Bakkargerdi Cruise Port Guide: Things to Do & Getting Around

Quick Take

Port Type

Remote anchorage expedition port

Best For

Nature walks, self-directed exploration, photographers, hikers comfortable with minimal infrastructure

Avoid If

You need restaurants, shops, or organized tours; mobility challenges make long walks difficult

Walkability

Limited; roads are gravel or paved but dispersed. Most worth-seeing spots require hiking boots and 30–90 min walks.

Budget Fit

Very low cost if self-exploring (free); moderate if hiring local guide or transport

Good For Short Calls?

Yes; 3–4 hours sufficient for a strong local walk and return to ship

Port Overview

Bakkargerdi is a tiny, remote settlement on the east coast of Iceland in one of the country's most sparsely populated regions. Ships anchor offshore and tender passengers ashore; there is no developed cruise terminal. The port is used primarily by small expedition cruises (Hurtigruten, Lindblad, Quark, Silversea, Ponant) as a launch point for nature exploration rather than as a shopping or leisure stop.

What you will find: a handful of houses, a small community, and immediate access to fjord coastline and hiking trails. What you will not find: restaurants, shops, tourist infrastructure, or taxi services. This is a port for self-reliant travelers who want to walk, photograph, and experience near-pristine Icelandic landscape.

Most cruisers disembark to take guided walks arranged by their ship or to explore independently on foot. A 3–4 hour shore day is realistic and sufficient.

Is It Safe?

Bakkargerdi is safe. Crime is virtually nonexistent in this remote settlement. The main risks are environmental: sudden weather changes, slippery terrain, and isolation. Always inform the ship before venturing on a long walk, carry a charged phone, wear waterproof layers, and stay on marked trails. The settlement itself has no emergency services; serious injuries require ship evacuation. Do not attempt hikes in heavy rain or fog without a guide. Tides and coastal terrain can shift; respect barrier fencing and do not approach unstable cliffs.

Accessibility & Walkability

Bakkargerdi is not wheelchair-friendly. Terrain is rugged, paths are uneven gravel or dirt, and there are no paved surfaces or accessible facilities. The pier area is relatively flat, but any inland exploration requires walking boots and good balance. Mobility-limited visitors should stay near the landing zone, book a guided walk at a slow pace, or rest on the ship.

Outside the Terminal

You will step onto a simple pier or beach landing into open, windswept terrain. The settlement is a cluster of colorful houses 5–10 min walk upslope. There are no taxis queuing, no souvenir shops, and no formal hospitality infrastructure. The air is cold and often damp; weather can change fast. Expect raw, undeveloped landscape—which is exactly why expedition cruisers come here.

Beaches Near the Port

Local Food & Drink

There are no restaurants or cafés in Bakkargerdi. Bring snacks, water, and a light lunch from the ship. A thermos of coffee is wise. If you encounter locals, hospitality is warm but do not expect commercial food service. Most expedition cruises arrange meals onboard; plan accordingly. Vending machines do not exist.

Shopping

There are no shops in Bakkargerdi—no souvenirs, no provisions, no toiletries. If you need supplies, buy them onboard or in the previous port. Some locals may sell small crafts or goods directly, but nothing is guaranteed. Plan your budget and packing accordingly before arrival.

Money & Currency

Currency

Icelandic króna (ISK)

USD Accepted?

No

Card Payments

Cards accepted in rare cases (e.g., if a local accepts payment), but plan on cash or prepayment via the ship.

ATMs

No ATM in Bakkargerdi

Tipping

Not expected or customary; if you arrange a private guide, a modest tip ($10–20 USD) is appreciated but optional.

Notes

Exchange money or withdraw cash before visiting the port. Carry ISK if you plan to buy anything from locals. Most visitors rely entirely on the ship's facilities.

Weather & Best Time

Best months

June–August (midnight sun, milder temperatures, higher chance of clear weather)

Avoid

October–March (darkness, storms, cold, icy conditions)

Temperature

Summer (June–August): 10–15°C (50–59°F); shoulder seasons (May, September): 5–10°C (41–50°F)

Notes

Even in summer, weather is unpredictable. Wind is constant. Rain and fog are common. Dress in waterproof, windproof layers. Clear days are brief and spectacular. Plan for rapid changes.

Airport Information

Airport

Akureyri Airport (AKU) or Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS)

Distance

Egilsstaðir is closest (~100 km / 60 mi); Akureyri (~250 km / 155 mi)

Getting there

Rental car (steep cost and fuel prices), shared shuttle, or domestic flight. Pre-arrange with the cruise line if planning pre- or post-cruise stays.

Notes

Bakkargerdi is not a port of call for embarkation or disembarkation due to anchorage and lack of infrastructure. Pre-cruise hotels are in Akureyri or Egilsstaðir.