Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/volcanoes/surtsey 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. --- # Surtsey: the Island Born from a 1963 Eruption A volcanic island that rose from the sea between 1963 and 1967, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site studied for ecological succession and closed to public access. Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org]() · [Writing & review]() Region Vestmannaeyjar No public landing or diving. ## Quick Answer Named after the Norse fire giant Surtr, Surtsey emerged from the North Atlantic in a submarine eruption that began in November 1963 and lasted nearly four years. The island has been strictly protected since its formation, and scientists have used it to study how life colonizes barren land, from the first moss and insects to nesting seabirds and flowering plants. Sources and page update Updated: 2026-09-10 Surtsey is closed to the public. Check the exact itinerary before booking a sea-viewing excursion. For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy. Official sources to check - [Weather (IMO)]() - [UNESCO listing]() - [SafeTravel alerts]() - [Road.is]() - [Environment Agency of Iceland]() Created 1963–1967 Nearly four years of submarine eruption. Status UNESCO World Heritage Designated in 2008 for scientific value. Access No public access Public landing and diving prohibited. ## Key Facts About Surtsey - The island emerged through eruptions between 1963 and 1967 - UNESCO World Heritage inscription in 2008 recognizes its ecological research value - Species inventories describe particular survey periods; older counts are not a current census - The reserve includes surrounding waters as well as the island - Public landing and diving are prohibited ## Nearby Attractions - Heimaey island and Eldfell volcano - Vestmannaeyjar Eldheimar museum - Puffin watching tours from Heimaey - Stafkirkjan (stave church replica on Heimaey) - Herjólfsdalur valley and festival grounds ## How to Get There - Surtsey has no public landing route - For a sea-viewing excursion, confirm the destination and weather policy with the operator - Use the current Herjólfur timetable and departure port when travelling to Heimaey - The Eldheimar museum on Heimaey presents the archipelago’s volcanic history ## Best Time to Visit the Area - Plan around the actual ferry and excursion schedules for your travel date - Sea conditions determine whether a booked offshore excursion can run - Heimaey offers a volcanic-history visit even when Surtsey cannot be seen clearly ## Read the date behind a species count The [UNESCO description]() dates its figure of 60 vascular plant species to 2004. It is a historical observation, not a September 2026 inventory. Numbers copied between travel guides can lose that distinction. The scientific value lies in following change: which organisms arrive, which establish themselves and how the developing ecosystem responds. For newer research, use the dated studies linked from our [Surtsey island guide](). Planning help ## Surtsey FAQs Quick answers with safety notes where it matters. **Can you visit Surtsey?** No. Public landing and diving are prohibited. The restrictions protect the island and surrounding marine environment from human disturbance. **Why is Surtsey a UNESCO World Heritage Site?** Surtsey was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 because it provides an undisturbed natural laboratory for studying how ecosystems develop on new land. Scientists have tracked the arrival of plants, insects, birds, and marine life since the island emerged. **How was Surtsey formed?** Surtsey emerged during underwater eruptions between 1963 and 1967. Erosion has subsequently reshaped the island; an area figure needs a survey date to be meaningful. **Can you see Surtsey from a distance?** For a sea-viewing trip, confirm that the operator explicitly includes Surtsey. A general Heimaey boat tour should not be assumed to reach it, and a sea excursion does not permit landing. **Is Surtsey getting smaller?** Yes. UNESCO describes erosion removing softer material and leaving a more resistant core. A fixed annual loss or disappearance date would oversimplify that process. [All volcanoes]() For a countrywide view of Iceland’s volcanic systems, explore our [Iceland statistics]().