Ferry to Videy Island in Summer

General information

DestinationCategory
Reykjavik, IcelandCruise and Boat Tours

Program details

Come and discover the picturesque island of Videy, a delightful gem of a place located on the Kollafjordur Bay near Reykjavik. With its historic roots, artistic connections and abundant wildlife it makes an idyllic place for leisurely explorations on foot or by bike.

A monastery was founded on Videy in the 13th century and at its zenith it became the second richest monastery in Iceland, owning up to 116 estates. Later, after the monks had left, it became home to some of the country’s most powerful governors, and at one point housed a substantial fishing community. Now, although the island is uninhabited, traces of its past are scattered throughout its length and breadth. Birdlife abounds on the island: a large breeding colony of eider ducks, whose feathers were once collected for valuable eiderdown, as well as species such as the purple sandpiper and the black-tailed godwit make it site of ornithological pilgrimage. Art-lovers too will find plenty to keep them occupied. The island is home to Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower, a beacon to world peace conceived by John Lennon’s widow and dedicated to the memory of the former Beatle. The tower takes the form of a wishing well from which beams of light shine vertically into the sky, with the words ‘Imagine Peace’ inscribed in 24 languages around the base. There are also installations by the celebrated American artist, Richard Serra.

During the summer, there are horse and bike rental services for individuals and groups, helping to make this a memorable day out for anyone staying in Reykjavik.

Meeting/pick-up point: Reykjavik old harbour or Skarfabakki port.
Start/opening time: From Skarfabakki port at 11.15am, 12.15pm, 1.15pm, 2.15pm, 3.15pm, 4.15pm, 5.15pm. Return at 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm, 3.30pm, 4.30pm, 5.30pm, 6.30pm. From Reykjavik port at midday Return at 3.30pm. Please be at meeting point 15 minutes before the start.
Languages: Guided tour in English with other languages such as German, Spanish and French available on request.