About the Port
The Westman Islands rise dramatically from the North Atlantic off Iceland's southern coast, a cluster of volcanic islands dominated by Heimaey, the only inhabited one. Steep cliffs and grassy slopes shelter enormous colonies of puffins and other seabirds, drawing visitors for dramatic scenery as much as wildlife. The town of Heimaey sits beside the harbor, its streets built partly on lava fields left by the 1973 Eldfell eruption, which buried part of the community and reshaped the coastline.
Walking distance from the pier leads into the compact town center, where the Eldheimar museum recounts the eruption and its aftermath through excavated houses and personal stories. Hiking trails climb Eldfell volcano for wide views over the archipelago and mainland. Boat excursions along the cliffs reveal sea caves, basalt formations, and nesting seabirds, making the islands a memorable stop for those drawn to raw geology and coastal wilderness.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Westman Islands.
Climb Eldfell Volcano
A short, steep hike up the still-warm cinder cone climbs from town in under an hour round-trip, rewarding with sweeping views over lava fields and the harbor.
Spot Puffins on the Cliffs
Head to Stórhöfði or the sea cliffs south of town to see one of the world's largest puffin colonies; a short taxi or a brisk walk from the pier gets you there in summer months.
Take a Sea Cave Boat Tour
A guided boat excursion weaves along dramatic basalt cliffs and into sea caves alive with nesting birds, offering a perspective on the archipelago impossible to get on foot.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Westman Islands
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 9, 2027 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Endurance | 9 | $16,900 | |
| Jul 18, 2027 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Endurance | 9 | $15,900 | |
| Jul 27, 2027 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Endurance | 9 | $15,900 | |
| Jun 22, 2028 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Explorer | 10 | $15,000 | |
| Jul 2, 2028 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Explorer | 10 | $15,000 | |
| Jul 12, 2028 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Explorer | 10 | $15,000 | |
| Jul 22, 2028 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Explorer | 10 | $15,000 | |
| Aug 1, 2028 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Explorer | 10 | $15,000 |