Expedition to Iceland – Hamburg to Reykjavík via North Atlantic Islands

Today, we'll sail down 25 mile long Lysefjord. Enjoy a day of remarkable landscapes from the observation decks, taking in the sublime scenery of the long and narrow fjord among striking vertical cliffs.  From the fjord we can take a peek from below at the world-famous Pulpit Rock – Preikestolen – and look out for the equally renowned Kjæragbolten, a giant boulder that seems precariously wedged into a mountain crevasse. If you're feeling adventurous, join our Expedition Team for small expedition boat cruising or kayaking and see the imense fjord from a new perspective.  

Discover the deep Norse roots of Scotland's Shetland Islands We cruise northwest to the Shetland Islands. Lerwick, the capital, is a friendly, Victorian-influenced fishing town set in beautiful scenery. Navigate the narrow lanes on foot to discover little shops selling local whiskies, woollen sweaters and fudge. By the old waterfront, you’ll find the Shetland Museum, showcasing Pictish carvings and Shetland lace shawls. Nearby you can see Fort Charlotte and the regal-looking town hall. Keep your binoculars handy to scan for grey and common seals along Lerwick's beaches, as well as local birdlife such as Red-throated Divers, redshanks and curlews. 

A visit to Streymoy in the Faroe IslandsTórshavn is located on Streymoy, the largest of the Faroe Islands. Founded by Norsemen in the 10th century, Tórshavn – Thor’s Harbour – is one of Northern Europe’s oldest capitals. Wander through the cobbled alleyways and delight in the colourful, turf-roofed houses found here. In the local museums, you can learn about the city’s origins and the flora, fauna and geology of the Faroe Islands.  About half a mile out of town, the Svartafoss waterfall tumbles over mossy rocks. And as you walk along the seafront, look out for Eider Ducks and the distinctive Faroese Starling with its beige-tipped wings. 

Waterfalls and wildlife in special SeyðisfjörðurAt the end of a deep fjord with picturesque mountains and waterfalls lies the quirky village of Seyðisfjörður. Colourful wooden houses line the streets, while the aptly-named Rainbow Road offers a vibrant photo opportunity.  Walk to an unusual sound sculpture, Tvisongur, or take a longer hike in the hills above the town. You can also visit Skalanes, a private nature reserve home to reindeer, Arctic fox and mink. Here, scan the skies for Black-tailed Godwits, Golden-Plovers and Gyrfalcons, Europe’s largest falcon.  

Cross the Arctic Circle and see Atlantic Puffins If you’ve always wanted to visit the Atlantic Puffin colonies of Grímsey, here’s your chance. A remote, windswept and breathtakingly beautiful island, it’s home to a wealth of wildlife and is steeped in myth and legend. 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!  By 2050, Grímsey will lie outside the Arctic as the Arctic Circle creeps northwards at a rate of about 48 ft. a year. 

See dramatic moonscapes and waterfallsGaze at snow-capped peaks as we sail Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord. It's one of the best places in Europe to spot humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises. Also look out for orcas, blue and fin whales.  Iceland’s 'Northern Capital’, Akureyri, sits at the fjord base. Enjoy the peaceful oasis of the botanical gardens, and enjoy a selection of top-notch eateries and museums.  Farther afield you can visit iconic Goðafoss waterfall, where turquoise waters pound against black rocks. You can also seek out Eider and Harlequin Ducks at Lake Mývatn, one of Iceland's more active volcanic areas. 

Exploring Northwest Iceland, expedition-styleOne 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 on the day.  We may go cruising in our small expedition boats or take you ashore for a hike, swim, or 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 take a sauna. 

A stunning beach, waterfalls and superb birdwatchingPatreksfjörður is unforgettably beautiful. Here, you’ll learn all about the fishing traditions in Europe's most westerly village. Explore the surrounding area on a hike through the fjords or visit Rauðasandur beach and see seals. You can also join a tour to Dynjandi waterfalls – six falls combined that together make the largest and most spectacular 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. 

Gateway to spectacular SnæfellsnesIt’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. 

Discover the town that defied a volcanoHeimaey 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 see 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. 

Enjoy Reykjavík at your leisure As your Iceland expedition cruise reaches its conclusion, you still have one last terrific destination to explore – Iceland's art, culture and history-packed capital – Reykjavík. Stroll along Laugavegur with its boutiques and galleries, admire the striking Hallgrímskirkja church and peruse  Reykjavík Art Museum. Consider visiting the Blue Lagoon – one the true natural wonders of the world – and experience the blend of silica, algae and minerals in its famous geothermal waters. You can also join our Post-Programme and explore Iceland's beautiful south coast, with waterfalls, black sand beaches, geothermal pools and majestic mountains.