If you're visiting the town of Vik in South Iceland, don’t miss the Skaftfellingur Museum. This small but special museum is all about an old wooden ship that once sailed the rough waters along Iceland’s southern coast.
It's a great stop if you want to learn about Iceland's sea history and the lives of people who lived by the ocean.
What Is the Skaftfellingur Museum?
The Skaftfellingur Museum is a maritime museum, which means it focuses on life at sea. It's named after the ship Skaftfellingur, a large wooden cargo boat built in 1918. The ship was used to carry goods and fish between towns until 1974. Today, you can see the ship in the museum, along with tools, photos, and stories from its time on the sea.
The ship itself is the main feature. It’s made of oak wood and still has its original paint and parts, like the mast and engine. Inside the museum, you’ll also find old sailor clothes, equipment, and even a small model of the ship. There’s also a short film from the 1950s that shows what it was like to work on the ship.
Top Things to See at Skaftfellingur Museum
The Skaftfellingur Museum in Vik is home to a real wooden cargo ship that once sailed along the rough South Coast of Iceland. Built in 1917, this ship, called Skaftfellingur, helped move goods and fish between towns for over 50 years. You can walk around the ship and see what life was like for Icelandic sailors.
One of the most interesting parts is the ship’s original engine, still on display. You can also see a small model of the Skaftfellingur that shows how it looked when it was new. Stories and photos inside the museum tell you about how the ship rescued people during World War II and helped the local community.
Best Time to Visit Skaftfellingur Museum
The best time to visit Skaftfellingur Museum is during the summer months, from June to August. The museum is open daily during this time, and the weather in Vik is usually mild and easy for walking around. Summer is also great for road trips along the South Coast, so it’s easy to add the museum to your travel plans.
If you visit in spring or fall, you might still catch the museum open, but hours can be shorter. These seasons are quieter, so you may get the museum mostly to yourself. Winter can be tricky because of snow and fewer daylight hours, and the museum may be closed so always check the opening hours before your trip
How To Get To Skaftfellingur Museum
The Skaftfellingur Museum is in the center of Vik i Myrdal, a small town on Iceland’s South Coast. The address is Vikurbraut 17, right across the street from the local tourist information center.
By car, Vik is about 112 miles (180 km) from Reykjavik. Just take Route 1, the Ring Road. By bus,
There are regular buses from Reykjavik to Vik. Once in town, the museum is just a short walk away. If you're staying in Vik, you can easily walk to the museum.
Guided Tours
Some South Coast tours from Reykjavik include a short stop in Vik. You might have time to pop into the museum while you're there.
South Coast of Iceland Tour from Reykjavik - Take a full-day tour of Iceland's beautiful South Coast and see amazing places like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the Sólheimajökull glacier.
2-Day Summer Tour of Iceland's South Coast - Take an exciting 2-day tour along Iceland's South Coast, where you can hike on a glacier, visit amazing waterfalls, and take a boat ride on the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. This tour is perfect for anyone who loves nature and adventure.
Glacier Lagoon & South Coast Day Tour from Reykjavik - Take a day tour to see the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and watch huge icebergs floating in the water. You can also visit Diamond Beach, where chunks of ice shine on the black sand.
Self-Drive
This is the best option! Drive along the South Coast, stop at the museum, and check out other sights like waterfalls and black sand beaches along the way.
7-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour - Go on an amazing 7-day road trip in Iceland to see the northern lights. You’ll visit cool places like waterfalls, black sand beaches, the Golden Circle, and a blue ice cave.
One-Week Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour with Ice Caving - Go on an 8-day winter road trip in Iceland and see amazing places. Explore the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula in a fun and easy way to enjoy Iceland's winter beauty.
Unforgettable 1-Week Self-Drive Tour - Take an awesome 7-day road trip in Iceland to see the South Coast, West Coast, and the famous Golden Circle. You’ll visit cool places like glacier lagoons, waterfalls, mountains, and the Blue Lagoon.
Magical 6-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour - Go on a fun 6-day winter road trip in South Iceland and see amazing places like waterfalls, ice caves, and the northern lights in the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
5-Day Self-Drive Tour of South Iceland - Go on a 5-day road trip through Iceland to explore the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. You’ll see waterfalls, black sand beaches, geysers, and the Blue Lagoon.
Things to Do at Skaftfellingur Museum
At Skaftfellingur Museum, you can explore a real wooden ship that once sailed Iceland’s rough seas. Walk around the ship, peek inside, and imagine what life was like for the sailors who worked on it. Check out old tools, sailor uniforms, and a film from the 1950s that shows the ship in action.
You can also see the ship’s big engine and a small model that shows what it looked like when it was new. Read the stories and look at the photos to learn how the ship helped people during tough times, including World War II. The museum is small but full of cool things to see and learn.
What Makes Skaftfellingur Museum Special
The museum is special because it helps you understand how important ships like Skaftfellingur were for Icelanders who lived in remote places without harbors. The ship played a big part in keeping small towns connected and supplied.
During World War II, it even rescued 52 sailors from a German U-boat, which makes its history even more exciting.
Where to Stay Near Skaftfellingur Museum
There are many great places to stay near Skaftfellingur Museum since it’s in the center of Vik. You can find cozy guesthouses, small hotels, and even cabins with amazing views of the mountains and sea. Some places are just a short walk from the museum. Popular options include Hotel Vik, Puffin Hotel, and Vik Cottages.
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are also hostels and campsites nearby. Many places offer breakfast, free parking, and nice rooms with everything you need. Staying in Vik also means you’re close to other cool spots like Reynisfjara beach and Dyrholaey.
What to Eat Near Skaftfellingur Museum
After visiting the Skaftfellingur Museum, you can grab a tasty meal at one of the local spots in Vik. There are cozy cafes and small restaurants just a short walk away. You can try Icelandic dishes like lamb soup or fresh fish, or go for pizza, burgers, and sandwiches if you want something familiar.
Popular spots include Sudur Vik, which has great views and a mix of local and international food. Halldorskaffi is another favorite for pizza, fish, and homemade cakes. If you just want a quick bite, there are bakeries and grocery stores nearby.
If you want more information, then read about the Top 7 restaurants in Vik.
Skaftfellingur Museum in Popular Culture
The Skaftfellingur Museum is well known in Iceland for its strong connection to the country’s sea history. The ship Skaftfellingur has been in local stories and news because of its brave journeys and rescue missions. It was even known for helping save people from a German submarine during World War II.
It’s a symbol of hope and courage for many Icelanders. It’s a favorite stop for travelers who love history and real-life stories. Some travel blogs and videos feature the museum as a cool hidden gem in Vik. Visitors often share photos of the ship and tell others about the amazing history behind it.
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Skaftfellingur Museum
Skaftfellingur Museum is easy to visit, especially during summer when it’s open daily and located right in the center of Vik. To make the most of your visit, here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
Visit in Summer (June–August): The museum is open daily from 12 PM to 6 PM during the summer months. This is the best time to visit thanks to longer daylight and better road conditions.
Wear Comfortable Clothes: The weather in Vik can change quickly, so bring a jacket and wear sturdy shoes. Even on sunny days, it can be cool and windy near the coast.
Parking and Location: There is free parking available near the museum, and it's just across from the tourist info center. If you're staying in Vik, you can even walk there.
Bring a Camera: The old wooden ship and the views around Vik are perfect for photos. It’s a great spot for capturing memories of Iceland’s sea history.
Plan a Short Stop: The museum is small, so you only need about 30–45 minutes to look around. It fits perfectly into a day of exploring other nearby sights like Reynisfjara beach.
Check Opening Hours Online: While summer hours are reliable, times may change in other seasons. Always check the museum's website or Facebook page before you go.
Have Some Cash or a Card: Entry costs a small fee, so be ready to pay when you arrive. Some places in Iceland prefer cards, but it's good to have a little cash just in case.
Other Attractions Nearby Skaftfellingur Museum
While you’re in Vík, there are many amazing places close to the museum like Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, known for its black sand and cool lava rock columns, Dyrholaey, a cliff with ocean views, birdwatching, and a lighthouse, and Katla Geopark, a great place to see Iceland’s volcanic nature and glaciers.
FAQs About Skaftfellingur Museum
Skaftfellingur Museum is a small but interesting place that teaches you about life at sea in Iceland through a real wooden ship. Here are some common questions that visitors often ask before stopping by:
Is the museum good for kids?
Yes, the museum is family-friendly, and kids usually enjoy seeing the big wooden ship up close. It’s also a short visit, so younger kids won’t get bored.
Can I go inside the ship?
You can walk around the ship and see it up close, but some parts may be closed for safety. There are also displays inside the museum that show what life was like on board.
Is there a gift shop?
The museum has a small gift area where you can buy local souvenirs and books. It’s a nice place to grab a small memory of your visit.
Are there guided tours available?
Most visits are self-guided, but the staff is happy to answer questions and share stories. If you’re lucky, you might meet someone who knows the ship’s full history.
How much time should I spend there?
Most people spend about 30 to 45 minutes at the museum. It’s a great quick stop if you’re traveling along the South Coast.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Some parts of the museum are accessible, but areas around the ship may be harder to reach. It’s best to contact the museum ahead of time if you have special needs.
Can I take pictures inside?
Yes, you can take photos in and around the museum. Just be respectful and avoid using flash near old displays.
Is the museum open in winter?
The museum is usually closed during winter or may have limited hours. Always check their website or Facebook page before planning a winter visit.
Are pets allowed inside?
Pets are not allowed inside the museum, but service animals are welcome. It’s best to leave pets in a safe place or with someone outside.
Is there food or a cafe at the museum?
The museum itself does not have a cafe, but there are several places to eat nearby in Vik. You can easily walk to a restaurant or bakery after your visit.
Skaftfellingur Museum: The Rich History of Iceland
The Skaftfellingur Museum is small, but it tells a big and unforgettable story about life on the sea in Iceland. It's a great stop if you love history, boats, or just want to learn something new while traveling the South Coast. And since it’s right in the center of Vik, it’s easy to visit while exploring nearby sights.
