Hours & Information

Days and Hours of Operation:

 

2025  

1^st June - 19^th September 
10:00 - 16:00

20^th September - 14^th November 
11:00 - 16:00

15^th November - 31^st December 
Guided Educational Tour - Pre-Book Only (2 Weeks' Notice Required)

 

**Please note**

Our puffin hospital is temporarily closed to visitors as the sanctuary undertakes important renovation work.

These upgrades are designed to enhance the habitat and facilities for the puffins, ensuring their continued well-being and comfort. We appreciate your understanding and support during this period.

In the meantime, visitors are still welcome to explore our Native Aquarium and enjoy watching our gorgeous belugas through the Animal Welfare Assessment Window. Wishing you a Whaley great visit!

Book Tickets

Getting Here:

Our Sanctuary is situated on the picturesque island of Heimaey, the largest island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, off Iceland's south coast. 

Address:

Ægisgata 2, 900 - Vestmannaeyjabær
Google Maps: Click Here

Transportation Details 

From Reykjavik:  

It's a two-hour drive from Reykjavik to the ferry terminal. The primary terminal is at Landeyjahöfn, located near the stunning Seljalandsfoss Waterfall.  

Winter Travel: During winter, the ferry terminal may change to Þorlákshöfn, which is approximately a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik. 

Ferry Information:

Ticket Booking: Tickets for the Herjólfur Ferry, accommodating both passengers and vehicles, can be booked at Herjolfur's Website. Note that bookings for August 1 - August 4 open later due to the Þjóhátíð Music Festival.
 
Ports and Schedule: Announcements regarding which port will be in service are made daily on the ferry's Facebook page. It's crucial to check updates before heading out to ensure you're driving to the right terminal (announcements are typically made at 6am and 3pm).

Travel Times:
From Landeyjahöfn to Vestmannaeyjar: Approximately 45 minutes.
From Þorlákshöfn to Vestmannaeyjar: Approximately 3 hours.

Public Transportation: 

Buses from Reykjavik are available from the bus area Mjódd E to the ferry harbors. Generally, the bus to board is numbered 52. Please note that the departure times can vary daily, so it's best to use the Strætó app/website to plan your journey.

Eg.: Enter your route from Mjódd E bus stop to Landeyjahöfn in the Strætó app/website, and it will provide you with full schedule information. Be advised that Mjódd E is a bus stop located a bit off the city center in Reykjavik.  

For schedules and more details, visit Straeto or call 540-2700. 

Pedestrians and Cruise Ship Arrivals:  

For pedestrians and cruise ship passengers, our Visitor Centre is conveniently located just a 5-10 minute walk from the harbour terminal on level ground. 

Additional Information: 

Learn more about the wonders of Vestmannaeyjar, find accommodations, and discover more activities by visiting the Visit Vestmannaeyjar Website.  

For any further assistance, please don't hesitate to Contact us.