Off the Beaten Track: Cruise to Vigur Bird Island
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Port
Isafjordur, Iceland
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$269.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Cruise by boat to Djupfjord, where Vigur Island offers a wealth of magnificent bird life, including puffins, eider ducks and Arctic terns. The only windmill in the country, almost 160 years old, is still maintained on the island. The farmers here live off the land and by harvesting the down of eider ducks.
Vigur village is a time warp. Its ten friendly inhabitants welcome you in their relaxed, easy manner. A leisurely walk around the island allows you to see an abundance of birds in their natural habitat during the high season.
The tour ends conveniently at the Vigur Café and post office shop for home-baked refreshments before free time to enjoy the historical and wildlife exhibits.
Notes:
Dress warmly in layers with a windproof and waterproof outer layer; bring a warm hat, gloves and a scarf. Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. About an hour of walking is required for this tour on gravel paths and uneven surfaces. There is also a 200-yard walk from the ship to where the tour boat is docked. The boat is not wheelchair accessible. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Participants must be able to step onto the boat and up to the island from the dock. Most bird species start migrating away from Vigur around August 10. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed. The boat ride is unguided. There is no restroom on the boat. Due to Ísafjörður's remoteness and the scarcity of professional guides, all guiding is handled by locals; some are not professional, but all have great experience in guiding and extensive knowledge of the area.