Whales & Wonders of Iceland

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.