Iconic Iceland – The Maritime Ring Route
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 10-day journey through the enchanting landscapes of Iceland. This multi-day tour is designed to immerse you in the country's rich culture, history, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the vibrant city of Reykjavík to the remote Westfjords, you'll explore a variety of destinations, each with its unique charm. Marvel at the awe-inspiring fjords, active volcanoes, and majestic waterfalls. Discover the fascinating history of towns that have defied nature's wrath and learn about Iceland's intriguing mythology. Enjoy thrilling activities like hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching, and don't miss the chance to relax in a geothermal pool. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure, filled with discovery, exploration, and relaxation.
Included
A stay in a cabin of your choice
MS Maud: Owner's Suite ,Grand Suite ,Expedition Suite ,Mini Expedition Suite ,Arctic Superior Cabin ,Polar ,Polar Cabin
Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages* in restaurants Aune and Fredheim
À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
Complimentary tea and coffee
Complimentary Wi-Fi on board†
Complimentary reusable water bottle
Range of included activities
*House beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water
†Please note there is very limited Wi-Fi and phone signal in the remote areas we travel to, and streaming is not supported
Onboard Activities
In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
Full use of our Science Center, library and advanced biological and geological equipment
Citizen Science Programme where you can assist with ongoing scientific research
Photography tips and techniques for capturing landscapes and wildlife from our onboard professional photographer
Use of ship's hot tubs, infinity pool, panoramic sauna, outdoor and indoor gyms, and running track
Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings
Landing Activities
Escorted landings with small expedition boats
Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket
Expedition photographers on hand to assist you
English-speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore
MS Maud
Destinations
Reykjavik
AkureyriMap
Attractions
Lake Mývatn panoramic point
Mývatn
Eldheimar
Reykjavik Maritime Museum
Goðafoss
Hallgrímskirkja
Caves of Hella
Garður Old LighthouseDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Discover Reykjavík
- Reykjavik
- Seltjarnarnes - Arrival day
- More
- Leiðarendi Lava Cave
- Reykjavik Maritime Museum
- Hallgrímskirkja
- More
Begin your Icelandic adventure in the vibrant city of Reykjavík. Explore the city's unique blend of art, culture, and history. Wander through the bustling Laugavegur shopping district, marvel at the architectural wonder of Hallgrímskirkja Church, and immerse yourself in the local art scene at the Reykjavík Art Museum. Your expedition ship awaits you at Reykjavík Harbour, where you'll receive a warm welcome and your complimentary expedition jacket. Settle into your cabin and enjoy your first dinner on board. If time permits, consider joining a Pre-Program to discover more of Iceland's natural highlights before your cruise begins.
Day 2 – Day 2: Heimaey - The Island That Defied a Volcano
Day 2: Heimaey - The Island That Defied a Volcano
- Eldheimar
- Surtsey
- Caves of Hella
- More
Today, you'll visit Heimaey, the only inhabited island in the Westman Islands. Learn about the island's remarkable history at the Eldheimar Museum, where you can see a home preserved in time after a volcanic eruption. Take a hike to Stórhöfði, a nesting site for millions of puffins every summer. Don't miss the opportunity to climb Mount Eldfell and enjoy panoramic views of the town below.
Day 3 – Day 3: Öræfajökull and Djúpivogur
Day 3: Öræfajökull and Djúpivogur
- Svínafellsjökull útsýnisstaður
- Petra's Stone Collection
- More
Weather permitting, start your day with a cruise along the coast to marvel at Öræfajökull, Iceland's largest active volcano and highest peak, covered by the Vatnajökull ice cap. In the afternoon, visit the charming village of Djúpivogur, an important trading center in Iceland for over four centuries. Learn about the town's commercial history at the Heritage Museum, housed in an 18th-century warehouse.
Day 4 – Day 4: Expedition Day in East Iceland
Day 4: Expedition Day in East Iceland
Spend the day exploring the stunning landscapes of East Iceland. This region is known for its quaint villages, dramatic coastlines, roaring waterfalls, towering mountains, and narrow fjords. Depending on the day's conditions, you might go hiking, small boat cruising, or kayaking. The Captain and Expedition Team will decide on the best landing sites and activities for the day, ensuring a thrilling experience.
Day 5 – Day 5: Húsavík - Where Geology and Mythology Meet
Day 5: Húsavík - Where Geology and Mythology Meet
- Lake Mývatn panoramic point
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Today, you'll visit Húsavík, a charming town famous for its whale-watching opportunities. The town overlooks Skjálfandi bay, home to humpback and minke whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Nearby, you'll find Ásbyrgi canyon, a natural wonder steeped in Norse mythology, and Dettifoss waterfall, one of the largest in Europe.
Day 6 – Day 6: Eyjafjörður and Akureyri
- Akureyri
- More
- Mývatn
- Goðafoss
- More
Cruise into Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord, and enjoy the sight of snowcapped peaks. Visit Akureyri, the 'Northern Capital' of Iceland, where you can explore local eateries, museums, and a botanical garden. Don't miss the Goðafoss waterfall and the active volcanic area around Lake Mývatn, one of the few places where you can see the Mid-Atlantic Ridge up close.
Day 7 – Day 7: Expedition Day in Northwestern Iceland
Day 7: Expedition Day in Northwestern Iceland
Enjoy the freedom of expedition cruising as you spend the day exploring Iceland's Northwestern Region. The day's activities will depend on the conditions, but you might go ashore for a hike, a beach clean-up, or a kayak launch. If a pod of whales is spotted, the ship may stop for you to enjoy the sight. You can also join onboard lectures, visit the Science Center, or relax in a hot tub.
Day 8 – Day 8: Westfjords and Patreksfjörður
- Patreksfjörður
- More
- Látrabjarg
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Explore the wild Westfjords, a region of deep fjords and barren plateaus. Stop at Patreksfjörður, a small fishing port in a beautiful setting, and learn about the local fishing traditions. You can also hike in the mountains and visit the Látrabjarg cliffs, a popular nesting site for birds.
Day 9 – Day 9: Breiðafjörður and Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Day 9: Breiðafjörður and Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- Kirkjufell Mountain
- Snæfellsjökull National Park
- More
Explore Breiðafjörður, a large bay in western Iceland known for its thousands of islands and abundant birdlife. Depending on the day's conditions, you might head to Hvammsfjörður, a picturesque inner fjord, or one of the many remote islands in the bay. You may also visit the stunning Snæfellsnes peninsula, home to the snowcapped Snæfellsjökull volcano and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain.
Day 10 – Day 10: Relax in Reykjavík
- Reykjavik - Departure day
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- Garður Old Lighthouse
- More
Your Iceland expedition cruise concludes back in Reykjavík. This is a great chance to see the places you missed when you arrived. Relax in a geothermal pool, a key part of Icelandic culture, at the famous Blue Lagoon, one of the natural wonders of the world. If you want to discover more of Iceland, consider joining our Post-Program before you head home.
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