Gentle Giants Sales Manual 2013

Gentle giants whale watching Húsavík • Iceland

this is it 2013

150 YEARS of FAMILY HISTORY IN THE BAY

Húsavík

welcome sales manual

The truly original and ­experienced family ­company Dear Sir or Madam!

I want to welcome you to Húsavík, I­celand in the 2013 season. Our f­ amily-run company, Gentle G ­ iants Whale ­Watching, ­celebrates its twelfth year and proudly ­offers you our service and highly e ­ xperienced and fully ­qualified staff in our various tours and excursions.

The company is proud of its o ­ riginality and background and is owned by ­people with vast experience in the field. I have personally over 40 years of experience in the bay and like to think of myself as continuing my family´s 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 grand­mothers too.

Put short: We were born by the bay of Skjálf­andi and our ­ancestors too. Way back!

Gentle Giants’ goal is to make every ­visitor a ­satisfied and happy one. 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 w ­ ebpage www.gentlegiants.is or by sending us a m ­ essage d ­ irectly, info@gentlegiants.is or by calling us at: (+354) 464 1500. Please do not ­hesitate to contact us.

Yours sincerely,

Stefán Guðmundsson, CEO Managing & Marketing director stefan@gentlegiants.is

Our company, Gentle Giants Whale Watching Ltd., proudly supports UNICEF CHILDREN

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A Gentle Giant Family Five Generations in Skjálfandi Bay

Sylvía Dís (10)

Aþena Lind (15)

Sædís Helga (16)

In 2001 eleven experienced, ­diverse ­individuals in Húsavík ­decided to combine their years of expertise in a variety of fields to e ­ stablish a new travel and tourism ­company in Húsavík. The group r­ estored an old oak boat, which was ­originally a fishing and ­whale-hunting boat, and put it back into commission ­sailing ­visitors around ­Skjálfandi Bay searching for whales… not for hunting but for ­watching! The immense effort proved more than w ­ orthwhile, 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.

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Stefán’s daughters.

Giants, Three of the owners of Gentle in tion ­members of our fifth genera out the bay, are shown here testing the Zodiac.

Since 1861

Five generations of pioneering in the bay

Photo on the left. Árni Tómasson f­ isherman and farmer in Flatey Island Valley, great ­grandfather of Gentle Giants’ owner, ­Stefán ­Guðmunds­son; his wife Jóhanna J­ ónsdóttir, and 14 of their children. – Photo on the right. Jón Ármann ­Árnason, great great grandfather of Gentle Giants’ owner; his second wife Karen Halldórsdóttir with their five children which were actually the children of his former wife Krist­björg Sigurðar­dóttir who passed away young. All of them lived their lives in Skjálfandi Bay with their families. Until this day the ancestors still live in Húsavík m ­ aking the roots stronger year by year. Jón Ármann was the head mason of the Húsavík Church and laid the foundation for it – built in 1907.

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More than 150 years of family history in the bay Not ideal for whale ­watching, but boats like these made it possible to catch the fish n ­ ecessary to feed a big f­ amily of nine.

Hólmgeir Árnason grandfather of Gentle G ­ iants’ owner; fishing close to his home in Flatey Island in Skjálfandi Bay.

With time the boats became ­bigger, steadier and safer. Today Gentle Giants is using oak boats similar to these for whale watching.

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150 YEARS of FAMILY HISTORY IN THE BAY

ANNO 1861

Generation to ­generation, the knowledge about the bay is passed down. In the ­picture on the left is Héðinn ­Maríusson great grandfather of Stefán ­Guðmundsson, owner of Gentle ­Giants, on the right.

GG1 • Whale Watching EXPERIENCE THE MAMMALS OF THE OCEAN

Experience the traditional tour from Húsavík.

Our birthplace is often considered as the Whale Watching Capital of Europe. Whale watching is a unique adventure at sea: ­Gazing

at the wonders of nature in the ­beautiful ­surroundings of Skjálfandi Bay, ­sheltered by the stunning mountains of Vík.

This is a place where our roots lie, where our

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ancestors used to live in peace and joy for centuries, living in total harmony with the ­unpredictable and untamed nature of the North Atlantic.

Timetable 2013 April 15th April 30th

09:45

May 1st May 14th

09:45

May 15th May 31st

June 1st June 30th

July 1st Aug. 10th

Aug. 11th Aug. 31st

08:45

08:45

Sept. 1st Sept. 30th

Oct. 1st Oct. 15th

09:45

09:45

09:45

09:45

09:45

09:45

11:00

11:00

11:00

11:00*

See page 20

12:00

12:00

12:00

12:30

12:30

12:30

12:30

12:30

See page 22

13:15

13:15

13:15

13:15

13:15

13:15

15:15

15:15

16:00

16:00

16:45

16:45

16:45

19:00

19:00

19:00

20:15

20:15

See page 22

RATES: Adults: EUR 56 Children 7–15 years: EUR 24 Children 0-6 years: FREE Duration: Approximately 3 hours.

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.

Included: A specialized guide, light r­ efreshments (hot ­chocolate and an Icelandic t­ raditional ­twisted donut, kleina), warm overalls and ­raincoats if needed.

SEASON: See page 22

Whale watching timetable 2013. 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 should weather or other conditions change.

GG1 Whale Watching *GG6 Puffins Exclusive (May 15th-August 20th) GG7 Big Whale Safari & Puffins.

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April 15th – October 15th.

Daily departures.

We accept all major credit cards And currencies

Whales in Skjálfandi Bay Hnísa • Phocoena Harbour porpoise • Schweinswal • Marsouin common Max: 1.9 m. & 80 kg.

© Jón Baldur Hlíðberg, www.fauna.is

Steypireyður • Balaenoptera musculus Blue whale • Blauwal • Rorqual Bleu Max: 33 m. & 190 t.

Hnúfubakur • Megaptera novaeangeliae Humpback Whale • Buckelwal • Megaptère Max: 17 m. & 48 t.

Búrhvalur • Physeter macrocephalus Sperm Whale • Pottwal • Cachalot Max: 18 m. & 50 t.

Grindhvalur • Globicephala melas Pilot Whale • Grindwal • Globi cèpale noir Max: 8 m. & 5 t.

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Most common whales in Skjálfandi Bay

Whales in Skjálfandi Bay Hnýðingur • Lagenorhynchus albirostris White-beaked dolphin • Weißsnauzendelphin • Lagènorhynque à bec blanc Max: 3.1 m. & 350 kg.

Hrefna • Balaenoptera acutorstrata Minke whale • Zwergwal • Petit rorqual Max: 11 m. & 10 t.

Háhyrningur • Orcinus Orca Orca / Killer Whale • Schwertwal • Orque Max: 10 m. & 9 t.

Sandreyður • Balaenoptera borealis Sei Whale • Seiwal • Rorqual du Nord Max: 19.5 m. & 26 t.

Langreyður • Balaenoptera Physalus Fin Whale • Finnwal • Rorqual common Max: 26 m. & 78 t.

Andarnefja • Hyperoodon ampullatus Northern bottlenose Whale • Nördlicher Entenwal • Hyperoodon boréal Max: 9 m. & 7,5 t.

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GG2 Sea Angling

NTEE!

CATCH YOUR OWN MEAL Rates: Adults: EUR 79 Children 7–12 years: EUR 39 Children 0-6 years: FREE Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours.

Minimum number of four required in a standard tour, or you can rent a boat for a private trip.

Included: An experienced captain, f­ ishing equipment/rods, and waterproof trousers, rubber boots, fleece j­ackets, light r­ efreshments (hot chocolate and a t­ raditional ­Icelandic twisted donut, kleina).

10CA0TC% H

Experience the exciting feeling of ­catching your own meal out on Skjálf­ andi Bay. The distance to the rich fish­ ing grounds is very short. At the end of the trip the captain can fillet your catch, which will probably be cod or h ­ addock.

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 p ­ rofessional fishermen with h ­ istorically strong roots around the bay, on this tour we can p ­ rovide you with a 100% CATCH G ­ UARANTEE!

SEASON: April 1st - October 31st.

Trips made upon request.

Contact us for more information.

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GUARA

NICE COD – NICE JOB

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GG3 FLATEY ISLAND PUFFINs BIRD WATCHING WHALES

On your way to Flatey Island, ­experience the ­beautiful surroundings of Skjálfandi Bay. Flatey ­Island is a ­natural haven for birdlife and is ­extremely rich and ­diverse.

It therefore attracts many people and ­tourists each year. The island offers more than 30 different ­species of birds during the breeding season.

We offer guided excursions through Flatey’s 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 Húsavík and sail by the ­awesome ­mountains of

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Vík. If Mother Nature is feeling generous, we may even be able to do some whale watching on our way back. Special arrangements are ­available upon request.

FLATEY is an island situated in Skjálfandi Bay, only 14,7 nautical miles NW from Húsavík. 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.

The island was settled early in historic times and the number of ­inhabitants increased ­during the first decades of the 20th century.

RATES:

Several structures have been built on Flatey: • A schoolhouse was built in 1929.

The inhabitants of Flatey mostly earned their living on fishing. The • The first lighthouse was built in 1913 and rebuilt in 1963. ­fishing grounds around the island • A church was built in the are extremely good and rich in early years but was shut ­species such as cod and lumpfish. down in 1884. In 1960 a new Flatey is fertile and well vegchurch was consecrated. etated and therefore the islanders • A radio telegraph was put also practiced agriculture, mostly up in 1931. for their own needs. Each home kept a cow, a few sheep and hens.

The community on the island was very active when the population In 1942, Flatey reached its peak population of 120 people.

was at its most. However, it was ­difficult for Flatey to compete with other ­communities that grew faster once ­electricity and hot water became available in homes. People started leaving the island and moving to places as Húsavík and in 1967 the last inhabitants left.

It has not been permanently inhabited since but many people visit the island each ­summer. Most of the old homes are kept and maintained as summer­houses.

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Adults: EUR 139 Children 7–12 years: EUR 68 Children 0-6 years: FREE Duration: 4–5 hours.

Minimum number of six required in this standard tour, or you can rent a boat for a private trip.

Included: A specialized guide, safety overalls, and a little surprise from Húsavík’s only ­winemaker. Ask for tailor-made tours and ­arrangements in our Ticket Center.

SEASON: June 1st - August 10th.

Trips made upon request.

Contact us for more information.

Gg4 Whales & Horses The Icelandic horse and the whale Experience the ­combination of ­traditional whale watching and the Icelandic horse. ­Explore the countryside close to Húsavík on an Icelandic horse with ­experienced riders at your side. The ­riding trip begins in Saltvík, which is just four minutes by car from Húsavík ­harbour, and can be taken either before or after your whale ­watching tour.

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Gg4 Whales & Horses RATES: Adults: EUR 99 Children 0–12 years: EUR 49 Duration: Approximately 3 hours whale watching and 2 hours horse riding.

Included: A specialized guide, light refreshments (hot chocolate and an Icelandic t­ raditional ­twisted donut, kleina) and warm overalls and raincoats if needed during the whale watching tour.

SEASON: May 1st – October 15th.

See our whale watching timetable for daily tours or contact us for more information.

Tailor made tours and other ­arrangements can be made by ­contacting our Ticket Center.

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GG5 Pro-Fishing Unique and unforgettable experience

“We spent some very exciting days in Iceland, and the top of it was the day we were fishing in Húsavík!

caught an incredible amount of fish. Fishing is extremely tiring, but an amazing experience. And during the work we saw some killer whales, d­ olphins, puffins and many other sea birds.

When we were in Iceland for the first time, we wanted to try working on a fishing boat, but we didn’t find any opportunity.

It was a great pleasure when we found Gentle Giants on our ­second trip. We didn’t 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

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

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GG5 Pro-Fishing

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GG5 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 f­ ishing boats, sharing our extensive knowledge of fishing and the sea to create an unforgettable and traditional Icelandic adventure.

We take our customers out from Húsavík to Skjálfandi 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 Iceland’s beauty and wild nature, ­using our ­family’s ancestral roots in the history and ­environment around Húsavík, Skjálfandi Bay, and Flatey Island. We tell our true family story around Skjálfandi Bay and Húsavík, generation after generation, for more than 150 years. We are an original part of the history, fishermen with salty blood running through our veins. Others may wish they had the same tradition, and we want to ­offer them the salty experience… a real one!

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GG5 Pro-Fishing Fishing

Apr MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

Lumpfish

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Cod

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Haddock

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Pollock

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Redfish

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European Plaice

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Common Dab

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•

•

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American Plaice

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Catfish

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Leopardfish

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Whiting

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Monkfish

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Difficulty

5

4

3

2

2

3

4

Difficulty levels are calculated by our Marine Experts living in S­ kjálfandi Bay for ­decades with vast experience fishing in the bay. The biggest contributor to the ­difficulty levels is the unpredictable weather conditions.

Primary catch

•

Secondary catch

•

1 day Pro-Fishing package: EUR 299 INCLUDED: A crewmember’s position on one of our fishing boats. Full Pro-Fishing outfit; boots, wp-trousers, wp-jacket, wp-gloves, hat, fleece jacket and woollen socks. A box full of food and drinks for a whole day - the fisherman’s lunch box. A part of the catch filleted for own use or cooked in a restaurant. Different Icelandic weather conditions.

DURATION: 10–16 hours of hard work and adventure - dependent upon catch and weather.

3 day Pro-Fishing package: EUR 999 DAY 1: Domestic flight from Reykjavík to Húsavík. Transfer to a hotel or guesthouse - free rest of the day.

DAY 2: Early departure to the fishing grounds – ready for an adventure. Back in the afternoon, unload the catch and prepare the boat for next day. Shower, swimming pool or hot tub. Dinner made from the catch of the day.

DAY 3: A guided excursion to the wonders of Lake Mývatn. Visit to the Nature Baths and a ­restaurant. Waterfall of the Gods visited before transfer to airport for domestic flight to Reykjavík.

INCLUDED: A crewmember’s position on one of our fishing boats. Full Pro-Fishing outfit; boots, wp-trousers, wp-jacket, wp-gloves, hat, fleece jacket and woollen socks. A box full of food and drinks for a whole day - the fisherman’s lunch box. A part of the catch filleted for own use or cooked in a restaurant. Different Icelandic weather conditions.

DURATION: 10–16 hours of hard work and adventure - dependent upon catch and weather.

SEASON: April 1st - October 15th.

NOTE: We reserve the right to change schedules should weather or other conditions change.

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GG6 PUFFINS EXCLUSIVE One hour express tour

Puffins

exclusive

In this Puffins Exclusive Express Tour, we will take you to ­Puffin Island ­(Lundey) on our new boat Amma Sigga to see one of the largest ­puffin ­colonies in Iceland. This island is only 4,5 nautical miles from Húsavík ­harbour and with our fast RIB we will take you there in only a few minutes.

Timetable May 15th - August 20th

11:00

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Puffin Island reaches 34 m above sea level, and is around 200 m in length and 100 m wide. D ­ uring 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 farmers 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.

GG6 PUFFINS EXCLUSIVE Rates: Adults: EUR 43 Children 7–12 years: EUR 20 Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Minimum number of five re­quired in a standard tour, or you can rent a boat for a private trip.

Included: A specialized guide, safety overalls, and a little surprise from Húsavík’s only winemaker.

SEASON: May 15th - August 20th.

Daily departures at 11:00* Trips can also be made upon r­ equest. ­Contact us for more ­information. *We reserve the right to change ­schedules should w ­ eather or other ­conditions change.

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GG7 Big whale Safari & puffins We can go further out for bigger whales and get closer Rates: Adults: EUR 99 Children 7–12 years: EUR 69 Not recommended for children under 7 years.

Duration: Approximately 2,5 hours.

Minimum number of six r­ equired for the standard tour, or you can rent a boat for a private trip.

lly New specia ralls to made ­ove warm keep you and dry!

Included: A specialized guide, ­safety ­overalls, and a little ­surprise from Húsavík’s only ­winemaker.

SEASON: May 1st – August 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 should weather or other conditions change.

With our new boat Amma Sigga we can offer our ­passengers more area to cover in search for the gentle giants. This 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 world’s 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 (May 1st – August 20th).

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GG7 Big whale Safari & puffins

May 1st May 31st

June 1st June 30th

July 1st Aug. 31st

12:30

12:30

12:30 16:00

19:00

19:00

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GG8 HIKING THE MOUNTAINS Hiking the mountains of Skjálfandi Bay Rates: EUR 599

Included: A specialized guide, delicious fish soup, dinner, breakfast, accommodation in a cabin, two boat trips, BBQ in Flatey Island and whale watching. S­ pectacular and ­unspoiled remote nature.

Departures 2013: #1 June 28th - Friday from Húsavík at 07:00 am. #2 July 19th – Friday from Húsavík at 07:00 am. #3 August 23rd – Friday from Húsavík at 07:00 am. #4 September 13th – Friday from Húsavík at 07:00 am.

NOTE: Expect all kinds of Icelandic summer weather; be well prepared in clothing and food. Remember to bring your sleeping bag and your hiking shoes.

A meeting will be held the night before departure in Húsavik at 20:00.

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GG8 HIKING THE MOUNTAINS 855 m

The trip:

Altitude profile

Day 1 - We leave early on Friday morning at 07:00, with a boat

600 m

END

400 m

N66 06.799 W17 52.992

and head towards the mountainside, sail across the bay and go

800 m

200 m

ashore in Rauðavík or Naustavík Beach half an hour later. Next,

0m END

we hike across the beautiful and very lonesome Víknafjöll, the

Start

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 destination is around 16:00. The Guide’s Fish Soup will be served for starting leisure time for short w ­ alking 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

Start N66 02.178 W17 41.348

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 Húsavík passing the whale watching

Accommodation

areas in ­Skjálfandi Bay – ETA in Húsavík this day is at 17:00.

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GG8 HIKING THE MOUNTAINS

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GG8 HIKING THE MOUNTAINS

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GG9 GRÍMSEY ISLAND ADVENTURE ARCTIC CROSSING - WHALES & PUFFINS Rates: EUR 390 Duration: Approximately 6 hours. ­Minimum number of ten r­ equired for the standard tour, or you can rent a boat for a private trip.

Included: Nice comfortable RIB boat, ­experienced captain and a ­speciali­zed guide. Warm safety overalls, ­life­jackets, refreshments on the way and fun. A guided tour and fully loaded breakfast on Grímsey Island.

SEASON: May 15th – August 20th.

Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Departure from Húsavík at 06:00 AM. Booking in advance required.

We reserve the right to change ­schedules should weather or other ­conditions change.

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GG9 GRÍMSEY ISLAND ADVENTURE Get the opportunity to cross the Arctic Circle, see whales and encounter puffins - all in one tour.

Our fast RIB can take you to Grímsey 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 Skjálfandi Bay. Estimated time of arrival in Húsavík is at 12:00 AM. Every passenger gets a certificate after crossing The Arctic Circle.

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GG TAILOR MADE TOURS – ASK FOR IT Gentle Giants Whale ­Watching Company has done many tailor made tours as a l­icensed Tour ­Operator, through the years. Just ask us or give us an idea, we will work it out with you and make it ­happen.

SCHOOL GROUPS

Call us or drop us a line.

Birthday tours

WEDDING PLANNING Bachelor and bachelorette tours Private tours

Corporate tours Staff tours

Grímsey Island tours – Crossing the Arctic circle

Hrísey Island tours Diving tours

Camera & filming tours BBQ tours

History and eDucational tours

Scientific & research tours

Family reunion tours And more…………

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GG TAILOR MADE TOURS – ASK FOR IT

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Gentle Giants ensures the safety and security of its ­passengers

SA fe fir ty st

Tour Operator

Authorised by Icelandic Tourist Board

Gentle Giants Whale Watching is a partner in the Wild North Project of sustainable tourism.

Gentle Giants Whale Watching is a member of the International Blue Flag eco-label.

Gentle Giants Whale Watching is a member of SAF, the Icelandic Travel Industry Association.

Gentle Giants boats and staff are fully-licensed by the Icelandic Maritime Administration.

Gentle Giants staff is trained in Safety and Survival by the Maritime Safety and Survival Training Centre of Iceland.

Our passengers are fully insured by VÍS Insurance Ltd.

Follow us on:

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Photos in the sales manual are taken by Gentle Giants’ team: ©Peter Waltl jr. & Sr., ©Jóhann Óli Hilmarsson, ©Stefán Guðmundsson, ©Daniel & Alexia, ©Anton Ísak Óskarsson, ©Elín Lilja, ©Friðþjófur Helgason, ©Sarah Arndt, ©HalliEgils, ©Rebekka K.

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SAFETY FIRST

Our crew regularly practices safety procedures through rescue drills

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Mr & Mrs Feel Good We Care We care about our passengers’ f­ eelings. We have cozy, warm overalls in bright safety colours and a wide range of sizes, all

wa speci a r an m ove l d ava rain ralls coa ila eve ble F ts REE ry day

especially designed for our e ­ xcursions to the open sea. We also offer every passenger light refreshments on our ­traditional whale watching tour. Complement­ary hot chocolate and the t­ raditional I­celandic twisted donut, k ­ leina, to keep you warm and n ­ ourished. We want our passengers to have a great e ­ xperience and FEEL GOOD!

Specially designed useful things for sale on location at ­reasonable prices.

Different colours available.

You can book and buy your ticket: ... online at www.gentlegiants.is ... by e-mail: info@gentlegiants.is ... by phone: (+354) 464 1500 ... in the Whale Watching Ticket ­Center.

Just look for the BIG BLUE FLAGS by the main street in Húsavík!

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We proudly present our EXPERIENCED TEAM CEO, Managing & Marketing Director, Captain

Daniel Annisius

Assistant Director, Guide, Ticket Sales

The Adventurer Ann-Sophie ­Behrendt Guide

Captain

Guide

Guide, Ticket Sales

The Lily Elin Lilja

Captain

Guide, Ticket Sales

The Black Belt Holder

The Sailor Þorvaldur Hreinn Skaftason Captain

Hilmar Þór ­Guðmundsson Captain

Guide, Ticket Sales

Captain

The Rock Sigurjón ­Sigurbjörnsson Captain

Ticket Sales

Captain

Captain

The Consultant Þorgeir Baldursson Crew Member

Guide

The General Karl Óskar Geirsson Captain

The Stallion

The one and only Ingibjörg ­Bryngeirsdóttir

Captain

Elías Frímann E ­ lvarsson Captain

Captain

The Player

The Hunter

The Gentleman

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Vilhjálmur Bessi Kristinsson

Hlynur Þór Birgisson

Mr Smiley Peter Waltl

The Old Dog

Der Herr

The Pro Guy

Captain

Ticket Sales

Guide

Sigdór Jósefsson

Sigurður Kristjánsson

Sigrún Vala ­Hauksdóttir

Matthías Annisius

Guide

The Mustang Sverrir Yngvi Karlsson

Björg ­Skarphéðins­dóttir

The Cosmopolitan Sarah Arndt

The mid-field striker

The Artist

Miss Húsavik Sigrún Björg Steinþórsdóttir

Guide

The Champ

The Big Fish

The Queen Alexia Askelöf

Kári Ísleifur J­ óhannsson

Guide

The Farmer Þorvaldur Jón ­Ottósson

Sigmar Ingólfsson Captain

María Torralba Escobedo

The Princess Þóra Katrín ­Þórsdóttir

The unbeatable armwrestler Björgvin ­Sigurjónsson

The Spanish Pearl

The King

The Boss Stefán Guðmundsson

Gísli Valur Gíslason Captain

The Russian Hallgrímur Egilsson Designer

Gentle Giants’ proud fleet BOAT RENTAL - five boats

Experience ­private and tailor made tours. Travel yourself in ­cooperation with our crew. ­Ideal for ­individuals, ­families and groups. Suggest a trip or route – any idea is a good one – or let us c­ reate an ­itinerary for you. We want to please you with our service and experience.

The l­imitations of ­possibilities are up to your i­magination.

Note: Tailor made r­ efreshments ­available at a r­ easonable price.

m/v Sylvía

m/v Faldur

Built: 1976 in Akureyri Tonnage: 30 Length: 17,5 m Beam: 4,3 m Max speed: 11 knots Capacity: 60 pax EUR 2.455 for 3 hours

Built: 1972 in Westman-islands Tonnage: 26 Length: 14,5 m Beam: 4 m Max speed: 9 knots Capacity: 45 pax EUR 1.985 for 3 hours

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Gentle Giants’ proud fleet

RIB Amma Sigga Built: 2011 Length: 11,5 m Beam: 3 m Engines: 2 x 300 hp Max speed: 56 knots Capacity: 18 pax EUR 990 pr. hour

m/v Athena

m/v Axel - Zodiac

Specialized for sea angling and smaller groups in various activity.

Only as a working boat nr. II - ideal for camera work, diving and coastal transport / beaches.

Built: 2000 in Hafnarfjörður Tonnage: 8 Length: 9,5 m Beam: 3 m Max speed: 16 knots Capacity: 24 pax EUR 977 for 3 hours

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Built: 2007 Length: 4,5 m Beam: 2 m Max speed: 32 knots Capacity: 8 pax EUR 195 pr. hour

AMAZING MOMENTs Arctic Tern feeding its chick

Fresh fish for lunch...

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AMAZING MOMENTs Close encounter

Who is watching who...

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AMAZING MOMENTs Relaxing in the sun

A hugging humpback...

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AMAZING MOMENTs UNIQUE EXPERIENCE

A humpback seeking contact...

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AMAZING MOMENTs Curiosity

Whatsup fellas...

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AMAZING MOMENTs Midnight sun in Húsavík

Speechless...

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Húsavík

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Our Hometown Húsavík means “The House Bay” and is a town in northern Iceland, located on the eastern shore of Skjálfandi Bay. It was first settled in 870 AD by a Swedish Viking, G ­ arðar ­Svavarsson. ­According to the Book of ­Settlement, he circum­navigated Iceland and was the first one to discover it is an island. Garðar spent one winter in Húsavík b ­ efore ­returning to S­ weden, ­leaving one of his men, Náttfari, behind. He stayed in Iceland until he died and is ­therefore c­ onsidered to be the first Nordic ­settler in Iceland. The name Húsavík is ­indeed one of ­Iceland’s oldest local names.

Like many other towns on the coast, the ­fishing industry has played a vital part for Húsavík’s local development. The first sources of fishing and fish processing are from the late 19th century. Agriculture and ­farming have also been important for the inhabitants. Moreover, Iceland’s first ­co-op was founded in Húsavík in 1882.

In recent years, yet another trade has grown in Húsavík – the tourist industry. It is the fastest ­growing sector of the econ­omy. The biggest ­tourist ­attraction is whale ­watching and Húsavík has in fact become

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known as the Whale Watching ­Capital of Europe. Thousands of tourists visit Húsavík annually in the hope of ­seeing the gentle giants of the ocean.

The church, built in 1907, is one of the main symbols of Húsavík, ­located in the heart of the town.

With a total popu­lation of 2.232 (2012), Húsavík is rich with culture and ­activities. One of the major events in Húsavík is Mærudagar (Candy Days), a local festival held late July every summer.

Húsavík

N

Húsavík

ok for o l t s u J

ale h W e Th ing watch ticket r Húsavík cente

46

47 1

Road To Reykjavík

Akureyri

Grímsey

845

85

Sprengisandur Road

85

HÚSAVÍK

SKJÁLFANDI bay

N

GOÐAFOSS

1

FLATEY

The Arctic Circle

Aldeyjarfoss

1 848

MÝVATN

863

KRAFLA

- looking forward to seeing you!

HERE WE ARE

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DETTIFOSS

862

ÁSBYRGI

N

1

864

Diamonds around the corner Road distances in km from Húsavík Mývatn 54 Akureyri 91 Seyðisfjörður 248 Egilsstaðir 220 Reykjavík 480 Borgarnes 406 Ísafjörður 659

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Flatey Island (30 minutes)

2

Ásbyrgi canyon (40 minutes)

Höfn 467 Selfoss 521 Vík 650 Gullfoss 587 Keflavík 520 Þingvellir 497

FLATEY ISLAND is situated in Skjálfandi Bay, only 14,7 nautical miles from Húsavík.

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.

Grundarfjörður 474

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A natural marvel, Ásbyrgi is surrounded by 90 to 100 m cliffs. According to legend, Ásbyrgi is a hoof print made by Sleipnir, the horse of Óðinn, the greatest of all Nordic gods. Ásbyrgi is a part of the Vatnajökull National Park and is an ideal territory for walking and hiking. In fact it cannot be explored to the full extend except by foot.

Diamonds around the corner

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Dettifoss waterfall (65 minutes)

Dettifoss is considered the most i­mpressive waterfall in Europe. It is 45 m high and 100 m wide. Below it in the Jökulsá river is Hafragilsfoss (27 m) and above it is S­ elfoss (10 m). These waterfalls form a unity ­unparalleled in the world. There is a marked walking path from Dettifoss to Hafragilsfoss.

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Goðafoss waterfall (30 minutes)

Literally, waterfall of the gods! Waterfall on the river Skjálfandafljót, not far from the main road at Fosshóll in Bárðardalur Valley. The waterfall can be viewed from several places, and the river enters a chasm beneath it.

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5

Lake Mývatn (40 minutes)

Lake Mývatn 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.

Environmental Policy nce and commitment to all aspects of conservation, Our environmental policy reflects Gentle Giants’ long-time experie This policy is our answer to the increasing demand from protecting the environment and treating nature with respect.

Giants Whale Watching who support and contribute our customers and global organisations for companies like Gentle to the eco-system and sustainable tourism worldwide. ning • GG is willing to fulfil every customer’s needs, without threate possibilities.

nature’s present and future

renovated for their current purpose. We • GG operates traditional Icelandic fishing boats that have been l and historical importance. make a special effort to protect and maintain vessels with cultura preferably used • GG uses environmentally friendly products and eco-labels are maintenance of hulls and engines. is • GG uses recyclable products. The use of single use products

for repair and

avoided as much as possible

toxic waste such as oil, • GG puts a great emphasis on delivering all hazardous and batteries to assigned official collecting sites.

paint and used

ts that might cause environmental

acciden • GG immediately notifies the relevant authorities about any damage from our boats or from others.

of the company to include all new • GG staff is updated regularly about the environmental policy aspects of protecting the environment.

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Environmental Policy speed of our engines, in order to minimise • GG puts effort in energy efficiency regarding the output and near whales and breeding birds. pollution and disturbance in wildlife. Special precautions are taken the • GG always shows great caution when leaving and entering

harbour area.

factors: the environmental factor, the • GG believes that principles in sustainability refer to three major . A suitable balance must be established economic factor and social cultural aspects of tourism development of nature’s resources in the ecological between these factors in order to reach a long-term optimal use process. of protecting the environment in the • GG informs passengers on its vessels of the great importance air that we breathe. the area, its outstanding marine wildlife, stunning scenery and aim of finding ways to contribute to the • GG is a proud partner of The Wild North - a project with the ng. sustainable development of wildlife tourism such as whale watchi Flag.

• We are a proud member of the international eco-label Blue

simply natural

On behalf of Gentle Giants Whale Watching Stefán Guðmundsson – CEO & General Manager

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66° 32’ N 18° 01’ w

Grímsey ISLAND

FLATEY ISLAND

The Arctic Circle

66° 02’ 47”N 17° 20’ 36”W

Húsavík

Puffin ­Island (LUNDEY)

GG9 · Grímsey Island adventure

GG8 · Hiking

GG7 · Big Whale Safari & Puffins

GG6 · Puffins Exclusive

GG5 · Pro-Fishing

GG4 · Whales & Horses

GG3 · Flatey Island

GG2 · Sea Angling

GG1 · Whale Watching

Gentle Giants' routes

SKJÁLFANDI BAY