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Gentle Giants Whale Watching Sales Manual 2016
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THIS IS IT WHALE WATCHING HSAVK ICELANDGENTLE GIANTS
Hsavk
150 YEARS OF FAMILY HISTORY IN THE BAYBooking: Tel. +354 464 1500 www.gentlegiants.is info@gentlegiants.isMEMBER OF ICEWHALE THE ICELANDIC WHALE WATCHING ASSOCIATION
SALES MANUAL 2016
THE ORIGINALSTHE ORIGINALS
Our company, Gentle Giants Whale Watching Ltd., proudly supports UNICEF CHILDREN
Dear Sir or Madam!
I want to greet you with a warm
welcome to Hsavk, Iceland in
the 2016 season. Our family run
company, Gentle Giants Whale
Watching, celebrates its fifteenth
year and proudly offers you our service and highly
experienced and fully qualified staff in our various
tours and excursions.
The company is proud of its originality and back-
ground and is owned by people with vast experience
in the field. I have personally over 40 years of experi-
ence in the bay and like to think of myself as continu-
ing my familys 150 year long tradition started by my
great great grandfather who was a fisherman just like
my great grandfather, grandfather and father would
later be not to forget my GREAT grand mothers
too. Put short: We were born by the bay of Skjlf andi
and our ancestors too. Way back!
Gentle Giants goal is to make every visitor a happy
one. We are proud of the Certificates of Excellence
from TripAdvisor to Gentle Giants for the past years,
2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. It confirms and under-
lines that we are surely on the right track in out-
standing service and delivering a great experience.
We promise you:
Less crowded boats
More personal experience
Higher chances of finding whales
A real 150 year family history in Skjlfandi Bay
Good memories and natural happiness
We hereby introduce to you our company and our
new seasonal sales manual. More information about
our company and services is to be found on our
website www.gentlegiants.is or by sending us a
message directly, info@gentlegiants.is or by calling
us at: +354 464 1500. Please do not hesitate to
contact us.
Welcome aboard!
Stefn Gumundsson
CEO & Marketing Manager
2
HSAVK
THE TRULY ORIGINAL AND EXPERIENCED FAMILY COMPANY
Reykjavk Office:Hs verslunarinnar8th floorKringlan 7108 ReykjavkTel.: +354 464 1501
Hsavk Ticket Center:Harbour Side (big blue flags) 640 HsavkTel.: +354 464 1500
Sylva Ds (13) Aena Lind (18) Sds Helga (20)
In 2001 eleven experienced, diverse individuals
in Hsavk decided to combine their years of
expertise in a variety of fields to establish a new
travel and tourism company in Hsavk. The group
restored an old oak boat, which was originally a
fishing and whale hunting boat, and put it back
into commission sailing visitors around Skjlfandi
Bay searching for whales not for hunting but
for watching! The immense effort proved more
than worthwhile, growing into a giant success
among visitors. Ever since then Gentle Giants
has employed great staff and enjoyed a rapidly
increasing number of annual visitors.
Photos in the Sales Manual are taken by Gentle Giants team: @Koen Hoekemeijer Peter Waltl jr. & Sr., Jhann li Hilmarsson, Stefn Gumundsson, Daniel & Alexia,
Sarah Arndt, Anton sak skarsson, Charla Basran, Beln Garcia Ovide, Daniel Gonzales, Frijfur Helgason, HalliEgils, Rebekka K., Saltvk
Gentle Giants boats andstaff are fully-licensed
by the IcelandicMaritime Administration.
Gentle Giants Whale Watchingis a member of SAF,the Icelandic Travel
Industry Association.
Our passengers are fully insured by VS
Insurance Ltd.
Hanna Sigga, Katrn Svava (11) and Rakel sa (14).
nor th i c e l and . i s
MEMBER OFVISIT NORTH ICELAND
Icelandic TransportAuthority
3
HSAVKTHE FAMILYFIVE GENERATIONS IN SKJLFANDI BAY
The Voyager
Sigrur AtladttirGuide
The Fly Fisher
Miroslav Cibula Guide
The Bachelor
Daniel Gonzlez Guide
The Viking
Aksel BjarnasonGuide
The Adventurer
Ann-Sophie BehrendtGuide
The Lily
Eln LiljaGuide
Miss Canada
Charla BasranGuide
The Rolling Stone
Ragnar TmassonCaptain
The Rock
Sigurjn SigurbjrnssonCaptain
The Champ
Hilmar r GumundssonCaptain
The Old Dog
Vilhjlmur Bessi KristinssonCaptain
The Explorer
Sigurgeir PturssonCaptain
The Navigator
Aalsteinn SteinrssonCaptain
The Gentleman
Hallgrmur GumundssonCaptain
The Mustang
Sverrir Yngvi KarlssonCaptain
The Leader
Ptur OlgeirssonCaptain
The Tough Guy
Ingimar Eydal skarssonCaptain
The Unbeaten Armwrestler
Bjrgvin Kti SigurjnssonCaptain
The Snapchatter
Rakel sa InglfsdttirAssistant
The Princess
Katrn Svava InglfsdttirAssistant
The Ballerina
Selma GunnarsdttirAssistant
The Spanish Pearl
Mara Torralba Escobedo Guide & Ticket Sales
The Trainer
Anna Mara marsdttirTicket Sales
Miss Spain
Beln Garcia OvideGuide
The Islander
Ingibjrg IngvarsdttirTicket Sales
The Pearl Diver
Sandra MontesGuide
The Cosmopolitan
Sarah ArndtHead Guide
The Actress
Viktora Rn orsteinsdttirGuide & Ticket Sales
The Boss
Stefn GumundssonCEO & Marketing ManagerCaptain
The King
Daniel AnnisiusAssistant ManagerGuide & Ticket Sales
The Queen
Alexia Annisius AskelfWeb Editor Guide & Ticket Sales
The Admiral
Karl skar GeirssonFleet ManagerCaptain
Mrs. Boss
Jhanna S. SvavarsdttirEmployee ManagerCaptain
The Bird Lover
Karitas risdttirField Manager Guide
The Dart Player
Hallgrmur EgilssonSales ManagerDesigner
4
HSAVK
WE PROUDLY PRESENT OUR EXPERIENCED TEAM
You can read more about our team individually on our website www.gentlegiants.is/about-gg/our-crew.
GG3 SEA ANGLING
GG6 HIKING THE MOUNTAINS
GG9 PUFFINS EXCLUSIVE
CATCH YOUR OWN MEAL
HIKING THE MOUNTAINS OF SKJLFANDI BAY
ONE HOUR EXPRESS TOUR
SEE THE TOUR ON PAGE 8
SEE THE TOUR ON PAGE 20
SEE THE TOUR ON PAGE 26
SEE THE TOUR ON PAGE 12
SEE THE TOUR ON PAGE 22
SEE THE TOUR ON PAGE 28
SEE THE TOUR ON PAGE 18
SEE THE TOUR ON PAGE 24
SEE THE TOUR ON PAGE 30
GG2 BIG WHALE SAFARI & PUFFINS
GG5 GRMSEY ISLAND ADVENTURE
GG8 WHALES & HORSES
GG1 WHALE WATCHING
AND YOU CAN ALSO FIND IDEAS FOR A TAILOR MADE TOUR ON PAGE 34
GG4 FLATEY ISLAND
GG7 PRO-FISHING
EXPERIENCE THE MAMMALS OF THE OCEAN
PUFFINS BIRD WATCHING WHALES
UNIQUE AND UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
FOR MORE EXCITEMENT
ARCTIC CROSSING WHALES & PUFFINS
THE ICELANDIC HORSE AND THE WHALE
5
HSAVKPREVIEW OF OUR TOURS
RIB Amma SiggaBuilt: 2015Length: 12 m Beam: 4 mEngines: 2 x 420 hpMax speed: 52 knotsCapacity: 24 paxISK 225000 pr. hour (incl. 11% VAT)with captain and guide.
RIB Amma KibbaBuilt: 2013Length: 12 m Beam: 4 mEngines: 2 x 400 hpMax speed: 52 knotsCapacity: 24 paxISK 225000 pr. hour (incl. 11% VAT)with captain and guide.
RIB Amma Sigga IIBuilt: 2011Length: 11,5 m Beam: 3 mEngines: 2 x 300 hpMax speed: 52 knotsCapacity: 18 paxISK 195000 pr. hour (incl. 11% VAT)with captain and guide.
Our modern RIB speedboats, AMMA SIGGA, AMMA KIBBA and AMMA SIGGA II, are ideal for whale watch-ing and all kinds of tailor made exciting activities on sea, for both smaller and larger groups. With the high speed, the boats can get faster around and in-crease the chances of seeing whales. The RIBs are per-fect for all kinds of shorter and longer private tours, such as to Flatey Island and Grmsey Island or a 30-60 minutes fun action tour. The limitations of possibilities are up to your imagination. Named after the owners grandmothers, these boats are indeed believed to be some of the fastest grannies in the world.
This is your perfect opportunity! As a licenced tour operator, Gentle Giants has organized many tailor made excursions throughout the years. We would be happy to shape a unique adventure together with you, which will turn into lifetime memories for you to think back at in the future. Welcome to give us an idea of your dream trip - contact us for more information.Note: Tailor made refreshments available at a reasonable price.
6
HSAVKGENTLE GIANTS PROUD FLEET
m/v SylvaBuilt: 1976 in Akureyri Tonnage: 30Length: 17,5 m Beam: 4,3 m Capacity: 60 paxISK 485000 for 3 hours (incl. 11% VAT)with captain and guide.
m/v FaldurBuilt: 1972 in Westman IslandsTonnage: 26Length: 14,5 m Beam: 4 m Capacity: 45 paxISK 385000 for 3 hours (incl. 11% VAT)with captain and guide.
m/v AthenaBuilt: 2000 in HafnarfjrurTonnage: 8Length: 9,5 m Beam: 3 m Capacity: 24 paxISK 187000 for 3 hours (incl. 11% VAT)with captain.
m/v Axel - ZodiacBuilt: 2007Length: 4,5 m Beam: 2 mCapacity: 8 paxISK 42000 pr. hour (incl. 11% VAT)with captain.
SYLVA and FALDUR are our traditional Icelandic oak boats which were built and used for fishing for decades, but have been converted into charming and comfortable passenger vessels. These boats suit perfectly for larger groups for whale watching and other exciting seafaring adventures within Skjlfandi Bay.
ATHENA is our fibreglass boat which is specialized for sea angling. It is great for smaller groups for various activities such as a combined whale watching and sea angling tour. The boat is also used by local fishermen during different fishing seasons.
Zodiac AXEL is ideal for all kinds of camera work, diving and coastal transport. It is only used for special occasions as a second working boat together with another larger boat.
7
HSAVKYOU CAN RENT A BOAT FOR A PRIVATE TOUR
HSAVKGG1 WHALE WATCHING
Experience the traditional tour from Hsavk. Our birthplace is often considered as the Whale Watching Capital of Europe. Whale watching is a unique adventure at sea watching the wonders of nature in the beautiful surroundings of Skjlfandi Bay, sheltered by the stunning mountains of Vk.
This is a place where our roots lie, where our ancestors used to live in peace and joy for centuries, living in total harmony with the unpredictable and untamed nature of the North Atlantic.
HSAVKEXPERIENCE THE MAMMALS OF THE OCEAN
Group discounts and tailor made tours available, as well as multi-trip passes. See our timetable for daily tours or contact us for more information.
RATES:
Adults: ISK 10300 (incl. 11% VAT).Children 7-15: ISK 4200 (incl. 11% VAT).Children 0-6: FREEDuration: Approximately 3 hours.
INCLUDED:
A specialized guide, light refreshments (hot chocolate and an Icelandic traditional twisted donut, kleina), warm overalls and raincoats if needed.
SEASON:
April 1st November 15th.
BREATHTAKING TRAVEL PERFORMED BY PROS INFORMATIVE STAFF, INCREDIBLE VIEWS! IF YOU HAVENT BOOKED, BOOK NOW! WHAT AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE!
GREAT COMPANY AND GREAT SERVICE!!!! THE NAME OF THE COMPANY, GENTLE GIANTS, SAYS IT ALL! SURROUNDED BY WHALES A DREAM COME TRUE
10
HSAVK
20% DISCOUNT
to the Hsavk
Whale Museum
with every ticket
GG1 WHALE WATCHING
Special warm overalls available FREE every day
APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPT. OCT. NOV.
1st-14th 15th-30th 1st-31st 1st-30th 1st-31st 1st-20th 21st-31st 1st-30th 1st-31st 1st-15th
08:45 08:45 08:45 08:45
09:45 09:45 09:45 09:45 09:45 09:45 09:45 09:45 09:45 10:45
12:00 12:00 12:00 12:00
13:15 13:15 13:15 13:15 13:15 13:15 13:15 13:15
15:15 15:15 15:15
16:45 16:45 16:45 16:45 16:45 16:45
20:00 20:00 20:00
GG1 WHALE WATCHING - TIMETABLE
Whale watching timetable 2016. Other tours, excursions and
schedules can be arranged upon request at our Ticket Center.
Early booking is recommended. For your safety and comfort,
we reserve the right to change schedules, even with short
notice, should weather or other conditions change.
WE ACCEPT ALLMAJOR CREDIT CARDS
AND CURRENCIES
11
HSAVKTIMETABLE 2016
With our speedboats we can offer our passengers more area to cover in search for the gentle giants. A RIB is faster than the wind and makes it therefore more likely for us to find the big whales. Normally we do not have to leave our bay to look for whales of any kind, but on this tour we focus on finding the bigger ones - further out. Nothing is guaranteed but on this tour, your chances to encounter some of the worlds biggest animals ever increase - BIG TIME!
On this tour we also include a visit to the Puffin Island, where you can experience thousands of puffins, The Clowns of the Ocean, during the nesting period (April 15th August 20th).
HSAVKGG2 BIG WHALE SAFARI
99,9%sightings thepast years
HSAVKFOR MORE EXCITEMENT
RATES:
Adults: ISK 18400 (incl. 11% VAT).
Children 7-12: ISK 12600 (incl. 11% VAT).
Not recommended for children under 7 years.
Duration: Approximately 2,5 hours. Minimum number of six required for the standard tour, or you can rent a boat for a private trip.
INCLUDED:
A specialized guide, safety overalls, and a little surprise from Hsavks only winemaker.
SEASON:
April 15th October 31st. Other tours, excursions and schedules can be arranged upon request at our Ticket Center. Early booking is recommended. For your safety and comfort, we reserve the right to change schedules, even with short notice, should weather or other conditions change.
AMAZING EXPERIENCE, POSSIBLY THE HIGHLIGHT OF OUR ICELANDIC ADVENTURE DEFINITIVELY THE BEST IN HUSAVIK WONDERFUL TRIP. SUPERB GUIDES.
4 HUMPBACKS AND THOUSAND OF PUFFINS IN 2,5 HOURS! HUMPBACKS, AND PUFFINS, AND BLUES, OH MY! BEST OPTION IS THE FAST BOAT TOUR.
14
HSAVK
Specially made safety overalls available to keep you warm!
GG2 BIG WHALE SAFARI
APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPT. OCTOBER
1st-14th 15th-30th 1st-31st 1st-30th 1st-31st 1st-20th 21st-31st 1st-30th 1st-15th 16th-31st
09:30 09:30 09:30 09:30
11:00 11:00 11:00 11:00
12:30 12:30 12:30 12:30 12:30 12:30
16:00 16:00 16:00
19:00 19:00 19:00 19:00
APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER
1st-14th 15th-30th 1st-31st 1st-30th 1st-31st 1st-20th 21st-31st 1st-14th 15th-30th 1st-15th 16th-31st
09:30 09:30 09:30 09:30 09:30* 09:30* 09:30* 09:30*
10:00 10:00 10:00*
11:00 11:00 11:00 11:00* 11:00*
12:30 12:30 12:30 12:30 12:30 12:30* 12:30* 12:30* 12:30* 12:30*
13:00 13:00 13:00*
14:00 14:00 14:00 14:00* 14:00*
16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00 16:00* 16:00* 16:00*
19:00 19:00 19:00 19:00*
GG2 BIG WHALE SAFARI & PUFFINS - TIMETABLE
* Puffin season is from April 15th August 20th. More focus on Big Whales.
Whale watching timetable 2016. Other tours, excursions
and schedules can be arranged upon request at our Ticket
Center. Early booking is recommended. For your safety and
comfort, we reserve the right to change schedules, even with
short notice, should weather or other conditions change.
15
HSAVKTIMETABLE 2016
Do you have little time in Iceland but dream of the
chance to encounter big whales from on board a
RIB in the north? Then this is the tour for you!
This day package takes you by flight from
Reykjavk to Hsavk. You arrive to our fishing
village which is sometimes called The Whale
Watching Capital of Europe.
After having lunch at a restaurant of your choice,
you will board a RIB. As this boat is faster than the
wind, we are more likely to find the big whales.
During the nesting period (April 15th - August 20th)
we will also pass Lundey (Puffin Island) which is
one of the largest puffin colonies in Iceland.
During your stay in Hsavk you get the chance
to visit the Hsavk Whale Museum. This gives an
extra dimension to your experience at sea. In the
afternoon you return by flight to Reykjavk, full of
memories to think back at when your holiday is over.
Only
50 minfrom
Reykjavk
16
HSAVKGG2 DAYTOUR FROM REYKJAVK
RATES:
Adults: EUR 590 (incl. 11% VAT).Children 7-12: EUR 295 (incl. 11% VAT).The boat tour is not recommended for children under 7 years.Duration: Approximately 10 hours.
INCLUDED:
Return flights from Reykjavk domestic airport to Hsavk with Eagle Air. All transportation on site including an English-speaking driver / guide. GG2 Big Whale Safari & Puffins with Gentle Giants (departure 12:30, duration approximately 2,5 hours).Admission to the Hsavk Whale Museum.Not included: Food during the day.
SEASON:
April 15th October 31st. Other tours, excursions and schedules can be arranged upon request at our Ticket Center. Early booking is recommended. For your safety and comfort, we reserve the right to change schedules, even with short notice, should weather or other conditions change.The day tour is booked through Eagle Air.
N
ReykjavkHfn
AkureyriHsavk
Mon. Tue. Wed. Thu. Fri.
From Reykjavk 08:05 08:05 08:05 08:05 08:05
Arrival in Hsavk 08:55 08:55 08:55 08:55 08:55
From Hsavk 17:05 17:05 17:05 17:05 17:05
Arrival in Reykjavk 18:00 18:00 18:00 18:00 18:00
17
HSAVK
ORIGINAL BIG WHALE SAFARI
& PUFFINS DAY TOUR FROM
REYKJAVK WITH EAGLE AIRThe day tour is booked through Eagle Air.
Eagle Air flies twice daily to and from Reykjavk and Hsavk. More information about schedule and bookings on www.eagleair.is.
BIG WHALE SAFARI & PUFFINS
Experience the exciting feeling of catching your own meal out on Skjlf andi Bay. The distance to
the rich fishing grounds is very short. At the end
of the trip the captain can fillet your catch, which
will probably be cod or haddock. You can take it
with you for your own cooking or upon request,
have it prepared in a local restaurant. Thanks to our
experience as professional fishermen with historically
strong roots around the bay, on this tour we can
provide you with a 100% CATCH GUARANTEE!
100%CATCH
GUARANTEE!
18
HSAVKGG3 SEA ANGLING
RATES:
Adults: ISK 15500 (incl. 11% VAT).Children 7-12: ISK 7800 (incl. 11% VAT).Children 0-6: FREEDuration: Approx. 23 hours.
INCLUDED:
An experienced captain, fishing equipment/rods, waterproof trousers, rubber boots, fleece jackets and light refreshments
(hot chocolate and a traditional Icelandic twisted donut, kleina).
SEASON:
May 1st - September 30th.Daily departures at 11:00. Other departures are made upon request.Minimum number of four required in a standard tour, or you can rent a boat for a private trip.
19
HSAVKCATCH YOUR OWN MEAL
On our way to Flatey Island, experience the beautiful surroundings of Skjlfandi Bay.
Flatey Island is a natural haven for birdlife and is
extremely rich and diverse. It therefore attracts
many people each year. The island offers more
than 30 different species of birds during the
breeding season. The island is about 2,5 km
long and 1,7 km wide. The
name means Flat Island
and for a reason; its highest
peak rises only about 22 m
above sea level. In 1967 the
last inhabitants left. It has
not been permanently inhab-
ited since but many people visit the island each
summer. Most of the old homes are kept and
maintained as summer houses.
We offer guided excursions through Flateys
beautiful nature. The island is home to the
arctic tern and puffins, which you may watch
up close. This is a unique opportunity
to commune with nature. From Flatey
we head back to Hsavk and sail by
the awesome mountains of Vk. If
Mother Nature is feeling generous,
we may even be able to do some
whale watching on our way back.
Only
30 minfrom
Hsavk
20
HSAVK
For more info about our special bird watching packages:
Visit www.wildlifeiceland.is
Send an e-mail to
wildlife@wildlifeiceland.is
Call +354 464 3504
GG4 FLATEY ISLAND
RATES:
Adults: ISK 28900 (incl. 11% VAT).Children 7-12: ISK 13700 (incl. 11% VAT).Children 0-6: FREEDuration: Approximately 45 hours.
INCLUDED:
A specialized guide, safety overalls, and a little surprise from Hsavks only winemaker. Ask for tailor-made tours and arrangements in our Ticket Center.
SEASON:
June 1st - August 10th. Saturdays at 17:00.
Minimum number of two required in this standard tour, or you can rent
a boat for a private trip. Special arrangements are available upon request.
21
HSAVKPUFFINS BIRD WATCHING WHALES
Get the opportunity to cross the Arctic Circle, see whales and encounter puffins - all in one tour.
Our fast RIBs can take you to Grmsey
Island in one hour during good conditions
(and the sea is usually very calm in the
early mornings). Upon arrival you will get
a guided tour on the island, including bird
watching. Afterwards, to top your stay, you
will be served a fully loaded breakfast while
melting the experience and impressions.
On our way back we do some whale-
and puffin watching in Skjlfandi Bay.
Estimated time of arrival in Hsavk is
around noon. Every passenger gets a
certificate after crossing the Arctic Circle.
22
HSAVKGG5 GRMSEY ISLAND ADVENTURE
RATES:
ISK 72300 (incl. 11% VAT).Duration: Approximately 6 hours. Minimum number of six required for the standard tour, or you can rent a boat for a private trip.
INCLUDED:
Nice comfortable RIB boat, experienced cap-tain and a speciali zed guide. Warm safety
overalls, life jackets, refreshments on the way and fun. A guided tour and fully loaded breakfast on Grmsey Island.
SEASON:
May 1st August 20th. Tuesdays and Saturdays.Departure from Hsavk at 09:00 am. Booking in advance required. We reserve the right to change schedules should weather or other conditions change.
23
HSAVKARCTIC CROSSING WHALES & PUFFINS
A beautiful two day hiking tour in the mountains of Skjlfandi Bay.DAY 1 - We leave early on Friday morning at 07:00, with a boat and head towards the
mountain side, sail across the bay and go ashore
in Rauavk or Naustavk Beach half an hour
later. Next, we hike across the beautiful and
very lonesome Vknafjll, the Bay Mountains,
over to the Flatey Island Valley. The hiking
path is approximately 12 km before we have
to cross a river and reach the sleeping cabin.
The estimated arrival time at the first destina-
tion is around 16:00. The Guides Fish Soup
will be served for starting leisure time for short
walking trips and relaxation in the afternoon in
the valley.
DAY 2 - We leave the accommodation in the valley at 08:00 in the morning and head NNW
towards the coast / beach. The path leads
around 14 km alongside a beautiful river. Then
a boat picks up the group and heads to Flatey
Island for a short visit and a BBQ. Afterwards
we head back to Hsavk passing the whale
watching areas in Skjlfandi Bay ETA in
Hsavk this day is at 17:00.
24
HSAVKGG6 HIKING THE MOUNTAINS
RATES:
ISK 108500 (incl. 11% VAT).INCLUDED: A specialized guide, delicious fish soup, dinner, breakfast, accommoda-tion in a cabin, two boat trips, BBQ in Flatey Island and whale watching. Spectacular and unspoiled remote nature.
DEPARTURES 2016:
June 24th - Friday from Hsavk at 07:00 am.
July 15th Friday from Hsavk at 07:00 am.
August 19th Friday from Hsavk at 07:00 am.
Sept. 9th Friday from Hsavk at 07:00 am.
NOTE:
Expect all kinds of Icelandic summer weather; be well prepared with cloth-ing and food. Remember to bring your
sleeping bag and your hiking shoes. A meeting will be held the
night before departure in Hsavk at 20:00.
STARTN66 02.178
W17 41.348
N66 06.799 W17 52.992
SLEEP
END
STARTEND
ALTITUDE PROFILE
855 m
0 m
200 m
400 m
600 m
800 mGG6 HIKING MAP
25
HSAVKHIKING THE MOUNTAINS OF SKJLFANDI BAY
We spent some very exciting days in Iceland, and the top of it was the day we were fishing in Hsavk!When we were in Iceland for the first time, we wanted to try work-ing on a fishing boat, but we didnt find any opportunity. It was a great pleasure when we found Gentle Giants on our second trip. We didnt know exactly how much hard work fishing is. We spent 14 hours at sea, very close to the pure nature. We worked hard, and we caught an incredible amount of fish. Fishing is extremely tiring, but an amazing experience. And during the work we saw some killer whales, dolphins, puffins and many other sea birds.
We recommend this trip to anyone who is looking for a unique experience. Thank you very much for this unforgettable experience!
Juli & Attila from Hungary
26
HSAVKGG7 PRO-FISHING
Become an Icelandic fishing pro for a day or two. Daily from April to October, we welcome people to join us as crewmembers on our fishing
boats, sharing our extensive knowledge of fish-
ing and the sea to create an unforgettable and
traditional Icelandic adventure.
We take our customers out from Hsavk to
Skjlfandi Bay on daily professional fishing
trips on our fishing boats. From April to May
each year you could be a crew member during
lumpfish season, or from June to September
catch mainly cod. This is a hard-core fishing
experience in the real North Atlantic seas for
people who love new adventures.
We focus on the exciting and relaxing,
adventurous quality of life that can be found
in Icelands beauty and wild nature, using
our familys ancestral roots in the history and
environment around Hsavk, Skjlfandi Bay, and
Flatey Island. We tell our true family story around
Skjlfandi Bay and Hsavk, generation after
generation, for more than 150 years.
We are an original part of the history, fishermen
with salty blood running through our veins. Oth-
ers may wish they had the same tradition, and we
want to offer them the salty experience a real
one! For further information visit profishing.is
1 DAY PRO-FISHING PACKAGE
RATES:
ISK 55900 (incl. 11% VAT).Duration: 1016 hours of hard work and adventure (dependent upon catch and weather).
INCLUDED:
A crew members position on one of our fishing boats, full waterproof outfit, a box
of food and drinks for a whole day, a part of the catch, filleted for own use or cooked at a restaurant.
SEASON:
April 1st - September 30th. For your safety and comfort, we reserve the right to change schedules should weather or other conditions change.
FISHING APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT
Lumpfish
Cod
Haddock
Pollock
Redfish
European Plaice
Common Dab
American Plaice
Catfish
Leopardfish
Whiting
Monkfish
DIFFICULTY 5 4 3 2 2 3 4
Difficulty levels are calculated by our Marine Experts living in Skjlfandi Bay for decades with vast experience fishing in the bay. The biggest con-tributor to the difficulty levels is the unpredictable weather conditions.
Primary catch Secondary catch
27
HSAVKUNIQUE AND UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
Experience the combination of traditional whale watching (GG1 Whale Watching) and the
Icelandic horse. Explore the countryside close to
Hsavk on an Icelandic horse with experienced
riders at your side. The riding trip begins in
Saltvk, which is just four minutes by car from
Hsavk harbour, and can be taken either before
or after your whale watching tour.
Pho
to@
Gen
tleG
iant
s: K
oen
Ho
ekem
eije
r
28
HSAVKGG8 WHALES & HORSES
RATES:
Adults: ISK 19900 (incl. 11% VAT).Children 0-12: ISK 9900 (incl. 11% VAT).Duration: Approximately 3 hours whale watching and 2 hours horse riding.
INCLUDED:
A specialized guide, light refreshments (hot chocolate and an Icelandic traditional
twisted donut, kleina) and warm over-alls and raincoats if needed during
the whale watching tour.
SEASON:
April 1st October 31st.See our whale watching timetable on page 11 for daily tours.Tailor made tours and other arrangements can be made by contacting our Ticket Center.
29
HSAVKTHE ICELANDIC HORSE AND THE WHALE
In this Puffins Exclusive Express Tour, we will take you to Puffin Island (Lundey) on a RIB boat to see
one of the largest puffin colonies in
Iceland. This island is only 4,5 nau-
tical miles from Hsavk harbour
and with our fast RIB we will take
you there in only a few minutes.
Puffin Island reaches 34 m above
sea level, and is around 200 m in
length and 100 m wide. During
the breeding season around
300.000 puffins can be found
there; close to the rich feeding
grounds in the sea around. The
island is privately owned by farm-
ers nearby and we will take you
there for a close look. On this
tour you will get the possibility
to encounter the Clowns of the
Ocean close up.
30
HSAVKGG9 PUFFINS EXCLUSIVE
RATES:
Adults: ISK 8700 (incl. 11% VAT).Children 7-12: 4400 (incl. 11% VAT).Not recommended for children under 7 years.Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
INCLUDED:
A specialized guide, safety overalls, and a little surprise from Hsavks only winemaker.
SEASON:
April 15th - August 20th.
Minimum number of five required in this standard tour. Trips are made upon request.
31
HSAVKONE HOUR EXPRESS TOUR
Steypireyur Balaenoptera musculusBlue whale Blauwal Rorqual BleuMax: 33 m. & 190 t.
Hnsa PhocoenaHarbour porpoise Schweinswal Marsouin commonMax: 1.9 m. & 80 kg.
Hnfubakur Megaptera novaeangeliaeHumpback Whale Buckelwal MegaptreMax: 17 m. & 48 t.
J
n
Bal
du
r H
lb
erg
, ww
w.f
aun
a.is
Hrefna Balaenoptera acutorstrataMinke whale Zwergwal Petit rorqualMax: 11 m. & 10 t.
Hningur Lagenorhynchus albirostrisWhite-beaked dolphin Weisnauzendelphin Lagnorhynque bec blancMax: 3.1 m. & 350 kg.
Hhyrningur Orcinus OrcaOrca / Killer Whale Schwertwal OrqueMax: 10 m. & 9 t.
32
HSAVKWHALES IN SKJLFANDI BAY
Brhvalur Physeter macrocephalusSperm Whale Pottwal CachalotMax: 18 m. & 50 t.Grindhvalur Globicephala melas
Pilot Whale Grindwal Globi cpale noirMax: 8 m. & 5 t.
Langreyur Balaenoptera PhysalusFin Whale Finnwal Rorqual commonMax: 26 m. & 78 t.
Sandreyur Balaenoptera borealisSei Whale Seiwal Rorqual du NordMax: 19.5 m. & 26 t.
Andarnefja Hyperoodon ampullatusNorthern bottlenose Whale Nrdlicher Entenwal Hyperoodon boralMax: 9 m. & 7,5 t.
33
HSAVKMOST COMMON WHALES IN SKJLFANDI BAY
SCHOOL GROUPSWEDDING PLANNINGBachelor and bachelorette toursPrivate toursCORPORATE TOURSSTAFF TOURSGrmsey Island tours Cross-ing the Arctic circle
Hrsey Island toursDiving tours
CAMERA & FILMING TOURSBBQ toursHistory and eDucational toursScientific & research toursBIRTHDAY TOURS
Family reunion toursAnd more
This is your perfect opportunity! As a licenced tour operator, Gentle Giants has organized many tailor made excursions throughout the years. We would be happy to shape a unique adventure together with you, which will turn into lifetime memories for you to think back at in the future.
Welcome to give us an idea of your dream trip!
34
HSAVKGG TAILOR MADE TOURSCREATE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE
SAFETYFIRSTGentle Giants boats andstaff are fully-licensed
by the IcelandicMaritime Administration.
Gentle Giants Whale Watchingis a member of SAF,the Icelandic Travel
Industry Association.
Gentle Giants Whale Watchingis a member of the International
Blue Flag eco-label.
Gentle Giants Whale Watchingis a partner in the Wild NorthProject of sustainable tourism.
Gentle Giants staff is trained in Safety and Survival by the Maritime
Safety and Survival TrainingCentre of Iceland.
FOLLOW US ON:
Facebook TwitterTripAdvisor
Our passengers are fully insured by VS
Insurance Ltd.
Icelandic TransportAuthority
35
HSAVK
GENTLE GIANTS ENSURES THE SAFETY AND SECURITY OF ITS PASSENGERS
rni Tmasson, fisherman and farmer in Flatey Island Valley
(great grandfather of Gentle Giants owner Stefn Gumunds-
son), with his wife Jhanna Jnsdttir and 14 of their children.
Jn rmann rnason (great great grandfather of Gentle
Giants owner) and his second wife Karen Halldrsdttir with
their five children, who were actually the children of his former
wife Kristbjrg Sigurardttir who passed away young. All of
them lived their lives by Skjlfandi Bay with their families. Until
this day the ancestors still live in Hsavk making the roots
stronger year by year. Jn rmann was the head mason of the
Hsavk Church and laid the foundation for it - built in 1907.
Not ideal for whale watching, but boats like these made it
possible to catch the fish necessary to feed a big family of nine.
Hlmgeir rnason, grandfather of Gentle Giants owner, fishing
close to his home in Flatey Island in Skjlfandi Bay.
With time the boats became bigger, steadier and safer.
Today Gentle Giants is using oak boats similar to these for
whale watching.
36
HSAVK FIVE GENERATIONS OF PIONEERING IN THE BAYSINCE 1861
150 YEARS OFFAMILY HISTORY
IN THE BAY
ANNO 1861
Generation to generation, the knowledge about the bay is passed down. In the picture on the left is Hinn Marusson great grandfather of Stefn Gumundsson, owner of Gentle Giants, on the right.
37
HSAVK
MORE THAN 150 YEARS OF FAMILY HISTORY IN THE BAY
Hsavk means The House Bay and is a town in northern Iceland, located on the eastern shore of Skjlfandi Bay. It was first settled in 870 AD by a Swedish Viking, Garar Svavarsson. According to the Book of Settlement, he circumnavigated Iceland and was the first one to discover it is an island. Garar spent one winter in Hsavk before returning to Sweden, leaving one of his men, Nttfari, behind. He stayed in Iceland until he died and is therefore considered to be the first Nordic settler in Iceland. The name Hsavk is indeed one of Icelands oldest local names.
Like many other towns on the coast, the fishing industry has played a vital part for Hsavks local development. The first sources of fishing and fish processing are from the late 19th century. Agricul-ture and farming have also been important for
the inhabitants. Moreover, Icelands first co-op was founded in Hsavk in 1882. In recent years, yet another trade has grown in Hsavk the tourism industry. It is the fastest growing sector of the economy. The biggest visitor attraction is whale watching and Hsavk has in fact become known as the Whale Watching Capital of Europe. Thousands of tourists visit Hsavk annually in the hope of seeing the gentle giants of the ocean.
The church, built in 1907, is one of the main symbols of Hsavk, located in the heart of the town. With a total population of 2,192 (2015), Hsavk is rich with culture and activities. One of the major events in Hsavk is Mrudagar (Candy Days), a local festival held every summer.
Welcome to Hsavk!
38
HSAVKHSAVK
NJust look
for
THE WHALE
WATCHING
TICKET
CENTER
OUR HOMETOWN
39
HSAVK
DIAMONDS AROUND THE CORNER
Flatey Island (30 min.)
Flatey Island is situ ated in Skjlf andi Bay, only 14,7 nautical miles from Hsavk. The island is about 2,5 km long and 1,7 km wide, and is low- lying. The highest peak only rises about 22 m above sea level. Which is why it is called Flat Island.
sbyrgi Canyon (40 min.)
A natural marvel, sbyrgi is surrounded by 90 to 100 m cliffs. According to legend, sbyrgi is a hoof print made by Sleipnir, the horse of inn, the greatest of all Nordic gods. sbyrgi is a part of the Vatnajkull National Park and is an ideal territory for walking and hiking. In fact it cannot be explored to the full extent except by foot.
1 2
Dettifoss Waterfall (65 min.)
Dettifoss is considered the most impressive waterfall in Europe. It is 45 m high and 100 m wide. Below it in the Jkuls river is Hafragilsfoss (27 m) and above it is Selfoss (10 m). These waterfalls form a unity unparalleled in the world. There is a marked walking path from Dettifoss to Hafragilsfoss.
3 Lake Mvatn (40 min.)
Lake Mvatn is a unique source of endless discoveries and no visitor to Iceland should leave without having spent a day here. It is the fourth-largest lake in Iceland, measuring 37,3 km2. Frequent lava flows have left the lake very irregular in shape, and it is dotted with many islets and rock formations.
5 Goafoss Waterfall (30 min.)
Literally, waterfall of the gods! Waterfall on the river Skjlfandafljt, not far from the main road at Fosshll in Brardalur Valley. The waterfall can be viewed from several places, and the river enters a chasm beneath it.
4
Mvatn 54
Akureyri 91
Seyisfjrur 248
Egilsstair 220
Reykjavk 480
Borgarnes 406
safjrur 659
Hfn 467
Selfoss 521
Vk 650
Gullfoss 587
Keflavk 520
ingvellir 497
Grundarfjrur 474
ROAD DISTANCES IN KM TO HSAVK
40
HSAVK
HERE WE ARE - LOOKING FORWARD
TO SEEING YOU!
GOAFOSS
ROAD TO REYKJAVK
FLATEY
85
1
11
1
85
85
845
864862
848
863
KRAFLA
MVATN
HSAVK
AKUREYRI
SBYRGI
DETTIFOSS
SKJLFANDI BAY
N
THE ARCTIC CIRCLE
SPRENGISANDUR ROAD
ALDEYJARFOSS
GRMSEY
N
ReykjavkHfn
Akureyri Hsavk
1
2
3
4
5
41
HSAVKLET US GUIDE YOU
simply natural
Our environmental policy reflects Gentle Giants long-time experience and commitment to all aspects of conservation,
protecting the environment and treating nature with respect. This policy is our answer to the increasing demand from
our customers and global organisations for companies like Gentle Giants Whale Watching who support and contribute
to the eco-system and sustainable tourism worldwide.
GGiswillingtofulfileverycustomersneeds,withoutthreateningnaturespresentandfuturepossibilities.
GGoperatestraditionalIcelandicfishingboatsthathavebeenrenovatedfortheircurrentpurpose.Wemakea
special effort to protect and maintain vessels with cultural and historical importance.
GGusesenvironmentallyfriendlyproductsandeco-labelsarepreferablyusedforrepairandmaintenanceofhulls
and engines.
GGusesrecyclableproducts.Theuseofsingleuseproductsisavoidedasmuchaspossible
GGputsagreatemphasisondeliveringallhazardousandtoxicwastesuchasoil,paintandusedbatteriesto
assigned official collecting sites.
GGimmediatelynotifiestherelevantauthoritiesaboutanyaccidentsthatmightcauseenvironmentaldamage
from our boats or from others.
GGstaffisupdatedregularlyabouttheenvironmentalpolicyofthecompanytoincludeallnewaspectsof
protecting the environment.
GGputseffortinenergyefficiencyregardingtheoutputandspeedofourengines,inordertominimisepollution
and disturbance in wildlife. Special precautions are taken near whales and breeding birds.
GGalwaysshowsgreatcautionwhenleavingandenteringtheharbourarea.
GGbelievesthatprinciplesinsustainabilityrefertothreemajorfactors:theenvironmentalfactor,theeconomic
factor and social cultural aspects of tourism development. A suitable balance must be established between these
factors in order to reach a long-term optimal use of natures resources in the ecological process.
GGinformspassengersonitsvesselsofthegreatimportanceofprotectingtheenvironmentinthearea,its
outstanding marine wildlife, stunning scenery and the air that we breathe.
GGisaproudpartnerofTheWildNorth-aprojectwiththeaimoffindingwaystocontributetothesustainable
development of wildlife tourism such as whale watching.
Weareaproudmemberoftheinternationaleco-labelBlueFlag.
On behalf of Gentle Giants Whale Watching
Stefn Gumundsson CEO & Marketing Manager
42
HSAVKENVIRONMENTAL POLICYSUPPORT TO NATURE
We have to remember that these are wild animals and to enjoy them for the
future we need to show them patience and respect. We will try to get you close
but how close we get is always on the animals terms as we aim to minimise
disturbance.
This is a Code of Conduct we aim to abide by, however, there are many vari-
ables to consider when out at sea, such as the weather, number of whales, prey
availability, if there are calves present, animal behaviour and so on and so forth.
Searching-Zone (3000 m >)
Keep a dedicated lookout and stay in radio contact with other vessels (ap-
proaching and departing).
Avoid making sudden or excessive noises and disturbance for the cetacean.
Avoid sudden speed or course changes (approaching and departing).
Assess the cetacean behaviour and avoid repeated attempts to interact with
animals that are showing signs of distress.
Approaching-Zone (300 m >)
Aim at maintaining a distance of 300 m at the beginning of the encounter and
gradually get closer with time.
Stop the main propeller (max speed ~5-6 mph). If the cetacean is travelling fast
you can speed up a little (up to ~8 mph) but not directly towards the animal.
Avoid following behind cetacean and never deliberately approach directly in
front. Vessel movements should parallel them by approaching cautiously at an
oblique angle (from behind).
Do not come closer if there is another boat in the approaching zone, unless the
other boat gives away or signals that it safe to approach.
Take turns if there are more boats in the area, preferably each boat should not
spend more than 20-30 minutes within the area at once.
Never (deliberately) sail through pods of concentrated cetacean.
Keep a steady speed if dolphins approach the vessel and start bow-riding or
slowly stop and let them pass.
Do not attempt to encourage dolphins to bow-ride.Ensure that the vessel does
not disturb nesting or resting birds.
Caution-Zone (50 m >)
When possible, stop the propeller if cetacean approaches the vessel and do not
re-engage propulsion until the cetacean is observed well clear of your vessel.
Do not touch, swim with or feed cetacean.
If you think that this Code of Conduct has not been fulfilled, please discuss it
with the crew, send an e-mail to Gentle Giants (info@gentlegiants.is) and / or
contact the IceWhale office
(info@icewhale.is).
43
HSAVKFOR RESPONSIBLE WHALE WATCHINGCODE OF CONDUCT
FLATEYISLAND
PUFFIN ISLAND(LUNDEY)
HSAVK66 02 47N17 20 36W
GRMSEYISLAND66 32 N18 01 W
THE ARCTIC CIRCLE
SKJLFANDI BAYGENTLE GIANTS' ROUTES
GG1 Whale Watching
GG2 Big Whale Safari & Puffins
GG3 Sea Angling
GG4 Flatey Island
GG5 Grmsey Island Adventure
GG6 Hiking the Mountains
GG7 Pro-Fishing
GG8 Whales & Horses
GG9 Puffins Exclusive
ReykjavkHfn
Akureyri Hsavk
The
map
sho
ws
the
max
imum
pos
sibl
e se
arch
are
a of
eac
h ro
ute
HSAVK
THIS IS IT YOUR EXCITING ADVENTURE
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