Explore Iceland from a new perspective on this comprehensive expedition voyage, following the country’s spectacular coastline in search of whales, puffins and other wildlife. Encounter unrivalled natural diversity and geological extremes, from volcanic landscapes to lava fields, vast glaciers, vertiginous fjords and cascading waterfalls.
Here at the edge of the Arctic, Iceland’s wild coast is best explored by small ship. From the colourful capital of Reykjavik you will sail north to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, with its dramatic coast of basalt rocks dominated by the magnificent Snæfel volcano. Continuing to the West Fjords, you’ll have the opportunity to hike through the heart of the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. Discover a pristine wilderness of golden beaches, towering cliffs and a wealth of bird life.
A highlight of the expedition will be crossing the Arctic Circle as you make your way around Iceland’s north coast and the offshore island of Grimsey. You may spot orcas, seals and puffins as you cruise eastwards and continue past the jagged cliffs and waterfalls of the East Fjords.
Reaching the south, marvel at the calving glaciers of Vatnajakull National Park. Home to Iceland’s largest ice cap, here you can enjoy the striking contrast of glistening blue icebergs washed up on black volcanic beaches.
Exploring by sea incorporates the best of a touring holiday yet without the need to change hotels – at the end of each day’s adventures ashore you will return to a gourmet meal and your own luxurious cabin. Marine wildlife is in abundance around Iceland’s rugged coastlines so keep your eyes peeled at all times as you sail around this fascinating land of fire and ice.
Itinerary
All voyage itineraries are intended as a guideline only – embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy of expedition travel. Actual routes and landings will be dependent on weather, sea and ice conditions. A degree of flexibility is essential in the polar regions!
Arrive in the Icelandic capital and transfer to your overnight hotel. Spend the remainder of your day at leisure.
Today take a guided Golden Circle tour, including visits to the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park, before continuing to the port for embarkation.
Travelling north you will reach the volcanic Snaefellsnes Peninsula, where basalt cliffs provide a popular hang-out for Atlantic puffins, thick-billed murres and black-legged kittiwakes. A full day ashore allows plenty of time to explore the lava formations, ravines and grottoes of Arnarstapi, or visit Mount Kirkjufell, one of the most famous mountains in Iceland.
The dramatic West Fjords boast towering rock walls carved by ancient glaciers. Take in this spectacular coastal scenery from the water, before heading ashore to explore Latrabjarg cliffs. These cliffs are home to millions of seabirds, such as puffin, razorbill, fulmar and guillemot, so keep your binoculars close to hand.
Experience the wonders of north Iceland on land. Perhaps visit Godafoss Falls and soak at Myvatn Nature baths, an outdoor hot spring bathing complex surrounded by mountain views. You may visit Dettifoss waterfalls, the Mývatn region and Krafla.
Cross into the Arctic Circle to arrive at Grimsey Island, where abundant birdlife far outnumbers the 100 or so residents that call this northern outpost home. From Grimsey head back towards the mainland to cruise through Skjálfandi Bay near Húsavik – known as Iceland’s ‘whale watching capital’. The bay hosts up to 24 different whale species, as well as dolphins and 30 variety of birds.
Explore the picturesque fishing village of Seydisfjördur, known for its charming collection of colourful wooden buildings. Take in the isolated fishing villages, traditional farmsteads, sparkling lakes and dense forests of the beautiful East Fjords.
Today visit Europe’s largest national park, the beautiful Vatnajökull. Iceland’s largest ice cap tumbles into around a dozen glaciers, providing a spectacular and diverse natural landscape. At over 300m tall, the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier calves into Jökulsárlón lagoon, where icebergs wash up on the black sand beach creating countless photo opportunities.
Enjoy the onboard facilities.
Lying off the southern coast of Iceland, the fascinating Westman Islands are an example of the constant geological battle being waged underground. The 15 islands and 30 islets were formed by a succession of underwater eruptions, and only Heimaey is inhabited today. Dominated by the Eldfjall (‘hill of fire’), Heimaey offers a rugged landscape of vertiginous cliffs and sea caves reefs, as well as an abundance of sea birds.
Your voyage of discovery concludes today with the return to Iceland’s charming capital city.
Prices
What's Included
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One night’s pre-voyage hotel accommodation with breakfast in Reykjavik
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Shipboard accommodation
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All breakfasts, lunches & dinners on board
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Tea & coffee available around the clock
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Beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner
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All Zodiac transfers, cruising & shore landings
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Presentations by the Expedition Team and guest speakers
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Expedition jacket - yours to keep
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Loan of rubber boots during voyage
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24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
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No surcharge guarantee
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Full financial protection
From £10595 Excluding Flights
11 Nights
Jun
Make this trip yours
Every trip you see here can be adapted to suit you using inside-out knowledge to create one-off experiences created just for you.
Doug
8
Canada provinces visited
11
Species of whale seen
2025 departure & price guide
Prices are per person, based on a twin cabin. They do not reflect any applicable special offers or discounts. Single, triple and quad cabins are also available. Please get in touch for a tailored quote based on the best available price for your preferred voyage and cabin type.
We create holidays that are as individual as you are. And we’ve been doing it for 40 years, crafting each and every holiday using our in-depth knowledge and enthusiasm for our destinations. Whatever your brief, we’ll create an amazing trip for you to get excited about. That might mean adapting one of our existing itineraries or we’ll build you one from scratch.
Experts with real experience
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Rosie
Travel Specialist
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Eric
Travel Specialist
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Kieran
Travel Specialist
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Darren
Travel Specialist
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Jo
Travel Specialist
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Dawn
Head of Customer Experience
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Phoebe
Travel Specialist
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Ben
Travel Specialist
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Doug
Travel Specialist
