Fire and Ice: An 8-Day Sail Around Iceland
Highlights
- Explore Iceland’s pristine Westfjords, kayak beneath towering fjords, and discover Vigur Island’s seabird sanctuaries.
- Experience Iceland’s geological wonders, including the explosive Goðafoss waterfall and the active Lake Mývatn region.
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Surtsey Island, born from a volcanic eruption, and uncover the fascinating history of Heimaey’s lava flows.
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day Arctic expedition through Iceland’s unspoiled natural wonders, from its wild Westfjords to the volcanic powerhouses of the Westman Islands. The journey takes you through some of Iceland’s most remote and striking landscapes, where towering waterfalls, volcanic craters, and vast glaciers set the scene for breathtaking exploration. Along the way, you’ll witness remarkable wildlife, including puffins and seals, while discovering the island’s rich geological history and cultural heritage.
Traveling during Iceland’s summer months, when the midnight sun stretches across the sky, you’ll enjoy long, golden days perfect for outdoor exploration. The days will be packed with thrilling excursions like hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching, as well as immersive experiences like conservation activities with local forestry groups. At each stop, you’ll uncover a unique side of Iceland—whether it’s exploring ancient volcanic islands, soaking in geothermal waters, or walking in the footsteps of Viking settlers.
On board, the journey is just as immersive, with expert naturalists and guides leading you through the diverse Icelandic landscapes and offering educational insights into the region’s history and ecosystems. As you sail from one remote destination to another, you’ll feel the awe of adventure and discovery, knowing that you’re exploring a land few ever have the privilege to fully experience.
This expedition is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to connect deeply with one of the most geologically active and beautiful places on Earth. Prepare to feel inspired, reconnected, and in awe of the raw power and beauty of Iceland’s Arctic frontier.
Standard Activities
About the Fire and Ice: An 8-Day Sail Around Iceland
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day Arctic expedition through Iceland’s unspoiled natural wonders, from its wild Westfjords to the volcanic powerhouses of the Westman Islands. The journey takes you through some of Iceland’s most remote and striking landscapes, where towering waterfalls, volcanic craters, and vast glaciers set the scene for breathtaking exploration. Along the way, you’ll witness remarkable wildlife, including puffins and seals, while discovering the island’s rich geological history and cultural heritage.
Traveling during Iceland’s summer months, when the midnight sun stretches across the sky, you’ll enjoy long, golden days perfect for outdoor exploration. The days will be packed with thrilling excursions like hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching, as well as immersive experiences like conservation activities with local forestry groups. At each stop, you’ll uncover a unique side of Iceland—whether it’s exploring ancient volcanic islands, soaking in geothermal waters, or walking in the footsteps of Viking settlers.
On board, the journey is just as immersive, with expert naturalists and guides leading you through the diverse Icelandic landscapes and offering educational insights into the region’s history and ecosystems. As you sail from one remote destination to another, you’ll feel the awe of adventure and discovery, knowing that you’re exploring a land few ever have the privilege to fully experience.
This expedition is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to connect deeply with one of the most geologically active and beautiful places on Earth. Prepare to feel inspired, reconnected, and in awe of the raw power and beauty of Iceland’s Arctic frontier.
Itinerary Day to Day
Reykjavík, Iceland / Embark Ship
Arrive 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.
Meals Included: Dinner
Westfjords
Siglufjörður
Húsavík
Borgarfjarðarhöfn
Djúpivogur
Heimaey and Surtsey, Westman Islands
Reykjavík / Disembark Ship
Route Map
A climber, diver and storyteller, Jonathan Kingston has traveled to some of the most remote corners of the world, documenting tribal life in India’s Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, creating photogrammetric models of underwater archaeological sites and more. His work has been published in National Geographic magazine, T...
A climber, diver and storyteller, Jonathan Kingston has traveled to some of the most remote corners of the world, documenting tribal life in India’s Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, creating photogrammetric models of underwater archaeological sites and more. His work has been published in National Geographic magazine, The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, among others. He has also received numerous honors from prestigious contests, such as the Communication Arts, Prix de la Photographie Paris and PDN Photo Annual competitions.
A passionate teacher, Jonathan worked as a faculty member at India’s first school of photography, where he helped design coursework that has trained some of the country’s most renowned professional photographers, including the Academy Award®-winning director of The Elephant Whisperers. More recently, Jonathan partnered with Aaron Brien, an officer of the Crow Tribal Preservation Service, to teach a National Geographic Photo Camp on the Crow Reservation in Montana. An explorer at heart, Jonathan’s perspective behind the camera lens has been shaped by his many adventures—including circumnavigating the globe, climbing El Capitain as a teenager, riding through India on a Royal Enfield motorcycle and surviving typhoid fever in Tamil Nadu.
What's Included
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All accommodations aboard ship or in hotels per itinerary.
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All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore; beer, wine, cocktails, liquors and spirits aboard the ship (except certain premium brands which are available for purchase)
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Hors d’oeuvres, 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water.
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Excursions and airport transfers to and from recommended flights, as indicated in the itinerary.
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Crew gratuities.
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Exploration tools curated to destination, such as Zodiacs, kayaks, guidance and company of our leading expedition staff.
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Assistance by the National Geographic Photographer and Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor.
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Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker.
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Presentations by expedition staff and expert guest speakers.
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Complimentary parka or jacket, complimentary reusable water bottle.
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Onboard physician consultations.
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Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment.
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24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library, and other shared spaces.
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Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes.
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Unused services or items included in our programs are non-refundable.
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Email Indents.
What's Excluded
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Airfare (except flights* when indicated as included).
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Pre- and post-expedition extensions.
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Additional hotel nights (except when indicated as included.
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Private transfers.
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Laundry, spa treatments, Wi-Fi, and phone services (except when indicated as included).
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Travel protection plans; and passport, visa, and immigration fees.
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*Recommended flight costs include flight(s) that take place during the date range of your trip to transport travelers from one itinerary destination to another. This cost also includes ground transportation, luggage transfer, and airport assistance. If you prefer to arrange your own flights privately, have alternate means of transport, or wish to modify at a later time, please contact an Expedition Specialist
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Additional costs associated with medical services outside onboard physician consultation.
