A Guide to a 7-Night Iceland Circumnavigation Cruise

An Iceland circumnavigation cruise offers a unique and comprehensive way to experience the country's diverse and dramatic landscapes. By sailing around the entire island, travelers can access remote fjords, coastal villages, and natural wonders that are often difficult to reach by land, all while enjoying the convenience of a floating home base. This type of journey provides a complete perspective on Iceland, from the bustling capital of Reykjavik to the tranquil East Fjords and the rugged Westfjords.

What is an Iceland Circumnavigation Cruise?

A circumnavigation cruise is a voyage that sails completely around Iceland's coastline, typically starting and ending in Reykjavik. This journey allows for a deep dive into the island's varied regions in a relatively short amount of time. Unlike land-based tours that require long drives and frequent hotel changes, a cruise lets you unpack once and wake up to a new, breathtaking view each morning. The route is designed to showcase the full spectrum of Icelandic scenery, including volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and geothermal areas.

The primary advantage of this travel style is access. Many of Iceland’s most stunning areas, particularly the intricate coastlines of the Westfjords and East Fjords, are best appreciated from the sea. Ships can navigate into narrow inlets and anchor in secluded bays, offering perspectives that are simply not possible from the road. Furthermore, life onboard often includes educational lectures from naturalists and historians, enriching your understanding of the region’s geology, wildlife, and culture as you travel.

Planning Your Arrival and Departure

Most Iceland cruises depart from Reykjavik, making Keflavík International Airport (KEF) the main entry point for international travelers. Many cruise packages are available as 'flight and cruise' deals, which can simplify logistics by bundling your airfare with the voyage. If you are booking independently, you'll find numerous airlines offer direct flights to KEF from major cities in North America and Europe. From the airport, it's about a 45-minute drive to Reykjavik's city center and cruise port.

It is highly recommended to arrive in Iceland at least one or two days before your cruise departs. This buffer helps you acclimate to the new time zone and mitigates any potential travel delays. Arriving early also provides an excellent opportunity to explore Reykjavik's vibrant arts scene, museums, and restaurants. You could also use this time for a day trip to the famous Golden Circle, which includes Þingvellir National Park, the Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area, attractions not typically covered on a coastal cruise itinerary.

A Typical 7-Night Summer Itinerary

While specific routes can vary between cruise lines, a 7-night summer circumnavigation generally follows a predictable and scenic path. The long daylight hours of the Icelandic summer allow for maximum sightseeing time both from the ship and during port calls. The journey showcases a different facet of the island's geography each day.

A sample itinerary might look something like this:

• Day 1: Reykjavik - Embark on your ship in the afternoon and set sail from Iceland's capital.
• Day 2: Stykkishólmur - Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called 'Iceland in Miniature' for its diverse landscapes.
• Day 3: Ísafjörður - Discover the remote and dramatic beauty of the Westfjords, a region of steep mountains and deep fjords.
• Day 4: Akureyri - Dock in Iceland's 'Capital of the North' and explore nearby attractions like Lake Mývatn or Goðafoss waterfall.
• Day 5: Seyðisfjörður - Arrive in the picturesque East Fjords, known for its artistic community and colorful Norwegian-style houses.
• Day 6: Heimaey, Westman Islands - Visit the island famous for the 1973 Eldfell volcanic eruption and its large puffin colonies.
• Day 7: Reykjavik - Arrive back in port in the morning for disembarkation.

Onboard Life and Onshore Excursions

The type of ship you choose will significantly shape your experience. Options range from large, traditional cruise ships with extensive amenities to smaller, purpose-built expedition vessels that can access shallower waters and more remote locations. Onboard, you can typically expect comfortable accommodations, various dining options, and public spaces like lounges and observation decks designed for scenic viewing. Many cruises, especially expedition-style ones, feature an enrichment program with experts giving talks on topics like Icelandic geology, Viking history, and local wildlife.

In each port, you will have the opportunity to join organized shore excursions or explore independently. These excursions are designed to highlight the best of each region and can range from gentle walking tours to more adventurous activities. Popular options include whale watching tours, glacier hiking, visiting geothermal spas, birdwatching trips to see puffins, and bus tours to powerful waterfalls and volcanic craters. For more remote landings in areas without traditional ports, expedition ships often use Zodiacs (sturdy inflatable boats) to ferry passengers ashore.

The Magic of an Icelandic Summer Voyage

Traveling to Iceland in the summer offers a unique set of experiences tied to the season. The most prominent feature is the Midnight Sun, where the sun barely dips below the horizon, providing nearly 24 hours of daylight. This extended light is ideal for sightseeing, photography, and simply soaking in the incredible landscapes from the deck of your ship, even late into the evening. The weather is also at its mildest, with warmer temperatures and greener landscapes than at other times of the year.

Summer is also the peak season for wildlife viewing. Iceland's coastal cliffs come alive with millions of seabirds, including the iconic Atlantic Puffin, which nests here from approximately May to August. The nutrient-rich waters surrounding the island attract numerous whale species, and it's common to spot humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbor porpoises during your voyage. Seeing these majestic creatures from the ship is a highlight for many travelers.

How to Pack and Prepare

Packing for an Icelandic cruise, even in summer, requires careful planning for variable weather. The key is to bring layers that you can add or remove as conditions change. A waterproof and windproof outer jacket and pants are essential, as rain showers can appear unexpectedly. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes with good traction are a must for onshore excursions, which often involve walking over uneven terrain.

Other important items to pack include:

• Warm layers such as fleece jackets, sweaters, and thermal underwear.
• A hat, gloves, and a scarf for colder sea days or glacier visits.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses, as the sun can be strong, especially when reflected off water or ice.
• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated with Iceland's pure tap water.
• A camera with extra batteries and memory cards to capture the stunning scenery.
• Binoculars for spotting wildlife from a distance.