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Reykjavík Maritime Museum

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Reykjavík Maritime Museum (Sjóminjasafnið) is located in the Grandi area of the old harbor in Reykjavík, housed within a former fish processing factory. Opened in 2005, the museum is dedicated to the comprehensive documentation of Iceland's maritime history, which has been essential to the nation's survival. The exhibits trace the evolution from primitive rowing boats to modern industrial trawlers, explaining the economic significance of the fishing industry. A major highlight of the museum is the coast guard vessel Óðinn, moored at the pier directly outside the building, which is accessible via guided tours. The Óðinn played a pivotal role in the Cod Wars between Iceland and the United Kingdom during the 1950s and 1970s. Visitors can learn about the dangers of the sea and technological advancements in seafaring through interactive displays and historic photographs. The museum serves as a vital educational resource, preserving Iceland's maritime heritage for future generations and highlighting the ocean's profound impact on Icelandic culture.

Location: Iceland
Top sights: Saga Museum · Víkin · Reykjavík Maritime Museum
Nearby: Kópavogur (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	0	0	1	3	6	9	11	11	8	4	2	0
Rain mm	169	152	154	119	93	83	99	121	181	147	149	172

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Reykjavík Maritime Museum is located in the Old Harbour and is an indoor museum. It is open year-round, entry is ticketed.

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Typical hours

The museum typically opens May to September daily 10:00-18:00, shorter in winter. Current hours are available on the official website.

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Photography

Photography is generally allowed in exhibition halls, with possible flash restrictions in some areas. The displayed boats and maritime artifacts offer diverse subjects.

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Time needed

A museum visit typically takes 1 to 2 hours. Those wanting a deeper dive into Icelandic maritime history should allow 2.5 hours.

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Combine with

Combine the museum visit with a harbor tour or a walk through the old town. The nearby Art Museum and Harpa concert hall are also good additions.

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Getting there

The museum is in central Reykjavík, a short walk from the city center. Well accessible by bus, parking is limited in the area.

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Insider tip

Visit the museum in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds. The museum café gives a lovely view of the harbor - convenient for a break.

Geography

Coordinates

64.15240, -21.95100

Facts

The museum was officially opened to the public in 2005.
The coast guard vessel Óðinn is permanently moored at the pier.
The exhibits feature details about the Cod Wars (1950s-1970s).
The museum is located in the Grandi district of the old harbor.
The vessel Óðinn was originally built in Denmark in 1947.
Fishery was historically the most critical sector of Iceland's economy.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Reykjavík Port<1 km · EExplore →

Seltjarnarnes2 km · WExplore →

Höfði House2 km · EExplore →

Perlan3 km · SEExplore →

Grótta Lighthouse4 km · WExplore →

Reykjavik Botanical Garden4 km · EExplore →

Viðeyjarkirkja5 km · EExplore →

Kópavogur5 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Reykjavík Maritime Museum (10)

Saga Museum 🏛 museum

Museum in Reykjavík, presenting Iceland's history with wax figures.

🌐 sagamuseum.is🕒 Mo-Su 10:00-18:00💶

Víkin 🏛 museum

Maritime museum in Reykjavík, housed in a former fish warehouse.

🌐 sjominjasafn.is🕒 Mo-Su 10:00-17:00💶

Reykjavík Maritime Museum🏛 museum

Maritime museum in Reykjavík, documenting seafaring history.

Ufsaklettur

Rock formation on Reykjavík's coast, popular for walks.

🌐 ferlir.is

Fiskhöllin

Gallery in Reykjavík, contemporary art in a former fish house.

Elding's Whale Watching Centre

Centre for whale watching tours in Reykjavík, departure point.

Flæði

Gallery in Reykjavík, featuring rotating art exhibitions.

FlyOver Iceland

Attraction in Reykjavík, simulated flight over Icelandic landscapes.

I8 Gallery

Gallery in Reykjavík, specializing in contemporary photography.

Landakotskirkja

Cathedral of the Catholic Church in Iceland, built in 1929.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the main theme of the museum?

The history of Icelandic fishing and seafaring.

Can you visit real ships?

Yes, the coast guard ship Óðinn is available for guided tours at the pier.

Are there student discounts?

Yes, students with a valid ID receive a discount on the entrance fee.

Is the museum centrally located?

Yes, it is located in the old harbor area of Reykjavík (Grandi district).

Are there lockers available?

Yes, lockers for bags and coats are available near the entrance.

Reykjavík Maritime Museum: where is it located?

Reykjavík Maritime Museum is located in Iceland.

Reykjavík Maritime Museum: what is there to see?

Highlights include Saga Museum, Víkin, Reykjavík Maritime Museum.

Reykjavík Maritime Museum: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Reykjavík Maritime Museum: why is it worth visiting?

The Reykjavík Maritime Museum (Sjóminjasafnið) is located in the Grandi area of the old harbor in Reykjavík, housed within a former fish processing factory.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Reykjavík Maritime Museum

Best time to visit & climate