Iceland Circumnavigation Cruise: Stykkisholmur, Isafjordur, Seydisfjordur & More

Upon arrival, make your way into Reykjavik. To have an arrival transfer added to your trip (private or shared), please speak with your Destination Specialist. As the cruise departs in the evening, also consider arranging an activity in Reykjavik; whether visiting a hot spring, heading out on a food tour, visiting FlyOver Iceland, or something completely different, there are many options to choose from. The Seaventure docks in Old Reykjavik Harbor in the heart of the city, a five-minute stroll from the main squares, shopping and dining. The ship departs in the evening.

Stykkisholmur is the starting point of your adventures on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Often called “Iceland in Miniature” because of its diverse landscapes, the area is home to bird-rich Breidafjordur Bay and Snaefellsjokull glacier. This glacier sits atop of a 700,000 year-old dormant volcano that was featured in the Jules Verne novel Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Today‘s destination is Isafjordur, an idyllic town in the Westfjords region. This secluded peninsula is connected to the Icelandic mainland by only a narrow strip of land and includes many roadless areas where cars have never been. The landscape includes jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer table mountains that plunge into the sea and pristine North Atlantic vegetation.

By morning the Seaventure will reach the fjord town of Siglufjordur, once the hub of the global herring industry and now enjoying a rebirth in popularity. Learn about the golden age of herring at the award-winning Herring Era Museum located on the vibrant harbor-front. In the early afternoon sail to Hrisey, the second largest island of Iceland. With only 153 inhabitants, the island is located in Eyjafjordur, about 35 km (22 miles) north of Akureyri.

In the early morning hours the vessel steams into Skjalfandi Bay. Often called the 'Whale watching capital' of Iceland, the town's offshore waters are home to 15 different whale species, as well as dolphins and 30 variety of bird. Watching these graceful ocean giants in their Arctic habitat is an unforgettable experience.

Iceland's East Fjords are best explored from the impossibly picturesque port of Seydisfjordur, nestled between the sea and steep mountains. Activities include seal spotting, horseback riding, kayaking and guided hikes of the Vestadalur area.

Today's port of call is Djupivogur fishing village in southeast Iceland, starting point for an optional excursion (not included in the trip price) to Vatnajokull glacier.

Located off Iceland's south coast, the Westman Islands were formed by submarine volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago. Surtsey Island emerged from the sea in 1963 and is one the youngest land masses on earth. We go ashore on Heimaey, the only inhabited island, where half-buried houses remain from a violent 1973 eruption. During the shore landing there is time for bird watching and you might even spot whales.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the Seaventure as you sail back into Reykjavik. After disembarkation, consider exploring inland areas like the Golden Circle and its famous Gullfoss waterfall or the sights of south and west Iceland on a self-drive road trip; just speak to your Destination Specialist if you would like this arranged. You can also hang out in Reykjavik, a perfect city for those who want to refresh their spirit in a place that combines invigorating outdoor activities, great food and world-class entertainment. Please note: If you book return flights on your own, please choose a connection that does not depart before 12pm from Keflavik airport on the same day the Seaventure arrives in Reykjavik.