Explorer
Whales
Glaciers
Hiking
Birdlife
Waterfalls
Volcanoes
Hot Springs

Iceland

Circumnavigating Iceland – The Land of Elves, Sagas and Volcanoes
Download Itinerary
Starts from Reykjavík, Iceland
End at Reykjavík, Iceland
Duration 9 Days
Departure 1, 9 and 17 June 2022

Overview

Welcome to the wild, rugged and unique beauty of Iceland. In the land of fire and ice, wildlife is teeming, the culture is rich, and the people are welcoming. Our expedition cruise makes a full circumnavigation of Iceland, so you get a complete experience of some of the most unique terrain on Earth.

  • Explore mystical Iceland – the land of fire and ice
  • Fascinating nature with waterfalls, volcanoes and glaciers side by side
  • A paradise for bird and whale watching
  • Circumnavigation - see the entirety of Iceland´s coast
Brief Itinerary
Day 1Reykjavík - Embarkation

Explore Iceland’s capital before embarkation

Day 2Stykkishólmur - Full day

Experience stunning lava formations, glaciers and hot springs. Participate in exciting activities - kayaking, hiking, horseback riding.

Day 3Patreksfjördur - Full day

Set in a picturesque fjord close to a spectacular waterfall, it is a renowned birdwatching spot with great hiking opportunities.

Day 4Northwest Iceland - Exploration Day

Our experienced captain and expedition team will plan a day exploring the stunning fjords of northwest Iceland.

Day 5Akureyri - Full day

Close to the renowned Lake Mývatn and Goðafoss waterfall, Akureyri hosts botanical gardens and a lively cultural scene.

Day 6Grimsey Island - Full day

We will use our small boats to land on the island of Grímsey, where you can straddle the line defining the Arctic Circle.

Day 7Bakkagerdi - Full day

The “Land of the Elves” boasts puffin colonies and deep Nordic heritage in a lovely and remote settlements.

Day 8Heimaey - Full day

Magnificent cliffs, puffins and kittiwakes, whale-spotting and active volcanoes make this an unforgettable stop

Day 9Reykjavík - Disembarkation - Full day

Our adventure ends here. If you have time, join us on one of our post programmes.

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Your Ship
MS Fridtjof Nansen
MS Fridtjof Nansen

MS Fridtjof Nansen is the latest addition to Hurtigruten’s fleet of custom built ships – and the next generation expedition ship. She explores some of the most spectacular corners of the globe.

Highlights
Nansen Science Center

an edutainment venue with advanced scientific & photographic equipment for deeper understanding of areas we explore

Explorer Lounge & Bar

with expansive windows, serves you breathtaking scenery while you enjoy some refreshments indoors and enjoy conversations with fellow explorers

Observation Decks

with windows that stretch to the bow, offering spectacular views. One of the only ships in the world with both inside and outside observation decks

Wellness Centre

With two treatment rooms for onboard pampering sessions at the spa, you can unwind at the pool, panoramic sauna, 2 jacuzzis or at the gym

Three Dining Options

With menus crafted from Norwegian traditions, dine in one of 3 restaurants- Aune, main dining; Fredheim, international and Lindstrøm for fine dining

Landings & Activities
Enhancing your experience

Go on hikings, walking tours, outings to local performances, and onshore events. Briefings occur before each activity, making you aware of any potential risks and of strict protocol regarding local wildlife. Both on and off the ship, lectures are held on a wide variety of specialist topics that cover: biology, geography and geology history and art culture and local traditions. We will also have a welcome event, daily gatherings to recap the day and prepare for the day to come

Expedition Team
Explore with the Experts

an international hand-picked team of highly educated experts that safeguard both explorers and the pristine environment. They serve as your invaluable hosts throughout your expedition cruise leading your way to offshore activities and keeping you informed onboard on daily activities and events

Science Program
Gain a deeper understanding of places you visit

We invite our guests to participate in science activities, developing a greater understanding of the region in which they travel, becoming true ambassadors, and returning home to champion the protection of our planet's most fragile ecosystems. Learn from a scientist during collaborative lectures, hands on experiences with microscopes. Join our citizen science boats to collect samples on behalf of research institutes

For Young Explorers
Bring your kids on board

For curious and active youth aged 6-12 years of age, we offer free-of-charge Young Explorers’ Programme to makes it easier to meet other children on board, bond over common activities and form lasting friendships. Via this program, the children will learn about other cultures, the importance of nature in our daily lives, and the impact humans have on our delicate and beautiful planet. To reserve, please contact our booking office

Day wise Itinerary

Day 1

Reykjavík - Embarkation

Many visitors find landing at Keflavik airport enchanting. The hub seems carved out of an arctic desert, with lava stones covered in moss and haunting mountains nearby. But just 45 minutes away, Reykjavík is a charming and vibrant modern city, offering top restaurants, interesting museums and quaint narrow streets.

Day 2

Stykkishólmur - Full day

The friendly town of Stykkishólmur has beautiful and well-preserved old houses in the town centre and is surrounded by wonderful scenery. Enjoy exploring the town´s interesting museums or join optional excursions to see the iconic sites of Snæfellsnes Penninsula such as the Lóndrangar basalt cliffs or the black sandy beaches of Djúpalónssandur.

Day 3

Patreksfjördur - Full day

Patreksfjördur is a charming settlement on the west coast of Iceland with around 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.

Day 4

Northwest Iceland - Exploration Day

Our experienced captain will plan a day exploring the stunning 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.

Day 5

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 serves as the centre of trade, culture and services for the north of Iceland. Akureyri is close to many of Iceland’s most renowned natural treasures, such as lake Mývatn and Goðafoss waterfall.

Day 6

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 can have the chance to step across that line, North to South.

Day 7

Bakkagerdi - Full day

Bakkagerdi is the main settlement in Borgarfjörður. This area is known for its natural beauty and is `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.

Optional excursions

1. Bakkagerdi - Puffin Colony visit - (Included)
Shuttle bus between port and Hafnarhólmi puffin colony.

Day 8

Heimaey - Full day

Heimaey, or “Home Island” welcomes us for our visit. The harbour has a very narrow entrance, caused by a 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.

Optional excursions

1. Heimaey - Fun and lively walk over the lava with a local - (Included)
This hiking tour is a great way to get to know the volcanic history of the island and get in touch with the beautiful nature.

2. Heimaey Island Tour
Join a 3-hour scenic drive to the main attractions of Heimaey. Visit several stunning natural sites and learn about the volcanic eruption that took place here in 1973 when we visit Eldheimar Museum.

3. Heimaey - Boat tour of Heimaey
Sail around Heimaey and its landscape and wildlife from a different angle.

Day 9

Reykjavík - Disembarkation - Full day

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

Whats Included

  • Hurtigruten Expedition Cruise in cabin grade of your choice
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages in restaurant Aune and Fredheim
  • A la carte restaurant Lindstrom included for suite guests
  • Complimentary tea and coffee
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle to use at water refill stations on board
  • A rich programme of included activities on all voyages designed to immerse you in the destinations you visit, including onshore exploration with the Expedition Team
  • English and German-speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore
  • Range of included excursions
  • Complimentary wind- and water-resistant jacket
  • Loan of spikes and trekking poles, and equipment needed for optional and included activities
  • Complimentary Wi-fi

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Visa
  • Optional shore excursions with our local partners or Expedition Team
  • Travel insurance
  • Luggage handling

Special Note

  • This is an expedition where the elements rule, and the weather, wind and ice conditions will determine our schedule. Safety is paramount and the captain will decide the final sailing itinerary during the voyage. Hence, this itinerary is just an indication of what you can experience and why every expedition with us is unique.
Policies
Reserve your space

With just 20% deposit and pay the remaining balance only 90 Days before departure date.

For those approaching us within 90 days of departure date, can reserve their space with full payment

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Cancellation Policy

You can cancel your booking anytime with us, based on the below conditions :

90 or more days : Retention of 20% deposit

60-89 days :  30%

28-59 days : 60%

14-27 days : 90%

Less than 14 days : 100%

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