If the big oak boats feel too sedate, this is the other way to do it. Húsavík Adventures takes you out on a RIB, a fast rigid inflatable boat, with just 12 passengers aboard, an expert whale-watching guide and a captain. Small group, low to the water, nobody elbowing you for the rail.

RIB whale watching in Húsavík: what to expect

The two-hour tour leaves from the harbour in Húsavík, often called the Whale Capital of Iceland, and heads out into Skjálfandi Bay. More than ten species are known in the bay, including humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins and porpoises. Your guide gives live commentary as you go. Whales don't take bookings, so what shows up on the day is up to them.

Puffin season runs from about 15 April to 15 August, and during that window the tour includes puffins. Outside it, the trip is all about the big whales.

What's included

• Expert whale-watching guide and captain on board
• Live commentary
• Warm flotation suit and life jacket
• All taxes and fees

Not included: hotel pickup and drop-off, transport to the harbour, and gratuities.

Who this tour suits

RIBs are quick and bumpy, so there are real limits here. The minimum age is 8 and minimum height 130 cm, and guests aged 14 to 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The operator does not recommend the tour for people with heart conditions, back problems or limited mobility, or for pregnant travellers, and it is not wheelchair accessible. If any of that rules you out, a larger traditional boat is the better choice.

Pro tip: the flotation suit keeps you warm, but dress in warm layers underneath and bring your own gloves and hat. At speed on open water, bare hands go numb fast.