Circumnavigating Iceland

About Reykjavik

View Itinerary

Join us on an fascinating journey around the land of fire and ice. Discover Iceland’s ruggedly wild and singular beauty, and encounter its diverse wildlife, rich culture and welcoming people. Our expedition cruise completely circumnavigates the mystical North Atlantic island, so you totally experience one of the most unique places on Earth.
9 days

June 15, 2020 - Adventure awaits
June 23, 2020 
July 01, 2020 - Adventure awaits
July 09, 2020 
July 17, 2020 


Wilderness and Viking History

Experience the best of Iceland on our expedition cruise around the North Atlantic island nation. Our extensive voyage takes you to see a large variety of fascinating nature, wildlife and settlements.

The Sagaland 

The westen region of Iceland features spectacular scenery and is home to thrilling Viking sagas, a key part of Icelandic mythology. A highlight in the west is the Westfjords, a spectacular nature reserve where teeming bird cliffs are in abundance.

Lava and Whales

As sail north, scout for whales, as the landscape changes into vast lava fields and volcanic mountains. Grimsey is where the Arctic Circle touches Iceland, and we make sure to cross the legendary boundary before heading south towards the eastern part of the country. 

Eastern Magic

Along the east coast, the nature changes again.  Now we encounter thick forests, lush farmlands and colorful fishing villages. Whales and other wildlife might be spotted as we sail south towards the region’s remakable volcanic islands, while our expedtion team entertains you with the rich stories and sagas of the Vestmannaeyr.   

Join us on this voyage of discovery and adventure and stay a few extra days to discover the many attractions in Reykjavik!  


      Explore mystical Iceland – the land of fire and ice
      See fascinating nature with waterfalls, volcanoes and glaciers side by side
      Experience a bird and whale watching paradise
      Discover the entirety of Iceland´s coast

  • Hurtigruten expedition cruise in the cabin grade of your choice  

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR AN ADVENTURE

  • rich program of included activities on all voyages designed to immerse you in the destinations you visit, including onshore exploration with the expedition team  
  • Professional English-speaking expedition team - an international, handpicked team of highly educated experts in various academic fields with profound knowledge of the region we sail in  
  • Complimentary wind- and water-resistant jacket   
  • Loan of boots, trekking poles, and equipment needed for optional and included activities  

ENGAGING ONBOARD ACTIVITIES AND EDUCATION

  • In-depth lectures on science, history, biology, geography, geology or culture that provide context to your voyage and help you understand the destinations you will experience  
  • Explorer Science program, with educational and Citizen Science activities that let you learn about the sights you’ll see while contributing to research
  • Introductory photo lecture, including camera adjustments and tips and tricks
  • Photos and film/video footage from the voyage shared in the Expedition Logbook
  • Casual opportunities to engage with the expedition team and other guests, including a welcome event, daily gatherings to recap the day and prepare for the day to come
  • Opportunities to dine and interact with the expedition team and officers  
  • Destination-focused onboard library  
  • Port presentations providing destination insight
  • farewell event  

PREMIUM ONBOARD COMFORT

  • All meals including beverages (beer and wine, sodas and mineral water in all ship restaurants)
  • Coffee and tea included throughout the day
  • Early riser and afternoon treat offered in addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • A la carte restaurant (only for suite guests) 
  • Gym, outdoor hot tubs and sauna with windows
  • Free Wi-fi onboard for all guests. Be aware that we sail in remote areas with limited connection. Streaming is not supported.
  • No gratuities expected   

  • International flights 
  • Optional shore excursions with our local partners   
  • Optional small-group adventures with our expedition team such as kayaking, long hikes (availability pending weather conditions and safety)  
  • Travel protection plan   
  • Luggage handling
  • All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
Hurtigruten offers unique expedition cruises to some of the purest and most remote waters of the world. As with all expeditions, nature prevails. Safety is always our top priority. We continuously evaluate our cruises to adapt to unexpected weather, ice and sea conditions, and exciting nature opportunities. That’s why we call it an expedition.
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.

Itinerary

  1. Arriving in Iceland - Reykjavik - Embarkation

    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 Reykjavík, a charming, vibrant and modern city, offering top restaurants, interesting museums and quaint narrow streets.

    Arriving in Iceland - Reykjavik - Embarkation
  2. Welcome to Sagaland - Stykkishólmur - Full Day

    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.

    Included activity:

    Walking tour & visit to the Eider centre (2 hrs)

    During this pleasant walk around town, enjoy thought-provoking talks on the area´s religion, social issues and the Icelandic health system. Naturally, there will be interesting information on the history and culture of this welcoming community as well. We also visit the Icelandic Eider Centre at Stykkishólmur, with the adjacent Breidafjordur being the largest active eider duck nesting area in the world.

    Welcome to Sagaland - Stykkishólmur - Full Day
  3. Patreksfjördur - Patreksfjördur - Full Day

    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.

    Included activity:

    Stroll through town (1 hr)

    Stroll along the lively harbour of Patreksfjörður and learn about the importance of fisheries to the village and the various types of fish. We visit the local church and walk to the snow avalanche protection wall where you get the best views of the fjord. The village has a rich history as a base for English and French sailors, merchants and navy mariners.

    Patreksfjördur - Patreksfjördur - Full Day
  4. Northwest Iceland - Northwest Iceland - Exploration Day

    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.

    Northwest Iceland - Northwest Iceland - Exploration Day
  5. Northern Center - Akureyri - Full Day

    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.

    Included activity:

    Town walk & Botanical Garden visit (2 - 3 hrs)

    Discover the past and present of Akureyri on a leisurely stroll around town. See the town centre before making your way up to a viewpoint. The walk also goes to to the Botanical Gardens (Lystigarðurinn) where you can see some 2,000 species of local and foreign flowers that bloom outdoors due to Akureyri’s warm microclimate.

    Northern Center - Akureyri - Full Day
  6. Step Across the Arctic Circle - Grimsey Island - Full Day

    We will use our tender boats to reach this green and grassy island. It is probably best known for its proximity to the Arctic Circle, which cuts across the island. You get the chance to step across the boundary between the far north and south.

    Included activity:

    Arctic circle crossing ceremony (2 hrs 30)

    The Arctic Circle crosses Iceland at the northernmost point on Grimsey island. As we cross the Arctic Circle, enjoy a fun ceremony with the staff, then take a walk towards the Orbis et Globus (Circle and Sphere) artwork that symbolises the Circle. On the way you will have amazing photo opportunities of magnificent scenery, and wildlife like puffins, arctic terns, golden plovers and many more spectacular birds, as many of them are nesting on the cliffs or right next to your footpath.

    Step Across the Arctic Circle - Grimsey Island - Full Day
  7. Land of the Elves - Bakkagerdi - Full Day

    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.

    Included activity:

    Puffin Colony visit (1 - 3 hrs)

    Climb aboard one of our small boats that take you to a small pier next to a large puffin colony. Here you climb stairs to the top of a small hill for a spectacular view over the colony. Afterward, a five-minute shuttlebus ride takes you to the small village of Bakkagerdi, where the Icelandic queen of the elves holds court. You also find a charming, traditional peat house in the village.

    Land of the Elves - Bakkagerdi - Full Day
  8. Iceland`s Pompeii - Heimaey - Full Day

    Heimaey, or “Home Island” physically embraces our arrival. The harbor has a very narrow entrance, formed by a famous volcanic eruption in 1973. Most of the island has steep cliffs, is well-vegetated and provides a habitat for countless birds, including the charming puffin.

    Iceland`s Pompeii - Heimaey - Full Day
  9. The End of the Adventure - Reykjavik - Full Day

    Our voyage of discovery and adventure ends in Reykjavik. If you have the time, we recommend you stay a few extra days to explore this unique and fascinating Nordic city.

    The End of the Adventure - Reykjavik - Full Day
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