Hesteyri & Glacier Fjord Cruise
Strenuous Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
Relax aboard your motor launch for the approximately 70-minute cruise through the Glacier Fjords, a series of narrow bays surrounded by steep, ragged cliffs and beautiful snow-streaked mountains to one of the most inaccessible areas in Iceland.
You'll cruise along the stunning shores of Hesteyri Bay to the secluded area of Hornstrandir in the northernmost part of the Westfjords and home to the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve.
Once you reach the shores of Hesteyri, be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or boots as you explore; the terrain can be rocky and uneven. As you stroll about the island your guide will point out areas of interest, offer insights into the town's history and identify wildlife.
The residents of this remote village made their living at the whaling station and herring processing factory even though they lived without electricity and roads. By the late 1940's, tired of the isolation and hardships, everyone made the decision to move away and by 1952 Hesteyri was totally abandoned. Today, the awe inspiring silence is broken by screaming seabirds perched on the majestic cliffs. Arctic foxes, lush meadows covered with flowers, deep fjords and vast remote bays make Hesteyri picture postcard perfect.
Your tour ends with a visit to'The Doctor's House.' Built in 1901, the house is open in the afternoon as a café. Marvel at the panoramic views of this beautiful and forbidding area while enjoying complimentary coffee and tea and Icelandic pancakes with traditional rye bread and smoked lamb.
On the way back to Ísafjördur be on the lookout for seals, Arctic foxes or an occasional whale.
Points of interest
Glacier Fjord Cruise
Schedule
Special Notes
Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
Some seating on the vessel will be outside; not all passengers will be in an enclosed cabin. Dress appropriately. Seas conditions may be choppy, please remain seated on the boat at all times.
This tour involves walking over uneven and difficult terrain. A zodiac is used to transfer guests to shore if the tide is low. At high tide, a small pier is used. The tour is neither wheelchair accessible nor recommended for guests with limited mobility.
Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots and clothing suited to the day's conditions. Bring a hat and light jacket.
Most of the bird species start migrating around the 10th of August. Bird sightings cannot be guaranteed.
There is no guiding during the boat ride; guiding will start when pax have reached the island.
Guests must be able to walk for approx. 1 hour
Guests with mobility challenges should not select this tour.
The refreshments consist of sweet Icelandic pastries. It is not possible to request gluten free or other dietary restricted refreshments.
Exceptional Value
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Strenuous Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
Relax aboard your motor launch for the approximately 70-minute cruise through the Glacier Fjords, a series of narrow bays surrounded by steep, ragged cliffs and beautiful snow-streaked mountains to one of the most inaccessible areas in Iceland.
You'll cruise along the stunning shores of Hesteyri Bay to the secluded area of Hornstrandir in the northernmost part of the Westfjords and home to the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve.
Once you reach the shores of Hesteyri, be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or boots as you explore; the terrain can be rocky and uneven. As you stroll about the island your guide will point out areas of interest, offer insights into the town's history and identify wildlife.
The residents of this remote village made their living at the whaling station and herring processing factory even though they lived without electricity and roads. By the late 1940's, tired of the isolation and hardships, everyone made the decision to move away and by 1952 Hesteyri was totally abandoned. Today, the awe inspiring silence is broken by screaming seabirds perched on the majestic cliffs. Arctic foxes, lush meadows covered with flowers, deep fjords and vast remote bays make Hesteyri picture postcard perfect.
Your tour ends with a visit to'The Doctor's House.' Built in 1901, the house is open in the afternoon as a café. Marvel at the panoramic views of this beautiful and forbidding area while enjoying complimentary coffee and tea and Icelandic pancakes with traditional rye bread and smoked lamb.
On the way back to Ísafjördur be on the lookout for seals, Arctic foxes or an occasional whale.
Points of interest
Glacier Fjord Cruise
Schedule
Special Notes
Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
Some seating on the vessel will be outside; not all passengers will be in an enclosed cabin. Dress appropriately. Seas conditions may be choppy, please remain seated on the boat at all times.
This tour involves walking over uneven and difficult terrain. A zodiac is used to transfer guests to shore if the tide is low. At high tide, a small pier is used. The tour is neither wheelchair accessible nor recommended for guests with limited mobility.
Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots and clothing suited to the day's conditions. Bring a hat and light jacket.
Most of the bird species start migrating around the 10th of August. Bird sightings cannot be guaranteed.
There is no guiding during the boat ride; guiding will start when pax have reached the island.
Guests must be able to walk for approx. 1 hour
Guests with mobility challenges should not select this tour.
The refreshments consist of sweet Icelandic pastries. It is not possible to request gluten free or other dietary restricted refreshments.