Description
Join us aboard the MS Hebridean Sky for this in-depth exploration of Iceland, one of the most extraordinary and dramatic lands on the planet. This is a unique opportunity to see nature in the raw and witness the huge icecaps and glaciers, active volcanoes, gurgling mud pools, steaming hot springs and lava fields of the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’. Europe’s least populated country offers the visitor an unparalleled experience of elemental forces at work and we will take advantage of weather conditions and possible whale sightings to achieve the maximum with our time.
After a day to explore Reykjavik and the iconic landmarks of the ‘Golden Circle’, we will set sail for our circumnavigation of the island during which we will witness the immense scale of the landscape, dominated by towering snow-capped mountains and thundering waterfalls, as we learn of the centuries old legacies of a Viking and Norse heritage. Early summer is the optimum time for our journey, the skies and rocks will be filled with the sights and sounds of puffins, guillemots and gannets, the wildflowers will be prevalent and the seas will hopefully be rich with whales and marine life. In addition to the wildlife, the island also provides a unique historical, cultural and geological experience. Under the surface, Iceland simmers with the sparks that are the tell-tale signs of its youthfulness as Europe’s most recent geological addition, only 16-20 million years old. Iceland is continuously being created; some of its newest land is a mere 40 years old.
We have timed our voyage for June when we can make the most of the long days and the midnight sun, spending time on deck whilst cruising, looking out for humpback whales, orcas, white-beaked dolphins and observing the colonies of seabirds. With just over 100 travelling companions the atmosphere on board is warm and friendly and ashore with our experts and fleet of Zodiacs we will divide into small groups enabling us to get up close to nature and explore areas inaccessible to larger vessels.