on personalized experiences—with only 12 passengers on board, it feels more like a private outing than a crowded cruise. Plus, the opportunity to see multi-species whale sightings like humpbacks and blue whales — plus the adorable puffins — makes this an especially memorable trip.
A potential downside? If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer calm, slow-paced tours, the high-speed nature of the RIB might be a bumpy ride, especially in rough weather. Also, if you’re visiting outside puffin season (April 15 to August 15), the emphasis shifts more toward whale sightings, which might be less colorful but equally impressive.
This tour packs a punch in value — with knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and the chance to see whales up close — it’s a solid choice for adventure lovers eager for a lively, authentic marine encounter.
Key points / Takeaways
- Speedy and adventurous: The RIB speedboats offer a faster, more dynamic way to see whales than traditional boats.
- Small group size: With only up to 12 passengers, expect a personal experience with ample space.
- Expert guides: Guides like Miro and Serena provide engaging commentary, making the trip both fun and informative.
- Wildlife diversity: Besides whales, you’ll likely see puffins, dolphins, and other marine life — especially during puffin season.
- Weather-dependent: Tours can be canceled if weather conditions worsen, but you’ll get a full refund or a chance to reschedule.
- Authentic local company: Operated by a locally owned family business, adding a genuine touch to your experience.
Taking the plunge: A thorough look at the Húsavík whale safari
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The Starting Point: Meeting at Gentle Giants’ Ticket Center
Your journey begins at the Gentle Giants Ticket Center in Húsavík, where you’ll meet your guide and receive a safety briefing. Look for the big blue flags — it’s easy to spot. This part is straightforward, and the staff is well-prepared, explaining safety protocols and what to expect on board. This initial step sets the tone for a smooth, well-organized adventure.
Why a Speedboat? The Benefits of RIBs in Whale Watching
Unlike larger, slower whale-watching boats, the RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) used here is designed for speed and maneuverability. The high speeds allow the boat to cover a larger area of Skjálfandi Bay, increasing your chances of catching sight of whales, which are often elusive. From reviews, it’s clear that the speed and agility are highly appreciated — many travelers mention seeing multiple whale sightings, including humpbacks and sometimes even blue whales.
The smaller group (max 12 passengers) also means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and you’ll get a more personalized experience. Guides like Mateo, a marine biologist, make the process both educational and engaging, explaining whale behaviors and marine ecology as you go.
Puffin Island: Up Close with the Ocean’s Clowns
One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to Puffin Island, where during nesting season—roughly mid-April to mid-August—you can observe thousands of puffins. They’re often called “clowns of the ocean” for their bright beaks and comical expressions. Reviewers like Giannalise mention that seeing seven whales and thousands of puffins made the trip unforgettable.
However, not everyone is enchanted by Puffin Island — some say the puffin experience can be “so-so,” as you don’t get to see them up close all the time. Still, the sight of these colorful birds nesting and flying around is charming, and if you’re lucky, you’ll see a vibrant cloud of puffins.
Skjálfandi Bay: The Heart of the Whale Spotting
The second part of the tour takes you into the depths of Skjálfandi Bay. Here, your guide will lead you through the waters, offering insights into the marine life and landscape. Expect to see dolphins, harbor porpoises, and, with some patience, majestic whales.
Many reviews highlight how active whale sightings are — some travelers mention seeing 5-6 humpbacks and even blue whales, which are among the largest animals on Earth. Guides like Alberto and Sarah, both praised for their professionalism and knowledge, work diligently to locate whales and get as close as possible without disturbing them.
Why Whale Watching from a Speedboat Is Unique
Watching whales from a RIB is often described as more thrilling than traditional cruises. The close proximity and speed give a sense of adventure and immediacy. It’s not just about spotting whales; it’s about feeling connected to these giants in their natural environment. On the boat, you get unobstructed views and the chance to move swiftly to follow whales’ movements, which many reviewers find exciting.
The Experience Duration and Comfort
The tour lasts around 2 hours, which might seem short but is enough time for multiple sightings and a good look at puffins if in season. The boat itself is equipped with warm overalls and rain jackets—a thoughtful touch, especially considering Iceland’s unpredictable weather. Several reviews mention how guides like Serena and Miro go the extra mile to ensure everyone stays warm and comfortable, which is critical in Iceland’s often chilly waters.
The Cost-Value Balance
Pricing is often considered a bit premium, but the value comes from the small group size, expert guides, and the up-close encounters with whales. Travelers frequently comment that the experience is worth the cost, especially given the high likelihood of multiple whale sightings and the chance to see puffins.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip suits those with a taste for adventure and wildlife. The speedboat experience is best for travelers who aren’t seasick-prone and want a more dynamic, engaging outing. Families with children over 8, nature lovers, and anyone eager to see whales in a more personal setting will find this especially rewarding.
Price and Logistics: What You Should Know
The tour is 2 hours long and departs from the Gentle Giants Ticket Center — no hotel pickup is included. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and warm outdoor clothing. The tour operates subject to weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund.
Because no whales are guaranteed, the tour offers a voucher for another whale-watching trip if you don’t see any whales on your first try, which adds a nice peace of mind. This approach underlines the unpredictability of wildlife encounters, but the reviews show that many travelers leave with multiple whale sightings.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This adventure is perfect for those who enjoy speed and excitement. If you’re interested in close-up wildlife encounters and don’t mind chilly, sometimes bumpy conditions, this will be a highlight of your Iceland trip. It’s especially great for nature enthusiasts who appreciate guides with marine biology backgrounds.
However, if you have back problems, heart conditions, or are pregnant, this activity isn’t recommended. Also, those traveling with very small children or those sensitive to rough seas should consider other options.
Final Thoughts: A Fun, Authentic Icelandic Marine Adventure
This whale and puffin trip from Húsavík offers a robust, personal, and exciting way to connect with Iceland’s marine life. The speedboat adds a dimension of thrill that’s hard to match, and the expert guides make all the difference with their insights and care.
While weather can impact the day’s success, the tour’s flexibility — offering vouchers if no whales are seen — makes it a low-risk choice. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, and the chance to see multiple whale species and thousands of puffins makes it worthwhile for wildlife lovers.
In short, if you’re after a dynamic, educational, and authentic whale watching adventure, this tour is likely to deliver memories that will stay with you long after you leave Iceland.
FAQ
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts around 2 hours, including the time spent cruising and sightseeing around Puffin Island and Skjálfandi Bay.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children over 8 years old, as younger children may find the high-speed ride too bumpy or cold.
What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and outdoor gear. The tour provides warm overalls and rain jackets, but layering is recommended.
Can I expect to see whales every time?
Whales are wild animals, so sightings aren’t guaranteed. However, many reviews report seeing multiple whales, including humpbacks and sometimes blue whales.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If conditions prevent safe travel, your trip will be canceled, and you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.
Are there any extras included?
Yes, the tour includes a live commentary from guides like Mateo and Serena, plus the warm overalls and rain jackets.
Is the tour eco-friendly?
This particular tour focuses on wildlife observation with minimal disturbance, but specifics about environmental practices aren’t detailed here.