Fire and Ice: An 8-Day Sail Around Iceland with National Geographic
Sail around Iceland on an 8-day expedition that reveals its famed natural wonders. Hike or bike to explore remote waterfalls, secluded valleys, dramatic fjords, black-sand beaches, and forest-filled canyons. Spot an abundance of seabirds from Atlantic puffins to Arctic terns and cruise into an otherworldly glacier lagoon. Along the way, meet locals who will share Icelandic traditions as well as a glimpse into daily life, both past and present, on this subarctic island.
Join the June 3, 2025 departure with Jonathan Kingston, a National Geographic Photography Expert!
National Geographic Explorer is equipped with a roster of tools for exploration and a well-appointed interior with vast expanses of glass for an unprecedented connection to the environment.
The ship is devoted to exploration—from her open Bridge, and the Chart Room below it, to her high-perched observation deck with its aqueous light and compelling 24/7 views.
National Geographic Explorer recently debuted updated suites, enhanced with the sleek, Scandinavian design that has become the hallmark of our polar fleet.
Meals are served in the dining room, Bistro bar, or the Observation lounge, at a single seating with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menus feature sustainable choices, local where possible.
Day 1 Reykjavík, Iceland
Day 2 Westfjords
Day 3 Siglufjörður
Day 4 Húsavík
Day 5 Bakkagerði
Day 6 Djúpivogur
Day 7 Heimaey and Surtsey, Westman Islands
Day 8 Reykjavík, Iceland
Ask your AAA Travel Advisor to include a pre or post extension to your cruise, like the 2-Day Reykjavik Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Pre-Voyage extension!
Day 1
Reykjavík, Iceland / Embark ShipArrive in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. Transfer from the airport to the city and spend the day exploring at your own pace. Check in with the hospitality desk this afternoon before embarking the ship.
Day 2
WestfjordsExplore the beautiful and peaceful Westfjords region of Iceland. Hike or kayak along the base of a fjord to discover a towering waterfall. Enter Ísafjarðardjúp, known for its wealth of animal life, including whales, seals and countless nesting seabirds. Land at Vigur Island, a fragile wildlife sanctuary, where the landowners continue the traditional eiderdown collection and cleaning process and are active stewards of the colonies of puffins and black guillemots who call the island home.*
*Visit subject to nesting seabird season and not available on all dates.
Day 3
SiglufjörðurSiglufjörður was the center of Iceland’s once-thriving herring industry. Stop by the Herring Museum for a salting demonstration and a tasting. Enjoy the surroundings of Iceland’s northernmost mainland settlement by joining the local forestry association, one of over 50 associations in Iceland, for an afternoon of conservation in their local forest. Learn what it takes to maintain and develop a forest on this volcanic island.
Day 4
HúsavíkHúsavík, the site of the oldest settlement in Iceland, is your gateway to the geological exploration of northern Iceland. Depart for a full day overland visiting one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, Goðafoss, as well as the Lake Mývatn area, the most geologically active area in Iceland. Alternatively, enjoy an adventurous journey hiking through Ásbyrgi Canyon, said to be formed by the hoof of Odin’s eight-legged horse, or stay along the coast and choose a slower pace for the day with forest bathing, bird watching and a soak in the Geo Sea bath.
Day 5
BorgarfjarðarhöfnLocated on the eastern shore of Iceland, Bakkagerði is well known for its welcoming puffin colony and stunning fjords. Walk across boardwalks to witness these colorful symbols of Icelandic wildlife. Once you’ve captured your best photo of the famous auk species, take an invigorating hike up to the best panoramic view of the fjord or challenge yourself to a backcountry mountain bike journey to remote overlooks and stunning vistas.
Day 6
Arrive in the town of Djúpivogur and visit some of the secluded valleys and remote waterfalls in the surrounding countryside. Alternatively, drive down the coast to explore the foot of the vast Vatnajökull icecap and the deep blue icebergs of the large ice lagoon of Jökulsárlón. Or, join a hike to the black-sand beaches near the town center.
Day 7
Heimaey and Surtsey, Westman IslandsThe Westman Islands were formed by undersea volcanoes between 5,000 and 10,000 years ago and are among the youngest of the world’s archipelagos. In 1963, the world witnessed on film the birth of its newest island, Surtsey—a UNESCO World Heritage site—which you'll see as you cruise past the coast. In 1973, Heimaey was threatened by lava flows that nearly closed off its harbor. Visit the crater, where the earth is still hot, for amazing views of areas that had been engulfed by lava.
Day 8
Reykjavík / Disembark ShipDisembark in Reykjavík and transfer to the airport for flights home.
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Please see Lindblad Expeditions brochure for deck plans, general information, cruise conditions and responsibility statement. Itinerary and times subject to change. Validity dates apply per product. Land only/cruise only unless otherwise specified. Wi-Fi connectivity and speed may vary based on destination. Gov't, misc. fees/taxes, optional excursions and travel insurance not included. Restrictions, limitations and agency fees may apply. Ask AAA for details. Member Benefits does not apply to bookings made onboard Delfin II, The Jahan, Lord of the Glens, Sea Cloud, Sea Cloud II, Oberoi Philae, and Sun Goddess. Agency #178-018-521