Faxaflói Bay

The Basics

One of the area’s main attractions is Videy Island in Kollfjördur Bay, a branch of Faxaflói near Reykjavik. Videy is the setting for the multilingual Imagine Peace Tower, commissioned by Yoko Ono. The island is also home toMilestones by American sculptor Richard Serra and is the final resting place for the Icelandic author Gunnar Gunnarsson. Additionally, Videy Island is home to the country’s oldest church, with some settlements dating back to the 10th century.

Several types of cruises departing from Reykjavik take passengers into Faxaflói Bay. Your options include whale-watching and puffin-spotting tours, as well as nighttime northern lights cruises and New Year’s fireworks cruises.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Faxaflói Bay is a must-visit for nature lovers.

• Videy Island offers works of art that appeal to fans of art and culture.

• Some tour operators offer combination cruises that include whale watching during the day and the northern lights at night.

• With a network of trails, Videy is easily explored on foot, and it offers sweeping views of Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

How to Get There

Videy is accessible via a 20-minute ferry ride from Reykjavik. Boats leave daily from both Skarfabakki pier and Aegisgardur harbor in summer, while winter service runs only on Saturday and Sunday from Skarfabakki. The best way to explore Faxaflói Bay is on a guided cruise from Reykjavik.

When to Get There

Whale-watching cruises are on offer year-round, but the best time to spot whales is in summer, which also offers the chance to see puffins nesting. However, the northern lights are at their peak in winter, and Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower is only lit between October and December.

Videyjarstofa

The former home of Iceland’s first sheriff and so-called “father of Reykjavík” Skuli Magnusson, Videyjarstofa is one of Videy’s few buildings. The house is now used as a cafe, museum, and gallery displaying paintings by renowned Icelandic artists. You can browse the house’s book collection, which includes the first Icelandic Bible.

Ways to explore

While you can enjoy views across Faxaflói Bay from Reykjavik’s waterfront, the best way to experience the bay is from the water. Join a whale-watching cruise to spot minke, orca, and humpback whales, as well as dolphins and harbor porpoises, or take a small-boat tour to Lundey Island to see the puffin colonies.

Other tours of the bay include sightseeing cruises to visit Videy Island, home to Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower; nighttime northern lights cruises; and even New Year’s fireworks cruises.

Accessibility

Some boat cruises are accessible for wheelchair users; be sure to reach out to the tour company before booking to discuss your needs.

Age limits

None; depending on the tour or boat company you book with, there may be requirements for children such as wearing a life jacket.

What to pack

Camera, binoculars, sunscreen, sunglasses, seasickness medication, plenty of water

What to wear

Warm clothing (the ocean winds can be cold even on a hot day), a windproof and waterproof jacket, flat walking shoes with a good grip

Not allowed

Strict laws are in place to protect Iceland’s wildlife; take care not to disturb the whales or puffins, and leave no trace

Amenities

Amenities vary by boat, but larger vessels often have a restroom, bar, and free Wi-Fi. There is a café on Videy Island.

Address

Cruise ships and boat tours set sail around Faxaflói Bay from Reykjavik. Boat tours usually leave from the Old Harbor, a short walk from downtown Reykjavik.

Driving

To reach the Old Harbor, follow Route 41 westbound along the waterfront; there is a small parking area by the harbor. If you’re already located downtown, it’s easiest to walk.

Public transportation

While there is a bus system in Reykjavik, Old Harbor is walking distance from downtown so there’s no need to use it. However, it is possible to get out onto Faxaflói Bay via public transport if you’re hoping to visit Videy Island; ferries run from Skarfabakki pier and the Old Harbour several times daily in peak season.

Best times to visit

Wildlife sightings are possible at any time of day, so choose the tour that best fits your plans. Nighttime tours and Northern Lights cruises typically depart starting at 9pm.

Best days to visit

Weekends tend to be the most popular time for boat cruises, so opt for a mid-week tour to escape the crowds. Ferries to Videy Island run several times daily from mid-May through August, but only operate on weekends during the winter.

Best months to visit

The best time to spot whales and puffins is from April through September, and the calm waters during summer months provide the perfect conditions for wildlife-watching cruises. However, the northern lights are at their peak in winter, and Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower is only lit between October and December.

Special events

Watching Reykjavik’s spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display from the water is an unforgettable experience, and boat cruises often sell out.