British Isles & Iceland Explorer

Enjoy the fjord setting and alpine backdrop of Akureyri, one of the most attractive Icelandic towns. You will be welcomed at the dock by your knowledgeable local guide to Iceland’s undisputed “Capital of the North.” Influences of its Danish trading past prevail, evident in the many contrasts in the town’s varied architecture. Pass by Akureyri Church; one of the town’s proud symbols, which houses many interesting artifacts including a stained-glass window above the altar that was part of a set originating in England before being brought to Akureyri for safekeeping during World War II. Explore the historic midtown area and continue to Akureyri’s Public Park and Botanic Garden; the excellent botanical garden was opened within the park’s grounds in 1957. Two thousand species of local and foreign flowers grow here thanks to Akureyri’s warm microclimate.

Discover the stunning landscape and natural treasures of northern Iceland. Travel by motor coach along the coast of Eyjafjördur—Iceland’s longest fjord—and take in stunning views of Akureyri and the surrounding mountains. Journey through the Fnjóskadalur Valley to the majestic Godafoss waterfall, named after a pagan priest and chieftain who threw the statues of the pagan gods he once worshipped after converting to Christianity in the year 1000 AD. Your next stop is the Mývatn volcanic lake area, pausing by the impressive pseudocraters at Skútustadir along the way. You will also visit the towering lava castles and grottoes of the Dimmuborgir lava labyrinth, and experience the geothermal wonder of hot sulfuric mud springs and gurgling sulphur cauldrons at Námaskard. After a wonderful day in nature, return to your awaiting ship.

Dive into relaxation, surrounded by nature at the Earth Lagoon. You will cross the fjord, departing Akureyri, en route to the Godafoss waterfall. After learning the legend behind the name and admiring the stunning waterfall, you will head to the geothermal Earth Lagoon. Here, you will have the chance to be enveloped and invigorated by nature. The soothing waters of the lagoon contains a blend of minerals, silicates and geothermal microorganisms that are beneficial to skin and spirit alike. Take a dip amid clouds of steam in a pool of geothermal water drawn from depths of up to 8,200 feet, experience a steam bath with natural geothermal steam rising through vents in the floor, or simply relax in the alkaline bathing lagoon. After your geothermal bathing experience, head back to Akureyri feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Observe some of nature’s most magnificent creatures as you embark on a sightseeing cruise off the Icelandic coast. Meet your guide at the pier and head out on an unforgettable journey to witness an array of marine life in the wild. Iceland has fast become known as the whale-watching capital of Northern Europe, and during your private cruise you will have the chance to view some of Iceland’s wildlife. Keep watch for sightings, often spotted approaching the bay to feed. Among those, you may find minke and fin whales, and if you are lucky you may also get to see visiting humpback whales—easily identifiable by their enormous black-and-white pectoral fins and energetic acrobatic displays. A large number of seabirds are also regularly sighted along with other smaller marine mammals such as harbor porpoises and white-beaked dolphins, whose curiosity is often piqued by passing vessels.

Admire the incredible “Waterfall of the Gods” and visit a folk museum detailing 19th-century Icelandic farm life. Embark on a scenic drive by motor coach along the slopes of Vadlaheidi mountain to gaze upon the majestic natural wonder of Godafoss waterfall. According to legend, in the year 1000 AD, a pagan priest and chieftain declared Christianity the religion of Iceland; after converting, he took the statues of the pagan gods he once worshipped and threw them into the waterfall as a symbolic gesture. From then on, the waterfall was named “Godafoss.” Enjoy the view before continuing to the Laufás Museum, a 19th-century farmhouse built in the traditional Icelandic style of stone and turf. Enjoy a snack and explore one of the last turf farms in the country and admire its many household and agricultural artifacts. Browse the collection, then make the return journey to your awaiting ship.

Explore the Diamond Circle and see the region’s natural attractions during a full-day excursion. Meet your guide and embark on a scenic drive to Skútustaðir, a picturesque area known for its unique pseudocraters, formed by steam explosions when lava flowed over wetlands. Continue to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, and admire its cascade of water as it tumbles into the Jökulsárgljúfur. At the Hljóðaklettar—or Whispering Cliffs—marvel at the craters and basalt columns, formed by the flood waves of the Vatnajökull ice cap. After a delicious two-course lunch, head to Húsavík on the shores of Skjálfandi. This charming fishing town, a popular sight for whale watching, was the backdrop of the 2020 movie Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, starring Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams. After your tour, return to your awaiting ship.

Get up close to the four-legged residents of Iceland during a visit to an equestrian center. Board your motor coach and embark on a scenic drive through Akureyri, pausing for a photostop at Hlíðarfjall. Continue to Brúnir Horse Farm and upon arrival, you will be greeted by your hosts who will introduce you to their equine friends. Take your place for a fascinating horse show, where the unique skills and qualities of the Icelandic horse are demonstrated and brought to life. After the show, you will be able to greet its stars and enjoy refreshments. Rejoin your coach and continue your excursion to the Holtsel Ice Cream Farm. Here, you will meet your host, enjoy a brief introduction to the farm’s history and sample some of its delicious ice cream, as you gaze across the field of happy cows. After your tour, return to your ship.

Immerse yourself in dramatic natural landscapes during an expert hike to experience the best of northern Iceland. Embark on a scenic drive along the Arctic coast with beautiful views over the fjord and surrounding mountains. Your motor coach will then begin its ascent and climb the mountain pass, where your journey on foot will start. Head off the beaten track along remote trails that have been marked by mountain sheep, and walk down the hill into the “Valley of the Geese” where mountain springs flow, carrying the water to the ocean. You are free to dip your cupped hand and try a sip of the ice-cold springs. Cross the water, stepping from stone to stone and admire the heather and vegetation growing wild here. The trail then heads up hill, and the reward of your efforts will be unveiled; the views from atop are magnificent. After a break, stroll downhill and return to your ship.

Indulge in a wellness experience at the Forest Lagoon and enjoy the soothing benefits of its geothermal waters. Begin with a drive by motor coach from Akureyri. Along the way, take in the sweeping vistas over the mountains and fjords. Pause for photographs at the Hlíðarfjall viewing point, a popular place to explore Iceland’s wilderness, then continue to the Vaðlaskógur forest, where your geothermal spa experience awaits. Soak up your surroundings as you don your swimsuit and take a dip in one of the two thermal pools—a rejuvenating experience for the body and soul. Refreshing beverages are available to purchase from one of the swim-up bars during your stay. You may also choose to visit the Finnish dry sauna, where you can enjoy views of the fjord below. After time to relax and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere, return to your coach and onward to your ship.