Heimaey, Iceland
Heimaey is the largest of the Westman Islands, an archipelago off the south coast of Iceland. This volcanic island is a destination unlike any other, forever marked by the devastating 1973 Eldfell eruption that nearly destroyed the town but also created new land. Today, it stands as a testament to the resilience of its people and the raw power of nature. Known for its stunning scenery, incredible puffin colonies, and a living history of a town saved from a volcano, Heimaey offers a truly unique and authentic Icelandic experience.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your cruise ship will dock directly at the Heimaey cruise pier, which is located in the main harbor of the town. This is a huge advantage, as you can walk right off the ship and onto the streets of Heimaey. The walk from the ship to the town center is a very short and easy stroll, placing you right at the edge of all the main attractions.
⚓ Terminal Information
The cruise port is in the town itself, so there is no large, enclosed terminal building. You will disembark directly onto the pier, where you'll find a small, open-air welcome area.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
While there is no large terminal, the area right by the pier is well-equipped for visitors. You'll find a tourist information point, public restrooms, and a few small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. Tour pickups and taxis are located just outside the pier, and you are immediately surrounded by the town's charming streets and harbor.
🗣️ Language
The local language is Icelandic, but most people you will encounter in the tourist industry speak excellent English. You will have no problem navigating or communicating.
A few useful phrases:
Halló (hah-LOH) - Hello
Takk (tahk) - Thank you
Já (yow) - Yes
Nei (nay) - No
💰 Money
The official currency is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Credit cards are the preferred method of payment and are widely accepted everywhere, even for very small purchases. It's not necessary to have cash on hand, as many places are cashless. ATMs are available in the village center.
🚗 Transportation
Heimaey is a very small island, and the main town is best explored on foot.
Walking: The town itself, with its unique shops, cafes, and museums, is all within walking distance of the cruise pier. The walk is flat and easy.
Hop-on-Hop-off Bus: A hop-on-hop-off bus tour is a great way to see all the main attractions, including the Eldheimar Museum and the Eldfell Volcano. The bus runs regularly and offers live commentary in English.
Taxis: Taxis are very limited in Heimaey, and it is not a reliable form of transportation.
Tours: The most popular way to get to attractions outside the town is to book a pre-arranged tour, either with your cruise line or a local tour operator.
♿ Accessibility
Heimaey has an accessibility rating of 1 out of 10. While the walk from the ship to the town is flat, the main attractions, like the Eldfell volcano and many of the hiking trails, are on uneven and rugged terrain. Many tours are not suitable for guests with wheelchairs or mobility concerns.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to town is to simply walk. The pier is located in the town center, and you are immediately surrounded by shops and local sights.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are available in the town, including at the tourist information point and in the Eldheimar Museum. They are generally clean and free to use. You can also find restrooms in local cafes and restaurants.
💊 Drugstore
Heimaey is a small, remote town and does not have a major drugstore. You can find some basic over-the-counter medications at the local grocery store. It is highly recommended that you bring any medications you may need with you.
✨ Authentic Experience
Hike the Eldfell Volcano and Visit the Eldheimar Museum: For a truly unique experience, hike the Eldfell volcano. The summit is accessible via a footpath, and at the top, you can still feel the heat from the eruption. Afterwards, visit the Eldheimar Museum, which tells the story of the 1973 eruption and has a house that was excavated from the lava flow.
Go Puffin-Watching: Heimaey is home to the largest puffin colony in the world. From April to August, you can see millions of these birds nesting on the cliffs. You can get a great view of them from a local boat tour or from the Stórhöfði lookout point, which is also one of the windiest places in Europe.
Dine on Local Seafood: The island is famous for its fresh seafood. Seek out a local restaurant like Slippurinn or Gott, both of which are known for their modern take on traditional Icelandic dishes. They source their seafood locally and offer an incredible dining experience.
