Many ways to strengthen the destination of Hafnarfjörður
The number of cruise ships in the Port of Hafnarfjörður will increase next year. A new analysis by the Marketing Authority of the Capital Region has been published.
Much in the Market Agency's review
It is estimated that 31 cruise ships, with a combined 7,500 guests and a 4,400-strong crew, will visit Hafnarfjörður next year. This represents an increase of over 70% year-on-year. The number is expected to be 18 this year, but was 19 in 2024. This can be seen in a new analysis by the Marketing Agency of the Capital Region on the destination of Hafnarfjörður.
Map of Hafnarfjörður
The Market Development Fund's report details the work undertaken to map out the town as a tourist destination. A strategy for cruise ship arrivals will be presented shortly.
„Drafts of the new strategy will now be presented to both the Culture and Tourism Committee and the Harbour Board,“ says Sunna Magnúsdóttir, tourism officer for the City of Hafnarfjörður.
„The recent work, led by the Marketing Agency of the Capital Region, has been extremely enjoyable. We are on the right track and are growing in line with the needs of the town.“
Work is continuing on the findings. The work has led to connections and projects. For instance, a 4.5-kilometre walking trail around the harbour and town centre has been marked out. It highlights the town's services and attractions. Those of you who have walked around the harbour will have seen the heart-shaped signs where the services are presented.
„I encourage you all to try the walking trail. It shows what a unique town ours is,“ says Sunna.
We need a unique identity for the town.
The aim of the Marketing Agency of the Capital Region is to boost business activity and increase foreign exchange earnings, guided by sustainability. Workshops were held in November and December last year with the Marketing Agency's member organisations to map out Hafnarfjörður as a destination.
The online visibility of Hafnarfjörður was reviewed in the summary, and it was considered lacking.„red thread“in visual material related to Hafnarfjörður. With more images, the town's image as a tourist destination can be further developed. It is important to create a visual identity that people clearly associate with the town.
The summary discusses how much the town's appearance will change in the coming years:
- Óseyrarhverfi
- Hvaleyrarbraut
- Flensburg Harbour
- Hotel Viking
- The Technical College
Many things characterise Hafnarfjörður
A workshop is also described, where participants answered various questions about Hafnarfjörður as a destination. The results showed that people were drawn to the sea, the lava fields, the uplands and the beautiful nature, as well as the old houses, the Christmas Village and many other features.
Among the ideas to strengthen Hafnarfjörður as a destination was a year-round Christmas village, where the town centre would be a lively market square all year round with crafts and an evening atmosphere. The town would also be a fairy town, where guided experience walks could be held around the town. Furthermore, a Viking show could be specially designed for the riding arena, featuring battles on horseback. The heart-shaped train through the town centre was also among the ideas.
Many opportunities in the town
The conclusion of the project was that many opportunities lie within the destination of Hafnarfjörður and that the reception of tourists can be enhanced, for example by continuing with further marketing, increase the number of accommodation options and restaurants, expand the range of leisure activities, and improve transport to and from Hafnarfjörður.
The work will continue, projects will be prioritised and steered in the right direction.
The role of the Marketing Bureau of the Capital Region:
- To raise awareness and knowledge About the destination and everything the area has to offer, for tourists and residents alike.
- Develop, shape and strengthen collaboration and synergy on tourism matters in the capital region between local authorities, the business community, the government and the support system.
- Strengthen competitiveness and resilience of the destination in international competition.
- Promote peace residents, the business community and local authorities on matters concerning the tourism industry.
- Strengthen the pillars and structure of the tourism industry, improve the region's image and increase demand for all types of services and business activities.
- Manage marketing and promotional activities, destination development, and promote professionalism.
- To be advocate and synonym for the tourism industry in the capital region.
Stops:
- The small harbour
- The coastline
- Hafnarfjörður Swimming Pool
- Widstadatun
- Hellisgerði
- The lighthouse
- The stream
- The Free Church
- Hafnarfjörður Church
- Museum of Local History
- Hafnarfjörður