Discover Garðar BA 64 – the Oldest steel ship in Iceland

Garðar BA 64 is a steel ship that sits proudly on the shoreline at Patreksfjörður in the Westfjords, slowly succumbing to rust and time. Located just a short distance from the high tide line, she escapes most of the winter storms that batter this rugged coastline. The ship’s vibrant rust and weathered paint make it a striking shipwreck photography destination, drawing visitors to her haunting beauty amidst the dramatic backdrop of Iceland’s wild landscape.

The Story of Garðar BA 64

Launched in 1912, the same year as the Titanic, Garðar BA 64, originally known as Globe IV, is the oldest steel ship still standing in Iceland. Built in Norway as a whaling ship, she was equipped with a reinforced hull designed to break through the ice and powered by a powerful steam engine that allowed her to sail through the calm, frozen seas when traditional sails were useless.

She arrived in Iceland after World War II, where she was converted to herring fishing, a far cry from her original purpose. Renamed Siglunes SI 89, she saw multiple owners, had her steam engine replaced with a modern diesel engine, and continued her journey in Icelandic waters. In 1963, she was finally renamed Garðar BA 64.

However, in 1981, her seaworthy days came to an end. Considered unsafe for service, she was beached on the shallow shores of the Skápadalur Valley, where she remains today, slowly falling apart.

Visiting Garðar BA 64: What to Expect

Standing at the shore, Garðar BA 64 is a striking, solitary figure against the towering mountains of the Westfjords. Despite the rust and wear, her skeletal remains still evoke a sense of grandeur. The ship’s red, weather-beaten hull creates an eye-catching contrast with the beige sand of the beach and the blue of the nearby fjord.

Her beautiful red outer layer is rusting, pieces dropping away with each storm. The timber beneath is dry and disintegrating knot by knot.

Many visitors stop to snap photos and marvel at her history then continue their journey, but there’s something special about exploring the area in more depth. Nearby picnic tables provide a perfect spot to linger, soaking in the serenity and waiting for others to move on, allowing you to capture the wreck in peace.

As you wander around, you can explore the surrounding pebble shoreline. The area teems with marine life including seaweeds, shells, and crabs that thrive along the coast, offering additional opportunities for photography and wildlife watching.

Photography Tips for Garðar BA 64

Garðar BA 64 is a dream location for photographers, with its vivid colours and dramatic setting. Here are some tips to help you capture the best shots:

• Golden Hour: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light. The warm tones of the low sun add depth to the ship’s rusting structure and enhance the contrast between the steel and the surrounding landscape.
• Close-ups and Textures: Focus on the intricate details of the rusting metal and peeling paint. The contrast of bright red, orange, and white against the timber makes for striking abstract shots.
• Wide Angles: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the entire shipwreck with the fjords and mountains in the background. The surrounding landscape provides excellent context for the size and scale of the wreck.
• Weather Variations: Don’t be discouraged by overcast or stormy weather—moody skies and mist can add an atmospheric touch to your photos, highlighting the ship’s forlorn and abandoned feel.

Wildlife and Nature Around Garðar BA 64

Though Garðar BA 64 is the main attraction, the surrounding area is home to a variety of wildlife. You may spot seabirds circling the coastline, while the pebble beach is full of life.

Keep an eye out for crabs and other marine creatures hiding amongst the rocks and the vibrant seaweed washed ashore. The peaceful, untouched nature of the Westfjords makes this a great spot for nature lovers and those seeking solitude in Iceland’s wilder regions.

How to Get to Garðar BA 64

Garðar BA 64 is located along Road 612, which leads towards the Látrabjarg Bird Cliffs. The shipwreck is situated along the shore of Patreksfjörður, with a large parking area making it easy to visit.

To reach Garðar BA 64, take the Brjánslækur ferry from Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes peninsula and follow Road 62 into the Westfjords. The drive through the fjords is beautiful but challenging due to gravel roads and winding passes, so plan for a slower journey than anticipated.

Beyond the shipwreck, the road conditions deteriorate, particularly if you’re venturing towards Látrabjarg, so it’s advisable to have a 4×4 vehicle, especially during the winter months when roads may be closed due to weather.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Garðar BA 64 is during the summer, from May to September, when the Westfjords are most accessible, and the days are long. Visiting early in the morning or late in the evening will help you avoid the midday rush and enjoy the wreck in relative solitude.

In winter access can be more difficult, with snow and ice sometimes blocking roads, but the shipwreck covered in frost or snow offers a uniquely different photographic experience. Always check road conditions before planning a winter trip to the area.