Húsavík: Traditional Oak Ship Whale Watching Tour

Summary

Whale watching from Húsavík on a wooden boat with local crew and wild Skjálfandi Bay

You’ll step aboard a traditional oak ship in Húsavík with a local guide, sail through Skjálfandi Bay searching for whales and seabirds, sip hot chocolate as you listen to stories about life here, and feel that raw North Atlantic air on your face. It’s not just about spotting whales — it’s about being part of this place for a few hours.

What’s the experience like?

You know that feeling when you’re not sure if it’s excitement or just the cold air making your heart race? That’s how I felt stepping onto the old oak ship in Húsavík. The wood was smooth under my hand — worn from years of salt and boots. Our guide, Sigrún, grinned at us all before we even left the harbor. She kept pointing out little things: “That’s where my grandfather fished for cod,” she said, waving at some invisible spot in the gray water. I tried to imagine it but mostly just ended up squinting into the wind.

Out in Skjálfandi Bay, everything went quiet except for the gulls and that soft thump of waves against the hull. It smells different out there — like seaweed and something almost metallic. We saw our first whale before I even realized what I was looking at. Just this slow, heavy curve rising out of nowhere. Sigrún called it a humpback and told us to watch for its tail. Someone next to me gasped so loud I jumped. I think everyone forgot about their cameras for a second.

We had hot chocolate (I spilled half of mine trying to balance) and listened as Sigrún explained why Húsavík is called Iceland’s whale watching capital. She knew every bird by name too — pointed out puffins bobbing like little footballs on the water. There was something about being on that traditional Icelandic oak boat that made it feel less like a tour and more like you’d stumbled into somebody’s family outing.

I still think about that moment when everything went quiet after the whale dove — just sky, sea, and this feeling like maybe you’re very small but also kind of lucky to be there at all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching tour in Husavik

• Board traditional Icelandic oak boat
• Sail in Skjálfandi Bay
• Observe whales, dolphins, sea birds
• Enjoy guided wildlife adventure

Top questions

Is whale watching from Húsavík suitable for kids?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Are refreshments included during the tour?

Yes, light refreshments are served onboard.

Is the traditional oak ship wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

How long does the whale watching tour last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but expect several hours at sea.

Will there be a guide on board?

Yes, a professional guide provides live commentary throughout.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted onboard.

Do infants need their own seat?

No, infants must sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing with a professional local guide who shares live commentary onboard; you’ll have light refreshments as you explore Skjálfandi Bay by traditional oak boat before returning to Húsavík harbor together.