Iceland in Depth

Welcome to Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital city, where a world of wonder awaits as you step on board and raise your glass to toast the start of your luxurious cruise. (D)

Weather depending, today we visit the jewel of the Westfjords. Stand back and admire the cascading bridal veil and discover why it was nicknamed ‘the thunder’. Made up of seven waterfalls, it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. Our afternoon visit to the charming village of Patreksfjörður, previously the pioneering force in Iceland's fishing industry. This peaceful town’s natural beauty welcomes adventures and history buffs alike, offering hiking opportunities along the Icelandic coastline once the playground of pirates. (B/L/D)

Characterised by deep, blue fjords, separated by flat-topped mountains, Ísafjörður is the largest settlement in the Westfjords of Iceland. Explore remote Iceland from one of the most stunning towns in the country, with old timber framed houses and architecture. Bursting with a wealth of wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for birds and Arctic foxes on the cliffs, seals on the coast and whales cruising in the surrounding ocean. Freechoice: Take a fascinating journey through time as you explore Ísafjörður or tour the ecofriendly fishing village of Sudurey to learn about the life of a fisherman and taste local produce. Alternatively, learn of the life and culture while visiting Osvor outdoor exhibition before walking through the maritime and folk museum. (B/L/D)

The friendly town of Sauðárkrókur is located in a fertile valley along the south-western shore of Skagafjörður Fjord. Although Sauðárkrókur was officially settled in 1871, it is linked to history dating back to the ancient Grettir’s Saga. The charming downtown will welcome you as you stroll through the small collection of distinctive, traditional buildings where the past seems to be brought back to life. Freechoice: Take a stroll through Sauðárkrókur with a local guide and visit the 1238 The Battle of Iceland virtual reality exhibition, or take a boat to the volcanic Dragney Island, a birdwatching paradise. Alternatively, learn about the Icelandic horse before visiting the Vintage Auto Museum. Discovery: Raft down the West Glacial River and uncover the beauty of this wild and welcoming canyon. (B/L/D)

Siglufjörður, or Sigló, as the locals call it, is famed for the ebb and flow of its fishing industry, being the undisputed capital of herring fishing in the Atlantic. In the late 19th century, Norwegian entrepreneurs flocked to the area, starting a lively trading industry, and marking the beginning of the town’s growth and fascinating history. Surrounded by natural beauty, the dramatic mountains and fjords await your keen eyes. Freechoice: Explore the award-winning Herring Era Museum or visit the open air Laufas Museum. (B/L/D)

Nestled on the edge of Shaky Bay, Húsavík has a long history and is home to the first house of Iceland, built in the year 860 by a Swedish Viking. Often referred to as the whale capital of Iceland, up to 23 species of whales have been spotted nearby, including the world’s largest mammal, the blue whale. With its colourful houses, unique museums and stunning peaks across the bay, it is one of the prettiest fishing villages in the northeast. Freechoice: Explore the geothermal field at Namaskard, the Dimmuborgir lava labyrinth, and the unique craters at Skutustadir, or see the power of Iceland at the Dettifoss Waterfall. Alternatively, enjoy a rejuvenating experience at the GeoSea Sea Baths. (B/L/D)

Grímsey Islands is a small island north of Iceland mainland, home to only 100 people, and one million seabirds. Nesting on the high cliffs that surround the whole island, the chatter of seabirds here is constant, especially during the 24 hours on sunshine in summer. This green, grassy island straddles the Arctic Circle, giving you the opportunity to walk across, stepping from the south to the north. Freechoice: Play some golf at the Arctic Circle on this 3-hole course. Discovery: Choose to walk across this small island and cross the Arctic Circle, or go birdwatching along the cliffs. (B/L/D)

Seyðisfjörður is at the mouth of a beautiful fjord and is the heart of culture, heritage and hospitality in East Iceland. The centre of town is known for 19th century timber houses perched on the side of the lagoon, a “pearl enclosed in a shell”. Surrounded by cascading waterfalls and snow-capped mountains, wandering reindeer and porpoises frequenting the shores, a flourishing art scene and small-town charm, you will soon discover why this unique location is a must see in Iceland. Freechoice: Your local guide will share stories of the town on a walking tour including a short concert in the Blue Church or visit the Wilderness Centre and learn of the Icelandic wilderness history, nature and the life of the original inhabitants. Discovery: Choose a Scenic Discovery excursion such as hiking in the Skálanes Nature Reserve. (B/L/D)

The perfect example of nature’s ability to both create and destroy, Heimaey and the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) are filled with awe-inspiring natural beauty. When the volcano Eldfell, meaning “Hill of Fire”, erupted in 1973, parts of this small town were locked in time, and the harbour was nearly sealed off. Guests can wander around this island and witness where the ashes enveloped the town. Keep your eyes open for our black and white friends, with more Atlantic Puffins nesting here than anywhere else in the world, and the best place in Iceland to spot orcas. Freechoice: Tour the island and visit the Eldheimar Museum built around one of the destroyed houses, or cruise around the island with a local captain in search of birdlife, including the puffin colonies. Discovery: Take a Scenic Discovery excursion hiking over the lava fields to the top of the new volcanic cone. (B/L/D)

Your cruise ends this morning back in Reykjavík as you say farewell to your crew. Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight homeward. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the tour will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. (B)