Icelandic Mosaic

Our journey together begins in Iceland’s colourful capital, Reykjavík, which juts out into a large bay in the west of the country. We’ll meet and embark our ship at 16h00, then settle into our cabins. The ship sails for Grundarfjörður at 18h00, while we enjoy a welcome dinner on board. 

Located at the foot of majestic Mount Kirkjufell on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Grundarfjörður offers a taste of Iceland’s bewitching landscapes. Have your camera ready as we sail into port – the views of cone-shaped Kirkjufell guarding the bay are extraordinary! There’s a choice of three optional tours today. Join us on a hiking excursion around rocky coastal paths and caves in the shadow of the Snaefellsjokull Glacier. Journey through traditional fishing villages along the edge of the glacier-capped volcano. Or witness some of Iceland’s thrilling marine wildlife on a whale-watching tour from Ólafsvík – minke and humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins and porpoises are among the species seen here. 

Located 40 kilometres north of Iceland, the northernmost remote island of Iceland is Grímsey straddles the edge of the Arctic Circle. There’s only one small settlement here, but the island’s rocky cliffs and dramatic basalt formations are home to thousands of seabirds, including comical puffins and Arctic terns. We’ll spend time exploring the breathtaking terrain and observing its fascinating wildlife. 

Tucked at the base of the Eyjafjörður fjord, Akureyri is the capital of the north, sitting just 100 kilometres beneath the Arctic Circle. This petite city is a patchwork of colour, its vibrant houses contrasting with the deep blue waters and snow-capped peaks surrounding it. Each of the three excursions on offer today visits Goðafoss, Iceland’s most dramatic waterfall, known as the ‘Fall of the Gods’. In addition, explore the highlights of Akureyri including its old town, Laufas Folk Museum and famous Lystigarður Botanical Garden. Experience one of Iceland’s famed geothermal baths at Husavik. Or enjoy a full-day trip to Lake Myvatn, a magnificent geothermal landscape and birdwatcher’s delight. 

Jutting out the northwest of Iceland, the West Fjords is a remote, isolated region bursting with outstanding natural beauty. Today, we’ll arrive at the region’s main hub, Ísafjörður, surrounded by imposing peaks and one of Iceland’s most beautiful fjords. Our tours today give you the opportunity to delve into the culture and traditions of Icelanders. Discover small fishing villages and dramatic landscapes, observe nesting seabirds and visit a local family on Vigur island, or enjoy a guided tour of the town and meet some locals. You’ll also sample some Icelandic specialities, including a variety of traditional and modern dishes. The ships departs early afternoon as we sail south of Reykjavík to the Westman Islands.  

After a relaxing morning at sea we arrive at Heimaey, largest of the Westman Islands and the only inhabited island in the archipelago. Heimaey has a dramatic history, formed and almost destroyed by violent volcanoes. Some of the main town was swallowed by lava from the 1973 eruption, while its sheer cliffs are home to abundant birdlife and grey volcanic beaches line the shores. You have the opportunity to hop on a boat trip around the island to witness its impressive geology and magnificent bird colonies, or discover more about the island’s status as ‘Pompeii of the North’ on a tour around the volcanoes, lava fields and the Eldheimar Museum, which recounts the 1973 eruption. 

Our final day together is spent in Iceland’s cosmopolitan capital. There’s much to explore in this buzzy city, including the striking white-concrete church of Hallgrímskirkja, futuristic Perlan Museum, and the famous Blue Lagoon on the Reykanes Peninsula. Alternatively, join us on one of our optional tours. We’ll visit the scenic wonders of the Golden Circle – Gullfoss, Geysir and Thingvellir –where you’ll witness otherworldly volcanic landscapes, gushing waterfalls and an active geyser. Or you can explore the Reykanes Peninsula, visiting Kleifarvatn Lake and Krysuvik hot springs, and learn about Iceland’s fascinating Viking history. 

After spending our final night in port, we’ll bid farewell to captain, crew and fellow guests after breakfast and disembark to being our homeward journey.