Sail around Iceland on an 8-day expedition that reveals its famed natural wonders. Hike, bike, or take 4X4 vehicles to explore remote waterfalls, secluded valleys, dramatic fjords, black-sand beaches, and forest-filled canyons. Spot an abundance of seabirds from Atlantic puffins to Arctic terns and cruise into an otherworldly glacier lagoon. Along the way, meet locals who will share Icelandic traditions as well as a glimpse into daily life, both past and present, on this subarctic island.
- Sail around the Island of Fire and Ice, discovering its wealth of wildlife, striking geological formations, and a culture steeped in saga and exploration history
- Explore a variety of landscapes across the island, from lava fields and geothermal springs to black-sand beaches and thundering waterfalls
- Hike the rim of a volcanic crater for spectacular views of the Westman Islands
- Walk along boardwalks for close views of puffins at Borgarfjarðarhöfn, often called the ‘puffin capital of Iceland’
- Visit Goðafoss, the largest waterfall in Iceland, and cruise among ethereal icebergs in a glacier lagoon
- Explore Iceland’s remote countryside on 4x4s, and venture into Ásbyrgi Canyon to walk among a secluded woodland
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Arrive in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. Transfer from the airport and spend the day exploring the sights, sounds, and tastes of this bustling city before embarking the ship in the afternoon.
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Explore the beautiful and peaceful Westfjords region of Iceland. Hike or kayak along the base of a fjord to discover a towering waterfall. Enter Ísafjarðardjúp, known for its wealth of animal life, including whales, seals, and countless nesting seabirds. Land at Vigur Island, a fragile wildlife sanctuary, where the landowners continue the traditional eiderdown collection and cleaning process, and are active stewards of the colonies of puffins and black guillemots who call the island home.*
*Visit subject to nesting seabird season and not available on all dates.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Siglufjörður was the center of Iceland’s once-thriving herring industry. We stop by the Herring Museum for a salting demonstration and a tasting. Enjoy the surroundings of Iceland’s northernmost mainland settlement by joining the local forestry association, one of over 50 associations in Iceland, for an afternoon of conservation in their local forest. Learn what it takes to maintain and develop a forest on this volcanic island.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Húsavík, the site of the oldest settlement in Iceland, is our gateway to the geological exploration of northern Iceland. Depart for a full day overland visiting one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, Goðafoss, as well as the Lake Mývatn area, the most geologically active area in Iceland. Alternatively, enjoy an adventurous journey hiking through Ásbyrgi Canyon, said to be formed by the hoof of Odin’s eight-legged horse, or stay along the coast and choose a slower pace for the day with forest bathing, bird watching, and a soak in the Geo Sea bath.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Located on the eastern shore of Iceland, Bakkagerði is well known for its welcoming local puffin colony. Walk across boardwalks to witness these colorful symbols of Icelandic wildlife. Once you’ve captured your best photo of the famous auk species, take an invigorating hike up to the best panoramic view of the fjord or challenge yourself to a backcountry mountain bike journey to remote overlooks and stunning vistas.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Arrive in the town of Djúpivogur and set out by 4x4 vehicle to visit some of the secluded valleys and remote waterfalls in the surrounding countryside. Alternatively, drive down the coast to explore the foot of the vast Vatnajökull icecap and the deep blue icebergs of the large ice lagoon of Jökulsárlón. Or, join a hike to the black-sand beaches near the town center.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Westman Islands were formed by undersea volcanoes between 5,000 and 10,000 years ago and are among the youngest of the world’s archipelagos. In 1963, the world witnessed on film the birth of its newest island, Surtsey—a UNESCO World Heritage site—which we see as we cruise past the coast. In 1973, Heimaey was threatened by lava flows that nearly closed off its harbor. We visit the crater, where the earth is still hot, for amazing views of areas that had been engulfed by lava.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, disembark in Reykjavík and transfer to the airport for flights home.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Itineraries are subject to change.
National Geographic Explorer
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: 108 meters
Passenger Capacity: 148 (single & twin cabins)
Built / Refurbished: 1982 / 2008
National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship. It is a fully stabilized, ice-class vessel, enabling it to navigate polar passages while providing exceptional comfort. It carries kayaks and a fleet of Zodiac landing craft. An Undersea Specialist operates a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and sophisticated video equipment, extending access to the underwater world.
Public areas: Bistro Bar; Chart Room; Restaurant; Global Gallery; Library, Lounge with full service bar and state-of-the-art facilities for films, slideshows and presentations; Mud Room with lockers for expedition gear, and Observation Lounge. Our “Open Bridge” provides guests an opportunity to meet our Officers and Captain and learn about navigation.
Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with local flair.
Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes, private facilities and climate controls.
Expedition Equipment: Zodiac landing craft, kayaks, Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), hydrophone, SplashCam, underwater video camera, Crow’s Nest remote controlled camera, video microscope, snorkeling gear.
Special Features: A full-time doctor, Undersea Specialist, LEX Photo Specialist and Video Chronicler, Internet Cafe and laundry.
Wellness: The vessel is staffed by two Wellness Specialists and features a glass enclosed Fitness Center, outdoor stretching area, two LEXspa treatment rooms and Sauna.