Big Whales & Puffins RIB boat tour
A focused small-group RIB boat whale-watching experience from Húsavík harbour to Skjálfandi Bay. Fast RIB boats (max 12 passengers) with an expert guide and captain. Warm suits and life jackets provided. Puffin sightings possible ca. 15 Apr–15 Aug; outside that period the tour focuses on whales and other marine life.
In Collaboration with Húsavík Adventures. Updated on February 16, 2026.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Húsavík Adventures, inspired by the tour Big Whales & Puffins RIB boat tour. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- 2-hour RIB whale-watching cruise in Skjálfandi Bay (small-group RIB format)
- Max 12 passengers per boat with an expert guide and captain
- Warm immersion suits and life jackets provided on board
- Puffin season approx. 15 April–15 August; other months focus on whales and porpoises
Explore all itineraries in Húsavík.
Itinerary
Day 1
Meet at the operator's harbour building in Húsavík for check-in, safety briefing and a 2-hour RIB cruise in Skjálfandi Bay.
Whale Watching — RIB boat (Skjálfandi Bay)
Meet at Húsavík Adventures (North Sailing building) on the harbour. Arrive 30 minutes before the boat departure for check-in, safety briefing and to be fitted with a warm immersion suit and life jacket. Board a RIB (max 12 passengers), then a 2-hour guided RIB cruise in Skjálfandi Bay searching for humpback and minke whales, dolphins, porpoises and (in season) puffins. Return to the harbour at the end of the cruise.
- Monday8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Tuesday8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Wednesday8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Thursday8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Friday8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Saturday8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Sunday8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time at Húsavík Adventures (Hafnarstétt 11) to check in and be fitted with a warm immersion suit and life jacket.
- If you are prone to seasickness, take motion-sickness medication at least 30–60 minutes before departure; RIB boats are fast and can be bumpy.
- Bring a waterproof camera or a phone in a waterproof pouch and a small dry bag for personal items; use a moderate telephoto (100–300mm) if you want closer wildlife photos.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 1 |
| Total Places | 1 |
| Activities Types | Experience |
RIB Speedboat Whale Watching: Speed, Spray, and Big Encounters
Why this experience
You want whale watching that moves—a rigid inflatable boat built for speed and maneuverability, cutting across Skjálfandi Bay with enough power to chase down humpback whales before they dive. RIB tours in Húsavík are designed for closer encounters: you're not waiting for animals to pass by your vessel, you're positioning yourself in the action. Expect spray in your face, adrenaline in your chest, and views of whales, puffins, and dolphins from angles you'd never see on a slower boat. The RIB is smaller and nimbler than traditional tour boats, which means your captain can react to wildlife movement in real time. This is whale watching for travelers who want adventure baked in, not just observation.
Before you go
- Best time: Summer for peak whale activity and puffin sightings; autumn for slightly calmer seas and fewer tourists
- Budget: Bokun handles all pricing directly on the tour page
- Difficulty: Moderate; you'll experience speed, water spray, and weather exposure. Not suitable for those with back or neck issues, or strong motion sensitivity
- What to bring: Waterproof jacket (essential), thermal layers, wool hat, gloves, waterproof pants, goggles optional but useful, secure camera
- Getting there: Húsavík is 5 hours north of Reykjavík by car or 45 minutes from Akureyri
- Accessibility: RIB boats have limited accessibility; discuss mobility needs with the operator before booking
Frequently asked questions
How fast does the RIB go? RIBs typically cruise at 25–40 knots depending on conditions and wildlife positioning. You'll definitely feel the speed and the water.
Will I get soaked? Expect spray and possibly more water contact than slower boats. Waterproof gear is non-negotiable. Some passengers bring goggles to protect their eyes.
Is this safe for children? Children ages 7+ can typically join, though some operators require ages 10+. The speed, noise, and water exposure are the limiting factors. Always confirm age requirements before booking.
What's included in the tour? The RIB tour includes the guided speedboat experience, wildlife spotting, and professional captain expertise. You book through TheNextGuide's Bokun integration for all pricing and booking details.
How is sighting success on a faster boat? The RIB's speed is actually an advantage—your captain can navigate quickly to areas of activity. Sighting rates in Húsavík are consistently high regardless of boat type.
Complete your trip in Húsavík
Want a calmer approach? Try Whale Watching from a Traditional Oak Sailing Boat. Or go intimate with Small Group Sustainable Whale Watching.
Browse all Húsavík itineraries at TheNextGuide.
