Surtsey

View a protected volcanic World Heritage island from the sea, with no landing permitted.

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Information about Surtsey

Surtsey is a young volcanic island southwest of Heimaey, formed by eruptions between 1963 and 1967. Seen from the sea, its dark slopes and low cliffs show how quickly the North Atlantic is already reshaping this new land.

The island is a strictly protected nature reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Landing, diving and disturbance are prohibited without research permission, preserving Surtsey as a rare natural laboratory for the study of colonisation by plants, birds and other life. Expedition travelers experience it only as a weather-dependent sail-past; distance, visibility and sea conditions determine the view, and wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Interesting facts about Surtsey

The eruption that formed Surtsey was first observed on 14 November 1963.

Volcanic activity ended on 5 June 1967.

Surtsey has been protected as a nature reserve since 1965.

UNESCO inscribed the island as a World Heritage Site in 2008.

Public landing and diving are prohibited; visits require scientific permission.

The island can be viewed only from a respectful distance at sea.

Pictures of Surtsey

Ash and steam rising during the volcanic eruption that formed Surtsey in 1963

Where is Surtsey

Animals in Surtsey

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.

Atlantic Puffin

Northern Fulmar

Our trips to Surtsey