Boat tours in the Westman Islands
While we won’t deny that as ATV enthusiasts we love to show you the Westman Islands on land, its extraordinary landscapes deserve a closer look from multiple angles. So we have to acknowledge that as an island archipelago, some of the best experiences in the Westman Islands also take place on the water. Let’s take a look at the boat tours you might take and compare what they’re like, so that you can pick the one that best suits your needs.
RIB safari
RIB stands for rigid inflatable boat and these nippy vessels are known for their high performance. They’re particularly capable in rough seas as they handle well in such challenging conditions. Largely that’s because of their inflatable tubes or ‘sponsons’ around the outer edge of the boat, which gives them better shock-absorbing qualities. They’re often used for tours as they are capable of reaching high speeds with ease but are also small enough to manoeuvre into tight corners.
Both these properties are a boon in the Westman Islands as this means RIBS have enough power to comfortably loop the island while also being able to fit inside the larger sea caves. Both one and two hour RIB safaris are available from the main harbour in Heimaey. Clamber aboard if you’re keen to get a close up look at the rugged terrain of the coastline in the Westman Islands and, inside a sea cave, test the rocks’ acoustic properties. Wildlife-spotting is another reason to book a trip. Seabirds such as Atlantic puffins are often seen, while other wildlife such as whales and seals are an added bonus.
Kayaking
If you’re keen to be low to the water then you might consider a kayak trip with a local guide arranged by Kayaks and Puffins. Typically, excursions last around one and a half hours, focusing on Klettsvik Bay. In summer, the odds of encountering calm seas are much higher. As you paddle along, you really feel at one with nature in this extraordinary place. A dry suit and life jacket are provided but it’s recommended that even in summer you wear warm socks for this tour as you don’t want to be distracted by cold feet.
Without the noise of an engine to mask the sound, you can concentrate on listening to the sound of the birds that roost in the sea cliffs and rocks of the Westman Islands archipelago. The variety and number of species present is truly remarkable. You might see razorbills, eider ducks, fulmars, guillemot and puffins. Occasionally whales and seals swim nearby too. This tour also gives you the chance to see inside Klettshellir, a wonderful sea cave boasting crystal clear water.
Boat trip
Those options might sound a little too adventurous if you had in mind a more sedate kind of boat trip. The good news is that a traditional tour is also a possibility in the Westman Islands. Island Boat Tours have two spacious craft on their books, an 80-seater called Teista (though they only take 50 passengers at a time) and a smaller vessel called Halkion which is licensed to carry 50 people, 28 of them seated inside. One attractive feature of both of these is that they each have a toilet onboard.
On a 1.5 hour circle boat tour, passengers get to sail around the Westman Islands and also visit two sea caves. You’ll be blown away by the acoustic qualities of Klettshellir. Meanwhile Fjósið is located at Stórhöfði, a cape that is one of the windiest places in Europe. The cliffs and the ocean that batters them are a haven for marine wildlife and seabirds – look out for fulmar, kittiwake, puffins and many more.
During the voyage, your guide will fill you in on the history and heritage of the Westman Islands. Among the fascinating tales you’ll hear is the story of what happened when a sudden eruption in 1973 led to the formation of Eldfell, a volcanic cone, and forced the evacuation of all the islanders until the magma stopped flowing.
Don’t forget to spend some time on land too!Of course, boats aren’t the only way you can get to know the Westman Islands. Heimaey is small enough to be explored on foot, though you’ll be grateful of a vehicle to cover the ground more quickly. However, that doesn’t mean you have to bring your rental car over on the ferry – you can always book an ATV tour instead.