Table Of Content
The town, located on the Westfjords peninsula in northwest Iceland, features charming shops and a maritime museum, and also is a jumping off point for excursions throughout the region. Horseback riding is also a popular activity in Isafjordur and the surrounding Westfjords region, allowing visitors to explore the area’s stunning landscapes in a unique and immersive way. Icelandic horses, renowned for their strength, friendly nature, and smooth gait, provide an exceptional riding experience for both novice and experienced riders. We will meet at the cruise ship dock in Ísafjörður, a popular port of call for cruise ships.
Explore the Streets of Isafjordur on Foot
A Vaccinated Passenger Tested Positive for COVID-19 on My Icelandic Cruise—Here's What Happened - Condé Nast Traveler
A Vaccinated Passenger Tested Positive for COVID-19 on My Icelandic Cruise—Here's What Happened.
Posted: Tue, 27 Jul 2021 07:00:00 GMT [source]
Welcome to the premier destination for Ísafjörður Shore Excursions, where every journey begins with a promise of extraordinary adventures and ends with cherished memories. Nestled in the heart of Iceland’s awe-inspiring Westfjords, Ísafjörður serves as the gateway to exploring the untouched beauty and rich cultural tapestry of one of Iceland’s most enchanting regions. As a favored anchorage for cruise ships, Ísafjörður offers an array of tours and activities tailored to unveil the mystic charm of the Westfjords to visitors from around the globe. Home to fewer than 3,000 residents, Isafjordur boasts a spectacular, unspoiled landscape that's dying to be explored.
Cruise ship
Once everyone is ready, we’ll begin our journey by driving out of town and passing through the Vestfjarðagöng mountain tunnel. Emerging from the tunnel, we’ll continue our adventure, passing through charming villages, picturesque fjords, and majestic mountains with sheer faces. The town’s serene atmosphere, highlighted by the fjord’s gentle waters, enchants visitors. Sunlight illuminates Isafjordur’s timeless beauty, revealing a rich cultural tapestry rooted in maritime traditions and artistry. The awe-inspiring Dynjandi waterfall and Latrabjarg cliffs, teeming with seabirds, contribute to the region’s splendor.
Arctic Fox Center
Nearby Látrabjarg cliffs provide the perfect setting for spotting various bird species, such as puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes., while the region’s coastlines are frequented by seals and whales. Additionally, the elusive Arctic fox can be seen in remote areas and nature reserves like Hornstrandir, north of Isafjordur. With its well-deserved reputation as a must-visit destination, Vigur Island should be included in any traveler’s itinerary for an unforgettable experience.
Fred Olsen becomes the first UK cruise company to complete international voyage
History buffs should explore the historical sites and remnants of ancient settlements around Dynjandi to learn more about the cultural and historical aspects of the region. Remember to wear sturdy hiking boots, dress in layers for unpredictable weather, and embark on your journey as early as you can to avoid crowds. In October 2023 was announced that the made an investment of IKr1 billion (EUR 8 million) to extend the existing cruise pier from 190 m (623 ft) to 500 m (1640 ft), with max draft/dockside depth of 10 m (33 ft). When completed, the pier extension project will allow berthing of the world's largest cruise ships/vessels with max LOA length 330 m (1083 ft). Currently, larger vessels anchor in the harbor and ferry their passengers via the ship's tender boats.
For cruise passengers
If you’re a foodie, you can’t leave Isafjordur without savoring local cuisine. While Ísafjörður is a relatively small town, it embraces traditional Icelandic dishes, particularly focusing on seafood and lamb due to the abundant fisheries and sheep farming. Hornstrandir (aka Hornvik) is the country's northernmost peninsula, covering a land area of approx 580 km2 (220 mi2).
Cruise port Ísafjörður
For a more personalized experience, guesthouses and bed & breakfasts provide comfortable rooms and a cozy atmosphere. Some well-known options are Gamla Guesthouse, and Fisherman Hotel Isafjordur. These establishments usually offer a mix of private and shared rooms with varying amenities. There are several hotels in Isafjordur, ranging from budget-friendly to more upscale options. Some popular choices include Hotel Isafjordur, Hotel Horn, and Hotel Edda Isafjordur. These hotels typically offer private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and amenities such as Wi-Fi and breakfast.
It is a great way to learn more about what life here is about on (what feels like is) a personal level. There is also a 3D zebra or crossing in town that is great for making a creative photo. During the winter season, Isafjordur offers excellent opportunities for skiing and snowboarding at its local ski resort, just a short drive from the town center. The resort caters to all skill levels and provides a unique setting to enjoy winter sports surrounded by the captivating beauty of the Westfjords. According to the new cruise ship policy that has been implemented by the municipality of Isafjordur, the maximum number of cruise passengers allowed to visit each day will be capped at 5,000. The town will also ban the tradition of blowing the horn when arriving or leaving the port in the Westfjords region of northwest Iceland.
However, the town still expects to welcome up to 255,000 cruise ship passengers. The limit is not imposed because the ships are not welcome, but simply because the local infrastructure is not built for the increasing number of visitors. If you have a same-day departure, please make sure that you choose a tour that returns at least 30min. If you are not sure what tour options fit your plan, email us at -highlights.com, and we will gladly help you find the best option. Selection of the tours that we provide works well with cruise ship arrivals. Cruise destination Ísafjörður is known for its scenic and dramatic landscape.
One of the most popular trips is the one to Vigur Island, an island that is famous for bird watching. It will allow you to see the bay and majestic mountains around you from a different perspective. Even though you can see the waterfall from the road or the parking lot, make sure to walk the narrow path to the trail's end to get the best views.
The closer it gets to the date of your arrival, the less likely that there will be any availability. However there are a couple of connections you can utilise at the local bars and restaurants when you purchase a cup of coffee. I would not count on the availability of a taxi and if you want to see the peninsula than a tour is highly recommended. The old hospital Edinborgarhusid (since 2007 functioning as Edinborgarsalur/Edinborg Cultural Center) contains archives and historical photography. The 2007-opened Edinborgarsalur is a multifunctional space housing events like theatrical performances, musical concerts, fairs, exhibitions, meetings, conferences and seminars, parties and receptions. The corridor is an exhibition space/gallery (called Slunkaríki) run by the town's art club since 1985.
As you enter the museum, you’ll be immersed in the region’s stories, from its early settlement to its modern-day life. The displays feature a varied range of items, including traditional clothing, tools, and household objects, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of the people who have lived in this area for generations. Dynjandi is a crown jewel among Icelandic waterfalls, situated approximately 60 km/37 miles (a 1-hour drive) south of Isafjordur. This stunning waterfall is the largest in the Westfjords and stands out for its unique, tiered cascade that plunges approximately 100 m (328 ft) down a mountainside. The name “Dynjandi” translates to “thunderous” or “resounding,” and it perfectly captures the powerful and awe-inspiring nature of the waterfall.

