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The Center was orginally established on the 29th of April 2005. The founders are a group of individuals interested in further reinforcement of sustainable tourism in Húnaþing vestra region.
 The centers long term goals are to:
- Promote the development of tourism in the region, for example by encouraging research
- Give information to people seal watching in Vatnsnes peninsula to encourage responsible behavior
- Collect items and source material connected to sealery, seal products and seal related farming
- Develop an environmental policy
- Contribute to the development of sustainable seal watching locations on Vatnsnes peninsula in cooperation with the local tourism organisation and the NORCE (Northern Costal Experience) program.
- To contribute to sustainable development of wildlife tourism internationally, for example by managing and participatin in The Wild North
- Contribute to the development of local craft
Financing
The Center is financed with capital stock and funding. The stock holders are 89, individuals, companies and organisations.
House and property
In 2005 the Icelandic Seal Center bought the first two floors of the storied building VSP in Hvammstangi. The VSP house, or Verslun Sigurðar Pálmasonar (The shop of Sigurður Pálmason). The first floor has already been renovated and houses the center's reception and exhibition. The house is is beautifully located in the heart of Hvammstangi.
Tourist information and craftshop
In The Icelandic Seal Center tourist information travelers can get general information about accommodation and activities in Húnaþing area and buy souvenirs and craft from Húnaþing area.
Acknowledgement
On the 10th of november 2005 The Icelandic Seal Center was awarded, by the North Icelandic Tourism Association, as the “Most interesting innovation in North Icelandic Tourism 2005”.
The center has also received great support both locally and nationally, from individuals, companies, organisations and associations.
The Icelandic Seal Center is open June - August from 09:00 - 17:00 every day, from 1st - 30th of September from 10:00 - 14:00 og weekdays. Also open on request, for other opening hours please contact us.
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