10 Best Iceland Cruises & Expeditions

Board the Ocean Diamond for a 10-day cruise around Iceland. Along the way, you'll discover both natural wonders and the Icelandic way of living via a range of shore excursions that feature bird & whale watching, Zodiac tours, and hikes that lead you to exotic geological formations that have inspired the country's nickname: Land of fire & ice.

A Musk Ox stares at the camera from the tundra.

Jewels of the Arctic

14 Days from $7,200

This Polar Pioneer 14-day expedition cruise combines the best of Spitsbergen and Greenland, with a taste of Iceland. Discover the unique Inuit cultures of the region and hike & Zodiac through the rugged landscapes and icy waters of the Arctic. You'll also visit Scoresbysund to see the biggest system of fjords in the world.

Explore the expansive National Parks of the Arctic

Spitsbergen, East Greenland & Iceland

15 Days from $7,995

Explore three fascinating Arctic destinations, Spitsbergen, East Greenland, and Iceland, on a spectacular 15-day cruise. Discover magnificent landscapes and fall in love with the culture and unique wildlife of this region.

The Icelandic Loop

8 Days from $5,780

Experience this incredible voyage of discovery in Iceland and the Arctic Circle for a truly exotic cruise on the trail of the Vikings. For 8 days, Le Boréal takes you to extreme lands and breathtaking scenery. Glaciers, lava fields, geysers and steam baths – this is undoubtedly the place of all the superlatives.

Icelandic Mosaic

8 Days from $6,230

Discover Iceland and the incredible wonders of the Arctic Circle on this unique 8-day cruise aboard Le Champlain. Board in Reykjavik, boasting numerous cultural treasures, particularly in the field of contemporary art. Experience extreme lands, a paradise for birdlife and enchanting landscapes.

Traveler photographing the Jokulsarlon Glacier.

A Circumnavigation of Iceland

10 Days from $10,270

On this active 10-day Iceland cruise aboard the National Geographic Explorer, you'll circumnavigate Iceland and witness glaciers, geysers, thundering waterfalls, immense cliffs, geothermal springs, boiling mud pots, and lava-scapes of on dinghies, hiking, or kayaking. Visit Reykjavik, Ísafjördur, Lake Mývatn and Húsavík, Siglufjördur and Akureyri.

Icelandic Mosaic

8 Days from $5,480

Discover Iceland and the Arctic Circle on this unique 8-day cruise following in the footsteps of the Vikings. Join Le Lapérouse for a dazzling experience to extreme lands, a paradise for birdlife and enchanting landscapes.

Iceland Circumnavigation

11 Days from $2,995

Trace the routes of the Icelandic sagas' heroes on this 11-day circumnavigation cruise starting and ending in Reykjavik. Volcanically and geologically active, Iceland is famed for its awe-inspiring lava fields, mountains, glaciers, and glacial rivers. Natural wonders and a stirring history await on Iceland’s rugged shores.

Iceland Circumnavigation

8 Days from $2,065

This 8-day expedition around Iceland offers an in-depth exploration of a small island of geological extremes. Encounter unrivaled natural diversity, from volcanic landscapes to lava fields, ice sheets, gushing hot springs and cascading waterfalls.

Northern Lights & Whales: Sea & Land

7 Days from $2,090

Admire Iceland's natural beauty on a magnificent 7-day expedition that takes you through this magical island, starting on Reykjavik uncovering the unique charms of the world’s northernmost capital, exploring the coast towns and glaciers.

Iceland Cruise Deals for 2017-2018

Trip Name	Save	From	Days	Level	Summary
The Saga of Erik The Red	33%	$10730	13	Relaxed	Step aboard Le Soléal in Reykjavik for a 13-day expedition cruise to the remote and beautiful southern Greenland. Cruise across the Arctic and discover Viking ruins on this incredible voyage following in the footsteps of Norwegian explorer Erik the Red.
Greenland Explorer: Valleys and Fjords	$3000-$4000	$6995	15	Relaxed	Discover Greenland on this 15-day cruise aboard the Ocean Adventurer. Sailing along the coast is the best way to sample the rich history and diversity of this beautiful country. Kayaking around fjords, cruising Cape Farewell, and soaking in hot springs offers an exclusive Arctic immersion experience.
Iceland and Natural Wonders of Greenland	20%	$3995	12	Relaxed	Join the Ocean Diamond for a 12-day expedition cruise from Reykjavik, Iceland to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland. Take in the magical scenery of Iceland’s volcanic landscape and the inviting, immense fjords of Greenland. Learn about these countries, their people, and wildlife on your unforgettable journey.
West Greenland: Disko Bay	$1500-$2500	$4395	10	Relaxed	This 10-day voyage on the Ocean Adventurer focuses on Disko Bay, an area famous for its icebergs & whales. Explore the natural wonders of northwest Greenland, including visits to Itilleq Fjord, Ilulissat Icefjord (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Baffin Bay, Equip Sermia, Uummannaq, Disko Island, and Sisimut.
Iceland Circumnavigation	20%	$2595	10	Relaxed	Board the Ocean Diamond for a 10-day cruise around Iceland. Along the way, you'll discover both natural wonders and the Icelandic way of living via a range of shore excursions that feature bird & whale watching, Zodiac tours, and hikes that lead you to exotic geological formations that have inspired the country's nickname: Land of fire & ice.
Arctic Adventure: Norway, Greenland, and Iceland	$1500	$15495	15	Relaxed	Explore the captivating shore of the Arctic north on this 15-day Arctic cruise. Sail along the coasts of Svalbard and Greenland and the pristine fjords of Iceland, disembarking in remote coves to explore the beautiful and varied landscape. Keep your eyes open for polar bears, as well as walrus, Arctic fox, and immense bird life.
Journeys in the Land of Ice & Fire	10%	$2690	8	Relaxed	Travel around the west and north coast of Iceland, a Nordic island nation. Explore dramatic volcanic landscapes of geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, glaciers, and black-sand beaches in the comfort of the elegant Panorama on this 8-day fascinating cruise adventure.
Svalbard, Iceland & Greenland's East Coast	$650	$15650	16	Relaxed	Flying from Oslo, Norway to Longyearbyen, Svalbard you'll board the luxurious National Geographic Explorer for a 16-day cruise of the archipelago's glaciers, where polar bears and caribou roam freely. Then sail on to Iceland and Greenland's fascinating Viking sites & encounter extraordinary wildlife as you hike across the glaciers.

Iceland Luxury Cruises

Trip Name	From	Days	Level	Summary
The Icelandic Loop	$5780	8	Relaxed	Experience this incredible voyage of discovery in Iceland and the Arctic Circle for a truly exotic cruise on the trail of the Vikings. For 8 days, Le Boréal takes you to extreme lands and breathtaking scenery. Glaciers, lava fields, geysers and steam baths – this is undoubtedly the place of all the superlatives.
Svalbard, Iceland & Greenland's East Coast	$15650	16	Relaxed	Flying from Oslo, Norway to Longyearbyen, Svalbard you'll board the luxurious National Geographic Explorer for a 16-day cruise of the archipelago's glaciers, where polar bears and caribou roam freely. Then sail on to Iceland and Greenland's fascinating Viking sites & encounter extraordinary wildlife as you hike across the glaciers.
Unexplored Greenland	$9430	11	Relaxed	Discover an ancestral people surviving in the solitude of the polar regions, and a land forgotten by time where the primeval beauty of the environment conjures feelings of a rare intensity on this incredible 11-day cruise aboard the comfortable Le Boreal.
The Saga of Erik The Red	$10730	13	Relaxed	Step aboard Le Soléal in Reykjavik for a 13-day expedition cruise to the remote and beautiful southern Greenland. Cruise across the Arctic and discover Viking ruins on this incredible voyage following in the footsteps of Norwegian explorer Erik the Red.
Arctic Adventure: Norway, Greenland, and Iceland	$15495	15	Relaxed	Explore the captivating shore of the Arctic north on this 15-day Arctic cruise. Sail along the coasts of Svalbard and Greenland and the pristine fjords of Iceland, disembarking in remote coves to explore the beautiful and varied landscape. Keep your eyes open for polar bears, as well as walrus, Arctic fox, and immense bird life.
Adventure in Greenland	$9250	11	Relaxed	Embark on an 11-day expedition cruise to Greenland aboard Le Boréal. Enjoy a combination of adventure and discovery in the company of an experienced team of naturalist guides, anthropologists, ornithologists, and marine mammal specialists.
Epic 80°N: Exploring Greenland, Baffin & Ellesmere Islands	$25990	23	Relaxed	This 23-day Arctic cruise aboard the National Geographic Explorer features Zodiac tours, kayaking, and hiking the tundra. Follow in the wake of legendary explorers and hear their dramatic stories, spot Arctic wildlife, and meet local Inuit communities who inhabit the region.

Top 10 Land Tours in Iceland

Trip Name	From	Days	Level	Summary
Iceland Trek \| Landmannalaugar to þórsmörk	$2445	7	Moderate	Trek the Laugavegar Trail from Landmannalaugar to Thorsmork on this 7-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.
Best of Iceland	$2885	8	Relaxed	Tour Iceland's most popular attractions on this 8-day main highlights trip of South and West Iceland. Visit popular Golden Circle Route including Þingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir. Drive south to see the large Vatnajökull ice cap, Reynisfjara Beach, and Skaftafell National Park. Travel west to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula to see fishing villages.
Winter Iceland Adventure	$3770	8	Moderate	Explore the best of Iceland in winter. Spend your days snowshoeing and traveling by super jeep to remote regions where cars cannot drive. Try your hand at glacier climbing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing as you visit South Iceland highlights of Landmannalaugar, Thorsmork, and the Golden Circle. Hunt for the Northern Lights and camp under the stars.
East Iceland Explorer	$2815	7	Easy Active	Spend a week touring the more remote and isolated East Iceland regions on this active tour based out of the Wilderness Center. Learn about the traditions and legends from Icelandic history. Tour old farms and spot wildlife such as puffins, seals, and wild reindeer. Actively explore some of the most remote wilderness in Europe on this Iceland tour.
South Iceland Self-Drive	$1615	3-5	Moderate	Take this South Iceland tour, designed for the independent traveler who is short on time but big on adventure. Choose from a number of South Iceland tour options during your free days at Hotel Ranga. Hike Iceland's renowned trails and visit glaciers and beaches along the south coast. Easily add this South Iceland hotel package to an Iceland cruise.
Iceland Snapshot	$2955	7	Easy Active	This quick 7-day Iceland tour is easy-paced and packed with soft adventure for those wanting a good introduction to South Iceland. Explore the highlights of the Golden Circle Route, witness the massive Vatnajökull ice cap, and view iceberg-filled Jökulsárlón Lagoon. Hike in Skaftafell Park and see waterfalls, black-sand beaches & the Laki craters.
Iceland Medley	$3855	8	Moderate	Spend a week exploring the South Iceland landscape on this active Iceland tour. Excursions vary as you mountain bike, kayak, horseback ride, and hike in breathtaking mountain and glacial scenery. Spend two nights in the popular hiking oasis of Thorsmork, explore lava fields, and visit rural farms on this Iceland adventure with a new activity each day.
Golden Circle & Glaciers	$1100	3	Easy Active	Explore the Golden Circle and the main highlights of the South Iceland coast on this 3-day tour for fall, spring, or winter. Visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss. Walk along black sand beaches, Jökulsárlón Lagoon, and the massive Vatnajökull Glacier. Hike the crystal caves in winter and search for the Northern Lights!
East Fjords Trek	$2175	7	Moderate	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.
Birth of Spring	$1370	4	Easy Active	Travel to the isolated East Iceland region to witness the start of spring in a rural land with a long winter. Experience the country lifestyle first hand and watch animals and wildlife spring back to life again. Explore this rugged wilderness with short hikes, on bikes, or by horseback as you tour abandoned farms and the stunning landscape.

Get Inspired to Cruise Iceland

Taking a kayaking trip around Monaco Glacier on Spitsbergen Island.

Kayaking Option

Classic Journeys

Luxury

Iceland Travel Guide

All Iceland Articles

Arctic Cruise: When to Go?

Though the austere Arctic landscape is often imagined to be a cold white wasteland, the brief months of summer see the flora blossoming and the fauna emerging from their long winter dormancy. Find out the best time to visit the Arctic based on your interests and expectations.

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 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.

Getting to Iceland

Since Iceland is isolated from the rest of Europe in the north Atlantic Ocean, there are only two ways to get there:

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.

By sea: Many of our Scandinavian cruises include stops in Iceland as well.

Popular Iceland Cruise Destinations

Some of the most popular destinations frequently visited on an Icelandic cruise include:

Reykjavik & Reykjanes Peninsula
West Coast & Ísafjördur
UNESCO World Heritage Site Breidafjördur Bay
Vatnajökull Glacier (the biggest glacier in all of Europe)
Norway & Greenland

Iceland 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.

Travel Videos About the Arctic

All Arctic Videos

Iceland Travel 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.