Circumnavigation of Heimaey
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Hafen
Heimaey, Westmännerinseln, Island
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Aktivitätsebene
Moderate
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Ausflugstyp
All,34
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Rollstuhlgerecht
No
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Ab
$199
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Mindestalter
Information Not Currently Available
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Reisedauer
2¼ Hours
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Mahlzeiten inbegriffen
Meals not included
Set out from the harbor in Heimaey — a long-time shelter for the Icelandic fishing fleet that was almost lost in the volcanic eruption on the island in 1973. You'll cruise past the cliffs surrounding the harbor on a journey past bird colonies with millions of inhabitants and into a cave that can only be visited by boat.
The Westman Islands have one of the largest varieties of seabird species in Iceland, including puffin colonies of an estimated 6 to 8 million birds. Nowhere else in the world can such a large number of puffins be found in such close proximity to civilization. In addition, the islands are home to one of the world's largest gannet and guillemot colonies. Numerous other species of nesting sea birds can also be seen here. Whales and other cetaceans are often sighted in the Westman waters, including orcas, dolphins and porpoises.
After you've seen the island and bird cliffs from every angle, the tour ends as you sail into Klettshellir (Cliff Cave), where a musical instrument is played on board to demonstrate how the acoustics in the cave provide a stunning sensory experience. From there, return to the harbor, having circumnavigated this small island in the far north.
Notes:
Tour operates weather-dependent, and sometimes it is not possible to circumnavigate the island. When circumnavigation is not possible, you will still see the bird cliffs from as many different angles as possible. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed; many birds, including puffins, migrate away around mid-August. Dress warmly in layers with a windproof and waterproof outer layer; bring a warm hat, gloves and a scarf.