Ósvör Maritime Museum
A living memory of traditional seafaring in Bolungarvík
Ósvör Maritime Museum stands at the eastern edge of Bolungarvík and is one of the area’s most important cultural landmarks. The museum recreates the working and living conditions of seasonal fishermen in the 19th century, giving visitors a unique insight into Iceland’s maritime history.
Boathouse, salt shed and fish-drying area
The museum consists of a double‑roofed 19th‑century fishermen’s hut, a salt shed, a fish‑drying area and a drying rack. These buildings show how fishermen and seasonal workers lived and worked in earlier times.
The rowing boat Ölver and traditional fishing tools
Among the museum’s exhibits is the six‑oared rowing boat Ölver, offering a vivid picture of the type of boats used for fishing in past centuries. Visitors can also see a wide range of fishing tools, equipment and gear used during the winter fishing season in the 19th century.
A living experience with the museum guide
The museum guide welcomes visitors dressed in traditional skin clothing, similar to what Icelandic fishermen once wore. He leads guests through the museum and explains the exhibits, making the visit both authentic and engaging.
Visiting Ósvör Maritime Museum
Ósvör Maritime Museum is a unique destination in the Westfjords for anyone interested in the history of Icelandic seafaring and the lives of seasonal fishermen. The museum is open to visitors during the summer months and offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Bolungarvík.
Ten ideas for recreation in the northern Westfjords
- Enjoy the view from the new viewing platform on Bolafjall – if you dare.
- Visit the Westfjords Heritage Museum in Ísafjörður and learn about the region’s history.
- Take a guided walk through the old town in Ísafjörður with Ísafjörður Guide and discover the stories behind its historic houses.
- Try sea‑angling and catch your own dinner.
- Learn about Iceland’s first settlers at the Arctic Fox Centre in Súðavík.
- Sail to Hornstrandir or visit the island of Vigur in Ísafjarðardjúp.
- Explore the Old Blacksmith’s Workshop in Þingeyri from 1913, where all the machines still work.
- Visit the historic garden Skrúður in Dýrafjörður, the inspiration for other formal gardens in Iceland.
- Join a kayaking tour past historic sites, seals and birdlife.
- Walk up to Dynjandi, the most famous waterfall in the Westfjords.
Further information is available at
www.westfjords.is.
By Óshlíð road, 415 Bolungarvík 
osvor@bolungarvik.is 
(+354) 450 7000
Opening hours: