Cruise Ship Passenger Port of Call Guide to Akureyri, Iceland

Port Facilities and Layout

Akureyri’s port has two main docking areas along the eastern edge of town.

You’ll find the larger ships docked next to the cultural centre and marina, whilst smaller boats use the nearby berth.

The port divides into two sections:

• The Old Harbour in the town centre
• The industrial harbour to the north for cruise ships

The new cruise pier, built in 2019, offers:

• 130-metre length
• 9-metre depth
• Capacity for ships under 10,000 GT

You can easily walk from your ship to the town’s key locations:

• Main square
• High street
• Tourist information centre

The walk takes about 10 minutes.

Whilst there’s no terminal building, you’ll have access to a spacious dock and outdoor parking area where tour buses collect passengers.

Getting Around Akureyri

Transportation Options in Akureyri

You’ll find several easy ways to explore Akureyri during your cruise stop:

Free City Buses

• Run from early morning to late evening
• Complete routes in 30-50 minutes
• Cover most city areas
• Main station sits near central square
• No airport service

Taxis

• BSO Taxi operates 24/7
• Call +354 461 1010
• Pick-up from town centre

Scooters and Bikes

• Rent electric scooters through Hopp app (1000 Krona per ride)
• Hire bikes from Akureyri E-Bike Tours or Skíðaþjónustan

Walking

• Most attractions sit within walking distance
• Perfect for short-distance exploration

Car Parking

• Use EasyPark or Parka apps for downtown parking
• Suitable if you’ve rented a car

The city’s compact size makes it easy to mix these transport options based on your needs and schedule.

Must-See Local Attractions

You’ll discover Akureyri’s top attractions within easy reach of the cruise port.

The Akureyri Church stands at the city’s heart, offering stunning fjord views from its grand staircase.

The Botanical Gardens house 7,000 plant varieties, including unique Icelandic species, with the LYST café providing a perfect spot for your tea break.

Nature lovers can visit Lake Mývatn to explore its volcanic terrain or witness the powerful Goðafoss Waterfall.

You’ll spot Minke and Humpback whales on boat tours leaving from the harbour throughout the day.

The Hof Cultural Centre showcases local art, whilst the Akureyri Museum tells the city’s story through fascinating exhibits.

Mount Hlíðarfjall sits just minutes from town, where you can hike or ski depending on the season.

Each attraction connects easily by local transport or organised tours, making the most of your time in port.

Best Shore Excursions

Popular shore excursions in Akureyri give you fantastic opportunities to explore Iceland’s natural beauty. You can watch whales in Eyjafjordur‘s deep waters or visit the spectacular Goðafoss waterfall.

The city’s walking tours let you discover key landmarks like the striking Akureyri Church and traditional Laufas Turf Houses.

If you love adventure, take the Diamond Circle Route to see the mighty Dettifoss waterfall and the bubbling mud pools at Hverir.

Each excursion helps you make the most of your cruise ship stop, letting you experience Iceland’s unique landscape and culture firsthand.

Popular Nature Adventures

Experience Iceland’s natural wonders on Akureyri’s most popular excursions. You can explore waterfalls, geothermal sites and unique landscapes through carefully planned tours.

Your top nature adventures include:

• Diamond Circle Tour (10 hours)
• You’ll visit Godafoss and Dettifoss waterfalls
• You can explore Ásbyrgi Canyon’s unique formations
• Whale Watching (2-3 hours)
• You’ll spot humpback whales in the fjord
• You can watch seabirds in their natural habitat
• Lake Mývatn Tour (6-8 hours)
• You’ll discover volcanic landscapes
• You can explore distinctive pseudo craters
• Mount Súlur Hike (4-5 hours)
• You’ll climb to 1,210 metres
• You can enjoy panoramic views of Akureyri
• Geothermal Bathing (2-3 hours)
• You can relax at Forest Lagoon
• You’ll unwind at Mývatn Nature Baths

You can choose short focused tours or full-day adventures based on your time and energy. Each tour offers clear pick-up points and essential equipment.

Essential City Walking Tours

Walking tours let you discover Akureyri’s hidden stories and local treasures during your cruise stop. You can choose from several 2-3 hour guided walks that fit neatly into your port schedule.

The Akureyri Walk & Visit takes you into local homes, where you’ll meet residents and experience genuine Icelandic warmth. You’ll walk 2-3 km on flat terrain, exploring the city’s Botanical Garden and historic neighbourhoods.

Food lovers can opt for the 2-hour city walk with local tastings.

For independent exploring, you can pick up self-guided hiking maps from the Touring Club of Akureyri. The club also offers guided walks and can help you book highland hut stays if you plan to extend your visit.

Shopping and Dining Options

Three shopping districts in Akureyri make it easy for you to shop and dine during your cruise stop.

Downtown Shopping:

• You’ll find fashion boutiques and souvenir shops along the main streets.
• Glerártorg shopping centre provides multiple retail options under one roof.

Must-Visit Specialty Shops:

• Icewear: Outdoor clothing and authentic Icelandic souvenirs.
• Kista: Modern Nordic designs and gifts.
• The Viking: Traditional Icelandic souvenirs.
• Blóðberg: Local handmade crafts.
• Penninn Eymundsson: Books and quality souvenirs.

Dining Options:

• Strikið Restaurant: Meals with city views.
• Centrum Kitchen & Bar: Creative drinks and food.
• Aurora Restaurant: Northern Icelandic dishes.
• Moe’s Food Truck: Quick bites.
• Glerártorg: Casual café dining.

You can easily walk between these locations in the city centre. Each venue accepts major credit cards, and most staff speak English.

Port Safety and Security

The Akureyri port keeps you safe with simple but effective security measures. You need to follow clear security steps when arriving or leaving by ship.

The port’s security team monitors activities 24/7, whilst customs officers check all incoming vessels. Your cruise ship must alert the Icelandic Coast Guard 24 hours before arrival and meet SOLAS safety standards.

You’ll find clearly marked emergency points throughout the port area. If you spot any incidents, you can report them quickly through the port’s straightforward reporting system.

All safety measures follow international maritime rules to protect you and other port users. You can access help at any time from the port’s security staff, who are always on duty to assist with any concerns.

Security Zones and Protocols

Your cruise ship needs to follow clear security rules when arriving in Akureyri. A 50-metre security zone surrounds all ships at the piers, and the Icelandic Coast Guard will inspect your vessel.

Key Security Rules:

• You must notify the Coast Guard 24 hours before arrival if your ship exceeds 300 GT
• Your ship needs active AIS tracking at all times
• You need to follow SOLAS and Icelandic Maritime Security rules
• You’ll go through security checks during boarding
• You can’t access certain areas during bird nesting (15 April-15 July)

The port keeps these measures simple to protect you and maintain smooth operations.

The security team will guide you through any additional steps needed during your stay.

Emergency Response Preparedness

The port of Akureyri keeps you safe through well-tested emergency plans. You’ll see regular safety drills like Arctic Guardian 2021, which helped teams practise responding to ship collisions.

Your safety in Akureyri relies on 32 Icelandic organisations working as one team. Your ship’s captain must tell the Icelandic Coast Guard about your journey 24 hours before you arrive. If anything goes wrong, the captain reports it straight away.

You’ll find safe harbours near Akureyri where ships can get help in emergencies. The port uses modern safety tools, including:

• Satellite tracking systems
• Environmental monitoring equipment
• Emergency response vessels

Before your ship can dock, safety inspectors check it follows all SOLAS rules. These checks make sure you have a safe visit to Akureyri.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

Peak Season: May to September

You’ll enjoy:

• Summer temperatures around 12°C
• Long daylight hours
• Largest choice of activities

Spring Visits:

• Fewer tourists
• More rain showers
• Lower prices

Autumn Bonus:

• Northern Lights viewing chances
• Cooler temperatures
• Less crowded attractions

Your Essential Packing List:

• Layered clothing (thermal base + mid-layer + outer shell)
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Strong walking shoes with grip
• Warm hat and gloves
• Sun protection (even in cool weather)

Daily Weather Tips:

1. Check local forecast each morning
2. Talk to your cruise staff about weather updates
3. Book flexible shore excursions
4. Allow for schedule changes due to weather
5. Keep spare dry clothes in your day bag

Remember: Icelandic weather can change quickly, so you’ll need to stay prepared for all conditions.

Your comfort depends on proper clothing more than ideal weather.

Local Transportation Services

Getting Around Akureyri

You can walk from your cruise ship to central Akureyri in under 10 minutes. The compact city centre lets you reach most attractions on foot.

Transportation options include:

Walking

• Most attractions sit within easy walking distance
• The city centre is flat and pedestrian-friendly

Taxis and Private Transfers

• Book these in advance during cruise days
• VIP services offer guaranteed transport options

Bus Services

• Akurinn Bus provides local sightseeing tours
• You can book tickets directly at their stop

Beyond Walking Distance

• Rent a car from local agencies (book ahead in peak season)
• Join guided tours for specific destinations
• Catch whale watching tours at the Hof Cultural House

Tips:

• Reserve transport early during cruise season
• Keep taxi numbers handy for quick access
• Check walking distances before planning your day

Cultural Experience Tips

Experience Akureyri‘s Culture

You’ll find Akureyri easy to navigate, with its main cultural spots within walking distance. Visit the Hof Cultural Centre and Akureyri Church to understand local traditions. Try authentic Icelandic dishes like kjötsúpa (meat soup) and pylsa (hot dogs) at local eateries.

Make the most of your visit:

• Join the Winter Festival in February or Art Summer events for local celebrations
• Walk through Arts Alley and Old Town to see Icelandic art and architecture
• Stop at the Christmas House to buy traditional crafts
• Watch local shows at the Akureyri Theatre Company
• Try Icelandic craft beers and brennivín (schnapps) in downtown pubs

The city comes alive during seasonal festivals, giving you the best chance to meet locals and join community events.

You’ll spot interesting architecture and art galleries as you explore the historic streets. Local pubs welcome visitors and offer a perfect setting to chat with residents.

Port Docking Information

Akureyri’s cruise port welcomes you at the end of Eyjafjörður, connecting you directly to northern Iceland.

You’ll find two docking options: the main berth near the cultural centre and marina for large ships, and the Old Harbour for smaller vessels. Your walk from either dock to the town centre takes just 10 minutes.

Your ship might anchor offshore, requiring you to use the Hofsbot tender dock.

This dock sits 0.3 nautical miles from the anchorage and offers wheelchair access and restrooms. You’ll notice the floating dock measures 20m x 5m and rises 0.5m above water level.

The tender facilities don’t operate in darkness, but you’ll find parking and key services close by. Your ship can safely dock thanks to the 25m depth at low tide, with space for two other vessels to dock alongside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are US Dollars Widely Accepted in Shops and Restaurants?

US Dollars have limited acceptance in Iceland. You will find only a few tourist-focused shops and restaurants take them. You should use Icelandic Króna (ISK) or credit cards for your purchases in Akureyri. These payment methods offer you more reliable and convenient transactions across all establishments.

What Emergency Medical Facilities Are Available for Cruise Passengers?

Emergency medical care is available through two main options for you while cruising:

Your ship’s medical centre offers immediate care with doctors and nurses on duty 24/7. Simply visit the facility on board or call the ship’s emergency number.

Akureyri Hospital at Eyrarlandsvegi provides comprehensive emergency services when docked. You can reach emergency services by dialling 112, or the ship’s crew can arrange transport if needed.

Both facilities manage:

• Urgent medical care
• Basic treatments
• Emergency stabilisation
• Initial assessments

Keep your cruise card and travel insurance details with you for quick access to care.

Where Can I Store Luggage While Exploring the Town?

Several luggage storage options are available in Akureyri:

• Your cruise ship typically offers storage services for passengers
• Local tour operators welcome day-storage requests
• Many hotels and hostels can store bags for a small fee
• Several cafés near the harbour assist with short-term storage

You’ll find most storage options near the town centre or port area. Contact your preferred location beforehand to confirm availability and rates. Most places require proof of ID when dropping off your bags.

For extra security, keep valuables with you and use storage only for non-essential items. Remember to collect your bags before your chosen facility closes for the day.

Is There Free Public Wi-Fi Access Near the Port Area?

You can access free Wi-Fi in several spots around the port area:

• The cruise terminal offers reliable, password-free Wi-Fi
• Most cafes near the port provide free Wi-Fi for customers
• The main dock area features public Wi-Fi hotspots

The signal strength remains consistent throughout the terminal building and immediate port vicinity. You’ll spot ‘Free Public Wi-Fi’ signs marking connection zones.

Can Passengers With Mobility Issues Easily Navigate the Town’s Terrain?

If you have mobility issues, navigating Akureyri’s centre requires some planning. The downtown area is mostly walkable, but steep slopes can pose challenges. Heated streets in the town centre help prevent ice and snow buildup, making movement easier. You’ll find the flatter areas more accessible, though some steeper sections might require mobility aids or assistance. You can explore about 80% of central Akureyri independently, but it’s best to map your route in advance to avoid the more challenging inclines.