Whales & Puffins Húsavík Wildlife Tour Expedition

About this activity

Experience the very best of Iceland’s Arctic wildlife with our Whales and Puffins Combo Tour. This authentic adventure combines the thrill of searching for massive whales with a visit to one of the largest puffin colonies in the world. Departing from Húsavík, the “Whale Capital of Iceland,” you’ll sail across Skjálfandi Bay to encounter “the clowns of the sea” and the giants of the deep in a single, unforgettable journey.

🌟 Tour Highlights

• Puffin Island (Lundey): Sail to a bustling sanctuary that hosts over 100,000 Atlantic Puffins every summer. Watch them nest, dive, and show off their famously clumsy take-offs!

• Giant Whale Encounters: Head into the nutrient-rich waters of Skjálfandi Bay to find Humpback whales, Minke whales, and dolphins in their natural feeding grounds.

• Icelandic “Bird Paradise”: With 60% of the world’s puffin population breeding in Iceland, you are in the premier location for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

• Traditional Oak Boats: Enjoy a stable and authentic sailing experience on a beautifully maintained wooden vessel, offering the best vantage points for spotting marine life.

• Onboard Education: Benefit from a crew with extensive knowledge of Arctic ornithology and marine biology, eager to share insights about the animals you see.

• Classic Refreshments: Warm up on the return journey with creamy hot chocolate and freshly baked cinnamon buns, a Húsavík tradition.

🗺️ What to Expect: From Wings to Whales

Part 1: The Puffin Colony Our tour begins with a short, scenic sail to Puffin Island. As we approach, the sky and sea become alive with thousands of birds. We sail around the island, giving you a front-row seat to watch the puffins interact, burrow into the grassy cliffs, and hunt for sand eels. Kids and adults alike will love their charming, “clumsy” flying style!

Part 2: The Giants of the Deep Once we’ve enjoyed the birdlife, we set our sights on the horizon. We head further into the bay where the deep currents bring in the food that attracts Iceland’s legendary whales. Witnessing a Humpback whale breach or a Minke whale glide past the boat is a silent, awe-inspiring moment that words can’t quite capture.

Part 3: The Return to Harbor As we head back to Húsavík, the crew serves hot chocolate and cinnamon buns. It’s the perfect time to review your photos and soak in the views of the Víknafjöll mountains across the water.

🛠️ Tour Details

• Season: Mid-April to late August (The puffins’ nesting season).

• Duration: ~3 Hours.

• Location: Húsavík Harbor, North Iceland.

• Included: Guided tour, thermal overalls (if needed), hot chocolate, and cinnamon buns.

• What to Bring: Warm layers, a hat, and a camera with a good zoom for bird photography!

🗣️ Why Choose This Combo Tour?

If you are visiting Húsavík during the summer, this is the most complete nature experience available. You don’t have to choose between Iceland’s most famous bird and its most famous mammal—you get to see both in their prime habitat. This tour offers a deep dive into the biodiversity of the Arctic circle while maintaining the cozy, personal atmosphere of a traditional sailing trip.

Ready to see the best of Húsavík’s wildlife? Book your Whales & Puffins adventure today!