Eyjafjordur, Iceland (Scenic Cruising) cruises
Eyjafjordur port guide.
Eyjafjordur is your tranquil route to Akureyri, a pretty city that lies at the end of the fjord. On your way here, you’ll pass a number of smaller towns and villages along the shore.
Almost 50 miles in length, Eyjafjordur offers an unforgettable scenic journey that instils a sense of calm. With mountains towering high on both sides, including the magnificent Mount Kerling at 5,046 feet, you’ll find yourself taking endless photos of the picturesque views.
Top landmarks and sights in Eyjafjordur.
Eyjafjordur makes for idyllic scenic cruising due to the remarkable sights you’ll find at every angle. Simply sit back and enjoy miles and miles of still landscape, and let it take you a way to a feeling of true relaxation and wonder at the world around us.
Both the waters and shores in Eyjafjordur are home to an abundance of wildlife, and the location is in fact one of the best for whale-watching and spotting puffins in Iceland. Stay on the lookout for humpbacks, porpoises, and dolphins, and possibly even the more elusive orcas and blue whales. Time spent on deck can bring all manner of surprises, so be sure to keep a keen eye out.
Among other sights to savour include the stretch of impressive mountains that seem never to end. Plus, every so often you’ll see evidence of a little local life, in the form of farms that date back thousands of years, to the Vikings, and a number of photogenic villages that are scattered along the shore.
Things to do in Eyjafjordur.
While sailing along the peaceful waters of the fjord, one of the most rewarding ways to spend your time is wildlife watching. Whether your interest lies in the skies above searching for different birds, or you’re more excited about the prospect of spotting whales, and dolphins, the fauna in this part of the world is sure to delight. Be sure to pack your best photography equipment and plenty of memory cards, and maybe even a pair of binoculars so you don’t miss a thing.
You could also make the most of this opportunity to simply unwind on deck – or inside if you prefer – in a nook to call your own on board. When you’re not peering out into the distance, perhaps you’re sipping a warming hot chocolate or a glass of wine, swapping stories with loved ones and new friends. Maybe you’re absorbed in a book from the library, whether it’s an exciting thriller or a factual book with which you can learn more about Iceland.
While you won’t have the opportunity to step off your ship and explore ashore during the cruise-by period of your voyage, the scenic cruising in Eyjafjordur may well end up being a highlight. Enjoy the gift of time and take the day at a slow pace, savouring the scenery and the feeling of calm.
Eyjafjordur culture and history.
While you make your way along this northern Icelandic fjord, ponder the rich Viking presence that once dominated here. Eyjafjordur welcomed Viking settlers more than 1,000 years ago, and Helgi the Lean built a farm in Kristnes, a small village that lies south of Akureyri, when he arrived with his wife and children.
Also in this region is Grund, which has been home to many historical figures. These include Thorunn, the daughter of the last Catholic bishop of Iceland, Jon Arason, who was beheaded in the 16th century because he stood against the Lutheranism that was advocated by the Danish King Christian III. Arason was born in northern Iceland and educated at Munkathvera monastery, also in Eyjafjordur, where today there stands a 19th century church. Here you’ll find a memorial for the bishop. Munkathvera was also the home of other historical figures including Bergr Sokkason, and is thought to be the site where Sighvatur Sturluson, Snorri Sturluson’s brother, was buried after the battle at Orlygsstadir.
The region of Eyjafjordur offers a bounty of rich culture and history to discover, from ancient farms and monuments to picturesque churches and villages. Should you be travelling in the summer, particularly around the summer solstice – 21st June – Eyjafjordur is also one of the most likely places in Iceland that you could experience the infamous Midnight Sun.
Top tips for Eyjafjordur.
Weather.
With its location being so close to the Arctic Circle, it will come as no surprise to learn that Eyjafjordur sees fairly low temperatures throughout the year. The summer months, between June and September, see average highs of around 8 degrees Celsius, and in the winter, November to April, you can expect temperatures of around 2 degrees Celsius. March is the coldest month, where the warmest it will get is roughly 0 degrees Celsius.
As well as packing for cold weather, it’s also wise to be prepared for rain and possibly even snow. It’s most likely to snow between December and April, and the driest period is between mid-April to August.