Húsavík: Big Whales and Puffin Island Speedboat Tour

A RIB chase is the point of this tour. You get speed, proximity, and expert guidance as you scan Skjálfandi Bay for whales and dolphins, then (in season) head to Lundey Puffin Island. Skjálfandi Bay is famous for lots of returning marine wildlife, and the fast boat helps you get in position quickly.

What I like most is the combination of small group size (up to 12) and how close you can get without turning it into a circus. The other big win: you wear Iceland’s required warm gear—overalls plus a life vest—so the cold feels manageable instead of miserable. The main drawback to plan for is that it’s still cold and wet out on open water, and this isn’t suitable for everyone (no pregnant travelers, and it’s not listed for people with back or heart problems).

Key highlights before you go

• RIB speed on the hunt: when a whale surfaces, the captain can react fast and close the distance quickly
• Up to 12 passengers: more space for views and fewer people crowding your side of the boat
• Warm water-resistant overalls included: a real Iceland requirement, not a nice-to-have
• Lundey Island puffins in season: Puffin season runs roughly Apr 15 to Aug 20
• Expert guide + captain teamwork: you’re not just riding—you’re learning what you’re looking at

RIB speedboat from Húsavík: why it feels different

Húsavík is one of Iceland’s best places to go whale watching, and this is the kind of tour that leans into what makes it special: the water here is alive, and the timing is everything.

On a RIB (rigid inflatable boat), you trade some calm for some urgency—in a good way. The boat is built to cover distance quickly, so when the guide spots something on the surface, you’re not stuck waiting. Several experiences on this departure type emphasize that you can reach a whale quickly after it’s detected, which is exactly what you want when animals are moving and feeding.

The other big factor is the small group. With around a dozen seats (or fewer), you’re not playing “guess the angle” against a crowd. You also tend to get a more personal guiding experience: more eyes listening to the same explanation, and more space to shift positions for photos.

Price-wise, it’s not cheap at $198 per person, but the math is easier when you think about what you’re buying: short duration, active searching, and the chance to be closer than you would on larger vessels. If you want a “do it once, do it right” whale day, this is a strong value play for the region.

Possible consideration: the experience is outdoors, and you’ll be exposed to wind and spray. If you’re hoping for a dry, comfy ride, you’ll be disappointed. If you like the idea of getting out there and feeling the sea in your bones, you’ll probably grin the whole time.

Skjálfandi Bay: where the guide starts scanning

Most of your action comes from waters off Húsavík in and around Skjálfandi Bay. This area is known for a steady stream of marine life, with more than 10 different species visiting the region each year. The tour description specifically calls out species such as humpback whales, minke whales, and white-beaked dolphins, plus porpoises.

In plain terms, what that means for you is: the guide isn’t guessing in the dark. You’re in the right place at the right time of year, and the team is set up for fast searching. On past departures, guests have also reported seeing multiple humpbacks and dolphins, and in some cases surprises like seals (and even a walrus on at least one outing). You can’t bank on those extra sightings, but the point is that the search pattern and quick repositioning raise your odds of a good encounter.

Another helpful detail: the tour includes both a warm gear setup and an expert guide. That matters because it’s not only about spotting something—it’s about understanding what you’re seeing. More than one guide on similar departures has used short, clear explanations while also keeping safety at the center.

Gear that actually helps: overalls, vests, and staying functional

This is Iceland, not a theme park. Even if the sun looks friendly, the bay can be cold, windy, and wet. What saves your comfort is the included clothing and how you use it.

You’ll be provided warm water-resistant overalls (these are compulsory to wear by law in Iceland) plus life vests. If conditions call for it, you can also get a raincoat. The result is that you’re not trying to “fashion” your own layers at the last second.

Still, there’s smart homework for you:

• Bring gloves and a hat. The gloves especially get mentioned as important because hands freeze fast.
• Wear comfortable shoes that can handle damp decks and quick movement.
• Dress in warm layers under the overalls. One guest noted that even larger suit sizes were available (they mentioned up to 8XL), which is reassuring if you worry about fit, but don’t assume perfect sizing—wearing layers helps regardless.

One practical note from real-world experience: if you’re prone to motion sickness, you may want your own plan. Seasickness pills are not included, and while some people have said the open-air speed helped them avoid feeling sick, conditions are weather-driven and personal. Have your own solution ready if you need one.

The Lundey Puffin Island stop: season matters more than you think

If you’re traveling between about Apr 15 and Aug 20, this tour can include Lundey Island, often called Puffin Island. The timing matters because outside puffin season, the tour is big whales only.

On a puffin day, expect a real focus on the birds—photo stops, guided time on/around the island area, and chances to view wildlife from the boat along the way. Past departures have described seeing puffins in large numbers, including birds flying overhead and puffins in or near the water.

Two things I’d remember when planning your photos:

1. Puffins move fast and pop up unpredictably, so quick shutter timing matters more than trying to set up “the perfect frame.”
2. You’ll be outside, so keep your camera handling simple—gloves help you keep your grip without struggling.

Also, don’t confuse puffin island with a gentle, slow stroll. This is still a boat trip. You’ll likely jump between lookout points, photo moments, and cruising segments. If you love wildlife but don’t enjoy cold feet, dress warmer than you think you need.

Tjörnes Peninsula: fossil cliffs while you’re on the move

Between the whale search and the bird viewing, the route includes a view of the Tjörnes peninsula, known for fossil layers, including one cited as being around two million years old.

What you’re really getting here is a short science moment with a payoff: while the boat is moving, the guide points out what makes this coast special beyond wildlife—this is geology that shows deep time right alongside your whale-and-bird day.

It’s not the kind of stop where you get out and wander for hours, so don’t treat it like a separate museum visit. But it’s a nice context builder. You end up appreciating that you’re watching modern life in a place shaped by an older story.

How the 2 hours feel: pacing, photo stops, and “when to be ready”

Two hours sounds short, and it is. The tour style makes that work by keeping you active instead of sitting around.

Here’s how that pacing typically plays out:

• You start with a safety briefing at the meeting point area, then you head out.
• You cruise toward the Skjálfandi waters where the scanning begins.
• When you find wildlife, you shift from driving to viewing—photo stop moments, guided explanations, and marine life watching.
• If puffins are in season, you add Lundey Island time as a key segment.

Because this is a small boat, you’ll want to be ready. When the guide signals a sighting, you’ll likely have only seconds to react—turn your body, grab your camera, and settle into viewing without fuss.

A tip that matters more than it sounds: wear your layers so you don’t need to unzip or fumble. Once you’re wet and cold, every extra step becomes annoying. Overalls do their job best when you keep moving efficiently.

Guides and spotting skill: what you’ll gain beyond the view

The best whale tours teach you how to see. This one leans hard into that.

The included guides are English-speaking, and the explanations you’ll hear tend to mix marine biology with real safety practice. In past departures, guides with names like Austin, Ignacio, Martin, Inaki, Alessandra, and Zina have been mentioned in guest feedback, and that’s telling: different personalities, same core goal—help you understand whale behavior and how the team positions the boat responsibly.

Two things this improves for you:

• You’ll know what to look for besides the obvious blow. For example, the guide can help interpret surfacing patterns and what species you’re likely seeing.
• You’ll feel calmer during the ride, because safety and procedure aren’t treated like a formality.

One more plus from guest notes: guides have been described as energetic and supportive, and captains are described as reactive—staying responsive to where animals are surfacing. That teamwork is why a speedboat model can deliver better “encounter timing” than slower vessels.

When the sea turns choppy: comfort without ruining the adventure

Even with warm overalls and vests, you’re still on open water. You might get spray in your face. You might feel the boat pitch when conditions stack up.

The good news from real departures: people who expected seasickness have sometimes reported feeling fine, possibly because the open-air ride and the speed kept motion symptoms manageable. That said, not everyone reacts the same way.

My practical advice:

• Use the overalls properly; don’t wear them like a costume.
• Keep your hat secure and your gloves on if you have them.
• Bring a simple windproof layer for the upper body under the suit if you run cold.

And don’t forget: choppy moments are part of the Iceland deal. The trick is to treat it like weather, not like something that ruins the day. Your reward is that fast boat responsiveness, which helps you catch the next sighting window.

Price and value: is $198 fair for Húsavík?

At $198 per person, this isn’t an impulse buy for most budgets. But it’s also not a “pay extra for nothing” tour if you care about seeing whales up close and maximizing your time.

Here’s where the value comes from:

• Time efficiency: the tour lasts 2 hours, with active searching rather than long, slow cruising.
• Speedboat advantage: the RIB’s mobility helps reposition quickly when whales surface.
• Small group: better sightlines and more personal guiding.
• Included gear: overalls and life vests are part of the package, which matters in Iceland.

Could you spend less and ride on a larger boat? Possibly. But if you’re visiting once and want the highest chance of a close, exciting encounter in a short day, this style makes sense.

If you’re on a strict schedule and you want one high-impact wildlife experience from Húsavík, this is the one that best matches that goal.

Who should book this tour (and who should skip it)

This is a great fit for you if:

• you want whale watching with speed and fast repositioning
• you’re comfortable being outdoors in wind and spray
• you enjoy learning as you watch, not just sightseeing

It may be a bad fit if:

• you’re pregnant (explicitly listed as not suitable)
• you have back problems or heart issues (also listed as not suitable)
• you’re traveling with younger kids (minimum age is 8 years old, or 130 cm in height)

Also, plan for physical comfort. You’ll be dressed in cold-weather gear, and movement on a small boat is not like walking around a museum. If mobility is limited, reach out in advance, because the provider says help can sometimes be arranged.

And if you’re super sensitive to cold: bring the gloves and hat. This tour gives you the overalls, but you’re still the one responsible for keeping hands warm and your head covered.

Quick logistics you’ll actually use

You meet at Hafnarstétt 11, at Húsavík Adventures’s ticket office. Plan to arrive about 30 minutes before departure, especially since there’s a safety briefing once you’re aboard. The office is shared with North Sailing, and it’s described as being opposite the famous church in Húsavík, which is useful if you’re orienting yourself in town.

English guides are provided, and the boat ride is in a small group on a 12-seat RIB model.

Weather can affect departures. The provider notes cancellations can happen due to bad weather or lack of passengers, and if that occurs, you’re offered an alternative departure or a full refund. That’s the reality of northern Atlantic conditions—so I’d book with some flexibility if you can.

Should you book this RIB whale and puffin tour?

I’d book it if you’re aiming for one active wildlife outing in Húsavík and you want the best chance of a close encounter in a short window. The combination of Skjálfandi Bay location, RIB speed, small groups, and included warm overalls makes it feel built for real wildlife viewing—not just “time on the water.”

Skip it (or choose a different option) if you’re looking for a calm, dry ride, or if health factors like pregnancy, heart issues, or back problems apply. And if you’re visiting outside puffin season, know that Lundey Island is not part of the plan—then it’s big whales only.

If you want flexibility, this tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve-and-pay-later options, so you can hold your seat while you watch the forecast.

FAQ

How long is the Húsavík Big Whales and Puffin Island Speedboat Tour?

The tour duration is 2 hours.

Where do I meet for the tour?

Meet at Hafnarstétt 11 at Húsavík Adventures’s ticket office. Plan to arrive about 30 minutes before departure.

What’s included for warmth and safety?

You’ll get warm water-resistant overalls (compulsory to wear), a life vest, and a raincoat if needed.

Does the tour include Puffin Island every time of year?

No. Puffin season is approximately April 15 to August 20. Outside that time, the tour is big-whales only.

What wildlife might I see on this tour?

You’re in an area known for multiple species, including humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and porpoises. In puffin season, you can also see puffins on Lundey Island.

Is there a minimum age or height requirement?

Yes. The minimum age is 8 years old, or 130 centimeters in height. If your child is slightly under 130 cm, you should contact the provider beforehand for approval.

What language are the guides?

The tour guide provides live guiding in English.

What should I bring that isn’t included?

Bring gloves and a hat. Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are also recommended. Seasickness pills are not included.

What happens if bad weather cancels a departure?

The provider may cancel due to bad weather or lack of passengers (minimum 4 per tour). If that happens, you’ll be notified in advance and offered an alternative departure or a full refund.