HIGHLIGHTS OF ICELAND

SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY

Ocean Albatros

The Ocean Albatros made her maiden voyage in November 2023. With a total of 95 comfortable staterooms and suites, all with unobstructed sea view, most with their own balcony, the Ocean Albatros is a popular expedition cruise vessel. Offering two restaurants, a wellness area, the Albatros Nordic Bar, an open deck dining facility, a modern lecture lounge, and other state-of-the-art amenities. The vessel will have more than a 50% lower carbon footprint than traditional expedition vessels and be one of the most environmentally friendly, implementing the Green Initiative Program, ensuring both absolute comfort and sustainability for our guests. The Ocean Albatros also offers a unique panorama sauna, and a total of 12 dedicated solo travel cabins without a single-supplement.

Day 1 Reykjavik, Iceland

Day 2 Ísafjörður

Tucked in the heart of the Westfjords, Ísafjörður is surrounded by dramatic basalt mountains and deep fjords. Once a quiet fishing settlement, it became an international trade hub in the 16th century, with its rich waters attracting traders and ships from across the Atlantic. Today, the colourful houses, swanky downtown buildings, and visitors from around the world make a surprisingly cosmopolitan town centre. Chilly breezes and sweeping landscapes welcome visitors to explore the remoteness and beauty of this northern gem.

Day 3 Siglufjörður and Grímsey

Siglufjörður, Iceland’s northernmost mainland town, thrived during the herring boom of the mid-20th century, growing from a sleepy village to the hub of the country’s fishing industry. Today, the herring still reigns supreme; the charming streets and Herring Era Museum showcase this proud heritage, while its jaw-dropping fjord setting offers rich bird-watching opportunities. Later, sail to Grímsey Island, the only part of Iceland crossing the Arctic Circle. A guided walk reveals its rugged beauty, curious unafraid seabirds, and the symbolic Arctic Circle marker, ‘Orbis et Globus’, which is shifted annually to account for tiny changes to Earth’s orbit.

Day 4 Akureyri

Nestled at the end of Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, Akureyri is known as the “Capital of the North.” Despite its small size, the city boasts a unique cathedral, the first botanical gardens in Iceland, massive geothermally heated swimming pools, and a lively cultural scene. Sheltered by surrounding hills from the worst of the Arctic weather, its rich volcanic soils support abundant agriculture, and the frigid waters of the fjord hold rich fish stocks – a treat for the discerning palate!

Day 5 Húsavík

Just beyond Akureyri lies Húsavík, Iceland’s oldest settlement, founded by the Viking pioneer Náttfari in the late 9th century. Small but bustling, Húsavík has fully embraced tourism and is the undisputed whale-watching capital of Iceland. Where whalers once hunted, conservation and tourism now shelter these gentle giants. The town also offers museums, including one dedicated to whale conservation, and another celebrating Iceland’s contributions to exploration in the Arctic, Antarctic, and even into space. No trip to Husavik is complete without a soak at the nearby Geosea Spa with sweeping views over Skjálfandi Bay.

Day 6 Djúpivogur

Situated on Iceland’s scenic southeast coast, Djúpivogur is framed by fjords, mountains, and rich bird habitats. It is the closest port in the country to the Faroe Islands, Scandinavia, and mainland Europe, and is a popular port of call for vessels exploring the North Atlantic. Centered around the harbor, the town dates back to the 16th century and is known for its unique public art, including the Eggin í Gleðivík (Eggs of Merry Bay) sculpture. Hikers and birdwatchers are spoiled for choice, with mile upon mile of nature waiting to be explored. One of Iceland’s most beautiful black sand beaches is just a short stroll from town and features a huge variety of bird species.

Day  7 Heimaey and Surtsey, Westman Islands

Next, visit Heimaey, the largest of the volcanic Westman Islands. Visitors can explore the dramatic lava fields of Eldfell volcano and the world-renowned bird colonies of the island. The residents of Heimaey were severely tested in 1973, when Eldfell volcano began to spew lava, threatening the town and its vital harbour. Heroic locals fought back, cooling the lava with seawater jets to save their community. Weather permitting, cruise past Surtsey on departure, a newly formed volcanic island strictly reserved for scientific research.

Day 8 Reykjavik

Returning to Reykjavik, concludey our voyage with lasting memories of Iceland’s wild landscapes, vibrant communities, and extraordinary wildlife.