Fire and Ice: Sail Around Iceland

8 Days

Overview

Sail around Iceland on an 8-day expedition that reveals its famed natural wonders. Hike or bike 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.

Arrive in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. Transfer from the airport to the city and spend the day exploring at your own pace. Check in with the hospitality desk this afternoon before embarking the ship.

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.

Siglufjörður was the center of Iceland’s once-thriving herring industry. 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.

Húsavík, the site of the oldest settlement in Iceland, is your 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.

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.

Arrive in the town of Djúpivogur and set out by 4×4 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.

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 you’ll see as you cruise past the coast. In 1973, Heimaey was threatened by lava flows that nearly closed off its harbor. Visit the crater, where the earth is still hot, for amazing views of areas that had been engulfed by lava.

Disembark in Reykjavík and transfer to the airport for flights home.