Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/national-parks/breidafjordur Content updated: 2026-09-10 This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article. --- # Breiðafjörður Protected Area: A Bay of Thousands of Islands A wide bay between the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the Westfjords, with thousands of islands and large populations of seabirds and seals. Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org]() · [Writing & review]() Region West Iceland Boat tours from Stykkishólmur. Best in summer. ## Quick Answer Breiðafjörður is one of Iceland's largest and most ecologically important bays, stretching between the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the Westfjords. Its thousands of islands support colonies of seabirds, including puffins and white-tailed eagles, and seals haul out on the rocky shores. Flatey Island preserves a piece of old Icelandic island life, and boat tours run out among the islands. Sources and page update Updated: 2026-09-10 This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Sea conditions in Breiðafjörður can change quickly; check weather and sea forecasts before boat tours. For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy. Official sources to check - [Weather (IMO)]() - [Road status (road.is)]() - [SafeTravel alerts]() - [Environment Agency of Iceland]() Best for Birdwatching + islands Puffins, white-tailed eagles, and thousands of islands to explore. Access Boat from Stykkishólmur Tours and the Baldur ferry depart from Stykkishólmur harbor. Pro tip Visit Flatey Island Book the Flatey stop and match it to a confirmed return sailing. ## What to Expect at Breiðafjörður - Thousands of islands with rich birdlife and marine mammals - Boat tours with opportunities to see puffins and eagles - Flatey Island with its historic buildings - Viking sushi boat tours where you taste fresh-caught seafood on board - White-tailed eagle sightings (Iceland's largest bird of prey) - Intertidal zones at low tide with starfish, sea urchins, and kelp among the islets ## Nearby Attractions - Stykkishólmur town with colorful houses and harbor - Snæfellsjökull National Park on the peninsula tip - Westfjords via the Baldur ferry from Brjánslækur - Helgafell holy mountain with panoramic views near Stykkishólmur - Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum, which covers traditional fermented shark ## How to Get to Breiðafjörður - Stykkishólmur is the main gateway, about 2 hours from Reykjavik - Baldur ferry connects Stykkishólmur to Flatey and Brjánslækur - Several boat tour operators depart from Stykkishólmur harbor - Coastal viewpoints accessible by car along the Snæfellsnes coast ## Best Time to Visit Breiðafjörður - June–August: Best for puffins, boat tours, and Flatey Island visits - Watch resting seals from a distance and keep their route to the water clear - Summer midnight sun allows extended evening wildlife viewing - Winter: Fewer tours, but a chance of northern lights ## Plan the island landing separately from the crossing The [September–December 2026 Baldur timetable]() includes Flatey on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays and requires advance booking for the stop. Check your travel date: the ferry’s general route across the bay does not mean every sailing calls at the island. The operator also asks winter visitors to confirm weather conditions and [bring their own food from September through May](), when island restaurants and cafés are closed. ## Why these shores are protected Breiðafjörður is protected under its own 1995 legislation. The [Nature Conservation Agency]() describes a tidal range of up to six metres and extensive mudflats. Shallows, currents and skerries make navigation hazardous without local knowledge. Follow local rules around eider nesting areas: down and egg harvesting remain part of island life, and a boat landing is not permission to walk through a colony. Planning help ## Breiðafjörður FAQs Quick answers with safety notes where it matters. **How many islands are in Breiðafjörður?** Breiðafjörður contains an estimated 2,000–3,000 islands, islets, and skerries, though the exact number varies depending on how small formations are counted. Only a handful are inhabited, with Flatey being the most visited. **Can I visit Flatey Island?** Yes, but book the Flatey stop ahead and check both outward and return sailings. Baldur’s September–December 2026 timetable includes Flatey on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Weather can prevent the stop. The operator says restaurants and cafés are closed from September through May, so bring provisions. **When can I see puffins in Breiðafjörður?** Atlantic puffins are present from mid-April through August, with peak numbers in June and July. Boat tours from Stykkishólmur visit puffin colonies on the outer islands. Bring binoculars for the best views. **What boat tours are available?** Several operators run tours from Stykkishólmur, including wildlife and birdwatching cruises, Viking sushi adventures (where you taste fresh seafood caught on board), and the Baldur ferry to Flatey and the Westfjords. **When is the best time to visit Breiðafjörður?** Summer offers the widest choice of island services and birdwatching trips. Flatey is also served on selected winter sailings: check the dated ferry timetable and confirm the stop with the operator. Do not assume a scheduled crossing of the bay includes a Flatey landing. [All national parks]() Country reference: [Iceland statistics]().