Iceland
For almost 130 years, we’ve sailed to some of the world’s most remote lands. Through hikes, small boat cruises and shore excursions, you’ll delve deeper into Iceland’s seismic landscape. Sailing along Iceland’s coastline, you’ll learn more about this fascinating country, discovering tight-knit communities, industries, and historical landmarks.
You’ll explore Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital, and picturesque fishing villages on Iceland’s west coast. There are puffins to marvel at, whales to scan for and geothermal baths to soak in. Explore Iceland, expedition-style.
Top experiences
When to see
Warmer weather
Although Iceland is located just south of the Arctic Circle, it does have four distinct seasons which offer boundless adventure opportunities and displays of vibrant life. Iceland is blessed with the Gulf Stream, providing a temperate climate with refreshing summers which makes it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration of the beautiful coastline.
Whale watching
Iceland is the whale watching centre of Europe. In the waters of Iceland species like humpback, killer, minke, blue, fin, sei, pilot and bottlenose whales are likely to be seen. During the summer months, especially in the peak seasons from June to August, most whales feed in the polar waters around Iceland. Húsavik and Akureyri in the north are perhaps best known, but almost the entire island offers great locations for whale watching.
Seal pups
Iceland offers some of the best seal watching locations in the world. Harbor and grey seals live and breed in and around the coast of Iceland, with pupping season in the summer months and late autumn. Prime locations for seal spotting are the west, north and southeast coast of the island, but they can even be seen around the coast near Reykjavik.
Migratory birds
Birdwatching is very popular in Iceland. Not only does Iceland offer a wide range of different species, but locations like the Látrabjerg cliffs or Lake Mývatn are stunning and made for birdwatching - much like the rest of the island. During spring months, migratory birds return to gradually greener pastures. In the summer, expect to find millions of birds in the sky close to their nesting sites.
Atlantic Puffins
Iceland is the home of the Atlantic Puffin. Puffin season in Iceland lasts from June to September, when millions of puffins come on land to breed, lay their eggs and nest. Popular places are the birdwatching cliffs in the Westfjords and the Westman Islands, but the colorful puffins can be seen all over Iceland.
Midnight sun
All through June and July you can experience the midnight sun phenomenon, in which daylight takes over and the sun never truly sets. The country's longest day falls around June 21st, known as the summer solstice.
Cultural events
Iceland is known for its artistic spirit. In summertime Reykjavík is a buzz, with numerous cultural events like music festivals and art exhibitions. For example the famous Menningarnott (Culture night) takes place in August, when the Icelanders flock to the capital for a day of concerts, food, theatre and sports; or the National Independence day on 17th June, celebrated with a colourful parade, street performances, games for kids and free outdoor music concerts lasting late into the evening.
Typical best value
Typical best value indicates typical times where prices are on average lower. They do not take into account offers or guarantee prices.