Best of Iceland
Discover Iceland’s volcanic landscapes and distinctive culture onboard the OCEAN DIAMOND. This cruise brings you to pristine fjords, tremendous glaciers, hot springs and waterfalls. A range of exciting shore excursions offers countless ways to interact with Iceland’s culture, nature, history and people.
- 8 Day cruise around Iceland for those with less time
- Enjoy volcanoes, glaciers and waterfalls
- Northern Lights
- Crossing the Arctic Circle
- Icelandic Wildlife like whales and puffins
- Get to know Iceland with “Icelanders”
- OCEAN DIAMOND: small ship, casual and personal atmosphere
Day 1
Reykjavik
Our optional Air & Ground package provides a convenient arrival (prices for 2021 on request). Use your leisure time in Reykjavik to discover the unique charm of the world’s northernmost capital and book one ouf our pre-programs (prices on request). The OCEAN DIAMOND docks in Old Reykjavik Harbor in the heart of the city, a five-minute stroll from the main squares, shopping and dining. The ship departs in the evening.
Day 2
Stykkisholmur
Stykkisholmur is the starting point of our adventures on the Snaefellnes Peninsula. Often called “Iceland in Miniature” because of its diverse landscapes, the area is home to bird-rich Breidafjordur Bay and Snaefellsjokull glacier, which sits atop a 700,000-year-old dormant volcano that was featured in the Jules Verne novel Journey to the Center of the Earth.
Day 3
Isafjordur
Today‘s destination is Isafjordur, an idyllic town in the Westfjords region. This secluded peninsula is connected to the Icelandic mainland by only a narrow strip of land and includes many roadless areas where cars have never been. The landscape includes jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer table mountains that plunge into the sea and pristine North Atlantic vegetation.
Day 4
Akureyri
Ranging inland from Akureyri, we visit the fascinating Lake Myvatn region, where the schizophrenic landscape looks as if “heaven and hell” have clashed. One side of the lake features rugged volcanic remnants, while the other side is blessed with lush vegetation and varied bird life.
Day 5
Skjalfandi Bay/Husavik
In the early morning hours we steam into Skjalfandi Bay and Husavik. Often called the “Whale watching capital” of Iceland, the town’s offshore waters are home to 15 different whale species, as well as dolphins and 30 variety of bird.
Day 6
Djupivogur
The fishing village of Djupivogur is today’s starting point to explore Vatnajokull Glacier (optional). Go on a four wheel-drive Jeep tour (optional) or take a boat trip in the Jokulsarlon Glacier lagoon (optional). Icebergs of all shapes and sizes are floating in the water – an unforgettable adventure.
Day 7
Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands)
Located off Iceland’s South Coast, the Westman Islands were formed by submarine volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago. Surtsey Island emerged from the sea in 1963 and is one the youngest land masses on earth. We go ashore on Heimaey, the only inhabited island, where half-buried houses remain from a violent 1973 eruption. During the shore landing there is time for bird watching and you might even spot whales.
Day 8
Reykjavik
After breakfast we bid farewell to the OCEAN DIAMOND as we sail back into Reykjavik. Explore inland areas like the Golden Circle and its famous Gullfoss waterfall with our package (Prices for 2021 on request) or explore the sights of south and west Iceland on a self-drive road trip (prices upon request). You can also simply hang out in Reykjavik, a perfect city for those who want to refresh their spirit in a place that combines invigorating outdoor activities, great food and world-class entertainment.
Please note: If you book return flights on your own please choose a connection that does not depart before noon from Keflavik airport on the same day the OCEAN DIAMOND arrives in Reykjavik.
- Meet and greet on arrival at Airport.
- Accommodation and meals as indicated in the itinerary (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner).
- Entrance fees where applicable.
- Tours as indicated in the itinerary.
- Professional English-speaking guide/driver guide.
- Transfers
- Travel Protection is offered on all packages at an additional cost.
