Circumnavigating Iceland - The Land of Elves, Sagas and Volcanoes 2021 (Itinerary 2)

Circumnavigating Iceland - The Land of Elves, Sagas and Volcanoes 2021
(Itinerary 2)

11 days with Hurtigruten Rating:

Itinerary

Day 1 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 Reykjavik, a charming, vibrant and modern city, offering top restaurants, interesting museums and quaint narrow streets.

Day 2 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.

Day 3 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.

Day 4 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.

Day 5 Djupavik - Full Day

In 1917, Elías Stefánsson settled down in Djupavik and built a herring salting factory. Today, you can still see the remains of the factory as well as seven houses and a hotel here. We will explore the landing site, and the beautiful natural scenery surrounding it.

Day 6 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.

Day 7 Grimsey Island & Husavik - Overnight stay - Full Day

We will use our tender boats to reach this green and grassy island. Grimsey is probably best known for its proximity to the Arctic Circle, which cuts through the island and you can step across. During the afternoon, we sail towards Husavik, arriving in the evening and staying overnight.

Day 8 Husavik & Langanes Peninsula

Húsavík is renowned for its whale watching and has several interesting museums, including, of course, a whale museum. In the evening, we will sail past the scenic Laganes Peninsula.

Day 9 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.

Day 10 Heimaey - Full Day

The harbor at Heimaey or “Home Island” has a narrow entrance, formed by a volcanic eruption in 1973. As the lava flow threatened, the ingenious islanders pumped sea water onto the molten rocks to cool and slow its progress. Nearby cliffs provide a habitat for countless birds, including the charming puffin.

Day 11 Reykjavik

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

Map

All This Included

Extraordinary and full of surprises, Iceland is an amazing natural and cultural destination. On our circumnavigation of the island, you encounter teeming wildlife, rich culture and welcoming people. Only Iceland offers surreal lava fields, bubbling hot springs, amazing Viking heritage and unmatched wildlife. Experience it all on this expedition cruise.

Expedition Cruise

Expedition cruise in a cabin of your choice
Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages (house beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water) in restaurants Aune
À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
Complimentary tea and coffee
Complimentary Wi-Fi on board. Be aware that we sail in remote areas with limited connection. Streaming is not supported.
Complimentary reusable water bottle to use at water refill stations on board
English-speaking Expedition Team who organize and accompany activities onboard and ashore
Range of included excursions

Onboard Activities

Experts on the Expedition Team deliver in-depth lectures on a variety of topics
Use of the ship’s Science Center, which has an extensive library and advanced biological and geological microscopes
Citizen Science program allows guests to assist with live scientific research
Professional onboard photographer gives top tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
Use of the ship’shot tubs, panoramic sauna,and indoor gyms
Informal gatherings with the crew such as daily recaps and preparation for the day to come

Landing Activities

Escorted landings with small expedition boats while in Iceland
Loan of boots, trekking poles, and all equipment for activities
Complimentary wind and water-resistant expedition jacket
Expedition Photographers help with your camera settings before landings

Highlights

Explore mystical Iceland – the land of fire and ice.
See fascinating nature with waterfalls, volcanoes and glaciers side by side.
Encounter a paradise for bird and whale watching.
Completely circumnavigate Iceland.

Accommodations

Cruising: cabin onboard MS Fram

Notes

Cabin upgrades are available.
Not Included: International flights, travel protection plan, luggage handling and optional shore excursions.
All planned landings are subject to weather conditions.
All itineraries are subject to change.
Please ask your Vacations To Go travel counselor for more information.

Terms and Conditions

For Hurtigruten terms and conditions, please click here.

* The prices shown are U.S. dollars per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to availability. Prices quoted for land/cruise arrangements are subject to increase without notice. Once we have received your deposit, land/cruise prices are guaranteed. Air prices quoted via phone or email are subject to increase and are guaranteed only from the time that full payment is received. Also, air prices or air promotions mentioned on this site or on the phone do not include baggage fees imposed by airlines.

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