Board a RIB in Húsavík for a brisk, guided search for humpbacks and colony-bound puffins in Skjálfandi Bay. This two-hour outing blends high-speed marine access with local knowledge and seasonal wildlife highlights.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Mist clings to the bay as the RIB cuts through glassy water, the hull chattering against low waves. On departure from Húsavík’s working pier, the town loosens behind you and the sea takes the lead: gulls wheel, basalt cliffs mark the shoreline, and sometimes a white fluke breaks the surface without warning.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most people who can get on/off a small RIB and tolerate short bursts of speed; moderate mobility helps for boarding.
Wildlife
History
Húsavík evolved from a 19th-century fishing village into a focal point for marine research and whale watching, shifting local identity from extractive to observational economies.
Conservation
Operators follow distancing guidelines and minimize engine disturbance; visitors are encouraged to avoid flash photography and follow crew instructions to protect feeding and nesting animals.
Reserve your spot on the Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins Speedboat Tour from Húsavík today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers
Temperatures at sea are markedly colder than on shore; thermal overalls are provided but wear insulating base layers and a windproof outer.
Bring seasickness remedies
If you are prone to motion sickness, take medication 30–60 minutes before boarding or use acupressure bands.
Listen to the guide
Crew instructions are focused on safety during boarding and when approaching wildlife — follow them immediately to avoid slips or disturbance.
Charge your camera
Bring a fast shutter and a waterproof case; wildlife encounters are often quick and from a small boat, so be ready.
Warm base layers
Wool or synthetic layers retain heat when wind and spray reduce effective temperature.
spring
Waterproof outer shell
A breathable rain jacket keeps spray out during open-water runs.
summer
Sea-sickness medication or bands
Prevents nausea on choppy days or for those sensitive to motion.
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with grip
Non-slip soles are important for wet decks and uneven piers.