10 Best Iceland Cruises & Tours 2021-2022

Reykjavik to Reykjavik
10 Days from $2,885

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.

In the Wake of the Vikings: A Voyage from Iceland to Greenland

13 Days from $4,695

Board the Ocean Endeavour to follow in the footsteps of the Vikings on this exceptional 12-day expedition cruise across the Arctic region. Depart from Reykjavík towards Greenland as you trek across glaciers and mountains, navigate around icebergs in zodiacs, learn about the local culture of the fishing villages, and search for the hardy wildlife.

Traveler photographing the Jokulsarlon Glacier.

A Circumnavigation of Iceland

Iceland
10 Days from $11,920

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.

A Circumnavigation of Iceland

Reykjavik to Reykjavik
10 Days from $14,800

On this active 10-day Iceland cruise aboard the National Geographic Resolution, 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, Húsavík, Siglufjördur, and Akureyri.

Iceland Circumnavigation

Reykjavik to Reykjavik
11 Days from $9,295

Discover Iceland below the surface – a land rich in wildlife, culture and fascinating human history during this 11-day Arctic roundtrip cruise from Reykjavik. Explore the ‘Land of Ice and Fire’ where snow-capped peaks rise above glaciers and active volcanoes rumble, with opportunities to visit Vatnajökull National Park & Mjóifjördur.

Wild Iceland Escape

Reykjavik to Reykjavik
5 Days from $6,580

On this 5-day Wild Iceland escape, embark in Reykjavík and discover the beauty of Iceland’s geology: glaciers, geysers, thundering waterfalls, immense cliffs, geothermal springs and more. Relax aboard the luxury sailing vessel National Geographic Explorer and enjoy informal elegance, culinary delights, and gracious service.

Best of Iceland

Reykjavik to Reykjavik
7 Days from $2,045

This 7-day Best of Iceland cruise offers an in-depth exploration of a small Arctic island of geological extremes. Encounter unrivaled natural diversity, from volcanic landscapes to lava fields, ice sheets, gushing hot springs and cascading waterfalls.

Iceland Circumnavigation

10 Days from $4,995

Trace the routes of the Icelandic sagas' heroes on this 10-day circumnavigation cruise starting and ending in Reykjavik aboard Ocean Endeavour (AC). 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.

Circumnavigating Iceland

2021
9 Days from $5,495

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

Reykjavík Roundtrip
8 Days from $4,720

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.

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Top 5 Iceland Cruise Deals for 2021

Trip Name	Save	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Best of Iceland		$2045	7	May 3, 2022	This 7-day Best of Iceland cruise offers an in-depth exploration of a small Arctic island of geological extremes. Encounter unrivaled natural … 0
Round-trip Reykjavik	Savings	$8190	11	Aug 24, 2022	Join the Silver Whisper on a splendid 11-day journey to see a land of fire and ice. Iceland’s location close to the Arctic Circle and on the … 0
Icelandic Mosaic: Reykjavík Roundtrip	Savings	$4720	8	Jun 13, 2022	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
Iceland Circumnavigation	Savings	$2885	10	May 9, 2022	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 … 0
Iceland's Wild West Coast to East Greenland	Savings	$14150	12	Sep 21, 2022	National Geographic Endurance hosts this 12-day expedition cruise to discover the wild west coast of Iceland with its towering bird cliffs, meadows … 0

Best8 Iceland Luxury Cruises

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Icelandic Mosaic: Reykjavík Roundtrip	$4720	8	Jun 13, 2022	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
Reykjavik Round-trip	$8640	11	Jul 5, 2022	Join the Silver Whisper on a splendid 11-day journey to see a land of fire and ice. Iceland’s location close to the Arctic Circle and on the … 0
Round-trip Reykjavik	$8190	11	Aug 24, 2022	Join the Silver Whisper on a splendid 11-day journey to see a land of fire and ice. Iceland’s location close to the Arctic Circle and on the … 0
Coastal Wonders of Norway, the Faroe Islands and Iceland	$22470	16	Jun 6, 2022	Join National Geographic Resolution on this 16-day exploration across Norway, the Faroe Islands, and Iceland, visiting highlights including the … 0
Arctic Expedition: Reykjavik to Tromsø	$19890	14	Jun 28, 2022	Explore the Arctic from this 14-day cruise aboard Silver Cloud expedition and visit the isolated islands and remote regions of the northernmost part … 0
Reykjavik to Dublin	$10989	13	Aug 15, 2022	Experience a magical expedition cruise sailing through Scotland, the Faroe Islands and Iceland on this 13-day expedition aboard Silver Cloud. Visit … 0
Svalbard & Iceland - Tromso to Reykjavik	$14310	14	Jul 8, 2022	From Tromso, Norway to Reykjavik, Iceland this 14-day cruise aboard Silver Wind takes you through the Arctic Circle to see isolated islands, remote … 0
Tromso to Reykjavik	$9900	15	Aug 10, 2022	Journey to Svalbard and Iceland to see isolated islands, remote landscapes, glaciers, and to look for polar bears, walruses, and musk oxen. Aboard … 0

Top 10 Land Tours in Iceland

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Golden Circle & Glaciers	$990	3	Oct 27, 2021	Explore the Golden Circle and the main highlights of the South Iceland coast on this 3-day extension tour. Visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, … 0
Discover Iceland	$2013	8	Jun 1, 2022	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
East Fjords Trek	$1781	7	Jul 9, 2022	Spend five full days trekking the remote Víknaslóðir Trail along the East Fjords. This East Iceland hiking tour takes you between stunning … 0
Birth of Spring	$1184	5	Oct 27, 2021	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 … 0
The Three Peaks Challenge	$3164	6	May 9, 2022	Marvel at Iceland's stunning landscape on this 6-day trekking tour. Explore three different peaks while admiring the glacier-carved volcanic … 0
Best of Iceland	$1967	7	Jun 1, 2022	Explore the best of Iceland on this exciting 7-day tour starting and ending in Reykjavik. Beautiful glaciers reach across the landscape as you visit … 0
Iceland Trek \| Landmannalaugar to þórsmörk	$2021	7	Jun 2, 2022	Trek the Laugavegar Trail from Landmannalaugar to Thorsmork on this 7-day hut-to-hut trekking tour in Iceland. This remarkable landscape has caused … 0
East Iceland Explorer	$1963	7	Oct 27, 2021	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 … 0
East Vatnajökull Trek	$1521	7	Jul 1, 2022	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
Explore Reykjavik	$770	3	Oct 27, 2021	Explore Reykjavik on this short 3-day add-on to your Iceland cruise or land tour. Tour the Golden Circle Route including Thingvellir National Park, … 0

Top-Rated Iceland Cruise Ships

National Geographic Resolution

New for 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

Le Commandant Charcot is a polar expedition ship that navigates into Arctic and Antarctic places that are rarely visited by others. Its innovative and eco-friendly design make this expedition ship sustainable and one of a kind.

Greg Mortimer

Greg Mortimer redefines polar expedition cruising for the future, with just 132 passengers on board, it is at the cutting edge of nautical technology. Robust, powerful and built with guests in mind, this ship marks significant growth in polar cruising capabilities.

National Geographic Endurance

The 126 passenger National Geographic Endurance has the highest ice class rating (PC5 Category A) ever for a purpose-built cruise ship which allows it to operate year-round in areas of the polar regions. The sloping “X-bow” is designed to minimize movement in the roughest of seas and also results in greater fuel efficiency and fewer emissions for reduced 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.

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.

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.

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.

Ocean Atlantic

Renovated in 2016 with a capacity of 198 passengers, Ocean Atlantic offers an exceptional guest experience in the most remote areas of the world. Cabins and suites are outfitted with exterior views, private bathrooms, TVs, and the essential amenities you’ll need to feel comfortable throughout your voyage

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 Diamond

The 210-passenger Ocean Diamond is the first carbon-neutral ship in the polar adventure industry. Guests will enjoy the many indoor public spaces, spacious cabin arrangements and fine dining aboard the Ocean Diamond.

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

Experience the Silver Whisper 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.

Get Inspired to Cruise Iceland

Taking a kayaking trip around Monaco Glacier on Spitsbergen Island.

Kayaking Option

Classic Journeys

Luxury

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

How to get to Iceland? Where do Iceland’s tours and small ship cruises start/finish from and how can you visit?

Before traveling to Iceland, make sure to revise the countries laws and advice for travel.

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 law and advice for travel.

Canada - There are many 2-stop flights from major Canadian cities to Iceland’s most visited destinations. Check out Canada’s law and advice for travel to Iceland.

The United Kingdom - Check out the UK’s law and advice for international travel to Iceland for the purpose of tourism.

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.

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 Overview

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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.

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.

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.

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

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 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.

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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.