Overview

Discover the land of fire and ice on a six-day voyage to the remote shores and volcanic isles of northwest Iceland. Hike and bike along rugged fjords and discover stunning waterfalls and nature-filled landscapes. Set out by Zodiac to navigate dramatic shorelines, from the dramatic Westfjords to the storied and adventurous Skagafjörður region. Explore the legacy of Viking explorers and intrepid fishermen during visits to historic villages.

Trip Highlights

Actively explore Iceland’s pristine fjords and mysterious lava fields on daily hikes, Zodiac cruises, and more while accompanied by a dedicated team of naturalists
Delve into the rural history of Iceland at a turf farm or float down one of its glacial rivers in the northern region of Skagafjörður
Discover the rich biodiversity of the remote Westfjords, spotting nesting puffins along the coast and watching for humpback and minke whales in the surrounding waters
Capture your picture of the most photographed mountain in Iceland, Kirkjufell, alongside a certified photo instructor or National Geographic Photography Expert
Extend your expedition with a tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle

Day 1 :

Reykjavík, Iceland / Embark Ship

Arrive in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. Transfer from the airport and spend the day exploring the sights, sounds, and tastes of this Arctic capital before embarking the ship in the afternoon.

Arrival Time: Arrive before 10:00 a.m.

Arrival City: Reykjavík, Iceland

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 :

Djúpavík

Enjoy a leisurely morning at sea learning about Iceland and its incredible biodiversity. Join our expedition staff on the bow of the ship as we keep watch for the close to 20 whale species that call the Westfjords home. We spend the afternoon on the remote eastern side of the Westfjords, an area difficult to access but boasting spectacular beauty and rich history. The tiny town of Djúpavík held its place on the map because of the golden age of herring. During its heyday in the 1930s, its herring plant was the largest concrete structure in Iceland. The plant closed in 1954 but remains as a small museum and a memory of the rich productivity of the herring industry in Iceland. We visit the museum and learn about the significance of this resource to all of Iceland in the 20th century.

Day 3 :

Skagafjörður

Skagafjörður is the gateway to north Iceland, known for its glacial rivers, Icelandic horses, and saga history. Take a float trip on the Jökulsá 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.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 :

Ísafjörður / Vigur

Explore the beautiful and peaceful Westfjords region of Iceland. Enter Ísafjarðardjúp 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, Ísafjörður, on a walking tour—complete with local sights, sounds, and tastes—or venture through the trails at a local forest.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 :

Grundarfjörður

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 amongst this dynamic landscape and the weather swirling around the Peninsula. Alternatively, hike through a local lava field or explore the town's Saga Center.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 :

Reykjavík / Disembark Ship

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

Departure Time: Depart anytime after 10:30 a.m.

Departure City: Reykjavík, Iceland