When you’re in Iceland’s northeastern region, there’s no better way to connect with nature than on a speedboat tour from Húsavík. For around $159 per person, you’ll spend about two hours racing across Skjálfandi Bay, searching for whales, dolphins, and, seasonally, puffins. The tour promises a more personal, up-close experience since the boats are small—only 12 passengers—and designed for speed and agility.
Two things we truly loved about this trip: First, the speed of the boat means you cover more ground, increasing your chances of spotting elusive whales. Second, the knowledgeable guides and captains aren’t just there to drive—you’ll learn fascinating facts about the local wildlife, from minke whales to puffins. A potential downside? Because you’re zooming around, the ride can be quite windy and cold, so proper gear is essential. This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a fast-paced, interactive wildlife experience and don’t mind a bit of spray and chill.
If you’re someone who loves marine life, thrives on speed, and enjoys small-group intimacy, this experience is tailor-made for you. Families with older children (8+) and those eager to see whales up close will find it especially rewarding.
Key Points
- Speed and Agility: The RIB boats are fast, covering more water quickly, which increases your chances of seeing whales and dolphins.
- Close Encounters: The small group size means fewer crowds and more personalized viewing opportunities.
- Seasonal Puffins: Puffin sightings are available from mid-April to August, making this a highlight for bird lovers during spring and summer.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides and captains enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
- Warm Clothing Needed: Water-resistant overalls and a hat/gloves are recommended due to the cold, windy conditions on the water.
- Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellations are possible up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind.
Exploring the Tour in Detail
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The Starting Point and Check-in
The tour kicks off at Húsavík’s Hafnarstétt 11, where you meet your guide and captain 30 minutes before departure. The location is easy to find, right across from the iconic Húsavík church. Sharing the space with North Sailing, this is a well-organized spot that sets the tone for an efficient departure.
Safety Briefing and Preparation
Before stepping onto the boat, a safety briefing ensures everyone understands the procedures. Considering the cold and windy conditions, you’ll be provided a warm, water-resistant overall and a life vest. While the gear keeps you dry and somewhat warm, it’s wise to bring gloves, hats, and layers to stay comfortable.
Puffin Island (Lundey) Visit
One of the tour’s standout features is the visit to Lundey Island, also called Puffin Island. Between April 15 and August 20, puffins are abundant, foraging and nesting. This is a true birdwatcher’s delight—tens of puffins can often be seen flying, swimming, or perched on the cliffs. Several reviews mention how special it is to see these charming birds up close, with one traveler noting, “We saw puffins in the water and in the air, and it was just great.”
Even outside puffin season, the boat cruises past scenic Tjörnes peninsula, famous for fossil layers dating back two million years—a bonus for geology buffs or anyone interested in Iceland’s ancient past.
More Great Tours NearbyMarine Wildlife Watching in Skjálfandi Bay
The core of the tour is the whale watching segment in Skjálfandi Bay. The bay hosts more than 10 species of whales and marine mammals annually, including Humpback whales, Minke whales, White-beaked dolphins, and porpoises. The speed of the RIB allows the boat to pursue whales that surface, giving you a far better chance of getting close than traditional larger vessels.
According to reviews, the guides and captains are well-versed in animal behavior, ensuring minimal disturbance to the wildlife. One reviewer noted, “They treated the whales gently and didn’t interrupt them too much,” which is reassuring for nature lovers.
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What You Can Expect
During the cruise, your guide will point out various wildlife sightings and provide interesting facts—like the fact that over 10 species visit the area every year! The scenic views include the Tjörnes peninsula, where fossil layers tell thousands of years of Earth’s story. If you’re lucky, you’ll see dolphins, and some travelers have even spotted walruses.
The Two-Hour Experience
The two-hour duration strikes a balance—long enough to cover a good area and increase your chances of sightings, yet not so long that it becomes tiring. The small group size means everyone gets a decent view, and there’s plenty of room to move around.
What’s Included and What to Bring
The package includes a guided tour in a 12-seat RIB, warm overalls, a raincoat if needed, and life vests. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge make a difference—many reviews praise their energy and friendly attitude.
However, travelers should bring gloves, hats, and additional warm layers; the water and wind can make it feel chillier than it looks. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider bringing pills, as the boat’s speed can make for a bumpy ride.
Possible Drawbacks
The main consideration is weather dependency. The tour might be canceled if conditions are too rough or not enough passengers sign up (minimum 4). Also, the windy, cold environment means it’s not suitable for everyone—especially pregnant women, children under 8, or anyone with mobility issues. One reviewer remarked, “The boat ride was so much fun, but you need to be prepared for the wind and spray.”
Who Will Love This Tour?
This adventure is ideal for adventurous travelers who want an up-close view of marine life at high speed. It’s perfect for those who appreciate personalized experiences and small groups. Families with older children (8+) who can handle the ride’s exhilaration will also enjoy it. Bird lovers and geology buffs will find added value in the puffin and fossil stops.
Final Thoughts
This speedboat tour from Húsavík offers an energetic and intimate way to see Iceland’s marine wildlife. The combination of whale sightings, puffin encounters, and scenic bay views makes it a rewarding choice for those eager for an authentic, personal experience. While the ride can be windy and chilly, the knowledgeable guides and fast-paced pursuit of whales make it a highlight.
Compared to larger, more sedate whale-watching boats, this tour provides a more dynamic, adventure-filled outing. The small group size means you’re less likely to miss a sighting, and the speed increases your chance of catching whales in action.
If you’re willing to pack warm clothing and seek an active, close-up marine experience, this trip will deliver. It’s especially suited for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventurers who want to feel the thrill of racing across the water to see these majestic animals in their natural environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only for children aged 8 years and older or 130 centimeters in height. Younger children may not be allowed, so check with the provider if your child is close to this age.
What should I bring?
Bring warm clothes, gloves, hats, and layers. The water-resistant overalls help, but dressing warmly is key due to the wind and spray.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure for a full refund.
What wildlife will I see?
Depending on the season, you might see whales (like humpbacks, minkes), dolphins, porpoises, and puffins on Lundey Island.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes a guided speedboat ride, warm overalls, raincoat if needed, and life vests.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately two hours, providing ample time for whale and puffin viewing.
Is the boat comfortable?
The boats are small, fast RIBs designed for agility, offering exciting rides but with some wind exposure. They are well-maintained and equipped with safety gear.
Will I get seasick?
Seasickness pills are not included but are recommended if you are prone. The fast boat can sometimes be bumpy.
When is puffin season?
From April 15 to August 20. Outside this window, the tour focuses exclusively on whale watching.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The provider reserves the right to cancel due to weather or low passenger numbers. In such cases, you’ll be notified and offered an alternative or refund.
To sum it up, this tour marries adventure with education and wildlife viewing, all wrapped in a speedy, small-group package. It’s perfect for travelers who want to feel closer to nature, experience Iceland’s marine biodiversity, and enjoy a thrilling ride across the bay. Just remember to come prepared for the cold, and you’ll leave with stories of whales, puffins, and a few adrenaline-fueled moments on the water.
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