Whale watching is one of the most popular and thrilling activities that people love to indulge in while traveling. Husavik, a small town in Iceland, is considered one of the best whale-watching destinations globally, attracting visitors from all over the world. With an abundance of marine life, it’s no surprise that Husavik is home to some of the best whale-watching tours you’ll ever experience. Whether you’re a solo traveler or traveling with family, friends, or loved ones, this incredible experience is sure to leave you in awe of nature’s beauty and power.
In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the top Husavik whale-watching tours that will take you on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to discover the giants of the sea. Get ready to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat and create memories that will last a lifetime.
#1. The Classic Whale-Watching Tour
The Classic Whale Watching Tour is a popular choice among tourists in Husavik. This excursion, which usually lasts three hours, takes you out into Skjalfandi Bay, where you will be able to see a variety of whale species. This includes humpback whales, minke whales, and occasionally even blue whales, the largest mammal in the world.
The tour is supervised by knowledgeable guides who can provide you with enlightening details about the habits and behaviors of these wonderful animals. Since Icelandic weather can be unpredictable, most trips offer binoculars and warm overalls to keep you warm and comfortable. The Classic Whale Watching Tour is suitable for all ages and is an excellent option for families with children. It’s also a popular choice for those on a budget, as it offers a fantastic whale-watching experience without breaking the bank.
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#2. Midnight Sun Whale-Watching Tour
One of the best-liked whale-watching tours in Husavik is the Midnight Sun Whale-Watching Tour. This journey is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity because it takes place in the summer when the sun never truly sets, resulting in a mystical and captivating atmosphere. The cruise leaves at midnight, which is a unique and thrilling hour for a whale-watching tour, from the scenic harbor of Husavik.
The three-hour excursion takes you into Skjálfandi Bay, where you can see the sea giants in their native setting. Several types of whales, including humpback whales, minke whales, and blue whales, as well as other aquatic animals like dolphins and porpoises, can be seen during the excursion. The tour is supervised by knowledgeable instructors with in-depth knowledge of the local whale population and the ecosystem, and they offer educational commentary the entire time.
#3. The Small Group Whale Watching Tour
Smaller groups can enjoy a specialized and individualized experience on a Husavik small-group whale-watching tour. Fewer passengers provide a better view of the whales and a more flexible itinerary. These excursions, which are conducted by knowledgeable guides who are enthusiastic about nature and wildlife conservation, offer fascinating insights into whale behavior and customs as well as the local marine ecosystem. Since there are fewer people in the group, more time can be spent observing particular whales or pods.
This type of whale-watching tour is perfect for those who want a more exclusive and customized experience and are willing to pay a little extra for it. It’s ideal for families, small groups of friends, or couples looking for a romantic and intimate adventure in the stunning Icelandic scenery.
#4. The RIB Whale Watching Tour
The RIB Whale-Watching Tour is one of the most thrilling and adventurous tours you can have while whale-watching in Husavik. Also, the RIB (rigid inflatable boat) is a high-speed boat that allows you to get closer to the whales and cover more distance in a shorter time. This tour is perfect for those who are looking for a more exhilarating and unique whale-watching experience.
The RIB Whale Watching Tour offers a unique and unforgettable experience for whale watchers. Guests will be equipped with a waterproof suit, gloves, and a life jacket for safety and comfort. The small boat navigates through narrow fjords, allowing for close encounters with humpbacks, minke, dolphins, and porpoises.Â
The tour lasts about 2 hours, and experienced guides provide information about whale behavior and the area’s significance for whale watching. However, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back or neck problems, or those prone to seasickness. Despite its bumpy ride, the RIB Whale Watching Tour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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#5. The Sailing Whale Watching Tour
The Sailing Whale Watching Tour is a unique and thrilling experience for those looking to discover the giants of the sea in Husavik. This tour is a combination of traditional sailing and whale watching, providing a more authentic and eco-friendly experience compared to motorized boats. On a tour around the breathtaking Skjalfandi Bay, you will board a lovely wooden sailboat. You’ll experience a thrill of adrenaline as the sails grab the breeze and you look for these amazing creatures.
This sailing whale-watching cruise has competent, seasoned tour leaders familiar with the region and its fauna. They welcome any inquiries you have regarding the whales, the bay, or the history of Husavik. Along with the whales, you’ll get to enjoy stunning views of the harbor and the nearby mountains. You can completely savor Iceland’s natural splendor as you glide serenely across the waves.
#6. The Private Whale-Watching Tour
A private whale-watching tour offers a personalized and exclusive experience for families, small groups, or couples seeking a flexible schedule. This option allows for customization of the itinerary and duration, with a private guide providing in-depth knowledge about the whales. Some private tours also offer additional services like pick-up and drop-off, gourmet lunch or dinner, or a hot tub for relaxation. However, private tours are typically more expensive than shared tours.
#7. The Combination Whale Watching and Puffin Tour
A combination whale-watching and puffin tour in Husavik offers a unique experience for families with kids or those looking to add variety to their whale-watching experience. The island is known for its incredible puffin population, with millions nesting along the cliffs of nearby islands during the summer months.
This tour offers the opportunity to spot minke, humpback, and blue whales, as well as other marine life like dolphins, porpoises, and seals. The colorful and lively puffin colonies upon reaching the islands add to the overall experience. It’s a great way to make the most of your time in Husavik and add a little variety to your whale-watching experience.
Keep in mind that the puffin season runs from May to August, so plan accordingly if you want to see these cute birds in action.
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#8. The Whale Watching and Beer Tasting Tour
One of the best-liked whale-watching tours in Husavik is the Whale Watching and Beer Tasting Tour in Husavik. It offers a unique and exciting experience for visitors. The tour begins with a two-and-a-half-hour whale-watching adventure, allowing visitors to spot humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and other marine life. After the whale-watching, guests will visit a local brewery for a beer tasting, exploring Iceland’s thriving craft beer scene.Â
The tour allows guests to sample various beers, learn about the brewing process, and chat with locals about life in Husavik. This unique and exciting experience not only offers the chance to see incredible creatures but also provides an opportunity to experience local culture and sample some of the finest beers.
The Best Time of the Year for Whale-Watching Tours in Husavik
When planning a whale-watching tour in Husavik, it’s crucial to know the best time of year. The peak season, from mid-May to mid-September, offers mild weather and calm seas, making it easier to spot whales and enjoy the tour. During this time, you can see various whale species, including humpback, minke, and blue whales, as well as sea creatures like dolphins, porpoises, and seals.
For a more intimate experience, the offseason, from October to April, may offer the chance to spot the Northern Lights. While whale sightings are never guaranteed, peak season offers higher chances of spotting whales.
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Top Companies to Book Your Adventure With
The following are the best whale-watching tour companies that offer the best adventure.
#1. North Sailing
North Sailing is a popular Husavik whale-watching tour company offering a unique sailing experience with experienced, knowledgeable staff. They are eco-friendly, using sailboats instead of motorized boats to reduce environmental impact and focus on sustainability and conservation. Their tours last around 3 hours and take visitors through Skjálfandi Bay, where they can spot various whales like humpbacks, minke, blue whales, dolphins, and seals.
They also offer a “whale guarantee” for free whale sightings. North Sailing’s onboard café provides a warm drink and snack while taking in stunning views. They also provide warm overalls and blankets to ensure comfort throughout the adventure.
#2. Gentle Giants
Gentle Giants is a whale-watching company in Husavik that values sustainability and education. With over two decades of experience, they have designed low-emission boats and received the Blue Flag for their commitment to environmental sustainability. Their research team collaborates with the University of Iceland to study whale and dolphin behavior, enhancing our understanding of these magnificent creatures. Knowledgeable guides educate guests about whales, history, and culture and provide warm overalls and hot drinks for comfort during the tour.
#3. Salka Whale Watching
Salka Whale Watching offers a personalized and intimate whale-watching experience with small group tours, ensuring space for the majestic creatures. The eco-friendly approach uses electric engines on their boats, minimizing environmental impact and whale behavior. Knowledgeable guides provide insight into whale behavior and biology, ensuring passengers have a great time while learning about these incredible animals.
Salka Whale Watching offers various tour options, including a standard whale-watching tour, a photography tour, and a combo tour with a visit to the Husavik Whale Museum.
#4. Husavik Adventures
Husavik Adventures is a top choice for whale watching in Husavik, offering various tour options to suit different preferences and schedules. Their 2-hour express tour is suitable for those with a tight schedule, while their classic 3-hour excursion takes you deeper into Skjálfandi Bay for more opportunities. For those seeking a more intimate experience, Husavik Adventures also offers a small group tour for 12 people, providing personalized interactions with knowledgeable guides.
In addition to whale watching, Husavik Adventures offers other activities like puffin watching and sea angling, making them a one-stop shop for all your adventure needs in Husavik.