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Iceland in Depth
Iceland in Depth
D1624060108
Dates
06/01/24 - 06/09/24
Ship
SH Diana
Duration
8 Nights
Guests
2 Guest
Price From
$ 6,166
Per Person
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Trip Details

Experience the wild and fantastic landscapes of Iceland - the land of fire and ice - on our boutique ship. Circumnavigate the geologically active island, accompanied by breaching whales, to see the puffin capital of the world. Along the way, we will discover the phenomena of fjords, spectacular waterfalls and neverending volcanic scenery. Discover Iceland’s oldest houses and meet locals who are proud of their traditional heritage such as fishing or eiderdown making. Book our Iceland Circumnavigation cruise so you can hike to thundering waterfalls, duck under the spray of spouting hot geysers, spot Atlantic puffins and trek across remote locations where only arctic fox live.

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Trip Highlights
Be awestruck by spectacular volcanic landscape from thermal pools and geysers in the west to lava flows and bubbling mud in the east
Keep your eye out for breaching orca and humpback whales in far-flung icy waters
Listen to the thunderous roar of Dynjandi waterfall and cruise along remote fjords
Spot Atlantic puffins on Heimaey Island, the puffin-watching capital of the world
Learn about the island’s unique geology and history from our team of on-board experts
Itinerary Map
Itinerary
Reykjavik Day 1

Despite its small size, you won’t be short of things to see and do in this diminutive but dramatic city. To get your bearings, take the elevator to the top of Hallgrímskirkja. This church, designed by famed Icelandic architect Gudjón Samuelsson is one of the most distinctive buildings in town. When you return to earth, visit the city’s other renowned building Harpa Concert Hall, located at the heart of Reykjavík's regenerated harbour – also the home of the Maritime Museum. Speaking of cultural spaces, tour the National Museum to learn the story of Iceland from past to present. The Reykjavík Art Museum houses an impressive contemporary collection including eye-catching pieces by Erró. And, of course, just 50 kilometres outside the city lies Thingvellir National Park, the site of Iceland’s original Viking parliament.

Dynjandi Waterfall Day 2

Considered one of Iceland’s most impressive, this thunderous waterfall in the Westfjords region gives the impression of a bridal veil as it spreads its tumbling waters down a series of ever- growing cascades. Dynjandi is one of the most photographed sights in Iceland. Walking up to it takes 15 minutes passing five smaller waterfalls. Nearby, Hrafnseyri is the birthplace of Jón Sigurdsson, 19th-century leader of the Icelandic Independence movement. The museum includes an Icelandic turf house.

Expedition Activities
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Walk to Dynjandi Waterfall With Swan Hellenic Expedition Team
  • Duration: 01 h 30 m
  • Included
  • Your onboard expedition team, experts in all things Icelandic, will guide you along the path to this hidden treasure.
  • Awaken your spirit of adventure as you witness nature's raw power firsthand
  • Discover the secrets of Dynjandi and providing a deeper understanding of its geological significance and cultural importance.
Isafjordur Day 3

Surrounded by fjords in the Westfjords region, Ísafjördur is a bustling fishing town in northwest Iceland with colourful wooden 18th- and 19th-century houses in the old town of Neskaupstadur. Ísafjördur was one of the largest fisheries in Iceland, but tourism has now taken over. Nearby is Sudavik, home to the Arctic Fox Centre. Iceland’s only mammal, the arctic fox lives on the lush tundra of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve - the northernmost peninsula in the Westfjords with two of Europe’s largest bird cliffs.

Shore Excursion
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Whale Watching from Isafjordur
  • Duration: 02 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Sail along the beautiful Snæfjallaströnd (Snow-Mountain-Coast) while looking out for whales in the water
  • Besides whales we might encounter seals as well as dolphins
Westfjords Life and Culture
  • Duration: 03 h 00 m
  • Included
  • Discover the time-honoured local methods of salting fishing
  • Go back in time as you enter the turf-and-stone fishing shacks, greeted by a local dressed in a traditional sheepskin fisherman's outfit
  • Visit the Maritime Museum, housed in some of Iceland's oldest buildings, to delve into the history of the fishing industry that has sustained the area for centuries
Secluded Valley & Flavours of Isafjordur
  • Duration: 03 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Get to know the history of the Stadardalur Valley , which at one point was inhabited by multiple farms and one of the first places in Iceland to be settled by the Vikings
  • Visit the farm and interact with the animals and enjoying Icelandic delicacies
Vigur Island Day 3

Island of Vigur is a real pearl of the Western Fjords. The second-largest island in the fjord, measuring two kilometres by 400 metres, it’s a significant seabird colony, which is home to arctic terns, puffins, black guillemots and eider ducks. As one of only two inhabited islands in the fjord, Vigur is also the site of a single farm, which has been in the same family for generations. During your time on the island, you might see Iceland’s only windmill, the country’s smallest post office and oldest boat, which was built more than 200 years ago and in regular use until relatively recently.

Shore Excursion
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Vigur Island Walking Tour
  • Duration: 01 h 30 m
  • Included
  • Spot eider ducks nesting in great numbers, you might even see the majestic birds plucking down from their chests to make a warm shelter for their eggs
  • Get up close with a 200-year-old, eight-oar rowing boat and the oldest windmill in Iceland
  • See the charming houses that dot Vigur's landscape including Viktoria House,built in 1862 and restored by the National Museum of Iceland in 1993, as well as a house established by a young priest in 1884
Grimsey Island Day 4

Grímsey is a remote island located 40km off Iceland’s north coast. Many people travel here for the purpose of setting foot in the Arctic Circle, the only place in Iceland where you can do so. The island is also home to fewer than 100 people, but over one million seabirds. Birdlife thrives here thanks to the lack of egg predation (there are no rats or mice on the island) and the rich, well-stocked surrounding seas. Grímsey has one of Iceland’s largest tern nesting sites and largest puffin colonies.

Shore Excursion
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Life in Arctic Circle
  • Duration: 02 h 30 m
  • Included
  • Visit the church that was built from driftwood in the 19th century, demonstrating the resourcefulness and resilience of those who have shaped the island's story
  • Be prepared for an exhilarating physical challenge that will take you across approx. 7.5km of invigorating nature walk with some inclines towards the Arctic circle
  • In addition to active birds flying above, you might also get to encounter the abundant marine life of the area
Hrisey Island Day 4

Hrisey Island is a small island in the Eyjafjordur fjord in northern Iceland. It is home to various wildlife, including puffins, seals, and whales. Hriseyjarfjall Mountain is the highest point and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Akureyri Day 4-5

Home to some 18,000 residents, Akureyri stands proud as the Land of Fire and Ice’s ‘Capital of the North’. It’s the gateway to some natural wonders including the Myvatn region, Dettifoss waterfall, Godafoss waterfall and Asbyrgi canyon. But before you rush off, take some time to explore: Iceland’s winsome second city is colourful, cosy and utterly enchanting – even the red traffic lights are cute. Instagrammers will adore heart-shaped stop signs. Enjoy the quaint harbourfront; climb the steps to the towering Akureyri Church; stroll around Lystigardurinn, the city’s Arctic botanical garden; visit the Laufás Turf Houses; get in the festive spirit early at the Christmas House (Jolahusid); admire the exhibits at the Akureyri Art Museum or the Hof cultural centre; or take a dip in the outdoor, geothermal swimming pool.

Shore Excursion
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Myvatn Hike
  • Duration: 07 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Challenge yourself with this trek through the unique and stunning landscapes of northern Iceland that promise to make the entire journey worth the effort
  • Start your hike at Hverfell, a large, circular volcanic crater about 140 m deep and with a diameter of 1,000 m
  • As you drive through Dimmuborgir, see the strange formations, columns and arches that have been the source of many folktales in Iceland
Forest Lagoon & Panoramic Akureyri
  • Duration: 03 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Pass through the oldest and newest parts of Akureyri to admire the contrast of modern houses and some dating back to the 1800s
  • After soaking in the geothermal pools, visit the 1,300 sq. m. complex that holds a bistro, two infinity pools, a cold tub and a sauna at the spa
  • Drive through the forest of Kjarnaskógur to admire the scenery as you pass two small hydroelectric plants, a golf course and the airport
Seydisfjordur Day 6

Regarded as east Island’s cultural hub, brightly painted wooden houses line Seyðisfjörður’s port. With a lively arts scene disproportionate to its small size, Seyðisfjörður has attracted many writers and artists over the years and also hosts an annual summer arts festival. Surrounded by incredible nature, the Skálanes nature reserve is a short distance from the town. The area covered by the reserve is known for its diverse wildlife with over 47 species of bird and over 150 plant species. Reindeer are also seen here, with seals and porpoises frequently spotted along the shores.

Shore Excursion
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Vök Nature Baths
  • Duration: 03 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Take a soak in the floating geothermal pools at the Vök Baths to unwind and revitalize while complete surrounded by the rest of Lake Urriðavatn
  • Admire the architecture of the baths, designed to evoke a deeper connection and appreciation for the beauty of Iceland’s one-of-a-kind nature
Skálanes Nature Reserve
  • Duration: 03 h 15 m
  • Included
  • Enjoy this guided tour of Skálanes nature reserve where your guide will point nesting seabirds, like the large colony of Eiders and Arctic Terns, as well as stunning cliffs reaching up to 640 m
  • Explore the landscape that still holds remnants of farms and turf structures that demonstrate the relationship of humans and nature since the settlement of Iceland
  • This tour also includes a stop to an archaeological dig site, called Thorarinsstaðir, to see the stave church and graveyard discovered by a team in 1998
Horseback Riding in the Eastern Fjords
  • Duration: 04 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Journey on horseback through the stunning East Fjords to discover the bountiful and vibrant unspoiled nature of the region
  • Listen as your local guide recounts stories and folklore from area as they lead you to to some of the most picturesque points for pictures
  • Get to know the five gaits of the small sturdy Icelandic horses are famed for: the walk, trot, gallop, tölt (a smooth run) and skeið (flying pace)
Djupivogur Day 7

Home to fewer than 500 residents, the quiet fishing village of Djupivogur dates back to the Viking era. Despite its formidable origins, the village is better known these days for its unhurried pace of life. Djupivogur’s most famous artistic offering may be the first thing you notice as you disembark. The 34 large granite eggs that line the road along the bay are not easy to miss. The art installation, named ‘The Eggs at Merry Bay’ (Eggin í Gleðivík in Icelandic) represents the 34 species of birds that nest locally. Immerse yourself further into the wild on a trip to nearby Vatnajökull National Park. Covering 14% of Iceland’s land mass, this vast area is home to giant ice caps, thundering glacial rivers, grumbling active volcanoes and a host of other geological wonders. Take a guided tour out onto Vatnajökull Glacier, Europe’s largest ice cap, and experience the glory of true Icelandic wilderness for yourself.

Shore Excursion
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4x4 Waterfalls & Bragðavellir
  • Duration: 03 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Visit the nature lovers haven of Bragdavellir cottage and farm where you’ll find an abundance of bird life set against picturesque views
  • Get to know the local farmers who keep the site in impeccable shape and also run the Bragdavellir café
  • Relax to the roaring sounds of rushing waterfalls and even get the rare opportunity to dismount your vehicle and walk up close to Einstigsfoss waterfall
A Cultural Walk in Djúpivogur
  • Duration: 02 h 00 m
  • Included
  • Let your imagination soar as you discuss the symbolism behind the intriguing “Eggs” sculpture with your guide
  • Uncover the hidden story behind the repurposed Tank and marvel at the ingenuity that has transformed it
  • Your exploration wouldn't be complete without a visit to a local craft museum and store to admire the craftsmanship and artistry that have been passed down for generations
Hoffelsjökull Glacier & Lagoon
  • Duration: 05 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Your first stop is Hoffellsjökull, an outlet glacier formed during the "little ice age” which played a crucial role for the local communit
  • The glacier tongue was also a hub for groundbreaking glaciological studies, offering invaluable insights into the mysteries of these frozen giant
  • Understand the effects of climate change from your guide and the indelible mark it has left on Hoffellsjökull
Vatnajökull Adventure & Sightseeing
  • Duration: 09 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Drive through the beautiful Mýrar district and arrive at your destination of the mighty Vatnajökull ice cap, the largest outside the Arctic regions
  • Follow the tortuous roads on your ascent up the Skálafellsjökull Glacier as the anticipation builds with each meter you rise above sea level
  • Ride aboard a 4x4 jeep, a snow scooter or a Snow Truck (assigned by the local operator) and embark on this action packed adventure of a lifetime
Jökulsárlón Cruise & Scenic Drive
  • Duration: 08 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Feel the exhilaration of navigating through the icy wonderland of Jökulsárlón by boat, immersing yourself in otherworldly landscapes that will leave you in awe
  • See some of Iceland’s finest scenery as you pass mountains with glacial tongues penetrating downward and pastoral landscapes squeezed between shifting black sands
  • On your way back, stop for a traditional Icelandic meal at a local restaurant and glimpse at the beautiful village of Höfn
Heimaey Day 8

A small 13-kilometre square island off the south coast of Iceland, Heimaey’s history has been surprisingly eventful. From the escapee 16th century Irish slaves to the reaches of the Ottoman Empire and subsequent pirate invasion, the island was a place of danger and terror until the mid 18th century. Once these events subsided, for 300 years the people of Heimaey assumed that their days of action were a thing of the past. That was until 1973 when residents awoke to a devastating volcanic eruption. Fissures over a kilometre wide snaked through the town, the lava engulfing over 400 homes. Remarkably, only one person is thought to have died as a result of the eruption, with a quick rescue response ensuring that the 5,300 residents were swiftly evacuated to the safety of the mainland. Evidence of this recent geological activity can be seen just about everywhere on Heimaey and is the focus of the fascinating Eldheimar museum.

Shore Excursion
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Pompeii of the North
  • Duration: 03 h 00 m
  • Included
  • Visit a birdwatching house in Stórhöfði, providing a wonderful opportunity to see the largest puffin colony
  • Drive between two incredible volcanoes, the 5,000-year-old volcano Helgafell (Holy Mountain) and the considerably younger volcano Eldfell (Fire Mountain)
  • Brace yourself for the untamed power of nature with a stop at the windiest place on Earth, where the average wind speed reaches 11 m/s
Caves & Islands RIB Safari
  • Duration: 02 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Cruise through the waters at high speeds, jetting from cave to cave and maybe even spotting some wildlife like orcas, dolphins, seals, puffins and fulmars
  • Visit the Ægir cave, an extremely deep and beautiful cave with basalt columns, and the Klettahellir cave, known as the roomy cliff cave with excellent acoustics
  • Your guide will point out unusual rock formations that have been shaped over years of interplay by the sea and volcanic activity
Volcano ATV Tour (2 persons/ATV)
  • Duration: 02 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Experience the thrill of driving amidst the remnants of volcanic activity as you explore this unique geological wonder
  • Gear up with all the essentials for your exciting ride, including a helmet with a built in communication gadget so you can listen to your guide’s stories as your tour about the island
  • You ride will take you to historical points of interest including the scene where Guðlaugur Friðþórsson reached land after swimming 5 km in the dark, cold sea after his trawler Hellisey VE 503 sank
Reykjavik Day 9

Your cruise ends in Reykjavík. Make sure there is sufficient time before you begin your journey home to explore this diminutive but dramatic capital city. Despite its small size, you won’t be short of things to see and do. To get your bearings, take the elevator to the top of Hallgrímskirkja. This church, designed by famed Icelandic architect Gudjón Samuelsson is one of the most distinctive buildings in town. When you return to earth, visit the city’s other renowned building Harpa Concert Hall, located at the heart of Reykjavík's regenerated harbour – also the home of the Maritime Museum. Speaking of cultural spaces, tour the National Museum to learn the story of Iceland from past to present. The Reykjavík Art Museum houses an impressive contemporary collection including eye-catching pieces by Erró. And, of course, just 50 kilometres outside the city lies Thingvellir National Park, the site of Iceland’s original Viking parliament.

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Rates Include
Regional flights to the port of embarkation and/or disembarkation (ONLY available for Antarctica cruises starting or ending in Ushuaia, Arctic cruises starting and ending in Longyearbyen and Kangerlussuaq)
Group return transfers from the airport to the cruise port (via our included accommodation where applicable)
One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel or onboard
All meals onboard
Onboard accommodation in a stateroom selected category
24-hour room service
Coffee, tea, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages available 24-hours per day
Lecture programmes by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
One selected shore excursion/expedition activities per port of call (Kayak not included, bookable for a fee on board)
Branded Swan Hellenic expedition parka and use of rubber boots in Polar Regions
Standard WiFi
Onboard gratuities & port taxes
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Itinerary Map

We are providing a list of sample excursions that Swan Hellenic may offer on this itinerary, which are subject to change. We constantly update our shore excursion program with exclusive and genuine experiences, so please do not hesitate to review your excursion program choice closer to your departure date.

We invite all guests to visit swanhellenic.com for the most updated information.

09:00 AM – 05:30 PM (EST)

+1 (800) 537 6777
ARRANGE A CALLBACK
Stateroom
Number of Guests
Oceanview D4
20 m2 Sleeps 2
Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Price From
$ 0
Oceanview M4
20 m2 Sleeps 2
Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Price From
$ 0
Balcony D5
28 m2 Sleeps 2
Located on decks 5, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or a double bed, distinct bedroom and living room areas, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6 sq. m balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Balcony M5
28 m2 Sleeps 2
Located on decks 5, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or a double bed, distinct bedroom and living room areas, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6 sq. m balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Balcony D6
28 m2 Sleeps 2
Located on decks 6, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or a double bed, distinct bedroom and living room areas, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6 sq. m balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Junior Suite
35 m2 Sleeps 2
SH Diana’s Junior Suite features a Super King Size bed, separate living room area, walk-in closet, luxurious ensuite bathroom, and a 7 sq. m private balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Suite
44 m2 Sleeps 2
Our Suites feature a Super King Size bed and separate living room with a soothing flame-effect fireplace, a luxurious ensuite bathroom, a walk-in closet, and a 6 sq. m. private balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Premium Suite
47 m2 Sleeps 2
SH Diana’s Premium Suites feature a Super King Size bed, separate living room with homely flame-effect fireplace, luxurious ensuite bathroom, spacious walk-in wardrobe and a 12 sq. m private balcony.
Price From
$ 0

We are providing a list of sample excursions that Swan Hellenic may offer on this itinerary, which are subject to change. We constantly update our shore excursion program with exclusive and genuine experiences, so please do not hesitate to review your excursion program choice closer to your departure date.

We invite all guests to visit swanhellenic.com for the most updated information.

09:00 AM – 05:30 PM (EST)

+1 (800) 537 6777
ARRANGE A CALLBACK