Icelandic Nature and Traditions

Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital, sits along a wide bay in the western part of the country. Visit Perlan, a museum on Oskjuhlíd hill, for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Nearby, follow signs to Hallgrímskirkja church and the historic city center. Walk along Skolavordustígur and Laugavegur, two busy streets lined with small shops. Just outside the city, the Reykjanes Peninsula offers access to the Blue Lagoon, known for its geothermal waters.

Surtsey is a volcanic island in the North Atlantic Ocean, located off the southern coast of Iceland near the Westman Islands. It was formed by a submarine eruption between 1963 and 1967 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To protect its untouched ecosystem, landing is prohibited. Only scientists are allowed on the island to study its natural development. Over time, mosses, fungi, and lichens gave way to vascular plants. Today, roughly 300 invertebrate species and 90 bird species have colonized the island. While sailing around Surtsey, view the island's rugged shoreline and observe this rare example of natural ecological succession.

Heimaey is the largest and only inhabited island in the Westman Islands. It features steep volcanic slopes like Eldfell and Helgafell, and grassy valleys such as Herjolfsdalur. Drive along Storhofdi Road for views of black sand beaches, jagged cliffs, and nearby mountains. Visit Eldheimar, a modern museum that documents the 1973 volcanic eruption that forced the island’s evacuation.

Included Excursions

Heimaey, Pompeii of the North - 3 hours
Depart from the natural harbor, surrounded by cliffs that host large seabird colonies. Birds and their eggs have long supported the local diet. Drive through Herjólfsdalur Valley to see remains of early settlement farmhouses. Continue along the island’s west coast to view the archipelago, including Surtsey. Stop at Stórhöfði for panoramic views and a chance to see puffins during nesting season. Visit two volcanoes—Helgafell (about 5,000 years old) and Eldfell, which erupted in 1973. Walk to a viewpoint over the lava field. Pass Skansinn fort and its wooden church, a gift from Norway marking Christianity’s 1,000th anniversary in Iceland. Tour concludes at Eldheimar Museum, where the eruption’s impact is documented.

Wear sturdy walking shoes and layered clothing. The viewpoint trail is steep and may be slippery.

Circumnavigation of Heimaey - 2 hours
Begin with a short walk from the harbor, which was nearly closed during the 1973 eruption. Board a boat and cruise past cliffs, bird colonies, and sea caves. The Westman Islands are home to millions of seabirds, including 6 to 8 million puffins—the world’s largest nearby colony. Also watch for gannets, guillemots, and other species. Marine life sightings may include orcas, dolphins, and porpoises. The tour concludes at Klettshellir (Cliff Cave) before returning to the harbor.

Wear warm, weather-resistant clothing and comfortable shoes. This excursion depends on sea conditions, and wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Puffin visibility may decrease after mid-August.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Djupivogur is a small town and municipality located on a peninsula in the Austurland in eastern Iceland. The coastline consists of three magnificent fjords, Berufjordur, Hamarsfjordur, and Alftafjordur, which create a striking landscape to explore. On land, the town is shadowed by Bulandstindur, a pyramid-shaped basalt mountain peaking at 1069 m, making for an incredible sight. Numerous local legends surround this mountain, which is said to grant wishes during the summer solstice.

Included Excursion:

Rural East Iceland - 7 hours
Enjoy this intimate introduction to daily life in Iceland under the watchful eye of Europe’s largest glacier—the majestic Vatnajokull Glacier. Board your local coach and take the 30-minute drive to the Hoffellsjokull Glacier.

Hoffellsjokull was at its largest around 1890. Then, trucks were driven up here and filled with ice, which they transported to the town of Hofn. The ice was used for chilling fish, both aboard fishing boats and on shore. The area around the glacier is the habitat of several rare Icelandic plants and a great variety of birds. Take advantage of a 30-minute stop among these tranquil surroundings to explore the site on your own.

Then, you will head to the local horse club in Stekkholl, where you will get a private horse show. Icelandic horse is the only breed to possess up to 5 gaits: walking, trotting, galloping, “tolt”, and “amble” with as much amplitude and variations of speed. Icelandic pastries will be served after the show. Afterward, board your local coach for the drive back to Hofn fishing village, with a photo stop en route offering a stunning view…

Upon arrival in Hofn, enjoy a guided walk through the scenic and historical harbor area. Then, discover the exhibition at the Information Center, operated by Vatnajokull National Park, and the Hornafjordur Maritime Museum. Return to the ship.

This excursion involves 4,5 hours of scenic drive, including a comfort stop. This excursion involves walking on mostly paved and gravel ground. It is recommended that you wear comfortable shoes.

Grímsey is the northernmost island of Iceland, surging from the Arctic Ocean, with the Arctic Circle running through the island. Its contrasted contours are surprising. From Grímseyjarhreppur, the island’s only town, located on the west coast, then heading due south, you can take in the beauty of the hillsides, lushly carpeted with moss and grass. On the rest of the coastline, imposing basalt cliffs inhabited by sea birds stand proud.

The elegant city of Akureyri is located very close to the Arctic Circle, tucked away in the Eyjafjordur fjord. It displays a stunning palette of colors: blue waters in the harbor, bronze mountain ash on the squares, and brightly-colored houses in the historical center. As you walk along the cobbled streets, you will come across rows of terraces with wooden furniture. A vast stairway cut into the hillside leads up to the emblematic feature of the town, namely the Akureyrarkirkja church. The very beautiful botanical garden made possible by a microclimate offers the opportunity to discover the Icelandic flora as well as plants from all over the world.

Included Excursions:

Thermal Bath & Godafoss - 5 hours
Pass through Akureyri’s old town, then cross the fjord to Godafoss, one of Iceland’s most striking waterfalls. Its name, “Waterfall of the Gods,” comes from the year 1000, when Iceland adopted Christianity and Norse idols were thrown into the falls.

Continue through the northern landscape to Husavík for a soak in geothermal sea baths. Enjoy warm, mineral-rich waters with views of Skjalfandi Bay, the surrounding cliffs, and the Arctic Circle on the horizon. Afterwards, return to the ship by coach, about a one-hour drive.

It is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes, a windproof and waterproof jacket, warm layers, a swimsuit, a towel, and flip-flops. Showering without swimwear is customary in Iceland. Lockers and separate changing rooms are provided.

Charms of Myvatn region - 8 hours
Depart from the pier and drive to Godafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” named after the year 1000 decision by chieftain Thorgeir to adopt Christianity, symbolized by discarding Norse idols into the falls.

Continue to Lake Myvatn, a 37 sq. km area known for its birdlife, volcanic landscapes, and geological features. Explore Skutustadir’s pseudo-craters and Dimmuborgir’s lava formations. Visit the Namafjall geothermal field, where steam vents, mudpots, and sulfur deposits dominate the terrain.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the Myvatn area before returning to Akureyri for a brief city tour en route to the pier.

It is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes, warm layers, and a windproof and waterproof jacket. The terrain may be slippery. Tour order may vary.

Godafoss & Laufas Museum - 4 hours
Begin with a short tour of Akureyri’s old town before crossing the fjord to visit Godafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods.” In the year 1000, chieftain and parliament leader Thorgeir symbolically declared Iceland’s conversion to Christianity by throwing pagan idols into the falls.

Drive through the Fnjoskadalur Valley into Dalsmynni, where hillside formations reveal the former presence of a pro-glacial lake. Visit the Laufas Folk Museum, a 19th-century turf farmhouse that once served as a manor and vicarage. It features period household and farming tools.

Return to the pier.

It is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes, warm layers, and a windproof and waterproof jacket. Site order may vary.

Your ship will take you to the heart of the fjords of North-West Iceland, a wild land of lost valleys and steep cliffs, where man struggles to survive. In this very isolated region, find the Isafjordur fjord, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the country, mainly for its relief, forged by many very ancient basaltic flows. The town of Isafjordur, which nestles at the back of its fjord, between imposing mountains, is a delightful little town that lives exclusively from fishing. The capital of the Western fjords, its old wooden houses bear witness to its past as a major fishing port.

Included Excursions:

Maritime Culture & Traditions - 3 hours
Begin your excursion by driving through the center and taking the narrow coastal road to the tiny town of Bolungarvik, where there will be a chance to visit the church. Your next stop will be at Osvor, a former fisherman's home that was restored in 1988 and once harbored boats. Osvor is a stunning example of nature's grandeur and perfectly illustrates just how difficult life was for Icelandic fishermen up until the 20th century.

The village of Bolungarvik nestles into the heart of a spectacular bay surrounded by neighbouring mountains and bathed by the Isafjardardjup or "Djup" fjord, the biggest on Iceland's east coast. You will drive alongside these impenetrably deep waters to return to Isafjördur via the valley of Tungudalur. You will enjoy here a short stop here to contemplate the valley’s landscapes.

On your return, pass through the historic old town and its 18th-century buildings before visiting the Maritime Museum. This is one of Iceland's oldest houses, a monument in itself, next to three other buildings that have also been renovated and date back to 1780. A typically Icelandic tasting will be served at the end of your visit, giving you an opportunity to savor local specialities such as Schnapps, dried fish, and locally canned fish cooked the Icelandic way.

For this excursion, it is advised that you wear comfortable shoes, to protect yourself from the sun, and to bring a warm and waterproof jacket. Please note that the order of the visits may be reversed.

Flowers & Fjords - 3 hours
From the pier, board your local coach for a short drive through a mountain tunnel and across the Westfjords mountains to the fjords of Dyrafjordur and Onundarfjordur. Breath-taking views of a spectacular landscape carved out by glaciers ages ago.

First, stop at the botanical garden of Skrudur, a jewel of cultured plants contrasted by the raw sub-arctic landscape. This botanical garden was the first of its type in Iceland, founded by a cultivation pioneer in 1909. Enjoy a guided exploration of the garden.
 
Then, continue to Flateyri village and find out about local history and culture. The village is nestled in the magnificent fjord of Onundarfjordur. Enjoy a live music performance at the charming village church, followed by a short stroll down the main street and along the harbor. Stop for a coffee break with refreshments made locally. Next door to the cafe, you can visit the old bookstore or enjoy the view by the harbor.

Finally, get back to your coach for the transfer back to the pier.

This tour involves walking approximately 2 km on uneven grounds, gravel, and grass. It is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and a windproof jacket.

This secret boreal hideaway is located at the foot of the Kirkjufell, on the Snaefellsnes peninsula. Arriving by boat means you will get a closer view of the lava-stone rock standing like a sentinel at the entrance to the bay; Grundarfjörður lies sheltered behind this cone-shaped rock. A stone’s throw from the jetty, crystal clear waters, tundra, and beaches give onto the cerulean waters of Breidafjordur. Scattered with its emerald-colored lawns, this town, with its buildings that merge into the surrounding countryside, will most certainly win your favor.

Included Excursions:

Caves, Craters & Coves - 5 hours and 30 minutes
An adventurous tour exploring some of the area’s best-loved coastal hiking trails, coupled with an approximate 45-minute cave exploration – all under the watchful eye of the famous Snaefellsjokull glacier!

First up is a refreshing walk amongst the craters at Saxholl. The walk to the main crater takes about 30 minutes return and despite not being particularly high (approx. 300 meters/990 ft), it offers great views and a chance to walk around a volcanic crater rim and take a look inside.

Next, discover some of the beautiful coves and take an approximate 1 km (½ mi) scenic hike. Visit Djupalonssandur , which is a beautiful pebbled beach located at the foot of the glacier. Take in magnificent views from the cliff tops and look out for the ancient labyrinth built by fishermen.

Then last, but certainly not least, head to the Vatnshellir cave and take a journey into the underground along a 200-meter (200 yd) lava tube (quite appropriate considering this is the exact location where Jules Verne based his famous novel Journey to the Center of the Earth!). Follow the path of the lava flow into the cave and descend 35 meters (115 ft) below the surface to see amazing colors and lava formations. The upper section of the cave has great features and unique formations of lava statues curved on the sides. The lower part of the cave is reached by way of a long and narrow staircase that will take you deep down underground, to a place which was hidden from the outside world for thousands of years. Scientists believe Vatnshellir was created in an eruption 6,000 to 8,000 years ago.

It is recommended to bring warm clothes and gloves, since temperature underground is 6 °C (43°F), as well as good walking/hiking shoes. A helmet and flashlight will be supplied. A minimum of 10 participants is required to operate this tour.

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula - 5 hours
Upon leaving Grundarfjordur, your journey will take you through several small fishing villages along the famous Snaefellsjokull glacier-capped volcano. After a stop at Djupalonssandur, take a short, refreshing walk to the shore of the Atlantic Ocean.

While you drive along the roots of the volcano you may be able to see the mystical glacier, which was made popular in 1864 by the French writer Jules Verne in his novel A journey to the Center of the Earth, where he located the entrance to the subterranean journey inside the Snaefellsjokull crater: “Here we had entered the Earth by one volcano, and we had come out by another. And this other was situated more than twelve hundred leagues from Sneffels, from that drear country of Iceland cast away on the confines of the Earth…”

Afterwards, you will pass the cliffs of Londrangar and join the tiny fishing village of Arnarstapi, which offers splendid multicolored lava formations and an abundance of birdlife.

After a walk around, you will return to your ship through Budir, famous for its beautiful surroundings of black lava and its long beach of yellow sand. Continue over Frodarheidi Heath to the north coast of the peninsula, back to Grundarfjordur.

This excursion includes walking on uneven but essentially flat terrain. It is recommended you wear a windproof and waterproof jacket, bring a warm pullover and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be slippery and steep. Please note that sights may be visited in a different order.

Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical center where one can stroll along the Skolavordustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.

Included Excursion:

Volcanic Landscape & Viking history - 4 hours
From the pier, drive to the enchanting Kleifarvatn Lake, one of the deepest lakes in Iceland, where a brief stop will be made to take some pictures. Next, you will drive on across the impressive volcanic plateau of Reykjanes.

Your tour continues to Krysuvik, a colorful hot-springs area, which contrasts sharply to the sand and the lava fields of the area. In Krysuvik, you can really witness the powerful jets of steam escaping from deep below the Earth's crust and the multicolored pools of boiling mud of the solfataras.

The landscape contrast continues as you ride down to the sea towards a green bay and then up towards the mountains through lava and lush green meadows. You will make a quick stop at the bridge between continents, where you will get the chance to cross from the Eurasian tectonic plate over to the North American tectonic plate.

Then you will be guided over the lava-covered Reykjanes peninsula to the outskirts of the little town Njardvik, where you find the newly built Viking museum in which stands "Icelander" (Islendingur), a fully seaworthy replica of an average-sized Viking vessel, which in those times would have carried a crew of 70. To commemorate the thousandth anniversary of these countrymen navigating to and discovering North America, the shipbuilder Gunnar Eggertsson travelled on the "Icelander" to America and back again in the year 2000.

Homeward bound, you will go back to the port, through the Reykjanes lava fields, before arriving at the pier.

For this moderate excursion, it is recommended you wear comfortable shoes, a windproof and waterproof jacket, and take a warm pullover. Please be aware that the order of the visits may be reversed.

Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on Oskjuhlid hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical center where one can stroll along the Skolavordustigur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.