March 19, 2024

Iceland: Living by The Sea For Centuries

The Atlantic Ocean is vast. It is huge. It is unpredictable and unforgiving. I live by it and look at the ocean every day. Each day it gives me a new experience. On a calm summer day it is a deep blue color and has an innocent appeal. On a stormy winter day the sea shows a different face as it is gray, fierce and it roars. 

The sea has sustained us here in Iceland through the centuries. We have sailed in still water and storm to catch fish and bring it ashore and sell abroad. The sea took its toll of seamen through the centuries. With better equipment and safety precautions we do not lose as many now but we still need to show the ocean proper respect. 

These days there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the ocean as a traveler in Iceland. Whale watching tours are offered in several locations around Iceland in Reykjavik, Husavik and Akureyri. Tours are offered on sea to enjoy the Aurora Borealis in winter. Sailing from places such as Isafjordur in the Westfjords is enjoyed from March through summer until autumn.

Updated on 2022-02-10