Traveling by ferry definitely has a certain charm. Boarding a boat and setting sail from the harbor is an experience that always carries a touch of nostalgia. You'll feel like quite the adventurer. After all, in the past, this was the only way to cross the vast oceans!
Ferry trips can also feel more authentic and exciting than flying. Instead of being a quick solution to jump from one time zone to another, traveling by boat gives you the chance to go at a slower, more human pace. The waves and the sound of the water will transport you to another world.
It’s somewhat like traveling by train. Instead of being transported in an air-conditioned, closed space, you'll better connect with nature and notice the distance you've traveled more. Tempted to try it? Here, you’ll find our guide to the different ferries you can take in Iceland.
Iceland - Ferry Routes
There are different types of ferry trips to enjoy the Viking island and its surroundings. Some of them are really useful if you want to bring your car rental in Iceland and explore hidden corners of the country. Others opt for much smaller boats suitable for passengers traveling on foot.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different ferries you can take in Iceland. We’ll also explore which destinations are possible using this mode of transport and what you can do once you get there.
Ferry to the Westman Islands
The Westman Islands are located off the south coast of Iceland. You can reach them from two different ports: Landeyjahofn for a shorter trip of about thirty-five minutes or Porlakshofn, which takes two and a half hours. You can travel with your rental car from both ports. Depending on the weather and seasons in Iceland, there are two daily departures.
The archipelago has 15 islands and thirty rock stacks scattered between them. However, only one island is inhabited. Heimaey is the largest island, and this is where all boats dock.
The island is a prime spot for hiking and bird watching. During the summer months, from May to September, literally millions of puffins nest in the steep coastal cliffs and rock stacks of the islands. Visitors can see them on foot or take small boat trips around the islands. Additionally, its waters are also home to various whales. So, depending on the season, boat tours become one of the favorite activities.
Ferry to the West Fjords of Iceland
To reach the remote and beautiful West Fjords of Iceland by boat, head northwest of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. From there, a vehicle ferry sails to the southern West Fjords.
This is a useful route for locals, especially when heavy snowfall blocks the roads through the high mountain passes to the West Fjords. The ferry takes approximately two and a half hours to complete the journey. It makes a brief stop at the island of Flatey to drop off and pick up passengers. This is a vehicle-free island, so if you wish to visit, keep that in mind. Once you arrive at the West Fjords, you can stay for several days enjoying the views.
Ferry to Hornstrandir
Hornstrandir is located on the northern coast of the remote West Fjords. This ferry route takes you to the small town of Ísafjordur. You can reach Hornstrandir by road, but by sea, it takes much less time.
Ferry to Grimsey
This island, located north of Iceland, is just within the Arctic Circle. If visiting the Arctic is part of your travel plans, you should book your ticket in advance. The ferry only sails three times a week and has capacity for just over 100 people.
In the summer months, availability fills up quickly. It’s a small and cozy place with fantastic views and birds. As the seasons change, it can also be an incredible place to see the Northern Lights, one of the best things to do in Iceland.
Ferry Route to Hrisey
Hrisey, also located north of Iceland, is another island with pure air as it doesn’t admit vehicles. It’s located in the Eyjafjörður fjord north of Akureyri. This makes it an excellent destination for a day trip in the summer. Bird lovers will feel at home. Iceland’s climate makes it easy for the ferry to sail every two hours in both directions. The journey takes about fifteen minutes.
Ferry to Papey
This small ferry is designed for foot passengers and takes visitors to the island of Papey off the east coast. The ferry goes back and forth once a day and is a pleasant four-hour trip. The island is currently uninhabited, although it had residents until the mid-sixties.
Ferry to Videy
Videy is a small car-free island located on the coast of Reykjavik. It’s a popular day trip from the capital. The return ferry ride is included in the Reykjavik Card price. This card grants access to various museums and galleries, as well as entry to hot springs pools. Once back in Videy, you can visit Yoko Ono’s Peace Tower while enjoying a pleasant walk. There are also beautiful sea views and city views.
How to Get to Iceland by Ferry
To get to Iceland by ferry, you first need to head to Denmark. From there, you can take the Smyril Line ferry to Iceland. The ferry passes through the Faroe Islands, where it makes a stop. The journey lasts several days, and departures are generally once a week. For more information, visit the Smyril Line website.
