Travel Scandinavia Baltic Tours Antarctica Expedition Cruises

Categories Cruises Adventure & Eco Travel Atlantic Cruises Northern Lights Tours Scandinavian Cruises

Get to know the island of “fire and ice” in autumn on this special journey that gives the opportunity to witness Northern Lights and different species of whales. Look forward to a 5-day-cruise with shore excursions and interesting lectures.

This voyage is also possible in reverse order on September 18, 2019

Itinerary

After arrival at Keflavik Airport you have a transfer to the harbor of Reykjavik. The OCEAN DIAMOND docks in Old Reykjavik Harbor in the heart of the city, a five-minute stroll from the main squares, shopping and dining. The ship departs in the evening. Tonight you may already have a first opportunity to see the Northern Lights!

In the morning the OCEAN DIAMOND reaches the small village of Stykkisholmur, the starting point for our explorations of the Snaefellsnes peninsula. Snaefellsnes is also known as “Iceland in miniature” since this region contains nearly all different kind of Icelandic scenery. In the evening the OCEAN DIAMOND leaves Stykkisholmur for the direction of the Westfjords. And again dark clear sky might offer great opportunities for the Northern Lights.

Today‘s destination is the idyllic town of Isafjordur, capital of the Westfjords region. This secluded peninsula is connected to the rest of Iceland by only a narrow strip of land. Even by Icelandic standards, the area can be described as unusually isolated. The landscape is characterized by mesas and dramatic fjords that cut deep into the landscape.

n the early morning hours we steam into Skjalfandi Bay and Husavik. After disembarkation we explore the natural beauty of the Lake Myvatn area, including the peculiar lava formations at Dimmuborgir and the pseudo craters at Skutustadir. The pseudo craters were formed by gas explosions when boiling lava flowed over the wetlands. Lunch will be provided on the way.

Dinner and overnight in the Husavik area.

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. Watching these graceful ocean giants in their Arctic habitat is an unforgettable experience. An exciting trip with RIB boats (Rigid Inflatable Boat) to search for the gentle giants awaits you. On our way to Akureyri we visit the impressive Godafoss, “the waterfall of the Gods”. In the year 1000, the Icelandic parliament (Althing) decided to give up their pagan religion in favor of Christianity. The story goes that the idols of the ancient Nordic religion (godars) were then thrown from the top of the waterfall (foss). The cascade retains its name, Godafoss in memory of this event. Lunch will be provided on the way.

Dinner and overnight in West Iceland.

On our way back to Reykjavik we pass Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in the world. A stop will be made to admire the beautiful Hraunfossar waterfalls, before continuing to Thingvellir National Park, the ancient site of the world’s first parliament. Our journey ends after a city tour in Reykjavik. Lunch will be provided the way.

Overnight in Reykjavik.

Individual departure.

You can simply hang out in Reykjavik, a perfect city for those who want to refresh their spirit in a place that combines invigorating outdoor activities, great food and world-class entertainment. Ask about post tour program.

Notes