HIGHLIGHTS
Spark your imagination on this magic trip around Iceland. Starting from Reikjavik, enchanting scenescapes like the Blue Mountains of Vopnafjörður and charming village of Heimaey make this a journey that inspires the imagination. An overnight stay in Reykjavík gives you the opportunity to explore the renowned city more deeply and experience its nightlife, like the possibility of seeing the enchanting Northern Lights.
There are also 8 Day/7 Nights departures available for this itinerary. Day by Day may include: Reykjavik – Grundarfjörður – Isafjörður –Akureyri – Seyðisfjörður – Höfn – Heimaey (Vestmannaeyjar) – Reykjavik
Please note: The above itinerary is a guide only. Our exact route and program will vary to take best advantage of local weather and ice conditions and opportunities to view wildlife. Changes will be made by the Captain and/or Expedition Leader to facilitate the best results from the prevailing conditions and they will try their best to folloew this itinerary. A daily program sheet will be issued on board. Flexibility is the key to success.
In the southwest of Iceland near Faxaflói Bay lies the capital of the country, Reykjavík, simultaneously cosmopolitan and charming. The colorful houses on the horizon create a quaint scene that will make you want to stay forever.Kaleidoscopic views await you at the Harpa Concert Hall, a glittering, glass structure that perfectly exemplifies Iceland’s modern design and will fascinate your inner architect. One of Iceland’s most prominent landmarks is Perlan, originally a group of hot water tanks that was converted to a building that now hosts an exhibition, planetarium, restaurant and observation deck, located atop Öskjuhlíð hill..
In the southwest of Iceland near Faxaflói Bay lies the capital of the country, Reykjavík, simultaneously cosmopolitan and charming. The colorful houses on the horizon create a quaint scene that will make you want to stay forever.Kaleidoscopic views await you at the Harpa Concert Hall, a glittering, glass structure that perfectly exemplifies Iceland’s modern design and will fascinate your inner architect. One of Iceland’s most prominent landmarks is Perlan, originally a group of hot water tanks that was converted to a building that now hosts an exhibition, planetarium, restaurant and observation deck, located atop Öskjuhlíð hill..
Tales of sea monsters and sorcerers, bold and beautiful peaks, and charming pubs abound in Patreksfjörður, sitting amid the extraordinary Westfjords. Trek the beach at Rauðisandur (translating to Red Sands). Named for their golden-red hue, these sands create a stunning scene as they meet the bright blue waters. From Patreksfjörður you can also venture to the breathtaking Dynjandi waterfall, the biggest waterfall in the Westfjords. Visit the neighboring village of Hólmavík, home of the world-famous Icelandic Museum of Witchcraft and Sorcery.
The village center of Sauðárkrókur is quite charming, with a small collection of distinctive, traditional buildings. Located in a fertile valley along the southwestern shore of Skagafjörður – where you’ll find large, glacial rivers – it calls out to the spirit of exploration. It’s also a gateway to Malmey Island, Drangey Island and Lundey Island (or Puffin Island). For a more in-depth view of the ingenuity and craftsmanship that was born in this remote location, visit the Minjahúsið Folk Museum. If you’re interested in birdwatching, head to the southern shores of Áshildarholtsvatn Lake. The locals frequently update information boards with the species currently hanging around the area.
The town of Húsavík sits on the eastern shore of Skjálfandi Bay, known around the world as the Whale Capital of Iceland. Skjálfandi Bay also offers incredible bird watching opportunities. There you can observe an Atlantic puffin colony where thousands of these charming “clowns of the ocean” nest during the summer. Take the illustrious Arctic Coast route that winds through the incredible fjords along Iceland’s northern coastline. Unwind with a dip in the geothermal waters of the GeoSea Spa.l.
Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore
You will be awestruck by the untouched beauty of nature and warmed by the culture of the small town of Vopnafjörður. If you promise to resist the temptation of taking a stone, be sure to visit Skjólfjörur Beach, with a rocky shore of colorful stones that capture the eye. Fish in the same salmon-rich rivers that the Prince of Wales and the late President George Bush frequented. For a true local experience, seek out the remote riverside swimming pool Selárdalslaug. Vopnafjörður is also the gateway to the Blue Mountains, otherwise known as Bláfjöll, home to the most popular skiing slopes in Iceland
Although remote and small – with only about 400 people living there – you still find the village of Djúpivogur lively with cafés, restaurants and shops. Explore the cultural center with exhibits of incredible sculptures, local craftspeople with studios and quirky outdoor galleries. Dominating the landscape is the pyramid-shaped peak Búlandstindur, one of the most beautiful mountains in Iceland. For a true off-the-beaten-path experience, make your way to the uninhabited island of Papey, just off the coast of Djúpivogur…
Say halló to volcanoes, lava fields, caves, and mountains in the fascinating island of Heimaey – literally translated as Home Island. Part of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago (Westman Islands), this destination offers views of lush cliffsides and classic Icelandic architecture that will take your breath away. Built around the remains of an excavated home buried by ash during Eldfell’s eruption you’ll find the Eldheimar Museum, which offers an excellent audio guide that takes you through the home and describes the history and events before, during and after the eruption. One of the most iconic landmarks of Vestmannaeyjar, Elephant Rock, lies just off the south coast of Iceland. And there’s no need to squint to see it, because from every angle, you can see a gargantuan elephant in the middle of the sea.
In the southwest of Iceland near Faxaflói Bay lies the capital of the country, Reykjavík, simultaneously cosmopolitan and charming. The colorful houses on the horizon create a quaint scene that will make you want to stay forever.Kaleidoscopic views await you at the Harpa Concert Hall, a glittering, glass structure that perfectly exemplifies Iceland’s modern design and will fascinate your inner architect. One of Iceland’s most prominent landmarks is Perlan, originally a group of hot water tanks that was converted to a building that now hosts an exhibition, planetarium, restaurant and observation deck, located atop Öskjuhlíð hill..
Included in this voyage:
Trip delay and medical evacuation coverage included at no additional cost