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  7. Reykjavik Maritime Museum (Víkin)

Attractions · Capital Region, Reykjavik

Reykjavik Maritime Museum (Víkin)

  • CategoryMuseum
  • Duration1-1.5 hours
  • AdmissionAdult About ISK 2,450 (~$20) · Child Free ages 0-17; free with the Reykjavik City Card
  • Rating★ 4.3
  • PriceAbout ISK 2,450 (~$20)
  • Transport15-minute walk west of Harpa; city buses serve Grandi

The Reykjavik Maritime Museum (Víkin) stands at Grandagarður 8 in the Grandi district on the Old Harbour in Reykjavik, Iceland. It tells the story of Icelandic fishing and seafaring, a subject central to the country's economy and identity, through photographs, models, tools, films and personal stories. The exhibitions follow the development of the fishing industry from small rowing boats to modern trawlers and show how life on shore and at sea changed as a result.

Museum on the Old Harbour about Icelandic fishing and seafaring history, including the trawler Óðinn, a former coast guard vessel that visitors can tour.

The Reykjavik Maritime Museum (Víkin) stands at Grandagarður 8 in the Grandi district on the Old Harbour in Reykjavik, Iceland. It tells the story of Icelandic fishing and seafaring, a subject central to the country's economy and identity, through photographs, models, tools, films and personal stories. The exhibitions follow the development of the fishing industry from small rowing boats to modern trawlers and show how life on shore and at sea changed as a result.

The most distinctive part of a visit is the trawler Óðinn, a former coast guard vessel moored beside the museum. Visitors can board it on a guided tour that leads through the bridge, cabins, galleys and engine areas, and the guides explain the ship's role in Iceland's fishing disputes with Britain, often called the Cod Wars. The tour gives a sense of working conditions on board that photographs and models cannot match, and it is the main reason many families choose the museum.

A visit typically takes one to one and a half hours. The museum is open daily from 10:00 to 17:00, and weekday mornings are generally quieter than afternoons. Because it sits on the working harbour, it combines naturally with a walk along the waterfront, a seafood lunch, and the neighbouring Whales of Iceland exhibition. The walk from Harpa takes about 15 minutes, and city buses also serve Grandi.

Adult admission is about ISK 2,450. Children aged 0-17 enter free, and the Reykjavik City Card also includes entry. The museum is run by Reykjavik City Museum, which operates several other historic sites in the city. For photography, the outside of Óðinn against the harbour and the view toward Mount Esja from the quay make good frames, while the interior shots depend on tour-group rules explained by the guide. A small café and shop serve visitors on site.

Practical information for Reykjavik Maritime Museum (Víkin) · Last updated September 2026
Admission Adult About ISK 2,450 (~$20) · Child Free ages 0-17; free with the Reykjavik City Card
Hours Daily 10:00-17:00
Typical visit 1-1.5 hours
Best time Weekday mornings; combine with a harbour walk
Getting there 15-minute walk west of Harpa; city buses serve Grandi
Address Grandagarður 8, 101 Reykjavik

Location

Grandagarður 8, 101 Reykjavik

64.1527, -21.9462 View on map

Highlights

  • Tour the former coast guard vessel Óðinn
  • Exhibitions on Icelandic fishing and seafaring history
  • Photographs, models, tools and films about life at sea
  • Harbourfront location beside Grandi

Tips for visiting

  • Free for ages 0-17 and with the Reykjavik City Card
  • Join the Óðinn guided tour for the ship interior
  • Weekday mornings are quieter
  • Combine with the Whales of Iceland exhibition nearby
  • Allow 1-1.5 hours

When to visit

Weekday mornings are quietest. Dry days suit the harbour walk and ship visit, while the indoor galleries work in any weather.

Accessibility

The galleries are indoors, but the Óðinn has steep ladders and narrow passages typical of a ship, which may limit access for wheelchair users. Confirm arrangements with the museum before visiting.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a visit to the Maritime Museum take?

Most visitors spend one to one and a half hours, including the guided tour of the Óðinn.

Is the Maritime Museum worth it for kids?

Yes. Boarding a real coast guard ship is a draw for children, and entry is free for ages 0-17.

Is photography allowed?

Photography is generally possible in the galleries and outdoors. Guides on the Óðinn can explain any rules aboard the ship.