Sail like Ingólfr the first Viking settler, Thingeyri, West fjords
About Sail Like A Viking Experience
Sail like a Viking in an authentic hand-built replica of the Gaukstad ship from 900 AD. Explore new territories, participate in sailing the ship, pose like a Viking, row and handle sail. This is a unique family friendly experience for sailing enthusiasts, history buffs and Viking fans alike. It’s also the perfect way to get off the island and feel the wind in your hair!
You’ll feel like a true Viking as you set sail. You’ll be accompanied by a crew consisting of Vikings and up to 12 passengers. You will learn the Viking way to navigate on the sea and how to maneuver the sail like Ingólfr did when he settled in Reykjavik in 874 AD. Or you can imagine yourself to be Kjartan Ólafsson, the hero of the famous Laxdæla saga, who sailed from nearby Breiðafjorður Bay and journeyed to Norway to seek his fortune, bringing back many fine gifts from the king himself.
While you are on the water, be sure to look over the nearby cliffs and islands for the distinct orange beaks and black-and-white feathers of puffins. Cast your eyes over the waves to spot whales and other marine life breaking the surface. It is easy to imagine how sailors in the Viking Age would have welcomed these uplifting sights after many days at sea.
Although our Viking ship was designed and built to sail between countries on open sea over the North Atlantic Ocean, we only sail in safe waters. Far enough to encounter the wild nature and close enough to be safe all the time.
Our experienced Viking skippers and Storytellers will help you make your day an unforgettable experience. The idea is to allow our guests to go back in time and follow in the footsteps of the first settlers who came to Reykjavik from Norway 1150 years ago.
Take on the role of an Icelandic settler. Hoist the sail and embark upon a journey to the Viking age!
Availability
From June 1st to August 5th
Daily at 9:30 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm
Price
ISK 165,000 private tour for 1 up to 12 people
Duration
1 to 1.5 hours
Please note
In all our trips safety comes first. We follow strict guidelines so that your trip will be pleasant and safe.
We supply life vests and viking shoulder robes. It is important to dress according to weather.
About the host
The Viking ship Vésteinn was built in 2008 by the Þingeyri Viking Club in Dýrafjörður in the west fjords, home of Gísli Súrsson, one of the early Icelandic settlers.
We are professional captains and guides. All our crew members are Vikings who have undergone a thorough rescue and first aid training program with the Icelandic Maritime Safety and Survival Training Centre. Like their Icelandic Viking ancestors, they are above all explorers, merchants, craftsmen and storytellers, rather than men of war.
Gallery
Booking
This experience is booked on request. We will let you know within 72 hours whether your booking request has been accepted or not. No payment will be requested until the booking is confirmed.
Why booking with us
No booking fees or any hidden cost
Best price guarantee
Count on us to be there by your side
Good to know
Language
English
Recommendations
This is an open boat, so for safety and comfort we ask you to dress according to the Icelandic weather. Wear warm outdoor clothing and proper walking shoes.
Weather changes rapidly and it can be windy out on sea. Shoes with a good grip and gloves are important on sea.
Weatherproof
This activity takes place rain or shine
Other booking options
Private and custom made tours available early in the morning and in the evening.
Viking wedding on board in the Icelandic nature of wild sea life and islands.
Meeting at/location
Dýrafjörður, Þingeyri, West fjords. Meeting location will be provided after booking.
