Whales, Waterfalls & Geysers of Iceland

• Day 1 Newcastle upon Tyne

  Departure: late afternoon

• Day 3 Eyjafjallajokull (Iceland)

  Rising above Iceland’s south coast, Eyjafjallajökull is one of the country’s most famous volcanoes. Its name means “Island Mountain Glacier”, a reminder that this is both a volcano and an ice cap, with a glacier covering its summit. The volcano became known worldwide after its 2010 eruption, when a vast ash cloud disrupted air travel across Europe. Today, as you cruise past, you will see a landscape shaped by that eruption, from black sand plains to glacial rivers, a striking reminder of Iceland’s dramatic geology and the power of nature.

  Elliðaey Island is part of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, a collection of picturesque islands situated off the south coast of Iceland. What sets Elliðaey Island apart from the other islands in the archipelago, is an intriguing white cottage, which stands alone on a grassy pasture. Rumours have long suggested that the house belongs to a shy billionaire, or even Bjork – the famous Icelandic singer. These are said to be false, but add to the uniqueness of this fascinating island.

• Day 4 Reykjavík

  Reykjavik is renowned as the perfect starting point for experiencing the Golden Circle Tour, visiting three remarkable locations: Thingvellir National Park, a keystone of Icelandic geological history; the Geysir geothermal area, home to the impressive Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes; and Gullfoss waterfall, one of the most picturesque and impressive in Iceland. You will also have opportunities to take a dip in the soothing waters of the geothermal pools of the nearby Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon. Alternatively, you can take a day trip to the South Coast of Iceland to wander along the black sand beaches of Vik or marvel at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls.

• Day 5 Reykjavík
• Day 6 Isafjørdur

  Renowned for its spectacular fjords, mountains, and valleys, Ísafjörður is a delight to explore in the summer months.  Enjoy Ísafjörður from the unique perspective of the fjord on a kayak or guided boat trip. You’ll also have the chance to visit the spectacular waterfall at Dynjandi, which flows down the mountainside, spreading out like a bride’s veil. Meanwhile, enjoy sampling traditional Icelandic dishes, particularly freshly caught seafood, or local specialities like dried fish and stew.

• Day 6 Vigur Island

  Located in the far-flung corner of Iceland, Vigur is a remote island in the Westfjords, with a history dating back to the original settlement of Iceland. This tiny, peaceful island offers a charming glimpse into traditional Icelandic life as home to just a single farming family. From the decks of your ship, you’ll spot Iceland’s only windmill, turf-roofed houses and Europe’s smallest post office. Vigur is also alive with birdlife – puffins, Arctic terns, guillemots and eider ducks’ nest here in their thousands. Today, the island is both a working heritage farm and a protected nature reserve, where the preservation of its history and wildlife remains at the heart of daily life.

• Day 6 Cruising Along Hornbjard Cliffs, Iceland

  As you cruise past Hornbjarg, one of the most remote cliffs in the north of Iceland, you will be able to appreciate the raw power of mother nature as the towering sea cliff is characterised by its sheer vertical drop into the Arctic Ocean, showcasing it as a stark natural barrier against the sea. You may also be able to spot puffins, guillemots, and other seabirds who nest here in the summer months.

  The Drangaskörð pinnacles that seem to pierce out of the sea are one the most prominent landmarks in Iceland. Located in the Árneshreppur district in the North West of Iceland, they create a peninsula as they emanate outwards from Skarðafjall Mountain. Drangaskörð’s seven jagged rocks, often referred to as the ‘mountain of teeth’, stand proudly on the coastline and can be seen from a great distance. Some believe that the unusual natural phenomena look like the points on a mythical dragon’s tail.

• Day 7 Akureyri

  Nestled within the steep mountains of Eyjafjörður, visiting Akureyri in May offers fantastic opportunities to discover this small fishing town, overlooked by its distinctively shaped church and the volcanic lands that surround it. The fjord becomes a breeding ground for humpback and minke whales in the summer, so a whale-watching trip is ideal for spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. You could experience the breathtaking ‘Waterfall of the Gods’, Godafoss Waterfall, or enjoy a hike to Súlur Mountain that towers over Akureyri, offering panoramic vistas over the town and surrounding fjord. There will also be chances to immerse yourself in local life by sampling traditional Icelandic dishes using local ingredients, like Arctic char, lamb, and skyr.

• Day 7 Sailing around the Island of Grímsey

  Surrounded by the Arctic Ocean and located on the edge of the Arctic Circle, Grímsey Island - Iceland's northernmost inhabited territory - is home to over a hundred people and over a million seabirds of varying species which perch themselves on the island's stunning cliff faces. A scenic cruise around the shores of this tranquil island offers the opportunity to spot puffins, razorbills, guillemots and many more birds, thriving in their natural habitat.

• Day 8 Seydisfjørdur

  Located in the Eastfjords of Iceland, Seyðisfjörður is renowned as one of Iceland’s most picturesque towns, surrounded by green valleys where over 20 waterfalls cascade down into the lagoon at the head of the fjord. Skalanes Nature Reserve is situated on the south side of the town, and many seabirds, such as the black-tailed godwit, and cetaceans—including seals and porpoise—can be found here, along with several species of plant life. You'll be able to see the town's brightly coloured wooden houses, in hues of red, blue, yellow, and green, sitting alongside the quaint bright blue church. 

• Day 11 Newcastle upon Tyne

  Arrival: early morning

Whales & Wonders of Iceland (Newcastle)