HEIMAEY, WESTMAN ISLANDS

We begin our tour from the harbour in Heimaey – a harbour that for a long time has been a shelter for the Icelandic fishing fleet, but was almost lost in the volcanic eruption on the island in 1973. We sail past the cliffs surrounding the harbour to start an interesting and informative journey passing bird colonies with millions of inhabitants and exploring caves that can only be visited by boat.

We begin our tour from the harbour in Heimaey – a harbour that for a long time has been a shelter for the Icelandic fishing fleet, but was almost lost in the volcanic eruption on the island in 1973. We sail past the cliffs surrounding the harbour to start an interesting and informative journey passing bird colonies with millions of inhabitants and exploring caves that can only be visited by boat. The bird life we get a chance to see on this tour is magnificent, as the Westman Islands have one of the largest varieties of sea bird species in Iceland. These include puffin colonies with an estimated six to eight million puffins. Nowhere else in the world can such large numbers of puffins be found in such close proximity to man. The islands are also home to one of the world’s largest gannet and guillemot colonies. Numerous other species of nesting sea birds can also be seen. In addition to the bird life, sea life is also often sighted – including orcas, dolphins and porpoises. After viewing the island and bird cliffs from every angle the tour takes us into Klettshellir (Cliff Cave) where a musical instrument is played on board the boat. The acoustics in the cave provide a sensational experience. From there we return to the harbour, having circumnavigated this small island.

Please note that this tour is weather dependent and it is sometimes not possible to circumnavigate or go in the caves. When circumnavigation or visiting the caves is not possible, the bird cliffs will still be viewed from as many different angles as possible. We can not guarantee which birds and sea life will be seen. This tour is suitable for all passengers, including wheelchair users. The walk to the boat is approximately 20 metres (65 feet). Walking down an even gangway onto a floating pier, there is usually a height difference (depending upon the tide) of up to 90 cm (35 inches) between the pier and the boat’s deck. The crew will assist wheelchair users here, if required. Although there are some seats inside, outside on deck is mainly standing room (passengers can choose where to be, but the best views are from outside). Wheelchair users will stay on the deck during the boat trip. The boat used may not be for our exclusive use – so members of the public may join us.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 SCANDINAVIA & BALTIC CRUISES