Is the Sun Voyager a Viking ship?

No, despite its boat-like form, the Sun Voyager is not a Viking ship. Artist Jón Gunnar Árnason described it as a dreamboat — an ode to the sun symbolizing hope, progress, freedom, and the promise of undiscovered territory. Its abstract form is deliberately open to interpretation.

Who created the Sun Voyager?

Jón Gunnar Árnason (1931–1989) created the Sun Voyager. The sculpture was unveiled on August 18, 1990, to mark the 200th anniversary of Reykjavik's city charter. Sadly, Árnason passed away from leukemia before seeing the sculpture installed. He was a prominent Icelandic artist known for his abstract metal works.

When is the best time to photograph the Sun Voyager?

Sunset is widely considered the best time for photography, as the sculpture faces northwest toward the setting sun (in summer). The stainless steel catches warm golden light beautifully. Winter sunrises also cast dramatic light on the sculpture. The midnight sun in June creates extraordinary lighting conditions.

What else is near the Sun Voyager?

The Sun Voyager sits on Sæbraut, the coastal road. Within walking distance you will find Harpa Concert Hall (10 minutes west), the Old Harbour area, and the Höfði House where the 1986 Reagan–Gorbachev summit took place. The waterfront path is popular for walks with views of Mount Esja.

Sólfar (Sun Voyager): Reykjavik's Iconic Waterfront Sculpture

A stainless steel dreamboat sculpture on Reykjavik's waterfront, one of Iceland's most photographed artworks and a symbol of hope and undiscovered territory.

Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team

Location

Sæbraut Waterfront

Reykjavik • Free outdoor access 24/7

Sólfar (Sun Voyager) is a stainless steel sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason, situated on the Sæbraut waterfront in Reykjavik with Mount Esja rising across the bay. Unveiled on August 18, 1990, to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Reykjavik's city charter, the sculpture is often mistaken for a Viking longship. In reality, Árnason described it as a dreamboat — an ode to the sun representing hope, progress, and the promise of undiscovered lands. The sleek, skeletal form catches sunlight on its polished steel surfaces, making it particularly striking at sunset when it appears to sail into the light. It has become one of Iceland's most photographed artworks and an essential stop for visitors to Reykjavik.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

This guide is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly—always check official alerts and road conditions before you drive or hike.

Sources to check

Unveiled

1990

Commemorating 200 years of Reykjavik's city charter

Artist

Jón Gunnar Árnason

Icelandic sculptor (1931–1989) — installed posthumously

Access

Free, 24/7

Open-air sculpture on the Sæbraut coastal path

What to Expect

Stainless Steel Form

A sleek, skeletal boat-like structure in polished stainless steel that reflects light and changes appearance with weather and time of day

Mount Esja Backdrop

The sculpture faces northwest across the bay toward Mount Esja, creating a dramatic natural backdrop

Sunset Photography

The northwest-facing position makes sunset the ideal time for photography, with golden light reflecting off the steel

Waterfront Path

Part of Reykjavik's popular coastal walking path along Sæbraut, connecting to the Old Harbour and Harpa

Year-Round Access

An open-air sculpture accessible 24 hours a day, free of charge, in any season or weather

Midnight Sun Views

During June, the midnight sun creates extraordinary lighting conditions over the bay and mountain

Getting There

The Sun Voyager is located on Sæbraut, the waterfront road east of Reykjavik's city center. It is about a 15-minute walk east from Harpa Concert Hall along the coastal path, or a 10-minute walk north from Laugavegur. Limited street parking is available on Sæbraut. The sculpture is an outdoor installation accessible at all times with no admission charge.

Best Time to Visit

The Sun Voyager is accessible year-round, but the light conditions make a significant difference for photography. Sunset in summer creates the most iconic images as the sculpture appears to sail into the golden light. During June's midnight sun, the long golden hour stretches for hours. In winter, sunrise and the low arc of the sun can also produce dramatic results. Clear days with views of Mount Esja are ideal.

Planning help

Sun Voyager FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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