Around the Land of Fire and Ice.

An eight-day circumnavigation of Iceland from Reykjavík, crossing the Arctic Circle at Grímsey, watching for whales at Húsavík and standing on the lava fields of the Westman Islands. A complete tour of one of the world's most extraordinary landscapes, by sea.

Day 1

Welcome Aboard

Arrive at Keflavik airport where your private transfer awaits you in the arrival hall. Your driver will bring you to the port ready for embarkation. In the afternoon, settle into your cabin and toast your departure into the North Sea following ancient Norse sea routes toward the wild Westfjords. Before dinner your captain welcomes you with a welcome reception.

Book the Tour

Day 2

Ísafjörður, Westfjords

Tucked in the heart of the Westfjords, Ísafjörður is surrounded by dramatic basalt mountains and deep fjords. Once a quiet fishing settlement, it became an international trade hub in the 16th century, with its rich waters attracting traders and ships from across the Atlantic. Today, the colourful houses, swanky downtown buildings, and visitors from around the world make a surprisingly cosmopolitan town centre. Chilly breezes and sweeping landscapes welcome visitors to explore the remoteness and beauty of this northern gem. Back onboard, enjoy your dinner and cruise facilities.

Book the Tour

Day 3

Siglufjörður and Grímsey

Siglufjörður, Iceland's northernmost mainland town, thrived during the herring boom of the mid-20th century, growing from a sleepy village to the hub of the country’s fishing industry. Today, the herring still reigns supreme; the charming streets and Herring Era Museum showcase this proud heritage, while its jaw-dropping fjord setting offers rich bird-watching opportunities. Later, we sail to Grímsey Island, the only part of Iceland that crosses the Arctic Circle. We invite you to explore its rugged beauty, curious, unafraid seabirds, and the symbolic Arctic Circle marker, ‘Orbus et Globus’, which is shifted annually to account for tiny changes to Earth’s orbit. You will be able to go ashore and explore the beautiful town, before the ship set sail again.

Book the Tour

Day 4

Akureyri

Nestled at the end of Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, Akureyri is known as the 'Capital of the North'. Despite its small size, the city boasts a unique cathedral, the first botanical gardens in Iceland, massive geothermally heated swimming pools, and a lively cultural scene. Sheltered by surrounding hills from the worst of the Arctic weather, its rich volcanic agriculture, and the frigid waters of the fjord hold rich fish stocks – a treat for the discerning palate!From here, depart Akureyri for a scenic journey to the remarkable Lake Mývatn region, where a landscape shaped by volcanic forces reveals bubbling mud pools, steaming geothermal fields, and striking lava formations. Take in the serene beauty of the lake and its surrounding nature before returning to Akureyri at the end of the day to embark your ship.

Book the Tour

Day 5

Húsavík

Just beyond Akureyri lies Húsavík, Iceland’s oldest settlement, founded by the Viking pioneer Náttfari in the late 9th century. Small but bustling, Húsavík has fully embraced tourism and is the undisputed whale watching capital of Iceland. Where whalers once hunted, conservation and tourism now shelter these gentle giants. The town also offers museums, including one dedicated to whale conservation and research and another celebrating Iceland’s contributions to exploration, in the Arctic, Antarctic, and even into space. No trip to Husavik is complete without a soak at the nearby Geosea Spa with views over Skjálfandi Bay. Enjoy dinner aboard and unwind in the ships jacuzzi.

Book the Tour

Day 6

Djúpivogur

Situated on Iceland's scenic southeast coast, Djúpivogur is framed by fjords, mountains, and rich bird habitats. It is the closest port in the country to the Faroe Islands, Scandinavia, and mainland Europe, making it a popular call for vessels exploring the North Atlantic. Centered around the harbor, the town dates back to the 16th century and is known for its distinctive public art, including the Eggin í Gleðivík (Eggs of Merry Bay) sculpture. Hikers and birdwatchers are well rewarded here, with miles of unspoiled nature to explore, including a striking black sand beach just a short stroll from town, home to a wide variety of bird species.From Djúpivogur, set out on a journey through some of southeast Iceland’s most spectacular landscapes. The route leads to the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where massive icebergs drift serenely through a glacial lake on their way to the sea. Just across the road, Diamond Beach offers a striking contrast, where glittering fragments of ice rest upon the black volcanic shoreline, creating an unforgettable natural spectacle, before returning to Djúpivogur in the evening to embark on the cruise.

Book the Tour

Day 7

Heimaey and Surtsey, Westman Islands

Next we visit Heimaey, the largest of the volcanic Westman Islands. Visitors can explore the dramatic lava fields of Eldfell volcano, and the world-renowned bird colonies of the island. The residents of Heimaey were severely tested in 1973, when Eldfell volcano began to spew lava, threatening the town and it’s vital harbour. Heroic locals fought back, cooling the lava with seawater jets to save their community. Weather permitting, we cruise past Surtsey, a newly formed volcanic island strictly reserved for scientific research. Back onboard, join the captain’s farewell reception, enjoy your last dinner, relax in the ships bar and reflect on your unforgettable holiday.

Book the Tour

Day 8

Reykjavík — Disembarkation

Returning to Reykjavik, we conclude our voyage with lasting memories of Iceland’s wild landscapes, vibrant communities, and extraordinary wildlife. A private transfer will take you to the airport.

Book the Tour

Day 1

Welcome Aboard

Arrive at Keflavik airport where your private transfer awaits you in the arrival hall. Your...

Day 2

Ísafjörður, Westfjords

Tucked in the heart of the Westfjords, Ísafjörður is surrounded by dramatic basalt mountains...

Day 3

Siglufjörður and Grímsey

Siglufjörður, Iceland's northernmost mainland town, thrived during the herring boom of the...

Day 4

Akureyri

Nestled at the end of Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, Akureyri is known as the 'Capital...

Day 5

Húsavík

Just beyond Akureyri lies Húsavík, Iceland’s oldest settlement, founded by the Viking pioneer...

Day 6

Djúpivogur

Situated on Iceland's scenic southeast coast, Djúpivogur is framed by fjords, mountains, and...

Day 7

Heimaey and Surtsey, Westman Islands

Next we visit Heimaey, the largest of the volcanic Westman Islands. Visitors can explore the...

Day 8

Reykjavík — Disembarkation

Returning to Reykjavik, we conclude our voyage with lasting memories of Iceland’s wild...

Day 1

Welcome Aboard

Arrive at Keflavik airport where your private transfer awaits you in the arrival hall. Your driver will bring you to the port ready for embarkation. In the afternoon, settle into your cabin and toast your departure into the North Sea following ancient Norse sea routes toward the wild Westfjords. Before dinner your captain welcomes you with a welcome reception.

Book the Tour

Day 2

Ísafjörður, Westfjords

Tucked in the heart of the Westfjords, Ísafjörður is surrounded by dramatic basalt mountains and deep fjords. Once a quiet fishing settlement, it became an international trade hub in the 16th century, with its rich waters attracting traders and ships from across the Atlantic. Today, the colourful houses, swanky downtown buildings, and visitors from around the world make a surprisingly cosmopolitan town centre. Chilly breezes and sweeping landscapes welcome visitors to explore the remoteness and beauty of this northern gem. Back onboard, enjoy your dinner and cruise facilities.

Book the Tour

Day 3

Siglufjörður and Grímsey

Siglufjörður, Iceland's northernmost mainland town, thrived during the herring boom of the mid-20th century, growing from a sleepy village to the hub of the country’s fishing industry. Today, the herring still reigns supreme; the charming streets and Herring Era Museum showcase this proud heritage, while its jaw-dropping fjord setting offers rich bird-watching opportunities. Later, we sail to Grímsey Island, the only part of Iceland that crosses the Arctic Circle. We invite you to explore its rugged beauty, curious, unafraid seabirds, and the symbolic Arctic Circle marker, ‘Orbus et Globus’, which is shifted annually to account for tiny changes to Earth’s orbit. You will be able to go ashore and explore the beautiful town, before the ship set sail again.

Book the Tour

Day 4

Akureyri

Nestled at the end of Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, Akureyri is known as the 'Capital of the North'. Despite its small size, the city boasts a unique cathedral, the first botanical gardens in Iceland, massive geothermally heated swimming pools, and a lively cultural scene. Sheltered by surrounding hills from the worst of the Arctic weather, its rich volcanic agriculture, and the frigid waters of the fjord hold rich fish stocks – a treat for the discerning palate!From here, depart Akureyri for a scenic journey to the remarkable Lake Mývatn region, where a landscape shaped by volcanic forces reveals bubbling mud pools, steaming geothermal fields, and striking lava formations. Take in the serene beauty of the lake and its surrounding nature before returning to Akureyri at the end of the day to embark your ship.

Book the Tour

Day 5

Húsavík

Just beyond Akureyri lies Húsavík, Iceland’s oldest settlement, founded by the Viking pioneer Náttfari in the late 9th century. Small but bustling, Húsavík has fully embraced tourism and is the undisputed whale watching capital of Iceland. Where whalers once hunted, conservation and tourism now shelter these gentle giants. The town also offers museums, including one dedicated to whale conservation and research and another celebrating Iceland’s contributions to exploration, in the Arctic, Antarctic, and even into space. No trip to Husavik is complete without a soak at the nearby Geosea Spa with views over Skjálfandi Bay. Enjoy dinner aboard and unwind in the ships jacuzzi.

Book the Tour

Day 6

Djúpivogur

Situated on Iceland's scenic southeast coast, Djúpivogur is framed by fjords, mountains, and rich bird habitats. It is the closest port in the country to the Faroe Islands, Scandinavia, and mainland Europe, making it a popular call for vessels exploring the North Atlantic. Centered around the harbor, the town dates back to the 16th century and is known for its distinctive public art, including the Eggin í Gleðivík (Eggs of Merry Bay) sculpture. Hikers and birdwatchers are well rewarded here, with miles of unspoiled nature to explore, including a striking black sand beach just a short stroll from town, home to a wide variety of bird species.From Djúpivogur, set out on a journey through some of southeast Iceland’s most spectacular landscapes. The route leads to the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where massive icebergs drift serenely through a glacial lake on their way to the sea. Just across the road, Diamond Beach offers a striking contrast, where glittering fragments of ice rest upon the black volcanic shoreline, creating an unforgettable natural spectacle, before returning to Djúpivogur in the evening to embark on the cruise.

Book the Tour

Day 7

Heimaey and Surtsey, Westman Islands

Next we visit Heimaey, the largest of the volcanic Westman Islands. Visitors can explore the dramatic lava fields of Eldfell volcano, and the world-renowned bird colonies of the island. The residents of Heimaey were severely tested in 1973, when Eldfell volcano began to spew lava, threatening the town and it’s vital harbour. Heroic locals fought back, cooling the lava with seawater jets to save their community. Weather permitting, we cruise past Surtsey, a newly formed volcanic island strictly reserved for scientific research. Back onboard, join the captain’s farewell reception, enjoy your last dinner, relax in the ships bar and reflect on your unforgettable holiday.

Book the Tour

Day 8

Reykjavík — Disembarkation

Returning to Reykjavik, we conclude our voyage with lasting memories of Iceland’s wild landscapes, vibrant communities, and extraordinary wildlife. A private transfer will take you to the airport.

Book the Tour

Services

Accommodation

7 nights aboard M/V Ocean Victory, Polar Latitudes' next-generation expedition vessel, in your selected cabin category.

 

  • 1 x Embarkation, Reykjavík
  • 1 x At sea / Ísafjörður
  • 1 x At sea / Siglufjörður and Grímsey
  • 1 x At sea / Akureyri
  • 1 x At sea / Húsavík
  • 1 x At sea / Djúpivogur
  • 1 x At sea / Heimaey and Surtsey

Transfers

 

  • Airport transfers

Food & Beverage

 

  • All meals on board from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 8
  • Lunch and dinner drinks package — wine, beer and soft drinks (local brands)
  • Complimentary tea and coffee throughout the voyage
  • Captain's Welcome and Farewell cocktail receptions

Expedition Experience

 

  • All Zodiac landings and cruises with the expedition team
  • English-speaking expedition team throughout the voyage
  • Onboard lectures and informal briefings
  • Waterproof jacket to wear and keep
  • Boots provided for shore landings, in all sizes
  • Onboard photographer and end-of-voyage photographic trip-log shared via online link

Onboard Services

 

  • 500 MB Wi-Fi per guest
  • Use of all public ship facilities, including jacuzzis, sauna, gym, library and observation decks
  • Suite extras for Junior Suite, Balcony Suite, Brynhilde Suite and Freydis Suite guests, including champagne and fruit basket on arrival, restocked in-suite minibar (beer, water, soft drinks) and complimentary laundry service throughout

Port & Operational Charges

 

  • All port costs, pilot fees and AECO fees
  • Fuel, lube oil and bunker fees

Not included

 

  • International flights to and from Reykjavík
  • Pre and post cruise hotel nights and transfers
  • Travel insurance and cancellation insurance
  • Optional excursions and activities not in the itinerary
  • Optional kayaking programme
  • Crew gratuities
  • Beverages outside of the included drinks package
  • Personal expenses

Highlights of Iceland

Ready to book

this tour ?

If you're interested in organizing Highlights of Iceland tour, you can book it immediately!

Book the Tour

explore

similar tours

Together we can create your perfect tour for individual travel, group travel, small group tour or pick a guaranteed departure.