Husavik Traditional Whale Watching

Enjoy an awe-inspiring time watching whales from a traditional Icelandic boat in Húsavík!

This unforgettable fully guided whale watching tour operates year-round. North Iceland is a popular tourist destination and one of the greatest places in the world to watch humpback whales in their natural feeding grounds.

You’ll depart from Húsavík harbour in a traditional oak fishing vessel which has since been rebuilt as a whale watching boat. It will take you out on the enchanting waters of Skjálfandi bay in north Iceland, where you’ll spend three hours on the water in search of these gentle giants. While it is possible to do whale watching from land, travelling out into the bay means that you’ll be perfectly placed to witness the best marine life that this region has to offer.

Húsavík is often described as the whale watching capital of Iceland, due to the number of whales which have been spotted migrating their way along this stretch of coastline. It is home to around 24 species of whales, the most common of which are humpback whales and minke whales. Quite often, groups of harbour porpoises and white-beaked dolphins may be seen swimming by the coast or near the harbour. Blue whales, fin whales and pilot whales have also been known to frequent these waters.

Throughout this tour, you’ll be accompanied by experienced crew members who are experts in tracking the movements of marine mammals, thereby increasing your chances of successful sightings. Your guides will share their knowledge with you in relation to these intelligent and beautiful creatures. They’ll be more than happy to help with any questions that you may have.

As you sail into the tranquility of Skjálfandi bay, be prepared for the chance encounter of a lifetime! If you are lucky, you may witness a variety of spectacular whale surface behaviours, such as breaching, lunge feeding, spyhopping, lobtailing and pectoral slapping. Whale behaviours change from day to day so no two trips are ever the same.

Iceland is one of the most spectacular places in the world to spot whales; however, whale sightings cannot always be guaranteed. If you do not see any whales or dolphins during your tour, then you will receive a free voucher to return again until you do!

For those who will be visiting during the summer months, you’ll have the opportunity to observe a range of seabirds which nest in the area and spend their days hunting for fish at sea. Puffins are regularly sighted during whale watching tours from May to August, as well as guillemots, kittiwakes and fulmars. The rich bird life and stunning surroundings of Skjálfandi bay makes it a premier birdwatching destination for animal lovers.

Experience these majestic creatures for yourself on a traditional whale watching cruise from Húsavík! These tours are very popular and it is advisable that you book in advance. Check availability by choosing a date.