10 Best Iceland Cruises & Tours 2023-2024

Name: Iceland Tours & Travel
Brand: Adventure Life
Rating: 4.9 (525 reviews)

Reykjavik - Reykjavik
8 Days from $2,424

Explore the best of Iceland on this 8-day tour, covering Reykjavik and the highlights along the famed Ring Road. Visit the Golden Triangle, witness awe-inspiring waterfalls and learn about Iceland's cultural heritage in remote villages.

Best of Iceland

8 Days from $2,648

Explore the best of Iceland on this exciting 8-day tour starting and ending in Reykjavik. Beautiful glaciers reach across the landscape as you visit the Golden Circle and drive the Ring Road. This complete Iceland tour features Iceland's most legendary places and experiences.

Iceland Trek | Landmannalaugar to þórsmörk

8 Days from $2,290

Trek the Laugavegar Trail from Landmannalaugar to Thorsmork on this 8-day hut-to-hut trekking tour in Iceland. This remarkable landscape has caused this trail to quickly become the most popular multi-day trekking destination in Iceland, and with good reason.

The Víknaslóðir Trail offers amazing views

East Fjords Trek

7 Days from $1,687

Spend five full days trekking the remote Víknaslóðir Trail along the East Fjords. This East Iceland hiking tour takes you between stunning mountain landscapes and picturesque fjords. Explore abandoned farmlands, historic churches, and colorful mountainsides as you trek through a region that seems almost trapped in time on this East Iceland tour.

East Vatnajökull Trek

7 Days from $1,440

Hike in one of the most remote areas on this 4-day Iceland trekking adventure in East Vatnajökull National Park. Trek the Snæfell to Lónsöræfi trail, light packing most of your supplies from mountain hut to mountain hut. Admire the breathtaking scenery of Vatnajökull Glacier, colorful rhyolite hills, stunning cliffs, and possible wild reindeer sightings!

Circumnavigating Iceland

Reykjavik to Reykjavik
9 Days from $6,695

Discover Iceland’s ruggedly wild beauty, as you encounter its diverse wildlife, rich culture and welcoming people on this 9-day Arctic cruise aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen. The expedition cruise completely circumnavigates the mystical North Atlantic island, giving you the full experience of one of the most unique places on Earth.

Icelandic Mosaic

Reykjavík Roundtrip
8 Days from $6,850

Le Bellot hosts this 8-day Arctic cruise of Iceland, departing from the artistic capital city of Reykjavik. Bird lovers rejoice at the wealth of seabirds, especially at Grimsey Island. You'll also witness the beautiful Ísafjörður, nestled in a dramatic landscape of volcanoes, glaciers, and snow-capped peaks, all while learning about the local culture.

Four Arctic Islands: Spitsbergen, Jan Mayen, Greenland and Iceland

Helsinki to Reykjavik
18 Days from $13,895

Explore four incredible regions of the Arctic on this 18-day cruise aboard Ocean Adventurer. Discover the world’s largest fjord system, see the varied wildlife, visit a rarely visited nature reserve island and learn about the culture of the Inuit, from Norway through Spitsbergen and Jan Mayen, and ultimately Iceland.

Northern lights dance across the Arctic landscape

Iceland's Wild West Coast to East Greenland

Reykjavik - Reykjavik
12 Days from $15,140

National Geographic Endurance hosts this 12-day expedition cruise to discover the wild west coast of Iceland with its towering bird cliffs, meadows carpeted in wildflowers, quiet coves, and majestic waterfalls. Sail the route of early Viking explorers and discover a region of epic ice home to the Arctic?s iconic creatures: polar bears, whales, and vast seabird colonies.

Iceland Circumnavigation

Reykjavik - Reykjavik
11 Days from $10,895

On this 11-day expedition journey onboard the Sylvia Earle, see the "Land of Ice and Fire," where snow-capped mountains rise above glaciers and active volcanoes roar. Get up close and personal with Europe's largest glacier in Vatnajökull National Park, as well as the Mjóifjördur fjord and the Látrabjarg seabird cliffs.

All Iceland Luxury Trips

8 Exceptional Luxury Cruises to Iceland for 2023-2024

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Discover Iceland	$2425	8	Sep 26, 2023	Explore the best of Iceland on this 8-day tour, covering Reykjavik and the highlights along the famed Ring Road. Visit the Golden Triangle, witness … 0
Best of Iceland	$2649	8	Sep 27, 2023	Explore the best of Iceland on this exciting 8-day tour starting and ending in Reykjavik. Beautiful glaciers reach across the landscape as you visit … 0
Iceland Trek \| Landmannalaugar to þórsmörk	$2290	8	Jun 2, 2024	Trek the Laugavegar Trail from Landmannalaugar to Thorsmork on this 8-day hut-to-hut trekking tour in Iceland. This remarkable landscape has caused … 0
East Fjords Trek	$1687	7	Jul 6, 2024	Spend five full days trekking the remote Víknaslóðir Trail along the East Fjords. This East Iceland hiking tour takes you between stunning … 0
East Vatnajökull Trek	$1440	7	Jul 1, 2024	Hike in one of the most remote areas on this 4-day Iceland trekking adventure in East Vatnajökull National Park. Trek the Snæfell to Lónsöræfi … 0
Circumnavigating Iceland	$6695	9	May 16, 2024	Discover Iceland’s ruggedly wild beauty, as you encounter its diverse wildlife, rich culture and welcoming people on this 9-day Arctic cruise … 0
Icelandic Mosaic	$6850	8	Jun 22, 2024	Le Bellot hosts this 8-day Arctic cruise of Iceland, departing from the artistic capital city of Reykjavik. Bird lovers rejoice at the wealth of … 0
Four Arctic Islands: Spitsbergen, Jan Mayen, Greenland and Iceland	$13895	18	Aug 9, 2024	Explore four incredible regions of the Arctic on this 18-day cruise aboard Ocean Adventurer. Discover the world’s largest fjord system, see the … 0

Get Inspired to Travel to Iceland

Get Active

Luxury Cruises

Iceland Land Tours

Spot wildlife such as reindeer in the high Arctic

Wildlife Viewing & Safari Exploration

Cultural Tours

All Iceland Tours

Top 8 Iceland Cruise & Tour Deals

Trip Name	Save	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Greenland Odyssey	Savings	$17795	17	Jul 6, 2024	Experience the world's largest island on this 10-day Greenland Odyssey Cruise aboard Sylvia Earle. Discover the grandeur of Greenland featuring … 0
Hot Springs and Eternal Ice - Tour 2	Savings	$12410	19	Aug 5, 2024	Experience a 19-day cruise adventure on the MS Seaventure to Iceland and Greenland. Explore Reykjavik, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Isafjordur, Husavik, … 0
Northern Lights Explorer	Savings	$19195	19	Sep 8, 2024	Join Greg Mortimer on this 19-day Northern Lights adventure from Kirkenes to Reykjavik. Sail through the Norwegian Coast, Jan Mayen, East Greenland, … 0
Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland	Savings	$11695	14	Sep 20, 2024	Take a two-week Ocean Adventurer voyage to see Iceland and northeast Greenland. Roundtrip from Reykjavik, immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of … 0
Crossing the Arctic Circle, Jan Mayen & Svalbard	Savings	$6895	12	May 29, 2024	Join the Sea Spirit on a fantastic 12-day sailing expedition to Iceland, Jan Mayen, and Svalbard. Explore some of the Arctic's most magical … 0
Greenland Explorer - Tour 1	Savings	$12675	18	Jul 19, 2024	Embark on this 18-day cruise along the coast of Greenland aboard the MS Seaventure, from the mountains of the east to the lush, historically rich … 0
Iceland Circumnavigation	Savings	$5485	9	Jun 1, 2024	Take this 9-day cruise around Iceland on the MS Seaventure. Along the way, experience both natural wonders and the Icelandic way of life on a variety … 0
Arctic Complete: Svalbard, Greenland & Iceland	Savings	$25695	24	Jul 20, 2024	Come see the Arctic with Greg Mortimer on a 24-day expedition cruise across the archipelago of Spitsbergen. This cruise shows off the area's varied … 0

Top-Rated Cruise Ships Visiting Iceland

National Geographic Resolution

New in 2021, The National Geographic Resolution is a next-generation 126-passager expedition ship purpose-built for polar exploration in comfort with an extremely smooth ride even on the world's roughest, most demanding seas. National Geographic is legendary for immersive trips focusing on the ecology of the polar regions.

Ultramarine

New in 2021, the Ultramarine is designed with an ice rating of 1A+, PC6, making it one of the most capable polar exploring vessels on the planet. Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, Ultramarine offers the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, the most spacious suites in its category, breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size.

Le Commandant Charcot

The polar explorer ship Le Commandant Charcot travels to remote regions of the Arctic and Antarctic. This expedition ship is unique because of its revolutionary and environmentally friendly design.

Greg Mortimer

With only 132 passengers on board, Greg Mortimer reimagines arctic expedition cruise for the future. Robust, robust, and designed with guests in mind, this ship represents a major increase in the capability of polar sailing.

National Geographic Endurance

National Geographic Endurance, a purpose-built cruise ship capable of year-round operations in the arctic regions, with the highest ice class rating (PC5 Category A) ever achieved by a cruise ship of its size (126 guests). The sloping X-bow is designed to decrease movement in the roughest of seas and also results in higher fuel efficiency and lower emissions for less environmental impact.

Ocean Endeavour

Updated as recently as 2014, the 200-passenger ice class Ocean Endeavor explores the most remote areas in comfort and style. With several decks and lounges, 20 zodiacs, and even a swimming pool, sauna, and hot tub, this is the perfect ship for Arctic exploration.

L'Austral

The L'Austral, sister ship to the Le Boreal, is the fruit of Italian expertise and French sophistication. A superb mega-yacht with 132 cabins, the L'Austral links tradition and innovation, cruising to worldwide destinations in luxury.

Sea Spirit

Explore polar regions in style and comfort aboard the all-suite Sea Spirit. Providing spacious accommodations for a maximum of 114 passengers, the Sea Spirit also provides the maneuverability and friendly atmosphere of a small ship.

National Geographic Explorer

The National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art luxury expedition ship accommodating 148 guests in 81 outside cabins. It is fully stabilized, for cruising polar passages while providing comfort.

Scenic Eclipse

Scenic Eclipse is the World's First Discovery Yacht and the first ocean cruise ship from the Scenic fleet. Launched in August 2019, Scenic Eclipse sets a new standard in luxury ocean cruising. With elegant lines, perfectly-proportioned suites, and expansive wellness zones, every element of Scenic Eclipse has been considered with your enjoyment and pleasure in mind, creating a special environment that facilitates global adventure in truly 6-star luxury.

MS Seaventure

Seaventure features a 1-A Super ice class rating ? the highest ice class awarded to passenger vessels. This means that she will be able to explore Antarctic coves, bays, and channels that would previously have been forbidden.

MV Janssonius

Janssonius is meeting the latest and highest Lloyd’s Register standards for ice-strengthened cruise ships. Janssonius represents the most flexible, advanced, innovative touring vessel in the polar regions, thoroughly optimized for exploratory voyages that provide you the utmost first-hand contact with the Arctic and Antarctica.

Silver Cloud

The newly refurbished Silver Cloud is the most spacious and comfortable ice class vessel in expedition cruising. Its large suites, destination itineraries, and unparalleled service make her truly special. A limited number of guests, just 200 in polar waters, mean that Silver Cloud has the highest space to guest and crew to guest ratios.

Ortelius

The ice-strengthened vessel Ortelius is an excellent ship for Polar expedition cruises in the Arctic and Antarctica, providing us with possibilities to adventure remote locations such as the Ross Sea in the Antarctic and Franz Josef Land in the Arctic.

Ocean Adventurer

Designed to carry travelers in comfort to the most remote corners of the world, the Ocean Adventurer (Sea Adventurer) is the perfect expedition ship for adventurous people who enjoy the creature comforts offered on board.

Silver Whisper

Enjoy Silver Whisper's relaxing, sophisticated, and genuinely elegant atmosphere. This multi-million dollar refit makes her one of the most technically up to the minute ships at sea. Admire the stunning beauty of Europe & the Caribbean aboard this 382 passenger ship.

All Iceland Articles

Iceland Cruise Tips & Travel Guide

How to Choose a Cruise to Iceland

Choosing a cruise to Iceland begins with your interests and the activities that are on your list. Other aspects to consider are your travel style, the time of year you want to go, and the amount of time you have budgeted to getaway.

Getting to Iceland: How to get to Iceland?

There are three ways of getting to Iceland, by airplane, by ferry, and by cruise ship. Approximately 20 airlines fly to Iceland’s Keflavik International Airport all year round from main cities in Europe and North America. For visitors driving into the country, the Norröna ferry sails weekly from Denmark via the Faroe Islands. Finally, many cruises from Scandinavia and Greenland include stops in Iceland, giving visitors a chance to explore this wonderful country.

By air: Direct flights to Iceland from Europe are about 4-5 hours. From North America, they are 5-6 hours. From other countries, you will have to transfer in Europe. Most flights arrive to the Keflavik International Airport.

The United States - There are plenty of 1-stop flights from major cities in the US to Reykjavik, Jdokulsarlon, and other major destinations in Iceland. Check out the US’s travel advisory for Iceland.
Canada - There are many 2-stop flights from major Canadian cities to Iceland’s most visited destinations. Check out Canada’s travel advisory for Iceland.
The United Kingdom - Direct flights, 1-stop, and 2-stop flights, leave from major cities such as London, Manchester, and Glasgow to Reykjavik other major destinations in Iceland, Check out the UK’s travel advisory for Iceland.

By ferry: Board the M/S Norröna that sails from Denmark if you happen to be traveling with your own car, bike, motorcycle, or camper.

By sea: Many of our Scandinavia cruises and Greenland cruises include stops in Iceland.

The Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle Route, the Westman Islands, and the Dettifoss Waterfall are a few of the most popular places to visit in Iceland. Populated areas that draw international visitors each year include Reykjavik, Husavik, the town of Isafjörður, and Siglufjordur.

Best Time to Take an Iceland Cruise

June, July, August, and September are the best months to take a cruise in Iceland. June starts the extended days of summer daylight where whale watching is in full effect, and the lingering clear nights of fall begin in September when spectacular sightings of the Northern Lights often occur.

Iceland Cruise Highlights

Home to the northernmost capital city in the world (Reykjavik), Iceland is the home of legends & landscapes. On an Iceland cruise, you will follow in the ancient footsteps of explorer Leif Erikson, as you discover some of the most isolated and unspoiled natural sites in the world.

Highlights of any Iceland cruise excursion include:

Navigating these fascinating sites aboard luxurious and intimate ships & boats.
Learning about the rich human history from expert guides.
Witnessing the geysers that burst from the ground.
Trekking across the glaciers that shaped Iceland.
Exploring the distinct fjords that can only be found in this part of the world.
Visiting the isolated fishing villages & learning about the villagers' lifestyle.

Iceland Travel Overview

Not to be fooled by its name, Iceland offers its visitors a surprisingly temperate climate and awe-inspiring island environment to explore. The nation also has a rich culture displayed in its innovative art, literature, and music. Experience the incredible Northern Lights, a variety of wildlife, and unique opportunities for adventure all within this small country.

Polar bear balances on the ice in the Arctic

Wildlife Guide to Polar Regions

Which Polar region is home to penguins? Or how about those elusive narwhals? Before your travels, it will be helpful to learn more about the different species that inhabit the Polar regions of the Arctic and Antarctica. You may be surprised to learn the differences!

Best Iceland Cruise Lines for 2023

The Iceland travel experts at Adventure Life choose the top-rated cruise lines highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each.

How much does a trip to Iceland cost?

Iceland is a remote and isolated destination that offers all modern comforts in almost every corner that you decide to visit, the upside of the country’s high cost of living and the fact that they have to import most of their supplies and fresh produce. Iceland can be considered pricey, however it depends on the type of experience you are looking for.

Prices also vary depending on the time of year you decide to travel. Summer, or peak season from May through August is usually more expensive, as the weather allows for certain activities that cannot be enjoyed in the winter. Winter is less pricey as well as less crowded, which some prefer, and offers opportunities for other activities, such as observing the Northern Lights.

Approximate cost for roundtrip flights at the beginning of the peak season:

Manchester, UK, to Reykjavik, from $390 to $570.
Boston, USA, to Reykjavik, from $350 to $1,550.
Toronto, CAN, to Reykjavik, from $830 to $1,400.

NOTE: Keep in mind flight prices vary from month to month, depending on when you book your flight.

All Arctic Videos

Travel Videos About the Arctic

Iceland Travel & Cruise FAQs

Do I need a visa to travel to Iceland?
A visa is not required for traveling to Iceland from Europe, North America, Australia or New Zealand. If you are traveling from South Africa, you will need a visa in advance. It's always safe to check with your state department about travel requirements several months before departure.

Is tipping customary in Iceland?
No, tipping is not expected or necessary, and service charges are usually included in the bills already.

What is the internet access like in Iceland?
While major cities and towns do have WiFi hotspots and cyber cafes, most of our itineraries that visit Iceland are cruises, which do not usually have (consistern) internet access. Remote destinations away from the cities tend not to have internet.

Can I use my cell phone while in Iceland?
If you enable mobile roaming before leaving home, you should have coverage in most of the big cities and towns of Iceland. On open water during cruises or in the more rural destinations you will not likely have coverage.

Do I need a power adapter/ converter?
Iceland has 220-240 volt electricity and uses Europlug/ Schuko outlets. You will need a plug adapter for Type C & Type E/F sockets and a step-down transformer for 110-120V electronics.

What are the toilets like in Iceland?
Throughout Iceland and on cruise ships you will have modern flushable toilets. You may have to pay a small fee when using public bathrooms.

Approximately what will it cost for:
Beer - $6.00
Snack - $2.00
Simple lunch - $9.00
Dinner - $27.00

Can I drink the water in Iceland?
It is safe to drink the tap water in Iceland unless you are specifically told otherwise.

What is the most common way of paying for things in Iceland?
Iceland's currency is the Krona (ISK). 1USD=113ISK. You will be able to pay for nearly everything, from restaurant bills to taxi fares, with your credit card. It's also easy to find ATMs.

Should I purchase travel insurance for my trip?
We always encourage travelers to purchase insurance. For more information and deals, check out the Once I've Booked page.