Isafjörður – Gateway to the Westfjords

Isafjörður is a popular stop for the cruise ships and we find ourselves with the company of two other cruise ships, the MV Viking Star and the MV Artania both much smaller vessels than the MS Borealis. Hence, either due to the size or arriving last we anchor just off shore in the fjord. This means using the ships Tenders to get to and from the port, a short trip of 10 minutes or so. MV is short for Motor Vessel while MS is Motor Ship, same thing in effect.

The day is overcast but usually brighten up. We have a coach trip to Dynjandi Falls on today’s agenda so a busy day ahead. We would be back just after midday so leaving plenty of time to look around this beautiful little fishing port set in stunning surroundings. When the sun shone later it was picture perfect.

Overlooking the port is a hanging valley they call ‘The Troll Seat’ or Naustahvilft. Supposedly the impression of a Lady Troll who sat down to rest and cool her feet in the fjord. One big butt.

Having got back from the trip to Dynjandi Falls, we were not going back to the ship to eat and so being hungry we looked at the local options. Turns out we need not look too far, as not 50 yards away is the micro brewery, Dokkan Brugghús. They do a splendid selection of beers that you can sample. Have a selection of small glasses or just go for one you like. I have to say the fish and chips were excellent, all crispy and delicious. To sit outside in the sun with the spectacular backdrop of the fjord and mountains was a real treat and highlight of our cruise.

Ísafjörður the town, is a pretty, peaceful place with homes and businesses in the traditional colourful corrugated sheet style that we have seen all over Iceland. It appears most business supports the fishing and the port facilities along with the very evident growing tourist industry.

A walk around these colourful building and to the very picturesque South Side Harbour gives you 360 degree postcard images. So tired from the days outing we soak up the sun and scenery and then head on back to the ship ready for the evening cruise.

Of course for the younger tourist with a good trouble free spine there is plenty to do around Ísafjörður in the way of ATV adventures, hiking and wildlife watching.

Ísafjörður the fjord, is a smaller inlet of the much larger Ísafjarðardjúp that leads out to the Greenland Sea.

Ísafjörður sits in a beautiful setting surrounded by steep mountain ridges that sweep down to the waters giving little flat land space. There is however an Airport as well as the fishing/tourist port and good road system leading away to the north, east and south west, some using new tunnels to safely cross the mountain ranges.

The sunshine makes all the difference and the top deck of the cruise ship high above the water gives ideal panoramic views wherever you look.

A busy afternoon on the fjord as ships and boats come and go.

Time to leave this little gem and cruise away up and along the West Fjords and down our last port, Reykjavík.

Next thought we will return to the days coach trip to the Dynjandi Falls.