The Húsavík: Big Whale Safari & Puffin Island Tour is an exhilarating adventure that promises to immerse visitors in Iceland’s breathtaking marine environment. Departing from the Whale Capital, Húsavík, this 2-hour guided boat cruise offers the chance to spot majestic blue whales, humpback whales, and playful puffins during nesting season. With knowledgeable guides providing live commentary, warm safety overalls, and stunning coastal scenery, this tour guarantees an unforgettable experience. But there’s more to discover about this exceptional tour, as it offers a unique window into the captivating world of Iceland’s thriving wildlife.
This experience made our list of the 8 Best Whale Watching Experiences In Husavik.
Key Points
- Enjoy a 2-hour guided boat cruise from Húsavík, Iceland, offering opportunities to spot blue whales, humpback whales, and puffins.
- Explore Puffin Island during nesting season (April 15 – August 20) and observe the birds’ courtship displays and parental behaviors.
- Benefit from live commentary from knowledgeable guides, who provide insights about Iceland’s natural wonders throughout the journey.
- Cruise in a modern RIB speedboat equipped for comfortable and efficient wildlife viewing, with warm safety overalls provided.
- Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, are included in the tour.
Tour Overview and Pricing
From the details provided, the big whale and puffin boat tour from Húsavík, the Whale Capital of Iceland, offers an engaging 2-hour experience for visitors.
Priced from $155.01 per person, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without upfront payment.
Guests can expect a guided boat cruise with the chance to spot larger whales like blue whales and humpback whales, as well as observe puffins on Puffin Island during nesting season.
With a modern RIB speedboat and knowledgeable guides providing live commentary, this tour aims to deliver an unforgettable wildlife viewing adventure in the scenic coastal waters of Iceland.
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Tour Itinerary and Highlights
The tour begins with a safety briefing at the Gentle Giants – Húsavík Whale Watching starting location, after which guests embark on a guided boat cruise to explore the region’s diverse wildlife and stunning scenery.
During the 2-hour excursion, participants have the chance to spot majestic whales, including blue whales and humpbacks, as well as playful dolphins.
For those visiting during the nesting season (April 15 – August 20), the tour includes a stop at Puffin Island to observe the thousands of puffins that make their home there.
The knowledgeable guide provides live commentary throughout the journey, sharing insights about Iceland’s fascinating natural wonders.
Inclusions and Restrictions
The tour includes a round-trip RIB speedboat cruise, specialized guide, live commentary, warm safety overalls, and hotel pickup/drop-off.
However, it’s not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, or those under 4 ft 3 in (130 cm).
The tour offers several key inclusions:
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Specialized guide providing live commentary on Iceland’s nature and wildlife
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Warm safety overalls to keep you comfortable during the boat cruise
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Hotel pickup and drop-off for convenient transportation
While the tour is an exhilarating experience, there are certain restrictions in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.
What to Bring and Important Information
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and outdoor attire are recommended for participants to enjoy the tour comfortably.
Luggage or large bags, however, aren’t allowed on the boat.
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, and cancellations due to bad weather offer alternate dates or full refunds.
If no whales (including dolphins) are seen, a voucher for a traditional whale watching tour will be provided, but no refunds.
Participants should be aware that the tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, individuals with back/heart problems, wheelchair users, or those under 4 ft 3 in (130 cm).
Following these guidelines will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the big whale and puffin boat tour.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Reviews and Ratings
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the big whale and puffin boat tour, awarding it an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 848 reviews.
The highlights of the tour include:
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Knowledgeable guides who provide engaging live commentary on Iceland’s nature and wildlife
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Smooth organization and comfortable equipment that enhance the overall experience
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High chances of spotting whales, dolphins, and puffins, making for truly memorable wildlife sightings
Reviewers consistently note the tour’s scenic views, efficient operations, and the expertise of the guides, who bring the wonders of the area to life.
The speedboat format also receives praise for its effectiveness in observing the region’s diverse marine life.
Whale Watching Experiences
Departing from Húsavík, the self-proclaimed Whale Capital of Iceland, the big whale and puffin boat tour offers guests unrivaled opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Aboard a modern RIB speedboat, thrill-seekers can increase their chances of spotting larger whales like blue whales and humpback whales. Expert guides provide live commentary, sharing insights into Iceland’s diverse wildlife. During the nesting season from April to August, visitors can also marvel at the thousands of puffins inhabiting Puffin Island. Whether it’s the sheer size of the whales or the vibrant colors of the puffins, this tour promises an unforgettable wilderness experience.
| Wildlife Viewing | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Whales (incl. dolphins) | 2 hours | From $155.01 |
| Puffins (Apr 15 – Aug 20) | 2 hours | From $155.01 |
| Scenic Views | 2 hours | From $155.01 |
Puffin Island Exploration
Visitors to Puffin Island, a nesting site for thousands of these charming seabirds, can witness the bustling activity of these colorful creatures during the April-to-August nesting season. The tour’s expert guide leads passengers to observe the puffins up-close, providing insights into their fascinating behaviors and ecological role.
Puffin Island offers a unique opportunity to:
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See thousands of puffins congregating on the rocky cliffs, engaging in courtship displays, and caring for their young.
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Capture stunning photographs of the puffins in their natural habitat, adorned in their vibrant beaks and plumage.
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Appreciate the island’s breathtaking scenery, with rugged coastlines and sweeping views of the surrounding ocean.
Tour Logistics and Booking
The tour operates from Gentle Giants – Húsavík Whale Watching, where participants gather for a safety briefing before embarking on the boat cruise.
Participants can reserve their spot without any upfront payment, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The modern RIB speedboat accommodates the tour, providing an exhilarating and efficient means of wildlife observation.
During the 2-hour excursion, the expert guide provides live commentary on Iceland’s nature and wildlife, with the chance to see larger whales like blue whales and humpback whales, as well as thousands of puffins on Puffin Island during nesting season.
The tour includes warm safety overalls and hotel pickup/drop-off, making it a seamless and comfortable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seasickness Medication Provided on the Tour?
Seasickness medication is not provided on the tour. However, the tour company recommends bringing your own medication if you’re prone to seasickness. They also provide warm safety overalls to help mitigate the effects of the boat ride.
How Accessible Is the Boat for Individuals With Limited Mobility?
The boat’s accessibility for individuals with limited mobility depends on the specific tour and operator. Some tours may offer accommodations or assistance, but others may not be suitable. Passengers should inquire about accessibility when booking to ensure the tour meets their needs.
Can Cameras and Other Photography Equipment Be Brought on the Tour?
Customers are generally allowed to bring cameras and other photography equipment on the tour. However, it’s recommended to avoid large bags or luggage, as storage space may be limited on the boat.
Are Refreshments or Snacks Available for Purchase During the Cruise?
Refreshments and snacks are not typically included or available for purchase during the boat cruise. However, passengers are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy during the tour.
What Is the Minimum/Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t specify a minimum or maximum group size. It’s a shared group experience, so the group size can vary depending on bookings. Guests should expect a small-group setting to facilitate wildlife viewing and an intimate tour atmosphere.
Recap
The Húsavík: Big Whale Safari & Puffin Island Tour offers an immersive and unforgettable experience in Iceland’s captivating marine environment.
With opportunities to spot majestic whales and playful puffins, along with knowledgeable guides and stunning coastal scenery, this 2-hour cruise provides a unique chance to witness the wonders of Iceland’s Whale Capital.
Priced competitively, this tour is a must-do for any traveler seeking an exceptional adventure in the North Atlantic.
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