ISAFJORDUR

• ISISA
• Latitude: 66.0693
• Longitude: -23.1267
• North Atlantic
• Port in Iceland

Location: Iceland

Isafjordur, located on the Westfjords peninsula in the northwestern part of Iceland, is a significant marine port that serves both commercial and tourism sectors. Here’s a detailed description of the port's facilities and specifications:

Geographical Location

• Coordinates: 66°04′40″N 23°07′54″W
• Nearby Town: Ísafjörður, approximately 2 km from the port.
• Accessibility: The port is accessible year-round, although it can be influenced by local weather conditions, particularly during the winter months.

Port Facilities

• Harbors: The main harbor is Skutulsfjörður, which provides good shelter against prevailing weather conditions.
• Docks and Berths:
  • Quay Length: Approximately 1,000 meters in total.
  • Depth: Varies from 5 to 8 meters, allowing accommodation of different vessel sizes, particularly fishing, cargo, and cruise ships.
• Terminal Facilities:
  • Cargo Handling: Modern equipment for loading and unloading cargo.
  • Fish Processing: Advanced facilities for processing and freezing fish, an important economic activity.
• Passenger Terminals: Facilities for tourists include a cruise ship terminal with all necessary amenities such as customs and immigration.

Services Offered

• Pilotage: Compulsory for larger vessels; pilot services available 24/7.
• Tug Assistance: Tugs are available upon request to assist vessels.
• Bunkering: Fuel and oil supplies can be arranged.
• Waste Disposal: Facilities for waste collection and disposal are in place.
• Repairs and Maintenance: Basic repair services available; larger repairs may need to be conducted in other areas of Iceland.

Shipping and Navigation

• Navigational Aids: The port is well-equipped with navigational aids, including lights and markers.
• Shipping Movements: Regular traffic includes fishing vessels, cargo ships, and during the summer months, a significant number of cruise ships.
• Communication: VHF Channels are monitored continuously for ship-to-shore communication.

Economic and Strategic Importance

• Fishing Industry: A major hub for the Icelandic fishing industry, contributing significantly to the local economy.
• Tourism: Increasingly important, particularly for cruise ships. The port serves as a gateway to the scenic and rugged landscapes of the Westfjords.
• Logistics: Supports local and regional logistics with good road connections to the rest of Iceland.

Environmental Considerations

• Efforts in Sustainability: The port operates with a focus on environmental sustainability, with measures in place to reduce pollution and manage waste efficiently.
• Impact Studies: Regular environmental impact assessments to mitigate the impact of port operations on the local ecosystem.

Future Developments

• Expansion Plans: There are ongoing plans to expand the port facilities to accommodate larger vessels and increased traffic, especially targeting the cruise industry.
• Modernization: Enhancing the infrastructure and equipment to improve efficiency and safety.

Isafjordur port is a crucial part of Iceland's maritime infrastructure, supporting both the local economy and the broader regional economy through its diverse capabilities and strategic location.