Today there was some early good news – the captain has managed to secure a proper berth alongside the dock in Isafjordur. We had previously been advised that this would be a tender port. As the Island Princess docks it becomes clear why – the municipal council has been investing heavily in extending their docks for use by cruise ships.
Which is weird. Isafjordur is a town of approximately 1000 people and there is virtually nothing to do here. There are two large ships in today, disgorging up to 4000 visitors…
This is our second visit to Isafjordur this year and we saw almost everything last time, including the accessible geocaches.
Top tip: Watching planes coming into land at the local airport is fascinating, requiring pilots to fly down the fjord and then perform a very low-level 100º turn to line up with the runway.
Following a cryptic comment on a geocaching log, we did find one new thing to look at:
Yes, a floating pedestrian crossing. Linda and I spent quite a while playing around and posing for photos while other cruisers walked past completely oblivious. They must have thought we were crazy, jumping around in the middle of the road.
Photos done, we headed back towards the dock for a stop at the Dokkan Brugghus, a local brewery. It’s not cheap, but they always have twelve fresh beers on tap to try.
Top tip: The brewery gets very busy with cruisers, so if you order food, it may take quite some time to arrive.Some of the tours arranged by the cruise lines also seem to finish here for lunch.
Other things to do in Isafjordur
So, you’ve arrived in port and you’re not sure what to do? Here are the three top-rated excursions you can book.
Remember, Isafjordur is tiny and excursions fill up quickly. Cruise lines book as much capacity as they think they can sell – and inflate the prices accordingly. If you want a bargain, book early.
1. Westfjords Express Half-Day Tour
Perfect for cruise guests with limited time, this action-packed private tour is your gateway to the untamed beauty of Iceland’s Westfjords. Step off your ship and straight into adventure, beginning with a scenic drive through steep fjords, winding coastal roads, and breathtaking mountain passes.
Your journey takes you first to the colorful fishing villages of Flateyri or Suðureyri, where life moves to the rhythm of the sea. Wander among traditional turf-roofed houses, hear fascinating tales of seafaring life, and chat with friendly locals who carry generations of maritime history in their stories.
The highlight awaits at Dynjandi, the “Thunderous One”, a cascading series of waterfalls tumbling nearly 100 meters down the mountainside. A short, easy walk rewards you with unforgettable photo opportunities and the sound of rushing water echoing through the valley. Throughout the adventure, marvel at sweeping panoramas of fjords and peaks before heading back in time to rejoin your ship
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2. Dynjandi Waterfall Guided Day Trip by Bus
Sit back, relax, and let Iceland’s dramatic landscapes unfold through the windows of a modern, comfortable coach. From Ísafjörður, follow the iconic coastal route past rugged cliffs, mountain tunnels, and sparkling fjords until you reach the crown jewel of the Westfjords – Dynjandi.
Spend 90 unhurried minutes exploring this awe-inspiring 100-meter waterfall, often described as a bridal veil for the way its torrents fan majestically across the rock face. Along the way, discover a chain of smaller gems – Háifoss, Úðafoss, Göngufoss, Hundafoss, and Bæjarfoss – each with its own unique beauty. This excursion is perfect for those who want to bask in Iceland’s raw natural power without the rush.
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3. Westfjords Whale Watching Boat Tour
Set sail from Ísafjörður’s picturesque harbor and venture into shimmering Arctic waters, surrounded by snow-dusted peaks and glassy fjords. This is your chance to witness some of the ocean’s most extraordinary wildlife up close in one of the world’s most remote and pristine habitats.
As your boat cuts smoothly across the fjord, keep watch for playful dolphins skimming the waves and seabirds soaring overhead. But the real stars of the show are the whales – humpbacks are seen here every season, with a remarkable 100% sighting rate in 2023. You may also encounter elegant minke whales, powerful orcas, or even pods of dolphins dancing in your wake. With every splash and breach, you’ll feel the thrill of Iceland’s wild heart.
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