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.
- 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
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or [email protected]) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Arrive in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. Transfer from the airport to the city and spend the day at your own pace exploring the sights, sounds and tastes of this Arctic capital. Check in with the hospitality desk this afternoon before embarking the ship.
Arrival Time: Arrive before 10:00 a.m.
Arrival City: Reykjavík, Iceland
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy a leisurely morning at sea learning about Iceland and its incredible biodiversity. Join your expedition staff on the bow of the ship as you keep watch for the close to 20 whale species that call the Westfjords home. 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. Visit the museum and learn about the significance of this resource to all of Iceland in the 20th century.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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
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 Ísafjörður, the capital of the Westfjords, 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
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
Disembark in Reykjavík and transfer to the airport for flights home.
Departure Time: Depart anytime after 10:30 a.m.
Departure City: Reykjavík, Iceland
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Itineraries are subject to change.
National Geographic Explorer
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: 108 meters
Passenger Capacity: 148 (single & twin cabins)
Built / Refurbished: 1982 / 2008
National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship. It is a fully stabilized, ice-class vessel, enabling it to navigate polar passages while providing exceptional comfort. It carries kayaks and a fleet of Zodiac landing craft. An Undersea Specialist operates a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and sophisticated video equipment, extending access to the underwater world.
Public areas: Bistro Bar; Chart Room; Restaurant; Global Gallery; Library, Lounge with full service bar and state-of-the-art facilities for films, slideshows and presentations; Mud Room with lockers for expedition gear, and Observation Lounge. Our “Open Bridge” provides guests an opportunity to meet our Officers and Captain and learn about navigation.
Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with local flair.
Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes, private facilities and climate controls.
Expedition Equipment: Zodiac landing craft, kayaks, Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), hydrophone, SplashCam, underwater video camera, Crow’s Nest remote controlled camera, video microscope, snorkeling gear.
Special Features: A full-time doctor, Undersea Specialist, LEX Photo Specialist and Video Chronicler, Internet Cafe and laundry.
Wellness: The vessel is staffed by two Wellness Specialists and features a glass enclosed Fitness Center, outdoor stretching area, two LEXspa treatment rooms and Sauna.
