sea tours stykkisholmur

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Kayaking and Jet Skiing in Iceland

Sea Kayaking Tour From Stykkishólmur

Kayaking tour in the western part of iceland.

On the picturesque Snaefellsnes peninsula, you will find the charming little village of Stykkisholmur. It's located in Breidafjordur bay which is known for its uncountable islands and colorful wildlife making it the perfect location for sea kayaking. We start our sea kayaking tour from the harbour of Stykkisholmur and make our way along the beautiful coastline which provides you with views of stunning basalt columns cliffs and remote islands. But that's not all, the views might also include sights of puffins, seals and even occasional whales. This is the perfect way to spend a day in the Western parts of Iceland.

• Breidafjordur Fjord
• An Old Historic Shipreck
• Puffins and Other Wildlife
• Suandisey Island
• Sea Kayaking
• Breiðafjörður Bay
• Certified Sea Kayaking Guide
• Specialized Sea Kayaking Equipment
• Splash Jacket

What to bring

• Warm undergarments (fleece/wool sweater), no cotton, and a change of clothing.

Tour Snapshot

• Expert Guides
• Small Group Experience
• No Booking Fees
• Fast & Secure Payment
• Best Price Guarantee
• Operated by our trusted partner

Spend your day as a kayaker paddling the wonderland of Breiðafjöður bay in the West of Iceland. Your guide will start the tour by giving you all necessary gear and by going over all information needed, followed by a safety briefing and the basic technique of sea kayaking. The tour is operated in a small and personal group making it very beginner friendly. Actually, there is no need for prior kayaking experience due to the certified kayak guides’ excellent instructions.

We start off from Stykkishólmur village's harbor, now famous for being one of the beautiful locations in the Hollywood movie, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, and paddle along the coastline with stunning basalt cliffs on one side and the open sea on the other. You will be surrounded by unique Icelandic wildlife including seals, puffins and hopefully a friendly whale or two. Your moments at sea by Breiðufjörður bay are sure to be magical as we continue to make our way around remote islands, a charming little lighthouse, and a stunning nature setting. Sea kayaking is a surprisingly great way to go sightseeing in Iceland, making your view extraordinary and different from the usual route. Although Stykkishólmur is only 111.07 km (69 miles) from Reykjavík it is sure to add a whole different perspective to your Icelandic experience.

Try something different, go sea kayaking in Iceland. Now that's a story to tell when you return home!

Practical information

Meet on location: Austurgata 2 - Stykkishólmur Harbour

Departures:   The tour is operated two times a day and participants need to show up 15 minutes before the tour at the harbor.

Remember to bring:   Warm undergarments (fleece/wool sweater), no cotton, and a change of clothing.

Please note:  This tour is suitable for beginners.

What should I wear on the kayaking tours in Iceland?

We recommend that participants wear warm outdoor clothing, for example, a fleece or wool sweater and pants. You should also bring a change of clothing and swimwear.

How experienced do you have to be to do the kayaking tours?

No prior kayaking experience is required for the tours as our professional guides will teach the technique on location.

How fit do you have to be to do the kayaking tours?

Our kayaking tours are all listed at a level easy or moderate so most people should be able to do the tour. Just keep in mind that the activity is an outdoor nature activity so some physical strength is needed.

Is there a guide with you on all of the Arctic Adventures kayaking tours?

All our kayaking tours are operated by experienced and certified professional 4 star BCU sea kayak guides.

What kind of kayaks do you use for the tours?

We use top of the line plastic sea kayaks.

Are the kayaks stable? Can they tip over?

Our kayaks are very stable and easy to use.

Yes, they can tip over, although they are very stable and it happens rarely. If they tip over the guide has the necessary equipment and ability to quickly tip them over again.

If the kayaks tip over participants don’t have to worry too much, all participants get life jackets and neoprene suits so they will stay warm even if they fall in.

Are cameras and personal belongings permitted on the kayak?

Taking a waterproof camera is a great idea when going on a kayak tour. However, it is not recommended to take too much on this day tour as there is really no need for it.

I can’t swim, is that a problem when doing the kayaking tours?

Although you don’t need to “swim” while sea kayaking, we recommend that you can. People that can’t swim tend to panic when they are in the water. You have to be comfortable with floating in water.

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Contact us for more information about this tour.

Arctic Adventures offers pick up service from selected Reykjavík pick up points. Note that you can always update your pick-up / drop-off location through our customer portal: https://my.adventures.is You can press the login button in your confirmation email for an easy login to the customer portal. If you experience an error with logging into the customer portal or can't find your booking, please contact us on Facebook Messenger, or send us a message here below. Chat with us on Facebook Messenger

[email protected]

+354 766 7676, sea kayaking stykkisholmur.

This two-hour sea kayak tour is the perfect opportunity to witness Iceland’s nature and wildlife at its best. Truly a must-do for adventurous travelers and nature lovers exploring the west of Iceland.

Availability

Skill level

About the tour.

Breidafjordur is well known for its endless amounts of untouched islands and its incredible wildlife. On this personalized tour we teach clients the basic skills of kayaking before heading off from Stykkisholmur harbour in search of puffins and seals and to explore an abandoned shipwreck. We will also learn about the fascinating history and geology of the wild and rugged Snaefellsnes peninsula. In a small and beginner-friendly group, we enjoy the pristine nature in a unique and environmentally friendly way.

Please note

• The famous “Þorgeir” Shipwreck
• Breidafjordur Bay with its remote islands
• Wildlife, puffins and other sea birds, and occasionally seals and the majestic eagles.
• What to bring
• Cancellation policy
• Pick-up points
• All sea kayak equipment
• Professional kayak guide
• Warm drinks

Out on Iceland’s open seas, it is always wise to dress in warm clothes. Bring a warm jacket and pants, headwear, gloves, and a good first layer. Good outdoor shoes are recommended.

Bookings are fully refundable up to the time of the event.

No pickup is available for this tour.

Please enable javascript in your browser to book

Meeting point

Stykkishólmur: 2-Hour Sea Kayak Tour

The serene Breiðafjörður Bay in Stykkishólmur beckons adventurers to explore its pristine waters by sea kayak . Led by knowledgeable local guides , this 2-hour tour promises a personalized journey past remote islands, historical shipwrecks, and abundant wildlife. With free cancellation and all equipment provided, it’s an opportunity to experience Iceland’s natural beauty up close. But the real question is, what hidden wonders might you uncover along the way?

• The 2-hour sea kayak tour from Stykkishólmur starts at $92.19 per person and has a small group size limited to 8 participants.
• The tour explores Breiðafjörður Bay’s remote islands and offers opportunities to see diverse wildlife, including white-tailed eagles, puffins, ducks, and seagulls.
• Participants can paddle past historical shipwrecks, such as the Thorgeir wreck, and enjoy scenic views of glaciers and volcanoes from a unique sea-level perspective.
• The tour is led by knowledgeable local guides who provide commentary in English and Icelandic, offering insights on the culture and history of Stykkishólmur.
• The kayak base is located in the central area of Stykkishólmur, providing ample parking and well-maintained facilities, ensuring a comfortable start and end to the tour.

Tour Overview

The 2-hour sea kayak tour from the fishing village of Stykkishólmur offers an immersive experience for both beginners and experienced paddlers, with prices starting from $92.19 per person.

This small-group tour , limited to 8 participants, is led by knowledgeable local guides who provide commentary in English and Icelandic.

Travelers can explore the remote islands of Breiðafjörður Bay, spotting wildlife like the rare white-tailed eagle along the way.

The tour also includes the opportunity to visit historical shipwrecks and take in scenic views of glaciers and volcanoes from a unique sea-level perspective.

Flexibility is built-in, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Tour Highlights

Explore remote islands of Breiðafjörður Bay during this 2-hour sea kayak tour from Stykkishólmur, where you’ll discover local wildlife including the rare white-tailed eagle.

Paddle past historical shipwrecks like the Thorgeir wreck, and enjoy scenic views of glaciers and volcanoes from the tranquility of the water.

This small group tour provides an opportunity to experience the rich culture and history of Stykkishólmur, a charming fishing village on the Snæfellsnes peninsula.

With both beginner and experienced paddlers welcome, this tour offers a unique perspective on Iceland’s natural beauty and coastal heritage.

Tour Itinerary

Participants begin the 2-hour sea kayak tour from the kayak base in central Stykkishólmur. They’ll paddle out to Landey, an island known for its eiderdown harvesting.

Along the way, they’ll have the chance to observe a variety of birdlife, including:

After reaching Landey, the group will enjoy a break and take advantage of the photography opportunities presented by the local shipwrecks.

Participant Information

Visitors should come prepared in comfortable clothing , light shoes, and bring a change of clothing for the 2-hour sea kayak tour in Stykkishólmur. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 14, so it’s best for adults and older teens.

Before heading out, participants should check the availability of specific starting times. The guides provide all the necessary equipment, but it’s a good idea to dress appropriately for the weather and water conditions.

With a maximum of 8 participants , the small group experience ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable tour guides. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, this tour offers the chance to explore the remote islands of Breiðafjörður Bay in style.

Customer Reviews

The sea kayak tour in Stykkishólmur has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 17 customer evaluations. Reviewers consistently praised the tour’s excellent guides, who provided informative and engaging commentary throughout the experience.

Customers were also thrilled by the abundant wildlife sightings, including rare white-tailed eagles, and the serene, calming atmosphere of paddling on the water.

The tour’s value for money and overall organization were also noted as particular strengths, with ratings of 4.1 and 5 out of 5, respectively.

The Stykkishólmur sea kayak tour seems to offer an exceptional experience for both beginners and experienced paddlers.

Excellent guides

Abundant wildlife sightings

Serene, calming atmosphere

Great value for money

Highly organized

Pricing and Availability

The sea kayak tour in Stykkishólmur costs from $92.19 per person and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This 2-hour tour provides a small group experience , with a maximum of 8 participants. The tour is suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers, with a minimum age requirement of 14 years.

Participants can check the availability of specific starting times for the tour.

The pricing includes a live tour guide who can provide information in both English and Icelandic, ensuring a well-organized and informative experience for visitors exploring the remote islands of Breiðafjörður Bay.

Kayak Base Location

The kayak tour’s starting point is the central kayak base in Stykkishólmur, providing a convenient location for participants to begin their excursion. The base is situated in the heart of the fishing village, allowing easy access for visitors.

Some key features of the kayak base include:

Ample parking for participants

Clean and well-maintained facilities

Secure storage for personal belongings

Friendly and knowledgeable staff to assist with equipment and safety briefings

Close proximity to the launching point, minimizing travel time before the adventure begins

From this central location, tour-goers can embark on their journey to explore the remote islands and scenic landscapes of Breiðafjörður Bay.

Wildlife Sightings

As kayakers paddle through the serene waters of Breiðafjörður Bay , they may catch glimpses of the local wildlife that inhabits the surrounding islands.

The tour provides an opportunity to observe the rare white-tailed eagle , a majestic bird of prey. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting puffins, ducks, and seagulls nesting on the rocky cliffs.

The kayaking experience allows participants to get up close and personal with the diverse marine life , including the unique seals that call the area home.

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, guests can learn about the ecology and conservation efforts in this picturesque region of Iceland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i bring my own kayak equipment.

No, customers are generally not allowed to bring their own kayak equipment on organized tours. The tour operator typically provides all necessary kayaks and gear to ensure the safety and consistency of the group experience.

What Should I Do in Case of Seasickness?

If experiencing seasickness, it’s best to notify the tour guide immediately. They can provide anti-nausea medication and adjust the tour pace or route if needed. Staying hydrated and focusing on the horizon can also help alleviate seasickness symptoms.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

There is typically an option for a private tour, which would allow you to have the kayak and guide exclusively for your group. This can provide a more personalized experience. Inquire with the tour operator for availability and pricing.

Can I Take My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the sea kayak tour. The tour operator has safety and environmental concerns that prevent them from accommodating animals. Participants must be at least 14 years old, without any exceptions for bringing pets.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy allows customers to plan their trip with confidence and receive their money back if their plans change.

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This sea kayak tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of Stykkishólmur.

Whether paddling past remote islands, historic shipwrecks, or observing the diverse wildlife, the journey promises an unforgettable exploration of Iceland’s rich heritage.

With knowledgeable guides , all equipment provided, and flexible cancellation policies , this tour is an ideal way to experience the stunning Breiðafjörður Bay.

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Contact info

• [email protected]
• Smiðjustígur 3
• 340 Stykkishólmur

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• N65° 4' 39.910" W22° 43' 24.648"
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• Opening period: All year

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2 Hour Sea Kayaking Tour in Breidafjordur Bay with Transfer from the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Description

Witness Iceland's nature and wildlife at its best with this small group sea kayaking tour. Explore the breathtaking beauty of Breiðafjörður Bay and sail among its many islands while surrounded by mountains, glaciers and volcanoes. Nature lovers with a thirst for adventure should not miss this fantastic opportunity.

Breiðafjörður is well known for its endless amounts of untouched islands and its incredible wildlife. On this tour, you will paddle around the bay and witness flocks of seabirds such as puffins and eider ducks. You might also spot a white-tailed eagle, flying far above or nesting on any of the islands you pass, or an occasional seal popping up to check out these new explorers cruising around their home turf.

Your tour will start at the kayak base, located in the centre of the charming village of Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Stykkishólmur is renowned for its old, colourful houses and rich history as well as being the gateway to the innumerable islands of Breiðafjörður Bay.

After a short safety briefing, you will be equipped with all necessary gear for the adventure that awaits. Don't worry if you've never been kayaking before; your guide will show you how and be with you the entire way.  

You'll then set out for the sea from the old harbour, and after a short paddle, you will come across the first landmark, Landey, one of the most fruitful islands when it comes to harvesting the world famous eiderdown. It is a nesting paradise for the birds of Breiðafjörður, and during the summer the island is full of fluffy little nestlings.

The next landmark is the shipwreck of the fishing boat Þorgeir, the first generation of steel trawler that fished the Icelandic seas. After hauling Icelandic storm in the 80’s, old Þorgeir broke free of his anger line and crashed at the shore of Landey where it has been there ever since.  

After short paddle break at this picturesque spot, you will continue, sailing between the islands and absorbing the everlasting peace and quiet out on the sea while your professional kayak guide tells you about the history and geology of the volcanic and glacier-covered Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Then it is time to bid farewell to the islands and the Bay and head back to shore.

Spice up your visit to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with this fantastic adventure and explore the beauty and wildlife of the Breiðafjörður Bay on this exciting sea kayaking tour. Check availability by choosing a date.

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Sea kayaking stykkisholmur, sea kayaking stykkishólmur - private, contact info, +354 6915663, [email protected], useful links.

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Bikepacking the Sea to Sky Trail: Squamish to Lillooet & Harrison Lakes (Video)

In their latest video, Jordan Ross rides the Sea to Sky Trail between Squamish and Pemberton, British Columbia, linking rugged gravel roads inland to Harrison Lake and back to Vancouver, where the trip began. Watch the video, check out the route, and read a reflection from Jordan here…

PUBLISHED Aug 22, 2024

Words and photos by Jordan Ross

A few weeks ago, I tried to shake off a mid-summer emotional slump and go on a bikepacking trip. I’m happy to say the treatment was quite effective. The particular route in question is the Sea to Sky Trail , an incredible cycling and hiking trail that stretches from the coastal town of Squamish to the alpine meadows of Whistler and Pemberton. Following a route rich in history, it traces the historical paths used by the Coast Salish and Interior Salish First Nations for travel and trade since time immemorial. Winding its way along the Cheakamus River and the Sea to Sky Corridor, the trail offers breathtaking views, showcasing some of the most stunning landscapes in British Columbia.

We will also continue on past the end of this trail, going inland on forest service roads, camping along Lillooet Lake, exploring natural hot springs, and testing ourselves on the hilly and rugged logging roads of Harrison Lake.

Getting from my current home of Vancouver to Squamish is our first major prerequisite. While the Sea to Sky trail itself is a designated section of the Trans Canada Trail, there is no actual official overland route to the start of the trail itself (an official “marine trail” opened in 2015).

Despite combing over satellite and topographic maps for many hours, I couldn’t figure out a reasonable alternative route up to Squamish. The beautiful mountains, lakes, and river valleys to the north of Vancouver have access roads that could get you towards Squamish, but they are highly restricted by barbed wire fences and security (for watershed protection and conservation, apparently). Meanwhile, the next alternative route up Indian Arm is closed because of a major natural gas pipeline expansion, with apparently similar fencing and motion-activated cameras. It looks like we would be cycling up the Sea to Sky Highway.

Cycling up the Sea to Sky Highway is a risky proposition to many given its reputation for speeding traffic and winding, often narrow bends. Sometimes referred to as the “Sea To Die Highway,” this 120-kilometer stretch of road was the site of 12 road fatalities in 2023 according to The Squamish Reporter . Though I wasn’t able to find any data on cycling-specific fatalities, I certainly was quite nervous.

Maybe I was lucky, or maybe I had just set my expectations so incredibly low, but cycling up to Squamish on the highway was actually not that bad. Leaving later on a Thursday morning, I found the traffic to be quite light, especially leading up to Britania. There are maybe three low-visibility curves where the shoulder gets almost non-existent and where you will be fearful a speeding car will go along the bend, so I don’t want to say it was for the faint of heart. But still, not bad.

You could also drive or take a bus or private shuttle up to Squamish. Which, considering that option only took a couple of words to mention, is probably the easier but less interesting approach. However, if you went the easy way out by driving or taking one of the privately operated buses to Squamish and are concerned you will miss out on a challenge, worry not. The Sea to Sky Trail has its own challenges, mostly in the form of an elevation profile that makes the Sea to Sky Highway section look like the Caterpillar Coaster at the local county fair.

Luckily, the actual distance from Squamish to Whistler, around 65 kilometers, helps make the steep, often punchy climbs overall more manageable. That, combined with breathtaking views and adventurous route, means you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, even if you’re really just a few kilometers from the highway.

After a restful night in Whistler, we would be back on the trail to Pemberton. If Whistler represented the climbing section of our rollercoaster, then going to Pemberton is more similar to the downhill drop, though it certainly didn’t always feel like that with its share of hike-a-bike sections. Depending on your pacing and when you leave Squamish, I think trying to make it to Pemberton in one day would be quite doable.

Arriving in Pemberton along a path that seemed to float on the lake was a fun experience. With an almost 360-degree backdrop of Coastal Mountains, Pemberton seemed like an interesting but beautiful mishmash of Whistler and Squamish, though with a much more small-town feel. This would also mark the official end of the Sea to Sky Trail, at least for us. It apparently continues on northeast to the nearby town of D’Arcy, but this segment does not appear on the Trans Canada Trail map for whatever reason. Regardless, my eyes were not to the northeast, but to the southeast, a remote route back to Vancouver on the rugged forest service roads of Lillooet Lake and along the steep and dusty logging roads of Harrison Lake. There would be no cell service or places to refuel for the next few days, so I bought extra food and snacks and hoped they would be enough to sustain us for the rest of our journey.

Jordan’s Sea to Sky + Harrison Lake Loop

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