Location & Transportation
In Húsavík, cruise ships either dock alongside at one of the harbor’s piers or anchor offshore with guests taken ashore via tenders, depending on the size of your ship. Either way, you arrive right at the town’s main harbor. The town center is compact and very walkable—I found that strolling through town is one of the best ways to soak in the local charm. Taxis are also available if you are carrying extra luggage or want a quicker transfer.
Sightseeing
Húsavík sits below Húsavíkurfjall mountain on the eastern shore of Skjálfandi bay, offering plenty of natural and cultural attractions. Some highlights include:
- The scenic waterfront area along the bay.
- A close-up view of the imposing Húsavíkurfjall mountain.
- A visit to Lake Botnsvatn, a delightful spot for a short hike where you can enjoy the rich vegetation, bird life, and even spot some trout in its clear waters.
Tours & Excursions
Húsavík is known as the whale watching capital of Iceland. Here are some memorable excursions you won’t want to miss:
- Whale Watching Tours: Hop on a boat and witness humpback, minke, and even blue whales up close in their natural habitat.
- Whale Museum: Located right by the harbor, the Whale Museum offers a fascinating look into the marine giants and the history of Iceland’s whaling heritage. It’s open daily 9am–6pm from May to September, with shorter hours (10am–4pm) from October to April.
- Day Trips: Extend your adventure with tours to nearby natural wonders such as excursions to Lake Mývatn via the dramatic landscapes of Laxárdalur and Laxárgljúfur canyon, or a visit to the breathtaking Godafoss waterfall, just a 45-minute drive to the southwest.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
While Husavík is a small town, its charming shops offer a taste of local Icelandic culture. You’ll find:
- Boutiques selling handmade wool garments and local crafts.
- Small souvenir shops perfect for picking up unique mementos, from handcrafted jewelry to art inspired by the rugged Icelandic landscape.
Dining
Dining in Husavík is a warm, intimate experience. Local eateries feature freshly caught seafood, traditional lamb dishes, and the famous Icelandic skyr. Some tips for a great meal:
- Look for restaurants with windows overlooking the harbor for a scenic dining experience.
- Enjoy a relaxed meal at one of the local cafés where you can sample homemade specialties in a cozy, welcoming environment.
Culture & Local Events
Husavík offers a rich taste of Icelandic culture along with practical travel details:
- Local Currency: The Icelandic Króna (ISK) is used here. While most places accept credit cards, it’s handy to have a bit of cash for smaller vendors.
- Language & Communication: Although Icelandic is the native language, nearly everyone speaks English, so you’ll have little trouble getting around and interacting with locals.
- Opening Hours & Holidays: Most shops and eateries in Husavík follow seasonal hours. In summer, many establishments extend their hours, while in winter, they may close earlier. Museums and attractions often close on Mondays—always a good idea to check ahead.
- Local Events: In the summer months, Husavík comes alive with festivals celebrating Icelandic music, art, and maritime heritage. These events capture the spirit of the town, so be sure to ask locals for the latest happenings during your visit.