This guided boat tour from Húsavík combines puffin watching and whale watching in the waters of North Iceland. You’ll sail to Puffin Island during the nesting season, then continue into Skjálfandi Bay, one of Iceland’s most active whale habitats. The tour is led by an experienced local crew who share insights about the wildlife and surroundings, with hot chocolate and cinnamon buns served on the return journey.
This tour begins with a short sail from Húsavík harbor, one of Iceland’s main whale-watching hubs. From here, you’ll head toward Puffin Island, a small island just offshore known for its seasonal seabird colonies. During summer, thousands of puffins gather here to nest. You’ll see them flying close to the water, resting along the cliffs, and diving for fish, along with other seabird species common to the area. An experienced guide provides clear insights into Iceland’s birdlife throughout the tour.
Puffins typically nest in Iceland from mid-April through August. Iceland hosts a large portion of the world’s Atlantic puffin population, making it one of the best places to see them in their natural habitat. Sightings vary by the season and conditions, but the island offers strong opportunities during the summer months.
After visiting the island, the tour continues into Skjálfandi Bay, a well-known feeding ground for whales in North Iceland. While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, minke whales and humpback whales are frequently spotted in these waters. The crew follows responsible whale-watching guidelines at all times to ensure minimal disturbance to the animals.
On the return journey to Húsavík harbor, you’ll be served hot chocolate and freshly baked cinnamon buns, providing a warm, relaxed end to your time at sea.