Gentle Giants Whale Watching Sales Manual 2016

THIS IS IT WHALE WATCHING HSAVK ICELANDGENTLE GIANTS

Hsavk

150 YEARS OF FAMILY HISTORY IN THE BAYBooking: Tel. +354 464 1500 www.gentlegiants.is [email protected] 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, [email protected] 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









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

[email protected]

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 ([email protected]) and / or

contact the IceWhale office

([email protected]).

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

Gentle Giants Whale Watching Sales Manual 2016

Documents

Transcript of Gentle Giants Whale Watching Sales Manual 2016