Experience the Best of Iceland on an 8-Day Circumnavigation of the Land of Ice and Fire!

Iceland has captivated explorers for over a thousand years, ever since Norse pioneers set foot on this storied land. Iceland is famed for its dramatic mix of fire and ice — towering volcanoes, vast glaciers, and frigid coastlines. But beyond these extremes lies a land of vibrant coastal towns, rich wildlife, and entrancing cultural experiences. This expedition begins in Reykjavík, Iceland’s lively capital, before heading to Ísafjörður, capital of the Westfjords. From there, we visit Siglufjörður, once Iceland’s herring hub, and continue to Grimsey Island, where visitors can stand on the Arctic Circle. Further along the north coast lies Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest settlement, nestled among green hills and wild landscapes. We then explore Húsavík, world-famous for whale watching. On Iceland’s remote east coast, the charming town of Djúpivogur offers historic character, surreal black sand beaches, and breathtaking bird life. Our voyage then sails south to Heimaey, part of the volcanic Westman Islands, where islanders heroically fought a volcano to save their home, before returning to Reykjavík. Travelling in early autumn allows us to avoid peak crowds, explore remote communities, and witness the northern lights as the Arctic winter approaches.

Itinerary

day 1 | Reykjavik, Iceland – Embarkation

Our adventure begins in Iceland’s vibrant capital, Reykjavik. Famous for its modern Nordic culture, excellent food scene, and relaxed atmosphere, Reykjavik is the ideal starting point for our Arctic adventure. After boarding our expedition ship, Ocean Albatros, guests will enjoy dinner and champagne as we set sail out of Faxaflói Bay, following ancient Norse sea routes towards the wild Westfjords.

day 2 | Ísafjörður

Tucked in the heart of the Westfjords, Ísafjörður is surrounded by dramatic basalt mountains and deep fjords. Once a quiet fishing settlement, it became an international trade hub in the 16th century, with its rich waters attracting traders and ships from across the Atlantic. Today, the colourful houses, swanky downtown buildings, and visitors from around the world make a surprisingly cosmopolitan town centre. Chilly breezes and sweeping landscapes welcome visitors to explore the remoteness and beauty of this northern gem.

day 3 | Siglufjörður and Grímsey

Siglufjörður, Iceland’s northernmost mainland town, thrived during the herring boom of the mid-20th century, growing from a sleepy village to the hub of the country’s fishing industry. Today, the herring still reigns supreme; the charming streets and Herring Era Museum showcase this proud heritage, while its jaw-dropping fjord setting offers rich bird-watching opportunities. Later, we sail to Grímsey Island, the only part of Iceland crossing the Arctic Circle. A guided walk reveals its rugged beauty, curious unafraid seabirds, and the symbolic Arctic Circle marker, ‘Orbus et Globus’, which is shifted annually to account for tiny changes to Earth’s orbit.

day 4 | Akureyri

Nestled at the end of Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, Akureyri is known as the “Capital of the North.” Despite its small size, the city boasts a unique cathedral, the first botanical gardens in Iceland, massive geothermally heated swimming pools, and a lively cultural scene. Sheltered by surrounding hills from the worst of the Arctic weather, its rich volcanic soils support abundant agriculture, and the frigid waters of the fjord hold rich fish stocks – a treat for the discerning palate!

day 5 | Húsavík

Just beyond Akureyri lies Húsavík, Iceland’s oldest settlement, founded by the Viking pioneer Náttfari in the late 9th century. Small but bustling, Húsavík has fully embraced tourism and is the undisputed whale-watching capital of Iceland. Where whalers once hunted, conservation and tourism now shelter these gentle giants. The town also offers museums, including one dedicated to whale conservation, and another celebrating Iceland’s contributions to exploration in the Arctic, Antarctic, and even into space. No trip to Husavik is complete without a soak at the nearby Geosea Spa with sweeping views over Skjálfandi Bay.

day 6 | Djúpivogur

Situated on Iceland’s scenic southeast coast, Djúpivogur is framed by fjords, mountains, and rich bird habitats. It is the closest port in the country to the Faroe Islands, Scandinavia, and mainland Europe, and is a popular port of call for vessels exploring the North Atlantic. Centered around the harbor, the town dates back to the 16th century and is known for its unique public art, including the Eggin í Gleðivík (Eggs of Merry Bay) sculpture. Hikers and birdwatchers are spoiled for choice, with mile upon mile of nature waiting to be explored. One of Iceland’s most beautiful black sand beaches is just a short stroll from town and features a huge variety of bird species.

day 7 | Heimaey and Surtsey, Westman Islands

Next, we visit Heimaey, the largest of the volcanic Westman Islands. Visitors can explore the dramatic lava fields of Eldfell volcano and the world-renowned bird colonies of the island. The residents of Heimaey were severely tested in 1973, when Eldfell volcano began to spew lava, threatening the town and its vital harbour. Heroic locals fought back, cooling the lava with seawater jets to save their community. Weather permitting, we will cruise past Surtsey on departure, a newly formed volcanic island strictly reserved for scientific research.

day 8 | Reykjavik – Disembarkation

Returning to Reykjavik, we conclude our voyage with lasting memories of Iceland’s wild landscapes, vibrant communities, and extraordinary wildlife.

Ships

Ocean Victory

The Ocean Victory is a modern small-ship vessel, ideally suited for small-ship expeditions in the polar regions. The vessel boasts a strikingly unconventional profile, identical to its sister ship, the Ocean Albatros. This design reflects decades of refinement for the challenging Polar environment.

Key features and amenities include:

Design and Technology: The ship's patented X-Bow design ensures exceptional stability and comfort, even in rough seas. Its superior Ice Class 1A and Polar Class 6 ratings mean it can push through deeper ice, delivering access to more remote and elusive areas.
Sustainability: The vessel is environmentally friendly, implementing the Green Initiative Program to ensure sustainability alongside guest comfort.
Accommodation: It offers 92 comfortable staterooms, all with ocean views, and 90% featuring their own private balcony.
Onboard Amenities: Amenities include several restaurants, a wellness area, an Albatros Nordic Bar, an open deck dining facility, a modern lecture lounge, and two outdoor Jacuzzis providing 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape.
Expedition Access: The ship is designed to keep Antarctica and the Arctic in full view. Two hydraulic platforms can be lowered for unprecedented near-water-level views and rare photographic opportunities. A heated mudroom with four exterior doors ensures quick, safe, and seamless access to Zodiacs for landings and adventures.

Cruise Norway offers expert advice, and many advisors have sailed on the Albatros ships.