HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore mystical Iceland – the land of fire and
ice
- See fascinating nature with waterfalls, volcanoes and
glaciers side by side
- Encounter a paradise for bird and whale watching
- Completely circumnavigate Iceland
Smoky Bay
Your expedition starts in Reykjavík, Iceland’s
quirky and laid-back capital. Known as ‘Smoky Bay’
due to the rising steam from the surrounding geothermal features,
you’ll be just a few hours away from geysers, glaciers, hot
springs, and waterfalls. Then sail on to the colorful and
well-preserved houses at Stykkishólmur, your entrance to
natural wonders in the Breiðafjörður Bay and
the Snæfellsnes Peninsula National Park. Then, discover the
peace and silence of the tranquil fishing village of
Patreksfjörður.
Iceland’s
northern capital
Explore a lovingly repurposed Herring factory in
Djúpavík, nestled and the stunning beauty of
northwest Iceland’s deep-blue water and verdant hills. At the
base of Iceland’s longest fjord lies Akureyri. This youthful
‘capital of northern Iceland’ stands out from the
more rural destinations on your journey. It has plenty of top-notch
eateries and museums for you to enjoy.
Whale watching and
historic volcanoes
Húsavík, looks out over the Skjálfandi
Bay, which enjoys regular whale visits. Keep an eye out for species
including humpback, minke, and the elusive blue whale, as well as
white-beaked dolphins and harbor porpoises. In Heimaey, discover the
fascinating history of a people who fought against a volcano and won
before ending your epic expedition back where it started, in
Reykjavík.
DATES / RATES
Rates are listed per person
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| Start Date | End Date | From EUR | From USD |
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Rates are listed per person
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| Start Date | End Date | From EUR | From USD |
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ITINERARY
Day 1 - Reykjavik -
Embarkation
Day 2 - Stykkishólmur - Full Day
Day 3 - Patreksfjördur - Full Day
Day 4 - Northwest Iceland - Exploration Day
Day 5 - Djupavik - Full Day
Day 6 - Akureyri - Full Day
Day 7 - Grimsey Island & Husavik - Overnight stay - Full Day
Day 8 - Husavik & Langanes Peninsula
Day 9 - Bakkagerdi - Full Day
Day 10 - Heimaey - Full Day
Day 11 - Reykjavik
Day 1 Arriving in Iceland
Many visitors find landing at Keflavik airport enchanting. The hub
seems carved out of an arctic desert, with moss-covered lava rock and
haunting mountains nearby. But just 45 minutes away is Reykjavik, a
charming, vibrant and modern city, offering top restaurants,
interesting museums and quaint narrow streets.
Day 2 Welcome to
“Sagaland”
The friendly town of Stykkishólmur features beautiful,
well-preserved old houses and is surrounded by wonderful
scenery. Enjoy exploring the town´s interesting
museums or join optional excursions to see such iconic sites on
Snæfellsnes Penninsula as the Lóndrangar basalt
cliffs or black sand beaches of Djúpalónssandur.
Day 3
Patreksfjördur
Patreksfjördur is a charming settlement on the west coast of
Iceland with about 660 inhabitants. The picturesque fjord offers scenic
hiking trails if conditions allow. Patreksfjördur is also
close to the spectacular waterfall of Dynjandi and to
Látrabjarg, a renowned site for birdwatching.
Day 4 Northwest Iceland
Our experienced captain will plan a day exploring the stunningly
beautiful fjords of northwest Iceland. Conditions will determine the
final program and activity for the day. We might visit a small
settlement, take you on hikes, or launch our kayaks.
Day 5 Remote Ruins and
Natural Beauty
In 1917, Elías Stefánsson settled down in
Djupavik and built a herring salting factory. Today, you can still see
the remains of the factory as well as seven houses and a hotel here. We
will explore the landing site, and the beautiful natural scenery
surrounding it.
Day 6 Northern Center
Akureyri is a lively town, famous for its botanical gardens and pretty
traffic lights. It is the most populous community outside
Reykjavík, and the center of trade, culture and services in
northern Iceland. Akureyri is close to many of Iceland’s
renowned natural treasures, like Mývatn lake and
Goðafoss waterfall.
Day 7 Step Across the
Arctic Circle
We will use our tender boats to reach this green and grassy island.
Grimsey is probably best known for its proximity to the Arctic Circle,
which cuts through the island and you can step across. During the
afternoon, we sail towards Husavik, arriving in the evening and staying
overnight.
Day 8 Whales and Birds
Húsavík is renowned for its whale watching and
has several interesting museums, including, of course, a whale museum.
In the evening, we will sail past the scenic Laganes Peninsula.
Day 9 Land of the Elves
Bakkagerdi is the main settlement in Borgarfjörður, an
area known for its natural beauty and as “the land of the
elves.” Puffin colonies abound in the fjord, making this a
popular place for birdwatching. Bakkagerdi is off the typical tourist
track, and offers peace, quiet and lovely views.
Day 10 Iceland`s Pompeii
The harbor at Heimaey or “Home Island” has a narrow
entrance, formed by a volcanic eruption in 1973. As the lava
flow threatened, the ingenious islanders pumped sea water onto the
molten rocks to cool and slow its progress. Nearby cliffs provide a
habitat for countless birds, including the charming puffin.
Day 11 The End of the
Adventure
Our voyage of discovery and adventure ends in Reykjavik. If you have
the time, we recommend staying a few extra days to explore this unique
and fascinating Nordic city.
(Click image to view Ship details)
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Expedition
Cruise
- Expedition cruise in a cabin of your choice
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages (house beer
and wine, sodas, and mineral water) in restaurants Aune
- À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm
included for suite guests
- Complimentary tea and coffee
- Complimentary Wi-Fi on board. Be aware that we sail in
remote areas with limited connection. Streaming is not supported.
- Complimentary reusable water bottle to use at water refill
stations on board
- English-speaking Expedition Team who organize and accompany
activities onboard and ashore
- Range of included excursions
Onboard Activities
- Experts on the Expedition Team deliver in-depth lectures on
a variety of topics
- Use of the ship’s Science Center, which has an
extensive library and advanced biological and geological microscopes
- Citizen Science program allows guests to assist with live
scientific research
- Professional onboard photographer gives top tips and tricks
for the best landscape and wildlife photos
- Use of the ship’shot tubs, panoramic sauna,and
indoor gyms
- Informal gatherings with the crew such as daily recaps and
preparation for the day to come
Landing Activities
- Escorted landings with small expedition boats while in
Iceland
- Loan of boots, trekking poles, and all equipment for
activities
- Complimentary wind and water-resistant expedition jacket
- Expedition Photographers help with your camera settings
before landings
Not Included In Your
Expedition
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Luggage handling
- Optional shore excursions with our local partners
- Optional small-group activities with our Expedition
Team
- Optional treatments in the wellness and spa area
Notes
- All planned activities are subject to weather and ice
conditions
- Excursions and activities are subject to change
- Please ensure you meet all visa entry requirements
- No gratuities expected
