Garðar BA 64 is Iceland’s oldest steel ship, a former whaling and fishing vessel. Originally built in Norway in 1912 as a state-of-the-art for its time and specially reinforced steel made it able to endure frigid and harsh seas. It came to Iceland in WWII and in 1963 the ship's engine was replaced and it's name changed to Garðar BA 64. In 1981 the ship was in bad condition and declared unsafe for service. Fun fact, my sister's grandfather was the owner of the ship and was the one who sailed it up into the beach. A controversial decision at the time (and probably still is) but turned into an interesting attraction and a reminder of Iceland's history with the ocean. It still lies in the shallow shore of Skápadalur Valley in Patreksfjörður. Even in its deteriorated state, the Garðar holds a beauty that’s worth admiring and serves as a popular spot for photographers and those lucky ones looking for a lovely mix of Icelandic scenery and history.

QUICK NOTES:

• What it is: Iceland’s oldest steel ship, a former whaling and fishing vessel, located in the Westfjords.

• Best season: Any.

• Best time of day: Any.

• Nice to know: I encourage you not to enter the ship, both because it's not super safe and also to preserve it for as long as possible. I know one person probably won't do any significant damage, but thousands every year will. The more people do that, the faster the ship will deteriorate. Thank you!