Iceland Circumnavigation

Day 1

Arrive in Iceland

Arrive at the international airport in Keflavik, and transfer independently to your included hotel in Reykjavik, which is about 40 minutes away. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore Iceland’s fascinating capital. Plenty of cultural and historical landmarks are located right near the walkable city center.

Day 2

Embark on Ultramarine

Enjoy your complimentary breakfast at the hotel. Your transfer to the ship is scheduled for the afternoon, leaving you time to explore Reykjavik in the morning and have lunch on your own before you rendez-vous back at the hotel for the bus transfer to the port. 

Day 3

The West-Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Dramatic Landscapes

The scenic Snaefellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland is renowned for its  diverse landscapes: glaciers, mountains, lava fields, geothermal areas and ruggedly beautiful coastlines. Often referred to as “miniature Iceland” or “Iceland in a nutshell,” the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, while not vast, is a microcosm of all of the natural wonders and dramatic landscapes you’ll see throughout Iceland.

This exciting day begins with guests disembarking Ultramarine and traveling by coach bus—with local guides and members of our expedition team—to visit the lonely Kirkjufell (“Church Mountain”), which rises from the sea as a dramatic backdrop for Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall—undoubtedly the most photographed location in all of Iceland. Kirkjufell may be extra familiar to fans of “Game of Thrones” in which the mountain appeared as one of the landmarks beyond “The Wall.” The tour of the peninsula may also include visits to some of the tiny, beautiful villages that dot the peninsula. The majority of these small settlements, the most notable of which include Arnarstapi, Grundarfjörður and Stykkishólmur, are located on the northern side of the peninsula, where communities rely on the rich fishing grounds of Breiðafjörður Bay. Tourism and fishing drive the local economy. 

You’ll also be able to stretch your legs on a short walk along a craggy but undemanding foot path along coastal cliffs that offers views of the Arnarstapi rock arch, also known as Gatklettur, formed from massive basalt columns. A section of this short trail passes through a lava field, a signature Icelandic experience. Other highlights of today’s outing include a visit to the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum, and an Icelandic food tasting experience. You can’t leave Iceland without sampling hakarl (fermented shark).

Day 4 to 6

The Westfjords: Hidden gem of Iceland

Each region of Iceland has its own appeal for nature seekers, birding enthusiasts and history-lovers, and the seldom-visited Westfjords, where the land meets the sea in the most dramatic fashion, is no exception. Often referred to as “Iceland’s best-kept secret,” this rugged peninsula at the country’s remote northwestern tip is rife with fjords, and mountains that slope gracefully down to the sea. We’ll spend our time exploring the fjords and shores of Iceland’s oldest region, enjoying its kaleidoscope of diverse land and seascapes. Here, tumbling cliffs and gushing waterfalls alternate with colorful beaches, and rolling green hills lead up to high moorlands dotted with rocky outcrops, small lakes, and the occasional shaggy Icelandic sheep or pony grazing in the distance. A few modest outposts of civilization, in the form of small fishing communities nestled along the fjords and shores of the Denmark Strait, face out into the mighty Atlantic—keeping alive a maritime heritage going back to the Viking days.

The Westfjords are the least developed parts of Iceland’s coastal areas and, consequently, the wildest. Guests will venture into this territory on Zodiac cruises and during guided shore landings at unspoiled wilderness areas where they can hike and explore on foot. We also hope to visit remote settlements such as the island farm at Vigur, and witness the thousands of seabirds—including puffins, guillemots, fulmars and razorbills—at Látrabjarg, one of the largest bird cliffs in Europe. This is a much sought-after destination for birders and ornithologists from around the world. We’ll also visit the Heritage Museum at Hnjótur, which showcases the history of everyday life in the Westfjords. If weather conditions are favorable, we aim to take guests heli flightseeing during our time in the Westfjords.

Day 7 & 8

Northern Iceland (Norourland): Waterfalls, lava fields, and geothermal areas

Iceland is truly a land of contrasts. This becomes increasingly evident over the next two days as our coach bus follows the iconic Diamond Circle route. You’ll soon learn that the north of Iceland, with its long valleys and peninsulas, is interspersed with mountains, lava fields, and smooth hills carved out over time by the unceasing river flow. Many firsttime visitors to the region are surprised to discover that the deep and numerous indentations along the northern coasts are alternately lush with vegetation—or completely barren. Your sense of awe will be intensified as we approach the Arctic Circle and the captivating brilliance of the midnight sun. 

Prepare to be overwhelmed by some of the most impressive waterfalls in Europe: Dettifoss (unrivalled in its thunderous roar), the historic Goðafoss (also known as “Waterfall of the Gods”) and the beautiful Aldeyjarfoss (which cascades 20 meters over a wall of hexagonal basalt columns). You’ll be equally awestruck by the spectacular Kolugljúfur and Jökulsárgljúfur gorges, the rocky sea stacks of Hvítserk and Stórakarl, the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon, the geological wonders of Mývatn and the lava fields of Dimmuborgir—which appeared in numerous scenes in “Game of Thrones.” Anticipate some surreal moments at Hverir, where you’ll witness bubbling mud pots and geothermal vents, and likewise at Skútustaðir, where you’ll encounter pseudocraters, volcanic features formed not by eruptions but by steam from underground. 

You can also fulfill a polar milestone on this voyage by crossing the Arctic Circle. In fact, you’ll get to visit the small island of Grímsey (population: 70), which is the only part of Iceland that lies within the Arctic Circle. Expect to see large populations of puffins. While the stunning scenery will prompt you to reach for your camera over and over again, we invite you to stand still for a moment, put down your device, and simply embrace the wonder of this enchanting landscape.

Day 9 & 10

East Iceland (Austurland): Fjords, mountains, and helicopters

East Iceland is characterized by fantastic scenery, featuring deep narrow fjords, and tall mountains. The region is home to the country’s largest forest (Hallormsstaðaskógur), lush farmlands and plenty of streams and mountains. Thanks to the abundant fjords and their natural harbors, picturesque fishing villages line the coast. Iceland’s biggest rhyolite (volcanic) formations—those easily accessible from an inhabited area—are found around the village of Borgarfjörður Eystri, while impressive magma chambers filled with colorful mineral deposits can be visited along the eastern coast. In the summer months, the east of Iceland becomes a creative hub for artists and young people from Iceland and abroad. 

You’ll have opportunities on these two days to view some of this stunning scenery during a heli flightseeing adventure (weather permitting, of course), and during a coach excursion to Vatnajökull National Park, with its abundance of glaciers (notably Vatnajökull), volcanoes, waterfalls and geothermal springs. Plentiful activities await us in the park: we’ll travel to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a stunning glacial lake; explore the spectacular icebergs at Jökulsárlón; spend time at black sand Diamond Beach; and take a guided glacier hike in Skaftafell area. 

Day 11

The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar): Nature rich archipelago

Today we journey to The Westman Islands by ship and Zodiac. The archipelago of 15 islands, and surrounding sea cliffs, are teeming with birdlife. In fact, The Westman Islands group is home to one of the largest puffin colonies in the world, and is also renowned for its rich fishing grounds and whale population. Formed by belowsea-level eruptions, the islands’ soil is shallow and not suitable for agriculture. You’ll see large stretches of rocky soil and lava. However, some rare plants grow in Herjólfsdalur valley. We’ll also visit Heimaey, the only inhabited island, to see the puffins at Stórhöfði. There’s also a beluga sanctuary and an oceanarium.

Day 12

Disembark in Reykjavik

You’ll disembark in Reykjavik, Iceland’s bustling capital, at the end of your journey. If you have booked postexpedition accommodation, we provide a transfer to a central downtown location.

Day 1

Arrival in Iceland

You may arrive in Reykjavik at any time during Day 1 of the itinerary and make your way to the included hotel.

Day 2

Embarkation in Reykjavik

On the morning of Day 2, your luggage will be collected from the lobby of your hotel, transferred to the ship and stored in your cabin. Ship embarkation will usually occur around 4 pm. You and your shipmates will meet in the lobby of the hotel and board the waiting buses for transfer to the ship. Information about transfer timing will be posted in your Reykjavik hotel.

Day 3 to 5

The Westfjords: Iceland’s Hidden Gem

The seldom-visited Westfjords—where land meets sea in the most dramatic fashion—are often referred to as “Iceland’s best-kept secret.” This rugged peninsula at the country’s remote northwestern tip is rife with fjords, mountains, tumbling cliffs, gushing waterfalls, colorful beaches, rolling green hills, high moorlands dotted with rocky outcrops, small lakes, and the occasional shaggy Icelandic sheep or grazing ponies. A few modest outposts of civilization, in the form of small fishing communities nestled along the fjords and shores of the Denmark Strait, face out into the mighty Atlantic, keeping alive a maritime heritage that stretches back to the Viking days. The Westfjords are the least developed of Iceland’s coastal areas and, consequently, the wildest. Guests will venture into this territory on Zodiac cruises and guided shore landings at unspoiled wilderness sites where they can hike and explore on foot. One of the many waterfall highlights is Dynjandi, meaning “thunderous.” Without a doubt, it’s one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. The water plunges from a height of 100 meters (328 feet), tumbling over numerous ledges to create an ethereal, otherworldly ambience. You’ll also get to visit Vigur, a private island where guests can delve into Icelandic culture and heritage as far back as the 11th century. Vigur is widely regarded as a capsule of Icelandic heritage. One of the island’s co-owners is polar explorer Felicity Aston, the first woman to ski solo across Antarctica. You’ll learn about the Icelandic tradition of eiderdown harvesting, as well as the wide array of Arctic birdlife and seals that inhabit the island. It’s estimated that Vigur is home to more than 7,000 breeding ducks, 100,000 puffins, Europe’s largest colony of black guillemots, and vast flocks of Arctic terns. You’ll also have opportunities to ramble about the island, taste local food, and visit the island café. Today’s adventure options include Zodiac cruising, sea kayaking, our paddle excursion program, and, potentially, a guided shore hike. Right across the bay lies Mongufoss, one of Iceland’s most remote and beautiful waterfalls, which we’ll visit by ship. On our final day in the Westfjords, our Expedition Team will seek out more of the region’s rarely visited, remote corners. If weather conditions permit, we aim to offer guests a helicopter flightseeing experience in the Westfjords.

Day 6 to 8

Northern Iceland: Birds, Waterfalls and Crossing the Arctic Circle

We’ll spend the next three days exploring Northern Iceland by Zodiac, on foot, and occasionally by coach. The north of Iceland, with its long valleys and peninsulas, is interspersed with mountains, lava fields, and smooth hills carved over time by the unceasing flow of rivers. Many first-time visitors are surprised to see that the deep indentations along the northern coasts are alternately lush with vegetation—or completely barren. Your sense of awe will grow as we approach the Arctic Circle and experience the captivating brilliance of the midnight sun. Prepare to be overwhelmed by some of the most impressive waterfalls in Europe, including thunderous Dettifoss and historic Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods.” Equally striking are the geological wonders of Mývatn and the lava fields of Dimmuborgir— featured in numerous scenes in Game of Thrones. At Hverir, bubbling mud pots and steaming vents create a surreal landscape, while at Skútustaðir you’ll encounter pseudocraters—volcanic features formed not by eruptions but by underground steam. You can also fulfill a polar milestone on this voyage by crossing the Arctic Circle. We’ll visit Grímsey (population: 70), the only part of Iceland that lies within the Arctic Circle. We hope to see large colonies of puffins here. Other highlights in Northern Iceland include Skagafjörður, a fjord known for its impressive birdlife. Guillemots, kittiwakes, puffins, and other seabirds nest on the nearvertical cliffs of Drangey. We’ll also visit Siglufjörður, a quiet fishing village rich in history. Later, after one of our waterfall excursions, we plan an evening stop in the beautiful seaside town of Húsavík. As we journey along the northern coast, watch for potential whale sightings. Minke, humpback, and occasionally fin and orca are seen in these waters. The scenery will tempt you to reach for your camera again and again. But we invite you to pause, put it aside, and simply embrace the wonder of this enchanting landscape.

Day 9

East Iceland: Fjords, Mountains, and Icelandic Heritage

East Iceland is defined by fantastic scenery, featuring deep narrow fjords, towering mountains, the country’s largest forest (Hallormsstaðaskógur), lush farmlands, abundant fjords, and picturesque fishing villages. This morning we find ourselves on Seyðisfjorður a fjord marked by stunning scenery, steep mountains carpeted in verdant green, with streams cascading down picture perfect alpine valleys. It’s also home to the Skalanes Nature and Heritage Center, a place rich in biodiversity, science, cultural heritage, and education. Here, we hope to meet with local scientists, who host students and fellow researchers throughout the year. There is a network of trails available to us with options suited to all abilities, and local science and cultural educators will be happy to share their knowledge with us along the way. While reindeer sightings are not everyday occurrences, they do happen, so we’ll scan the hillsides carefully. Arctic foxes are also occasionally seen in the mountains above Skálanes. Beyond science and research, Skálanes is devoted to preserving cultural heritage through practice and story. Iceland’s traditions are felt here, not only in the epic sagas but also in the enduring ways of people who for centuries have lived in harmony with this harsh yet beautiful land— where nature, science, and culture intersect.

Day 10

Southern Iceland: Djupivogur and Vatnajokull Glacier

Djúpivogur sits where east and south Iceland meet. Here, the rugged, verdant topography of the east gives way to the gentler forelands of the south, which ultimately rise to Vatnajökull, Iceland’s famous ice cap, crowned by its tallest peaks, the 2,100-meter (6,890 feet) Hvannadalshnúkur. Though Djúpivogur has the infrastructure to welcome ships like Ultramarine, it remains a small community, situated amid ranges of triangular mountain peaks. These mountains are lush with vegetation, accented by rocky outcrops, lingering snowfields, and cascading waterfalls—landscapes we won’t want to leave. From here, we’ll travel westward by coach, as the south coast’s waters are shallow and wave-battered, making them inhospitable for landing. Instead, we’ll journey inland to Vatnajökull National Park, celebrated for its glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and geothermal springs. We’ll explore Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, marvel at its drifting icebergs, walk along Diamond Beach with its striking black sands, and hike this otherworldly coastline.

Day 11

The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar): Nature-Rich Archipelago

Today we explore The Westman Islands by ship and Zodiac. The archipelago of 15 islands, and surrounding sea cliffs, are teeming with birdlife. In fact, The Westman Islands group is home to one of the largest puffin colonies in the world, and is also renowned for its rich fishing grounds and whale population. Formed by below-sea-level eruptions, the soil is shallow and not suitable for agriculture—which is obvious when you see the large stretches of rocky terrain and lava. However, some rare plants grow in Herjólfsdalur Valley. The Westman Islands are rich in stories, none more dramatic than the volcanic eruption of 1973 that destroyed many buildings on Heimaey, the largest—and only inhabited— of the islands. Evidence of the event can still be seen today. Heimaey is also home to one of the most remarkable harbors in Iceland, with an entrance so narrow it is unforgettable on approach. As we near its tightest passage, look to the starboard side to glimpse Klettsvík, a sheltered cove once home to the killer whale Keiko—better known to the world as “Willy,” star of the film Free Willy. Following the movie’s release, a campaign was launched to grant Keiko real freedom. His gradual reintroduction to the wild included time here in Klettsvík, where he first encountered the open waters of Iceland before eventually swimming free. Beyond its human and cinematic history, Heimaey is also a haven for large seabird colonies. Puffins nest in great numbers here, and we will have the chance to visit one of the colonies by foot at the island’s southernmost point. The walk itself is rewarding: meadows of tall grass swaying in the wind, sheep grazing contentedly, and cobalt-blue seas stretching southward.

Day 12

Disembarkation in Reykjavik and Onward

Your ship is scheduled to arrive in Reykjavik between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. local time. After breakfast, and once the ship has docked, you will have time to bid farewell to your Expedition Team and shipmates before completing the disembarkation process, which takes about an hour. After disembarkation, you will be transferred to a central downtown location.