Circumnavigating Iceland - The Land of Elves, Sagas and Volcanoes - 11 Days

Description

Wilderness and Viking History
Experience the best of Iceland on our 11-day expedition cruise with MS Fram around the island nation. Our extensive voyage brings you to a spellbinding variety of nature, wildlife and settlements.

The Sagaland
The West region of Iceland offers spectacular views and is the home to thrilling Viking sagas of ancient times, a key part of Iceland mythology. A highlight of the west is the Westfjords, a stunning nature reserve where teeming bird cliffs are abundant.

Lava and Whales
As our Iceland cruise sails north, scout for whales from the deck as the landscape changes to vast lava fields, volcanic mountains and smooth hillsides. Grimsey marks the place where the Arctic Circle touches Iceland, and we will make sure we cross the legendary line before we head south towards the East region of Iceland.

Eastern Magic
On the east coast, nature changes again. Now we encounter thick forests, lush farmlands and colourful fishing villages. Whale and other Icelandic wildlife might be spotted as we sail the southern waters towards the unforgettable volcanic islands of the area, while our Expedtion Team entertains you with the colourful stories and sagas of the Vestmannaeyr.

Join us on this voyage of discovery and adventure and stay a few extra days to discover the many things to do in Reykjavik!

Trip Name

Circumnavigating Iceland - The Land of Elves, Sagas and Volcanoes - 11 Days

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 114m Passenger Capacity: 276 Built: 2007 MS Fram is designed for sailing in polar waters, holds the highest safety standards and is the perfect size for optimum nautical manoeuverability and guests' comfort. With space for only 276 guests, you are sure to get to know many of your fellow travellers. You will share stunning sights and memories of a lifetime long after returning home. The Norwegian word Fram means ‘forward’ – lifting expectations of the voyage at hand. MS Fram was built in 2007 with one mission in mind - to bring her guests closer to nature, wildlife and unforgettable experiences. As well as offering numerous lounges in which to relax, our more active guests can use our well-equipped gym. Meanwhile, on deck, our Jacuzzis guarantee you surreal memories when passing the towering icebergs of Antarctica or Greenland.

Itinerary

Day 1 - DAY 1: REYKJAVIK

Arriving in IcelandEmbarkationMany visitors find landing at Keflavik airport enchanting. The hub seems carved out of an arctic desert, with lava stones covered in moss and haunting mountains nearby. But just 45 minutes away, Reykjavík is a charming and vibrant modern city, offering top restaurants, interesting museums and quaint narrow streets.

Day 2 - DAY 2: STYKKISHÓLMUR

Welcome to SagalandFull dayStykkishólmur has beautiful and well-preserved old houses in the town centre and is surrounded by wonderful scenery. Enjoy exploring the town´s interesting museums or join optional excursions to the iconic sites of Snæfellsnes Penninsula, such as the Lóndrangar basalt cliffs or the black sandy beaches of Djúpalónssandur.

Day 3 - DAY 3: PATREKSFJÖRDUR

PatreksfjördurFull dayPatreksfjördur is a charming settlement on the west coast of Iceland with around 660 inhabitants. The picturesque fjord offers scenic hiking trails if conditions allow. Patreksfjördur is also close to the spectacular waterfall of Dynjandi and to Látrabjarg, a renowned site for birdwatching.

Day 4 - DAY 4: NORTHWEST ICELAND

Northwest IcelandExploration DayOur experienced captain will plan a day exploring the stunning fjords of northwest Iceland.Conditions will determine the final program and activity for the day. We might visit a small settlement, take you on hikes or launch our kayaks.

Day 5 - DAY 5: DJUPAVIK

Remote Ruins and Natural BeautyFull dayIn 1917 Elías Stefánsson settled down in Djupavik and built a herring salting factory. Today you can still see the remains of the factory as well as only seven houses and a hotel here. We will explore the landing site, and the beautiful natural scenery surrounding it.

Day 6 - DAY 6: AKUREYRI

Northern CentreFull dayLively Akureyri is famous for its botanical gardens and pretty traffic lights. This is the most populous community outside Reykjavík, and serves as the centre of trade, culture and services for the north of Iceland. Akureyri is close to many of Iceland’s most renowned natural treasures, such as Lake Mývatn and Goðafoss waterfall.

Day 7 - DAY 7: GRIMSEY ISLAND & HUSAVIK

Step Across the Arctic CircleOvernight stay - Full dayWe will use our tender boats to reach this green and grassy island. Grimsey is probably best known for its proximity to the Arctic Circle, which cuts across the island. You can have the chance to step across that line, North to South. During the afternoon we sail towards Husavik, where we will arrive in the evening and stay overnight.

Day 8 - DAY 8: HUSAVIK & LANGANES PENINSULA

Whales and BirdsHúsavík is renowned for its whale watching and has several interesting museums, including of course, a Whale Museum. In the evening we will sail past the scenic Laganes Peninsula.

Day 9 - DAY 9: BAKKAGERDI

The Land of the ElvesFull dayBakkagerdi is the main settlement in Borgarfjörður. This area is known for its natural beauty and is `the land of the elves´. Puffin colonies abound in the fjord, making this a popular place for birdwatching. Bakkagerdi is off the typical tourist track, and offers peace, quiet and lovely views.

Day 10 - DAY 10: HEIMAEY

Iceland`s PompeiiFull dayHeimaey, or “Home Island” welcomes us for our visit. The harbour has a very narrow entrance, caused by a volcanic eruption in 1973. Most of the island has steep cliffs, is well-vegetated and provides a habitat for countless birds, including the charming puffin.

Day 11 - DAY 11: REYKJAVIK

The End of the AdventureOur voyage of discovery and adventure ends in Reykjavik. If you have the time, we recommend you stay a few extra days to explore fascinating Reykjavik.

Day 12 - Please Note:

Hurtigruten offers unique expedition cruises to some of the most remote and pristine waters of the world. As with all expeditions; nature prevails. Weather, and ice and sea conditions, sets the final framework for all Hurtigruten’s operations. Safety and unparalleled guest experiences are at all times our top priorities. All our indicative itineraries are continuously evaluated for adaptions, whether this is due to constraints the elements unexpectedly presents – or exciting possibilities nature and wildlife offer. That is why we call it an expedition.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Explore mystical Iceland – the land of fire and ice
Fascinating nature with waterfalls, volcanoes and glaciers side by side
A paradise for bird and whale watching
Circumnavigation of Iceland