Iceland Explorer: Roundtrip from Reykjavík
- Explore Iceland’s coastline in its entirety and see some of the country’s most captivating sights on this full circumnavigation, starting and ending in Reykjavík.
- Experience the geological wonders of the land of ice and fire, from volcanoes and glaciers to geysers and hot springs.
- Go whale watching in Húsavík, see Atlantic Puffins in Bakkagerði and Heimaey, and sail into the Arctic Circle.
A saga of old and new
In Reykjavík, you'll get a taste of modern Iceland, with its stylish restaurants, boutiques and galleries, as well as its museums detailing Icelandic history and culture through the ages. As you voyage around one of the world’s youngest countries, you’ll see how ancient geology has shaped the lives of those who live here.
Raw natural beauty
Discover Iceland's starkly beautiful, volcanic scenery – with active volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, mountains and waterfalls. The country offers some of the best whale watching in Europe at this time of year. And among the Arctic birdlife, keep an eye out for colonies of Atlantic Puffins.
Food & Beverages
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Coffee, tea, soft drinks, wine, beer, and spirits
- Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
- Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)
Onboard Activities
- In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by knowledgeable Expedition Team
- Use of Science Centre, including the library and advanced biological and geological equipment
- Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
- Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
- Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings
- Daily briefing with the Expedition Team about the plans for the next day
Landing Activities
- Escorted landings with small expedition boats
- Necessary equipment for activities, such as walking poles, will be provided on board on loan. Your HX travel documents will have a recommended packing list.
- Expedition photographer on hand to assist you
HX Expedition Gear
- Wind and waterproof expedition jacket
- A complimentary Ocean Bottle water bottle to refill on board and take home
Ship Facilities
- Use of sauna, hot tubs, pool, fitness room, lounges and more
Your fare excludes:
- International flights
- Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings
- Travel insurance
- Luggage handling
- Optional shore excursions with our local partners
- Optional small-group activities with Expedition Team
- Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area (only available on MS Fridtjof Nansen)
Day 1 - Cosmopolitan Reykjavík
Discover Iceland's modern capital
Your expedition cruise starts in Reykjavík, a laid-back city of art, culture and history. Delightful Reykjavík is well worth spending some time getting to know.
Take a stroll along the city's main street, Laugavegur, with its boutiques and outdoor shops, gaze in awe at the striking Hallgrímskirkja Church, and drop in on the fascinating Reykjavík Art Museum.
Your expedition ship awaits you in Reykjavík Harbour. After being welcomed aboard and collecting your complimentary expedition jacket, it's time to settle into your cabin before enjoying your first dinner aboard.
If you have the time, we recommend booking a Pre-Programme with us and discovering some of Iceland's natural highlights before your cruise begins.
Day 2 - Charming Grundarfjörður
Gateway to spectacular Snæfellsnes
The majestic Kirkjufell mountain, one of the best-known landmarks of Iceland, rises just two miles west of the small harbour of Grundarfjörður, a quaint fishing town in Breiðafjörður bay.
Nearby lies Snæfellsnes Peninsula National Park, with the striking, ice-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano at the peninsula's western tip. It's nicknamed 'Little Iceland' for the array of landscapes.
At the national park, you can visit Djúpalónssandur's black sand beach and the Saxhóll crater. Or, take a guided underground tour along a gigantic lava tube.
Day 3 - Picturesque Isafjörður
Explore Westfjords' beautiful harbourside town
Flanked by towering mountains on all sides, Ísafjörður is a nearly perfect natural harbour and an excellent gateway to the Westfjords region. Stroll around to see the architecture, shop for a variety of local handicrafts and view some of the oldest houses in Iceland.
One of these historic 18th-century buildings is home to Westfjords Heritage Museum, where you can learn about the maritime past of this fascinating port. Or if you prefer something more energetic, you could take the steep hike up to Naustahvilft - the Troll's Throne. You'll be rewarded for your efforts at the top by the stunning panoramic view.
Day 4 - Akureyri and Goðafoss
See dramatic moonscapes and waterfalls
Gaze at snowcapped peaks as we cruise into Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord. Together with neighbouring Skjálfandi Bay, it's one of the best places in Europe to spot whales.
Iceland's so-called 'Northern Capital', Akureyri, sits at the fjord head. Here, you can enjoy the oasis of a botanical garden and visit local eateries and museums.
A little further afield, witness the picturesque Goðafoss waterfall, where turquoise waters pound against black rocks. You'll witness geology come to life around Lake Mývatn, an active volcanic area and one of the few places to see the Mid-Atlantic Ridge up close.
Day 5 - Húsavík and the Arctic Circle
Cross the Arctic Circle and go whale watching
Húsavík is a pleasant small town famous for its whale-watching opportunities, and be calling here in the morning. The town looks out over Skjálfandi Bay, which enjoys visits from humpback and minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises and occasionally blue whales. If you're lucky, you might see one or more of these giants at sea, and you can learn more about them at Húsavík's Whale Museum.
You can also visit the Eurovision Song Contest Exhibition, showcasing the contest's history with costumes, props, and memorabilia from past performances, alongside sets and items from the 2020 film Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, set and filmed in Húsavík.
Húsavík is also regarded as the gateway to many of the highlights of the north, including Jökulsárgljúfur National Park, the waterfall of Dettifoss, and the horseshoe-shaped valley of Ásbyrgi, which, according to the Icelandic myths, was made by the eight-legged horse of Odin. Later, sail along the coast of Grimsey Island without landing, passing across the Arctic Circle as you do so, before continuing to the next destination.
Day 6 - Puffins up close
Explore a place beloved of puffins and elves
Your Iceland cruise continues to Bakkagerði, a tiny, remote settlement. According to folklore, Bakkagerði is inhabited by a large population of local land spirits or elves, known as huldufólk, meaning 'hidden people'. Walk around town to explore this magical place.
A popular hiking area, here you can walk through lush, green valleys and gorgeous scenery among colourful rhyolite rocks. In season, the coastal cliffs are home to fulmars, kittiwakes, eiders and puffins. May also visit the Atlantic Puffin colony on Hafnarhólmi, a true gem for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.
Day 7 - Heimaey's explosive past
Discover the town that defied a volcano
Heimaey is the only inhabited island in the Westman Islands, found off the south coast of Iceland. It has a fascinating history, and still bears the scars of a powerful volcanic eruption that nearly destroyed the island.
Visit Eldheimar, a museum that features an excavated home frozen in time, and learn more about the eruption and its aftermath. Or why not take a hike to seek out puffins at Stórhöfði, where around eight million nest every summer. Don't miss climbing Mount Eldfell at the volcano's summit; you'll have incredible views of the town below.
Day 8 - Reykjavík and beyond
Enjoy Reykjavík at your leisure
Your Iceland expedition cruise concludes back in Reykjavík. This is a great opportunity to see the places you missed when you first arrived. You can even relax with friends in a heittur pottur, or geothermal pool - literally a 'hot pot' an important part of Icelandic culture.
* Please note that cruise itineraries are subject to change at any time and are not guaranteed
Departing 19 & 26 May 2027
- Polar Outside from
$9,126$7,444 pp twin share* - Arctic Superior from $10,422 pp twin share / $15,112 pp sole use*
- Expedition Suite from
$13,954$10,422 pp twin share / $20,844 pp sole use*
* Please note: prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change or be withdrawn at any time without notice.
MS Fridtjof Nansen is the latest addition to HX Expeditions' fleet of custom-built ships – and the next-generation expedition ship. She will explore some of the most spectacular corners of the globe.
About the ship
The newest addition to the fleet honours the heritage of her namesake – the Norwegian explorer, scientist, humanitarian, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Fridtjof Nansen. Known for his innovations in Arctic expeditions, Nansen led the first crossing of Greenland on cross-country skis. He is perhaps most famous for his attempt to reach the geographical North Pole during the Fram Expedition (1893-1896).
Interestingly, after Nansen's Fram expedition, the ship was passed on to another great explorer who secretly planned an expedition
Where does the expedition begin and end?
Reykjavík, Iceland.
What destinations are visited?
Iceland's coastline, fjords, and remote communities.
Is this an expedition cruise?
Yes, with expert-led excursions and activities.
What wildlife might I see?
Whales, puffins, seabirds, and seals.
Are shore landings included?
Yes, weather and sea conditions permitting.
Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available.
What should I pack?
Warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy walking shoes.
Who is this cruise suitable for?
Travellers seeking adventure, nature, and wildlife.
Terms and conditions apply. Click here for more details.