Learn everything you need to know about cruise destinations under Avid Cruiser’s Port Profiles section (you’ll find a tab above on the navigation bar). Each week, we’ll provide one or more port profiles for those are planning trips or for those who need inspiration to do so. Today’s feature, Isafjördur, Iceland.
Cruise ships are welcome visitors in Isafjördur
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Overview
If you cruise to Isafjördur, you have no doubt embarked on a spectacular journey. Located in the northwestern extreme of the European continent, it is by no means possible to argue that this Icelandic destination is situated along the touristic highroad. Those who choose to travel here are richly rewarded, though. The fjord-rich Vestfirdir (Westfjords) peninsula, where Isafjördur is located, is an Eldorado not only for those who enjoy the great outdoors, but also for “culture vultures” – and fans of swamp soccer.
As you take in the scenery in this corner of the world, you might also give a thought to the journey that the town of Isafjördur has embarked on. Founded some 1,100 years ago, fishing has for centuries supplied the economic base for the local community. Things, however, are changing.
In the early 1900s, the proximity to some of the best fishing grounds around Iceland propelled developments: when novelties such as motorised fishing boats reached Iceland, they were first introduced here. In the years following World War II, the fishing boats grew larger and larger. Then the 1980s arrived – and Isafjördur’s transformation began.
Lowered catch quotas and fishing restrictions were some of the reasons behind the decrease of the importance of the fishing industry in Isafjördur. Although fishing remains important to the local economy, the town is branching out as it encourages new ventures in technology, research and tourism – not least in the form of cruise ships.
Read Avid Cruiser’s full Port Profile featuring Isafjördur.
