Isafjordur has seen a significant increase in its cruise calls over the last few years. In 2010 29 call sand 22,000 passengers are expected which compares to 27 calls and 19,000 passengers in 2009. In 2001, the Icelandic port had just seven calls.
Newcomers include MSC Poesia, Costa Magica, Compagnie du Ponant’s Le Boreal. Oceania Cruises will be visiting for the first time with Regatta.
There are three berths capable of taking cruiseships although none are dedicated. All are within a few minutes’ walk of the town. Shuttle buses can be provided on request.
The outer harbour, Sundabakki, has two berths. One of 190m with vessels able to extend beyond the pier by 40m, and 7.8m draught. The other is 120m long with 6m draught. The turning basin is 230m.
The inner harbour pier, Asgeirsbakki, is 270m long but is reached through a narrow channel. To date the largest vessel to have navigated here is Van Gogh of 157m in length and 6.2m draught. The larger vessels usually turn in the fjord, either before or after arrival.
Waste water discharge can be accommodated by truck. There is a 75% discount for separated waste but the cost of transportation from the harbour is charged separately.
Plans are in place to dredge the channel to the inner harbour to 10m, according to Halfdan Bjarki, Isafjordur Municipalities information officer, but presently the limit is 7.5m.
