Use your leisure time in Reykjavík to uncover the unique charm of the world’s northernmost capital. The Ocean Diamond docks in Old Reykjavík Harbor in the heart of the city, a five minute stroll to the main squares, shopping and dining. The ship departs Reykjavík harbor in the evening.

Begin your exploration of Snaefellsnes Peninsula from the cheerful town of Stykkisholmur in West Iceland. The peninsula is dominated by Snaefellsnes National Park, which represents nearly every type of nature seen in Iceland. On board Zodiacs you explore thousands of islets among Breidafjördur Bay (UNESCO) which are teeming with exotic birdlife, unique basalt rock formations, and marine wildlife. Adventurous spirits may opt to join an expedition to Snaefellsjökull glacier which sits atop a 700,000 year old dormant volcano and served as the mystical entrance to earth’s interior in Jules Verne’s novel, ‘Journey to the Center of the Earth’.

Today‘s destination is Isafjördur, an idyllic town in Westfjords region. This secluded peninsula is connected to the mainland by only a narrow strip of land and includes areas where cars have never been. The landscape provides jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer table mountains plunging into the sea, and untouched vegetation. Optional excursions may be available, please ask us for more information.

The next morning reach the fjord town of Siglufjördur, which was once the center of the world’s herring industry and is enjoying a rebirth in popularity. Learn about the golden herring age at the award-winning Herring Era Museum located on the vibrant harbor-front. Later set sail for Akureyri, Iceland’s lovable second largest city. If weather conditions allow, you can visit Hrísey, the second largest island of Iceland. With only 153 inhabitants, the island is located in Eyjafjörður, about 35 kilometers north of Akureyri.

In the morning we visit Flatey Island. Its a natural haven for birdlife and home to the arctic tern and puffins, which can be observed at close quarters. In the early afternoon we steam further into the Skjalfandi Bay and visit Husavik.

Husavik is often called the “Whale watching capital” of Iceland, the town’s offshore waters are home to 15 different whale species, as well as dolphins and 30 varieties of birds. Watching these graceful ocean giants in their Arctic habitat is an unforgettable experience.

To explore Iceland’s East Fjords, the ship docks in the impossibly picturesque port of Seydisfjördur. This fishing village is nestled between steep mountain slopes and panoramic sea views. Activities to enjoy include seal spotting, horseback riding, kayaking amongst idyllic fjords, and guided hikes of the scenic and historical Vestadalur area.

The fishing village of Djupivogur in southeast Iceland starts today’s point to explore Vatnajökull Glacier, larger than all of Europe’s glaciers combined. Get directly to the foot of the glacier on a 4WD Jeep tour or enjoy a boat tour of Jökulsarlon glacial lagoon in summer. This awe-inspiring lagoon features icebergs of all shapes and sizes tumbling and floating about in a spectacular show.

Located off the coast of South Iceland, the island group Vestmannaeyjar was formed by submarine volcanic eruptions 10,000 years ago. Surtsey Island emerged from the sea in 1963 and is one the youngest places on earth! You have the chance to go ashore on Heimaey, the only inhabited island of the archipelago. Here evidence of Iceland’s volcanic fury is on full display with half-buried houses in ash from a violent eruption in 1973 when the entire island had to be evacuated. Aboard Zodiacs you get to circumnavigate the island to take in the magical scenery and stop at places of interest to see the local bird life, visit caves and possibly spot whales. Here you have the once-in-a-lifetime chance to play a round of golf in a sunken volcano crater!

This morning, bid farewell to the Ocean Diamond and after breakfast greet your final destination of Reykjavík. This chic capital of friendly citizens is the perfect city for those who want to refresh the spirit and combine invigorating activity, good food, nature appreciation, and world-class cultural entertainment.