Heimaey Shore Excursions — Largest Selection & Cheapest Prices Guaranteed

Heimaey is the only inhabited island in the Westman Islands, and it leaves a strong impression the moment you arrive. Towering cliffs surround the harbor, puffins fill the skies in summer, and lava fields from the 1973 eruption, one of the most significant volcanic eruptions in Iceland, cut straight through town. It’s a small island, but every corner tells a story of survival, wildlife, and volcanic fire.

Heimaey shore excursions turn this dramatic setting into experiences you’ll never forget. Walk to the top of Eldfell Volcano for sweeping views, explore the Eldheimar Museum where houses lie buried in ash, or take a boat around sea caves and Elephant Rock. In summer, puffin tours bring you to the world’s largest colony. A single day here is enough to see why Heimaey is a must-see stop on Iceland cruises.

Must-See Attractions in Heimaey

Though only about 5 square miles (13 square kilometers), Heimaey is packed with striking landmarks shaped by fire, sea, and history. These attractions are highlights of Heimaey shore excursions and Westman Islands tours.

• Eldfell Volcano: Hike to the summit of this striking red crater for panoramic views over Heimaey, the cliffs, and the surrounding islands.

• Eldheimar Museum: Step into the “Pompeii of the North” and explore homes preserved in volcanic ash while learning how the 1973 eruption reshaped the island.

• Elephant Rock: Join a coastal boat tour to see this dramatic basalt formation that looks like an elephant dipping its trunk into the ocean.

• Stafkirkjan Church and Skansinn Fort: Visit the stave church and nearby fort to experience Heimaey’s Viking heritage and centuries of harbor defense.

• SEA LIFE Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary: Meet rescued beluga whales and puffins at this pioneering open-water sanctuary in Klettsvik Bay, dedicated to marine conservation.

• Herjolfstown Museum in Herjolfsdalur Valley: Discover a reconstructed Viking farm set amid a scenic valley surrounded by cliffs and ancient ruins, also home to the lively Þjóðhátíð festival each August, one of the best festivals in Iceland.

• Sagnheimar Folk Museum: Explore exhibits on island life, fishing traditions, and the 1627 pirate raid that left a lasting mark on Heimaey’s history.

• Puffins at Storhofdi Cape: Visit one of the best puffin-watching spots in Iceland and witness thousands of puffins nesting along the cliffs in summer.

Top Heimaey Shore Excursions in Iceland

The top Heimaey shore excursions let you explore the best of the Westman Islands in a single day. From puffin tours and boat trips to local history and wildlife encounters, these Heimaey Island tours showcase the island’s cliffs, culture, and dramatic volcanic past.

• Westman Islands Sightseeing Boat Tour from Heimaey Harbor: Discover sea caves, Elephant Rock, puffins, and even whales on a scenic boat adventure around the islands.

• 2-Hour RIB Boat Tour of the Westman Islands from Heimaey Harbor: Speed across the coastline on a thrilling RIB boat ride, spotting puffins, whales, and dramatic rock formations.

• Beluga Whale Sanctuary & Puffin Rescue Admission in the Westman Islands: Visit rescued puffins, see beluga whales, and learn about Iceland’s marine conservation efforts at this unique sanctuary.

• Puffins and Pirates ATV Tour of Vestmannaeyjar: Ride across lava fields to puffin cliffs, Elephant Rock, and historic pirate sites on this action-filled ATV adventure.

• Customizable 2-Hour Private Tour of the Westman Islands with a Local Expert: Explore Heimaey with a local guide on a private tour tailored to your interests, from puffins and volcanoes to Viking history.

Where To Stay During Heimaey Shore Excursions

While most cruise travelers visit Heimaey for a day, spending a night on the island lets you experience its peaceful evenings and early-morning views without the crowds. These accommodations in the Westman Islands offer comfort, convenience, and easy access to the island's top attractions.

• Hotel Vestmannaeyjar: Located in central Heimaey, Hotel Vestmannaeyjar offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving fresh local cuisine. Its location near Eldheimar Museum, Eldfell Volcano, and the island’s puffin colonies makes it an excellent base for exploring the area.

• The New Post Office: The New Post Office features modern studio and one-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi, and private terraces. Set in the heart of Heimaey, it offers a comfortable self-catering stay within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and local attractions.

• Árny Guesthouse: Located on Illugagata 7, Árny Guesthouse offers cozy rooms with free Wi-Fi and a relaxed atmosphere. Its central location provides easy access to the Eldheimar Museum, the Beluga Whale Sanctuary, and scenic hiking trails across Heimaey.

Heimaey Weather: What to Expect During Shore Excursions

The weather in Heimaey is famously unpredictable, shaped by the same forces that define the weather in Iceland overall. As one of the windiest places in Europe, the island experiences sudden changes, with calm skies often giving way to gusts, fog, or rain within minutes. Summers are cool and mild, averaging around 50 F (10 C), while winters are cold but rarely extreme, hovering near 37 F (3 C).

Windproof and waterproof layers are essential, especially if you plan to hike up Eldfell Volcano or explore the cliffs. Though conditions can be unpredictable, the wild coastal weather is part of Heimaey’s charm, adding to its dramatic and unforgettable atmosphere.

The best time to visit Heimaey is from June to August, when the weather is at its mildest and puffins fill the cliffs. Longer daylight hours make it perfect for hiking, boat tours, and exploring volcanic landscapes. Spring and autumn offer quieter conditions and fewer crowds, while winter showcases the island’s raw, untamed beauty under ever-changing skies.

Plan Your Heimaey Shore Excursion

Heimaey is one of those rare places where you can experience a lot in a short amount of time. Heimaey shore excursions make it possible to enjoy the island’s highlights in a way that’s organized, comfortable, and perfectly suited for cruise travelers. With guides handling the details and itineraries built around your ship’s schedule, you can step off the harbor and head straight into an unforgettable day.

Choosing a Heimaey Island tour means you spend less time planning and more time exploring. It’s the easiest way to make sure your visit is smooth, memorable, and filled with the best the Westman Islands have to offer. Book your tour today and turn your stop in Heimaey into one of the highlights of your Iceland cruise.