Of Puffins & Fishermen
On the edge of the world, hidden in a faraway corner of East Iceland, you can find a small fishing marina with a secret: It’s the home of a colony of adorable puffins. Living together in harmony, the puffins enjoy the safety of their former island home while having access to an abundance of food while the fishermen give them additional protection from predators and use the marina for easy access to the rich waters outside the fjord.
Hafnarhólmi provides the perfect backdrop for the puffins’ daily antics. These black and white seabirds, adorned with vibrant orange bsaeaks, thrive in this natural sanctuary. From mid-April to mid-August, visitors are treated to the spectacle of puffins engaging in their elaborate courtship dances, nesting rituals, and playful dives into the ocean. This sanctuary offers a unique opportunityI to witness puffins up close in their natural habitat. The puffins, used to the presence of people after years of protection, are not shy and stay close to the walkway. The marina is designed to minimize disturbance to the birds while providing easy access to those eager to learn more about these captivating creatures. Keep an ear out for their distinct calls and an eye out for their iconic hooked tongue. They can hold up to twenty fish in their beak at a time!
Small boat fishing has been a part of the local culture since the first people set foot on land in the fjord. A relatively new addition to the local infrastructure, the Hafnarhólmi Marina is the latest expression of this timeless tradition. The marina is a hub for local folk who still embrace the age-old tradition of small-scale, sustainable fishing. Small boats named after local natural features dot the harbor, carrying with them a sense of community and a commitment to preserving the marine environment.
Most of the boats in the Puffin Marina carry names of local features as well as traditional names.
Small boat fishing practices often prioritize sustainability, with local operators taking measures to ensure the long-term health of the marine ecosystem. They operate in accordance with rules governing sustainable fishing practices specifically made for this kind of fishing. The small-scale nature of the fishing method fosters a strong sense of community. The folk fishing around the fjord all know each other, have familial relationships with each other, sharing knowledge and supporting one another in their endeavors. While safety has drastically improved over the centuries, going out on the open water can still be dangerous, so the people working the grounds are in constant contact to share information about weather and waves.
The small boats use lines for fishing instead of nets, so they are able to be extremely precise and selective while fishing. They ensure that the catch is fresh and of high-quality. Upon landing, the fish is immediately taken to the local fish factory where it is processed and sold directly to local markets. You can even buy same-day caught fish at the fish factory in person!
The harmonious coexistence of puffins and small boat fishing in Hafnarhólmi paints a portrait of a community deeply rooted in nature. As visitors explore the marina, they witness not only the virtuous cycle of sustainable fishing but also the dedication to preserving the delicate balance between human activity and wildlife.
When the puffins first arrive they get to enjoy the frosty spring of East Iceland.
Our tour, the Village E-Bike Ride & Puffin Watch, takes us through it all where you get to experience the puffins and the village of Borgarfjörður eystri all in one package. The experience is a visceral journey through the charm of local landscapes. Breathe in the crisp sea air as you pedal effortlessly towards the sleepy Puffin Marina. Discover the hidden gems of the village, witness the daily life of puffins, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that defines this coastal haven. Our e-bike tour promises an eco-friendly, exhilarating experience that seamlessly blends the joy of exploration with the serenity of coastal living.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the coast on two wheels. Breathe in the crisp air as you pedal effortlessly from the village to the Puffin Marina.