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Puffins on the Latrabjarg Cliffs

Exploring Iceland: Fjords, Waterfalls and Wildlife

Reykjavik - Reykjavik - Example 6 Day Cruise aboard National Geographic Explorer
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Discover why Iceland is known as the “land of fire and ice” on a voyage to the remote fjords and volcanic isles along the country's western coast. Venture across the stark landscape of an island formed by volcanic eruptions, where the ground is still warmed by geothermal activity. Set out by Zodiac to view towering cliffs teeming with nesting seabirds and snow-capped plateaus rising into the clouds. Explore the legacy of Viking explorers and intrepid fishermen as you visit historic villages and navigate dramatic shorelines from the wild Westfjords region to the volcanic Westman Islands. 
Street view of old town ReykjavikThe breathtaking scenery of IcelandRed house on a fjord in IcelandStrokkur Geyser bubbling upPuffins on the Latrabjarg Cliffs
Highlights
  • Explore Iceland's pristine fjords and dramatic waterfalls
  • Soak in geothermal hot springs, hike over cooled lava fields at Surtsey
  • Discover the rich biodiversity of the remote Westfjords
  • Watch out for humpback and minke whales
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive Reykjavik, Iceland | Embark

Arrive in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, located just below the Arctic Circle. Upon arrival, transfer from the airport to the city and take the day to explore at your own pace, discovering its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. In the afternoon, check in with the hospitality desk before embarking on the ship to begin your journey.

Day 2: Djupavík

Start your day at sea, learning about Iceland’s wildlife while watching for whales in the Westfjords. In the afternoon, visit the remote eastern side of the Westfjords, a place with stunning views and a fascinating past. Explore the small town of Djupavík, which was once busy during the herring boom. Stop by the old herring factory, Iceland’s largest concrete building at the time, now a museum that tells the story of the country’s fishing history and its importance.

Day 3: Skagafjordur

Skagafjordur is the gateway to north Iceland, known for its glacial rivers, Icelandic horses, and saga history. Take a float trip on the Jokulsa river or visit a historic rural turf farm to understand rural life in Iceland. Finally, learn about Grettir the Strong and the saga named after him by exploring Drangey Island and spotting the multitudes of birds that call the island home like kittiwakes, shearwaters, and possibly even ravens and gyrfalcons.

Day 4: Isafjordur | Vigur

Explore the beautiful and peaceful Westfjords region of Iceland. Enter Isafjardardjup and land at Vigur Island to visit an eider farm and learn about the down cleaning process. Get to know the capital of the Westfjords, Ísafjordur, on a walking tour—complete with local sights, sounds, and tastes—or venture through the trails at a local forest.

Day 5: Grundarfjordur

Serving as the center of trade on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula since the 15th century, Grundarfjörður is now best known for its Kirkjufell Mountain and picturesque waterfall. Alongside the National Geographic Photography Expert, capture your own images of this dynamic landscape and the weather swirling around the Peninsula. Alternatively, hike through a local lava field or explore the town's Saga Center.

Day 6: Reykjavik, Iceland | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Disembark in Reykjavík and transfer to the airport for flights home.

Ship/Hotel

National Geographic Explorer

Guests returning back to the ship National Geographic Explorer by zodiac, Spitsbergen, Arctic Ocean
Navigation technology on the bridge of the ship National Geographic Explorer

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit Iceland Cruises & Tours.
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Category 1
Cat 1
Main Deck with one or two portholes. #301-308
Category 2
Cat 2
Main Deck with window. #317-320, 335-336
Category 3
Cat 3
Main Deck with Window #313-316, 321-328, 337-340, 342, 344-350 Main Deck L-shaped Suite #341 & 343
Category 4
Cat 4
Upper and Veranda Decks with Window. # 103-104, 107-108, 201-202, 204-207, 210, 212, 217, 226, 228.
Category 5
Cat 5
Upper Deck with Balcony. #209, 211, 214, 216, 218, 220-222, 224.
Category 6
Cat 6
Upper Deck Suite 213 has a balcony, 290 sq ft. Veranda Deck Suites 101 and 102 are 355 sq ft without balcony
Category 7
Cat 7
Upper Deck Suite with Balcony. #215, 219, 230
Category A Solo
Cat SA
C Deck Solo - Cabins 309-312, 329-334. Single cabins with window
Category B Solo
Cat SB
Upper and Veranda Decks with Window. #105-106, 203, 208

Notes

Travelers under the age of 18 save $500 per person.
Included
  • 5 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners
  • 5 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Assistance by the onboard National Geographic Photography Expert
  • Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan (aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet) 
  • Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are available aboard the ship. Additionally, a selection of super premium wines and liquors is offered for purchase.
  • Crew gratuities
  • Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
  • Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
  • Excursions and airport transfers to and from flights arriving and departing within recommended window, as indicated in the itinerary
  • Exploration tools such as snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, kayaks, stand-up paddleboard, cross-country skis, and snowshoes (where applicable)
  • Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore.
  • Presentations by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
  • Onboard physician consultations (where available)
  • 24-hour access to exercise equipment (where applicable)
  • All accommodations aboard ship or in hotels per itinerary
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle
  • 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library, and other shared spaces
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, and phone services (except when indicated as included)
  • We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels
  • Airfare (except flights when indicated as included); charter airfare (where applicable, except when indicated as included); pre- and post-expedition extensions (except flights when indicated as included); additional hotel nights (except when indicated as included)
  • Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees 
  • Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans
  • Additional costs associated with medical services outside onboard physician consultation (where available)
  • Private transfers (except when indicated as included)

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The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
Jack Charney

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