Husavik: Whale & Puffin Watching Tour on Oak Boat

Summary

Whale calls, puffin islands and cinnamon cookies in Husavik

You’ll sail from Husavik on a traditional oak boat, spotting playful puffins around their nesting island before heading into Skjálfandi Bay for whale watching with a local guide. Warm overalls, hot chocolate, and cinnamon cookies keep things cozy as you scan for humpbacks and dolphins in North Iceland’s wild air.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit it — I was a little skeptical about seeing puffins up close. They always look so cartoonish in photos, you know? But just after we left Husavik harbor, our guide Ása pointed out this low green island (Puffin Island, apparently), and suddenly there were hundreds of them bobbing around like little footballs with orange beaks. The boat rocked gently, and the air smelled salty and sort of earthy, like wet wood. I tried to snap a photo but mostly just laughed at how clumsy they looked taking off — Ása said they’re better swimmers than flyers. Makes sense now that I’ve seen it.

The wind picked up as we headed further into Skjálfandi Bay. Someone handed me a thick overall (thank god for that), and then there was this hush — everyone scanning the water for signs of whales. It’s weird how quiet a group can get when you’re all hoping for the same thing. Then someone shouted, and sure enough, a humpback surfaced not far from the boat. The sound it made — like an old kettle letting off steam — felt almost too big for the bay. There were dolphins too, darting around like they owned the place.

I didn’t expect hot chocolate on a whale watching tour, but Ása passed out steaming cups and these cinnamon cookies that tasted homemade (she winked when I asked if she’d baked them herself). My hands were freezing but my face hurt from smiling so much. On the way back to Husavik, I kept thinking about those puffins and how wild it is that most of them nest here every summer. North Iceland has this way of making you feel small but happy about it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale and puffin watching tour

• Board traditional oak boat
• Sail around Puffin Island
• Observe puffins and seabirds
• Head into Skjálfandi Bay
• Watch for humpback whales and dolphins
• Enjoy hot chocolate and cinnamon cookies
• Return to shore

Top questions

How long is the whale & puffin watching tour from Husavik?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours at sea.

Are refreshments included during the tour?

Yes, hot chocolate and cinnamon cookies are served onboard.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

When can you see puffins on Puffin Island near Husavik?

Puffins nest on Puffin Island from mid-April to late August each year.

What wildlife can you see in Skjálfandi Bay?

You may see humpback whales, dolphins, puffins, and other seabirds.

Are warm clothes provided on the whale watching tour?

Yes, warm overalls are included for all guests.

Does the tour include any discounts or extras?

You get discounts to Geosea Húsavík, Gamli Baukur Restaurant, and Húsavík Whale Museum with your booking.

Is this day trip suitable for families with infants?

Yes, infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing from Husavik with a professional local guide aboard a traditional oak boat; warm overalls to keep out the chill; hot chocolate and cinnamon cookies served onboard; plus discounts to Geosea Húsavík baths, Gamli Baukur Restaurant by the harbor, and Húsavík Whale Museum after your trip.