Circumnavigating Iceland The Land of Elves, Sagas and Volcanoes

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Highlights

  • 9-Day Circular Expedition Cruise around Iceland from Reykjavík

Highlights

  • 9-Day Circular Expedition Cruise around Iceland from Reykjavík
Ship Fram
Capacity: 276, Type: Expedition
Feture image for Circumnavigating Iceland The Land of Elves, Sagas and Volcanoes

Iceland old and new
In Reykjavík, you'll get a taste of modern Iceland, with its stylish restaurants, boutiques and galleries, and museums detailing Icelandic history and culture through the ages. On tiny islands and in coastal fishing villages, you'll hear tales of elves and epic Viking sagas.

Raw natural beauty
Discover Iceland's starkly beautiful, volcanic scenery – with active volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, mountains and waterfalls. Iceland offers among the best whale watching in Europe at this time of year, from humpbacks to belugas. And among the Arctic birdlife you'll keep an eye out for colonies of Atlantic Puffins.

  • 9-Day Circular Expedition Cruise around Iceland from Reykjavík

There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.

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DAY 1 Cosmopolitan Reykjavík
Discover Iceland's modern capital Your Iceland expedition cruise starts in Reykjavík – a vibrant city full of culture and history. Enjoy a walk around this compact city. Take a stroll down Laugavegur – the main shopping street – to the striking Hallgrímskirkja church. Or why not visit one of its many art galleries and museums. With so much to explore, you may want to arrive early to join one of our Pre-Programmes and explore the Golden Circle or the Icelandic Highlands. Your Iceland adventure at sea starts when you board the ship. Find your cabin, meet your Expedition Team, explore the ship and enjoy a relaxed welcome dinner as we set sail towards our first stop, Stykkishólmur.
DAY 2 Snæfellsnes peninsula
Gateway to spectacular Snæfellsnes It's as though time has stood still at Stykkishólmur, the small fishing town in Breiðafjörður bay, where colourful houses stand out in contrast to distant mountains. Nearby, you’ll find Snæfellsnes Peninsula National Park, with the striking, ice-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano at the peninsula’s western tip. It’s nicknamed 'Little Iceland' for its array of volcanic landscapes. At the national park you can visit Djúpalónssandur's black sand beach and the Lóndrangar basalt cliffs. Or why not ride a snowcat to the top of the Snæfellsjökull glacier or take a guided coastal hike with a glacial cave tour.
DAY 3 Beautiful Patreksfjörður
Birdwatching, waterfalls and stunning beaches Patreksfjörður is unforgettably beautiful. Here, you’ll learn all about the fishing traditions in Europe's most westerly village. You can even enjoy a dip in the town's outdoor pool, with wonderful fjord views! You'll have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area on a hike through the fjords, or visit Rauðasandur beach and see seals. You can also join a tour to the Dynjandi waterfalls – six falls combined that together make the largest and most spectacular cascade in the Westfjords. Birdwatchers shouldn’t miss a visit to Látrabjarg, where puffins, Northern Gannets, guillemots and razorbills cling to Europe’s largest bird cliff.
DAY 4 The Northwestern Region
Exploring Northwest Iceland, expedition-style One of the best things about expedition cruising is the feeling of freedom. We plan to spend the day in Iceland’s Northwestern Region, but as conditions can vary, there's no preset plan. Rest assured, your Captain and Expedition Team will find the best opportunities for adventure. We may take you ashore in our small expedition boats for a hike or a beach clean-up. Or perhaps we’ll launch our kayaks. If we spot a pod of whales as we sail, we may stop to enjoy the sight. Be ready for anything! Don’t forget, you can also join onboard lectures, visit the Science Center, get tips from our professional photographer, or soak in a hot tub!
DAY 5 Akureyri and Goðafoss
See dramatic moonscapes and waterfalls Gaze at snowcapped peaks as we cruise along Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord. It's one of the best places in Europe to spot humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises. Look out for orcas, blue and fin whales here, too. Iceland’s 'Northern Capital’, Akureyri, sits at the fjord base. Here, you can enjoy the oasis of a botanical garden, and visit top-notch eateries and museums. A little further afield, you can witness the picturesque Goðafoss waterfall, where turquoise waters pound against black rocks. You can also keep an eye out for Eider and Harlequin Ducks at Lake Mývatn, one of Iceland's more active volcanic areas.
DAY 6 Grímsey’s puffins
Cross the Arctic Circle and see Atlantic Puffins This remote and windswept island, home to just 60 people, is well known for its Atlantic Puffin colonies. Grímsey is steeped in folklore, including tales of the island’s first settler, Grímur. Grímsey is probably best known for its proximity to the Arctic Circle, which cuts across the island – the only part of Iceland where it does so. You’ll have the opportunity to step across that line, hopping over to the Arctic and back! Hike to the Orbis et Globus landmark, a huge concrete sphere sculpture that’s repositioned each year to fit the northward movement of the Arctic Circle. By 2050, Grímsey will lie outside the Arctic.
DAY 7 Hike in Bakkagerði
Local folklore and staggering natural beauty Your Iceland cruise continues to Bakkagerði, a tiny, remote settlement. According to folklore, Bakkagerði is inhabited by a large population of local land spirits or elves, known as huldufólk, meaning 'hidden people'. Walk around town to explore this magical place. A popular hiking area, here you can walk through lush, green valleys and gorgeous scenery among colourful rhyolite rocks. The coastal cliffs are home to fulmars, kittiwakes, eiders and puffins. We may also visit the Atlantic Puffin colony on Hafnarhólmi – a true gem for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.
DAY 8 Heimaey's explosive past
Discover the town that defied a volcano Heimaey is the only inhabited island in the Westman Islands, found off the south coast of Iceland. It has a fascinating history, and still bears the scars of a powerful volcanic eruption that nearly destroyed the island. Visit Eldheimar, a museum that features an excavated home frozen in time, and learn more about the eruption and its aftermath. Or why not take a hike to seek out puffins at Stórhöfði, where around eight million nest every summer. Don’t miss climbing Mount Eldfell – at the volcano’s summit you’ll have incredible views of the town below.
DAY 9 Reykjavík and beyond
Enjoy Reykjavík at your leisure Your Iceland expedition cruise concludes back in fascinating Reykjavík. This is a great opportunity to see the places you missed when you first arrived. Relaxing with friends in a heittur pottur, a geothermal pool, is part of Icelandic culture. Before you leave, why not visit Iceland’s most famous place for doing just that – the Blue Lagoon – one of the true natural wonders of the world – and experience the blend of silica, algae and minerals in its geothermal waters. You can also join our Post-Programme and explore Iceland's beautiful south coast, with waterfalls, black sand beaches, geothermal springs and majestic mountains.
Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.
Fram
MS Fram is designed for sailing in polar waters, holds the highest safety standards and is the perfect size for optimum nautical manoeuverability and guests' comfort. With space for only 276 gues…

Fram

Length 114 metres
Passenger Capacity: 276
Built: 2007

MS Fram is designed for sailing in polar waters, holds the highest safety standards and is the perfect size for optimum nautical manoeuverability and guests' comfort. With space for only 276 guests, you are sure to get to know many of your fellow travellers. You will share stunning sights and memories of a lifetime long after returning home. The Norwegian word Fram means ‘forward’ – lifting expectations of the voyage at hand.

MS Fram was built in 2007 with one mission in mind - to bring her guests closer to nature, wildlife and unforgettable experiences. As well as offering numerous lounges in which to relax, our more active guests can use our well-equipped gym. Meanwhile, on deck, our Jacuzzis guarantee you surreal memories when passing the towering icebergs of Antarctica or Greenland.

Cabin layout for Fram
Fridtjof Nansen
Fridtjof Nansen is a small cruise ship specifically designed to be one of the most sustainable ships that can visit the Polar regions. Launched in 2020, The state of the art vessel features new and …

Fridtjof Nansen

Max passengers: 530

Fridtjof Nansen is a small cruise ship specifically designed to be one of the most sustainable ships that can visit the Polar regions.

Launched in 2020, The state of the art vessel features new and environmentally sustainable hybrid technology that will reduce fuel consumption and show the world that hybrid propulsion on large ships is possible.

MS Fridtjof Nansen is the second of two hybrid ships to be launched cutting emissions by sailing with electrical propulsion. Hybrid technology, combined with the advanced construction of the hull and effective use of electricity on board will reduce fuel consumption and CO2-emissions on the ships by 20 percent.

The future of shipping will be silent and emission free. MS Fridtjof Nansen will lead the way towards an even more sustainable way of traveling. Sailing on electrical power is not only a great benefit for the environment, but it will also enhance the impact of experiencing nature for the guests. The ship will be specially constructed for voyages in polar waters and serve as a comfortable basecamp at sea – bringing adventurers from all over the world to the most spectacular destinations in the most sustainable way.

These ships combine state-of-the-art technology together with a premium onboard experience. All cabins are outside, half have private balconies, and aft suites even boast private outdoor Jacuzzis, to soak up the stunning scenery in style. 

Facilities on board

One of the most eye-catching exterior design features of the ships will be the two-level indoor/outdoor Observation Deck wrapped around the top of the ships’ raked bow. In a vast area behind it, you’ll find the core of the onboard experience: Amundsen Science Center.  

Packed with state of the art technology and high tech gadgets such as touch screens and science equipment, the immersive edutainment area will be the place guests and staff/crew meet, mingle and create a deeper understanding for the areas they explore. The flexible venue will feature lecture spaces, a small library, and speciality areas for workshops in photography, biology, and more. 

The stunning scenery will be reflected in a rich and comfortable interior design. Scandinavian materials from nature, such as granite, oak, birch and wool will be used to create relaxed and stylish cabins and public areas. All cabins are outside, 50 % will have private balconies, aft suites will feature private outdoor Jacuzzis with spectacular views. 

Cabin layout for Fridtjof Nansen
Hurtigruten Ships
All of our ships include large lounges and deck space affording perfect views to the changing scenery, creating a proximity to nature throughout the ship. This atmosphere give you the energy to parti…

Hurtigruten Ships

All of our ships include large lounges and deck space affording perfect views to the changing scenery, creating a proximity to nature throughout the ship. This atmosphere give you the energy to participate on our on board activities and excursions, that take you even closer to the coast.

On all our ships you will find a wide range of comfortable cabins, from exclusive suites to cosy inside cabins. We have divided them into four categories; Expedition Suite, Arctic Superior, Polar Outside and Polar Inside with different amenities and extras. 

 MS TROLLFJORD
Flagship of Hurtigruten's Signature voyages, MS Trollfjord takes its name from a small but spectacular fjord in the Vesterålen archipelago. Freshly refurbished in 2023, MS Trollfjord is an homage both to Norwegian nature and our 130-year heritage sailing the Norwegian coast. Locally sourced natural materials such as wood and stone feature prominently throughout the ship’s furnishings, reflecting the beauty of the fjords we sail through. The style of décor is classic, timeless, and unique in our fleet. SPECIAL FEATURES:  Two-storey panoramic lounge, 1893 Bar, sauna, fitness room, lecture rooms, 3 restaurants (main dining Flora, Brasserie Árran & à la carte Røst), library, shop, observation deck.     

MS RICHARD WITH
MS Richard With is named after Captain Richard With. His establishment of the Norwegian Coastal Express back in 1893 had an enormous impact on life along the Norwegian coast. In 2022, MS Richard With was upgraded to a greener hybrid ship. SPECIAL FEATURES: Sauna, fitness room, Explorer Lounge & Bar, 2 outdoor hot tubs, 3 restaurants (main dining Torget, Brygga bistro and à la carte Kysten), Multe bakery, shop, lecture hall, observation deck.  

MS KONG HARALD
Norway’s reigning monarch, a seasoned sailor, lends his name to this remarkable hybrid vessel. The vessel features a modern, Arctic-inspired interior. SPECIAL FEATURES: Sauna, fitness room, Explorer Lounge & Bar, 2 outdoor hot tubs, 3 restaurants (main dining Torget, Brygga bistro and à la carte Kysten), Multe bakery, shop, lecture hall, observation deck.  

MS NORDNORGE
Nord-Norge means the northern part of Norway, mostly situated north of the Arctic Circle. The interior décor is modern and Arctic-inspired. SPECIAL FEATURES: Sauna, fitness room, Explorer Lounge & Bar, 2 outdoor hot tubs, 3 restaurants (main dining Torget, Brygga bistro and à la carte Kysten), Multe bakery, shop, lecture hall, observation deck.  

MS NORDKAPP
MS Nordkapp is named after one of the highlights of the Hurtigruten voyage, the northernmost point of mainland Europe, the North Cape (71ºN). The ship features a modern, Arctic-inspired interior. SPECIAL FEATURES: Sauna, fitness room, Explorer Lounge & Bar, 2 outdoor hot tubs, 3 restaurants (main dining Torget, Brygga bistro and à la carte Kysten), Multe bakery, shop, lecture hall, observation deck.  

MS POLARLYS
Polarlys is Norwegian for `polar light´, and refers to the natural Arctic phenomenon we pursue in winter. The ship features a modern, Arctic-inspired interior. SPECIAL FEATURES: Sauna, fitness room, Explorer Lounge & Bar, 2 outdoor hot tubs, 3 restaurants (main dining Torget, Brygga bistro and à la carte Kysten), Multe bakery, shop, lecture hall, observation deck.  

MS NORDLYS
The name of this ship as well as the art, décor and colours employed aboard are all inspired by the Northern Lights. The delicate aesthetic creates a distinct and unique on-board ambience. SPECIAL FEATURES: Sauna, fitness room, Explorer Lounge & Bar, 2 outdoor hot tubs, 3 restaurants (main dining Torget, Brygga bistro and à la carte Kysten), Multe bakery, shop, lecture hall, observation deck.  

MS MIDNATSOL
One of our best-known ships, MS Midnatsol (previously MS Maud) is named after the Midnight Sun, the phenomenon that occurs in northern Norway every summer when the sun doesn’t set for 24 hours. The décor on board is inspired by Norway’s stunning nature, reflected in many of the pieces of Norwegian modern art on board. Her bright interiors are appointed in a classic Art Deco style. SPECIAL FEATURES: Sauna, fitness room, Explorer Lounge & Bar, 2 outdoor hot tubs, 3 restaurants (main dining Torget, Brygga bistro and à la carte Kysten), shop, lecture hall, observation deck.  

MS VESTERÅLEN
MS Vesterålen is one of the oldest and smallest ships, named after an archipelago in Nordland country and the first Coastal Express steamship from 1893. Fresh and lightly refurbished in 2019 and again in 2022, MS Vesterålen has bright, informal public areas and lounges throughout. The last refurbishment included upgrading 32 outside cabins to Arctic Superior standard with double beds, rebuilding 4 cabins into 2 mini suites, upgrading the restaurant, the café, the reception area, and the gym, in addition to giving Trollfjord lounge a new look and feel.    On a journey with MS Vesterålen, we will have a "behind the scenes" focus where the guests will get an opportunity to get closer to the Hurtigruten heritage, emphasizing maritime operations, logistics and hotel operations. With a focus on edutainment and engaging activities, we will provide guests with an in-depth knowledge of the different departments and the interaction between them.   SPECIAL FEATURES: Panorama lounge & bar, smaller lounges in the front and back of the ship, café, 1 main restaurant, shop, fitness room, observation deck. 

Please Note : the deckplan below is MS Nordkapp and the deckplans vary.

Cabin layout for Hurtigruten Ships
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9 days from £4021.68

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