Weather criteria
Weather Criteria of Faxaflóahafnir
Here you can find both real-time weather data for the ports of Faxaflóahafnir, as well as the criteria set by Faxaflóahafnir to ensure safe vessel traffic within the ports.
RESTRICTIONS
due to weather and wind conditions in the ports of Reykjavík, Akranes, and Grundartangi
Effective from 10 September 2025
To ensure safe vessel traffic and operations within the ports and port areas of Akranes, Grundartangi, and Reykjavík, the following restrictions apply to vessels arriving at, departing from, or moving within the above-mentioned ports:
1. Maximum permitted wind speed*
▪ Cruise ships:
Operations are not permitted if the average wind speed exceeds 14 m/s or wind gusts exceed 20 m/s.
▪ Other vessels (e.g. container ships, tankers, cargo vessels):
Operations are not permitted if the average wind speed exceeds 18 m/s or wind gusts exceed 25 m/s.
2. Assessment of conditions
On-duty harbour pilots assess wind conditions based on available weather information to determine whether the above wind limits are exceeded.
3. Exemptions
Exemptions may be granted for vessels equipped with advanced maneuvering and control systems, such as powerful bow and stern thrusters or Azimuth propulsion systems. When assessing exemptions, consideration is also given to wind direction, vessel size, and other relevant factors deemed important by the port authority.
Requests for exemptions must be submitted in writing via email to: hafnsaga@faxafloahafnir.is. Each case is assessed individually by the port authorities.
4. Tugboat assistance
On-duty harbour pilots may determine that more than one tugboat is required for vessel handling, in accordance with Regulation No. 798/2009, Article 6.
5. Legal disclaimer regarding the master’s responsibility for navigation
Notwithstanding any restrictions, exemptions, or decisions regarding the number of tugboats set out above, the ship’s master retains full and unaltered responsibility for navigation and the safe handling of the vessel within port areas.