Iceland Circumnavigation: Land of Fjords & Epic Waterfalls
Come aboard 114-guest Sea Spirit for an unforgettable expedition through the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, where fire, ice and ocean meet in perfect harmony. From this classy ship, explore remote fjords, geothermal pools, Arctic culture and wildlife, thundering waterfalls, hidden coves and hard-to-reach corners.
Embark on an unforgettable expedition through the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, where fire, ice and ocean meet in perfect harmony. From this classy ship, explore remote fjords, geothermal pools, Arctic culture and wildlife, thundering waterfalls, hidden coves and hard-to-reach corners.
Begin in the vibrant capital, Reykjavík, with its charming streets, striking architecture and rich cultural life. Sail into the remote Westfjords and witness the breathtaking beauty of cascading waterfalls, including the stunning Dynjandi. Explore hidden fjords, tranquil fishing villages, and volcanic islands, where rugged cliffs and thriving seabird colonies reveal a world untouched by time.
Along the way, meet Icelanders who share the myths, legends and flavors of their land, bringing the island’s history and traditions to life. From volcanic peaks and black-sand beaches to steaming geothermal pools and serene lakes, prepare for a journey where Iceland’s extraordinary landscapes and captivating stories leave a lasting impression.
Sailing aboard the 114-guest Sea Spirit is like floating aboard a fine hotel that is highly maneuverable and capable of navigating narrow bays and icy channels. Add in the incredible amenities, a generous crew, expert leaders and onboard photography lessons and this voyage is complete.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises and Iceland cruises.
Iceland Circumnavigation: Land of Fjords & Epic Waterfalls Itinerary
This Iceland circumnavigation cruise operates round-trip from Reykjavik, with an included hotel overnight to start and visits to highlights around the country, including Grimsey Island above the Arctic Circle.
Your expedition begins in Reykjavík, a city that’s both authentically Icelandic and effortlessly cosmopolitan. Explore its lively streets, visit Hallgrímskirkja, discover local museums and galleries, or join locals in a geothermal pool—the true social heart of the city.
Enjoy a leisurely morning before boarding the ship in the afternoon. From this moment on, roads are no longer needed, and you begin your journey off the beaten path to discover Iceland’s many wonders.
Often called Iceland in Miniature, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula captures all the island’s magic in one place—dramatic cliffs, black-sand beaches, lava fields, glaciers and volcanic craters. Pass waterfalls and the famous Kirkjufell Mountain, known to Game of Thrones fans as the Arrowhead Mountain, with every view revealing a touch of Iceland’s mystical soul.
Explore Iceland’s remote Westfjords, the island’s oldest and most untouched region. A Zodiac landing brings you to Dynjandi—the “thunderous” waterfall—a 328-foot (100m) cascade spilling over basalt steps like a giant wedding cake. Later, visit Suðureyri, a charming fishing village where you can enjoy authentic local flavors.
Known as the Herring Capital of the World in its heyday, Siglufjörður is rich in maritime history and local character. Visit the award-winning Herring Era Museum, taste fresh herring with Brennivín, and stop by Frida’s famous chocolate shop and the local brewery.
This afternoon, take Zodiacs north to Grímsey Island, which lies directly across the Arctic Circle. Here, steep cliffs teem with thousands of seabirds, emerald meadows stretch across the island, and a small 19th-century driftwood church stands as a unique Arctic landmark.
Surrounded by snowcapped peaks and the deep blue Eyjafjörður, Akureyri is the vibrant heart of the north. From here, head to the volcanic landscapes of Lake Mývatn—steaming vents, lava fields and surreal scenery. Visit Goðafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods, and continue to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, an unforgettable force of nature.
Sailing along Iceland’s rugged eastern coast, arrive in Seyðisfjörður—a hidden gem nestled among waterfalls and misty mountains. Its colorful wooden houses, built by XIX-century Norwegian traders, line the peaceful harbor, their reflections shimmering in the still fjord waters.
Later, visit Lake Urriðavatn to soak in a geothermal pool with sweeping views of the lake and surrounding peaks. As warm thermal waters meet the crisp mountain air, you’ll feel a close connection with Iceland’s raw and untouched beauty.
Anchor near the peaceful fishing village of Djúpivogur, surrounded by rugged cliffs and calm fjords. A guided walk takes you along black-sand beaches and quiet lagoons, where puffins, arctic terns and other seabirds can be spotted. Explore small islands linked by natural sandbars, visit a traditional birdwatching hut and enjoy the gentle rhythm of village life —a perfect way to experience Iceland’s serene coastal beauty.
The volcanic Westman Islands are among Earth’s youngest landscapes, shaped by recent eruptions, dramatic cliffs and thriving seabird colonies. On Heimaey, see the impact of the 1973 Eldfell eruption, which buried part of the town in ash, and explore the Eldheimar Museum, where interactive exhibits bring this event to life.
Your expedition ends in Reykjavík, but Iceland’s fire-and-ice spirit lingers. Spend the morning exploring the city’s galleries, shops and cafés, or relax in a geothermal spa. Its vivid colors and dramatic landscapes make for a memorable farewell.
Included
1 pre-voyage hotel night on Day 1; group transfer to the ship on day of embarkation; shipboard accommodation; all meals on board throughout the voyage; tea and coffee station 24 hours daily; all-inclusive beverage package that includes soft drinks, house wine and beer, and house spirits; all scheduled landings/excursions (subject to weather and ice conditions); leadership throughout the voyage by experienced expedition leader & expedition team; branded Poseidon Expeditions parka; rubber boots for shore landings for the time of the cruise; welcome and farewell cocktails; all port fees; group transfer to Keflavik International Airport (KEF) or centrally located hotel, upon disembarkation; pre-departure materials; digital voyage Log; WiFi on board.
Exclusions
Airfare; transfer from the airport to the hotel at the beginning of the program; visa and passport fees (if applicable); luggage and trip cancellation insurance; personal expenses such as laundry, telecommunication charges, etc.; staff gratuities; added-cost activities, if available; Emergency Evacuation Insurance to a minimum benefit of $200,000 USD per person. Fuel surcharge may be applied for all bookings.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a non-refundable deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Iceland Circumnavigation: Land of Fjords & Epic Waterfalls cruise begins and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF). Plan flights to arrive to Reykjavik anytime on Day 1 of the itinerary. The estimated disembarkation time is between 8:00am and 9:00am on the last day of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Reykjavik no earlier than 12:00pm Noon. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Hiking, Zodiac cruising, lectures, workshops and an expert photography guide on board each voyage are optional and included.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x the per-person listed rate in Main Deck Suite, Classic Suite and Superior Suite; and 2x the per-person listed rate in Deluxe Suite, Premium Suite and Owner’s Suite, based upon availability. Cabin share is available only in the following categories: Triple Classic, Main Deck Suite, Classic Suite and Superior Suite.
Families & Children
Children must be at least 12 years of age to participate in this trip; however, on a case-by-case basis, children ages 6-11 may be accepted with additional screening.
Travel Insurance
Emergency evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $200,000 USD per person, but is not included in the cost of this trip. In addition to the emergency evacuation insurance, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditions, wildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.
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Carrying a maximum of 114 passengers, the M/V Sea Spirit is an outstanding polar-approved vessel and the perfect home away from home. With amenities paralleling that of a fine hotel, this all-suite vessel is highly maneuverable and capable of navigating the narrow bays and channels of polar waters.
Sea Spirit Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Sea Spirit review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our polar experts have been aboard the Sea Spirit firsthand. Please read our Sea Spirit review below then contact our experts to compare the Sea Spirit with other, Antarctica ships and polar expedition ships that offer Antarctica cruises and Arctic cruises including Iceland cruises and cruises to Greenland.
Choose the Sea Spirit ship for comfort without compromising the natural and untamed experience of the polar regions in which she cruises. Stabilizers provide the smoothest sailing possible throughout the journey; common areas are comfortable and cabins are spacious and have turn-down service. On board, the crew and guides create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for all guests, united by one goal: supporting passengers in having a memorable wilderness experience and becoming real polar adventurers.
Sea Spirit History
Sea Spirit was built at the Nuovi Cantieri Apunia shipyard in Carrara, Italy, in 1991 as the Renaissance V, and subsequently sailed as the Spirit of Oceanus for Cruise West before being modified in 2010 to make her more suitable for polar cruising. The vessel has been operating on expedition voyages to the Arctic and Antarctica since late 2010.
Common Areas Aboard Sea Spirit
Spacious common areas aboard the Sea Spirit are decorated with classic and modern photographs and art. Renovations in 2016/17 with updated cabins and public areas, totaled 2.5 million dollars in upgrades for an improved guest experience.
The Sea Spirit includes an enclosed quiet library offering a large collection of polar books and DVDs on the Club Deck. The presentation lounge offers state-of-the-art equipment for briefings, lectures and recaps. Entertainment, unforgettable views, a well-stocked bar and opportunities for socializing are available in the comfortable Club Lounge. The numerous outdoor deck areas are open to enjoy passing scenery and barbecues (weather permitting), as well as relaxing in the outdoor hot tub.
The gym includes aerobic and weight-lifting equipment and space for yoga and stretching. Any last-minute items and handmade gifts are available for purchase at the polar boutique. The Bridge is an excellent place to observe wildlife as there is an outdoor platform and the captain and officers have a keen eye for spotting wildlife. Reception is open for questions and concerns and an infirmary with a licensed medical doctor is also available if needed. There is elevator access to all passenger decks.
Dining Aboard Sea Spirit
Contemporary, international cuisine is offered in an open-seating arrangement. Nightly three-course meals are prepared by top chefs and an expert kitchen staff and are plated. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style and offer healthy options. An alternative option for lunch is the Outdoor Bistro offering light meals when the weather is amiable. Daily tea time is a welcomed addition in between exploration activities. Special diets can be accommodated with advance notice.
The Sea Spirit has a full-service bar with professional bartender, serving a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks during the voyage, all at an additional cost. Coffee, tea, cocoa and bottled water are available around the clock, in the Lounge.
Crew & Guides Aboard Sea Spirit
The expedition team includes 12 guides and 1 cruise director and this team takes a lot of pride in their program and aims to deliver the best of Antarctica and the Arctic. Onboard lectures center on a range of topics such as penguins of the Southern Ocean, whale conservation, geology and birds of the Drake Passage. Photography lectures support the natural desire to take the best pictures possible in these unique environments. Optional excursions including hiking, kayaking, birding, Zodiac cruising and camping are available on most departures.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Sea Spirit
All cabins on the Sea Spirit were renovated in 2017 and feature an exterior view and spaciousness not commonly found on other expedition ships of this size. Cabins offer daily turn-down service and have a flat-screen TV, DVD player, in-room safe, refrigerator, individual temperature control, shampoo and body wash, drying line and hair dryers en suite. Satellite phone and internet access is available in every cabin. Private facilities in each cabin include a sink, toilet and shower.
Carrying a maximum of 114 passengers, the M/V Sea Spirit is an outstanding polar-approved vessel and the perfect home away from home. With amenities paralleling that of a fine hotel, this all-suite vessel is highly maneuverable and capable of navigating the narrow bays and channels of polar waters.
Sea Spirit Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Sea Spirit review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our polar experts have been aboard the Sea Spirit firsthand. Please read our Sea Spirit review below then contact our experts to compare the Sea Spirit with other, Antarctica ships and polar expedition ships that offer Antarctica cruises and Arctic cruises including Iceland cruises and cruises to Greenland.
Choose the Sea Spirit ship for comfort without compromising the natural and untamed experience of the polar regions in which she cruises. Stabilizers provide the smoothest sailing possible throughout the journey; common areas are comfortable and cabins are spacious and have turn-down service. On board, the crew and guides create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for all guests, united by one goal: supporting passengers in having a memorable wilderness experience and becoming real polar adventurers.
Sea Spirit History
Sea Spirit was built at the Nuovi Cantieri Apunia shipyard in Carrara, Italy, in 1991 as the Renaissance V, and subsequently sailed as the Spirit of Oceanus for Cruise West before being modified in 2010 to make her more suitable for polar cruising. The vessel has been operating on expedition voyages to the Arctic and Antarctica since late 2010.
Common Areas Aboard Sea Spirit
Spacious common areas aboard the Sea Spirit are decorated with classic and modern photographs and art. Renovations in 2016/17 with updated cabins and public areas, totaled 2.5 million dollars in upgrades for an improved guest experience.
The Sea Spirit includes an enclosed quiet library offering a large collection of polar books and DVDs on the Club Deck. The presentation lounge offers state-of-the-art equipment for briefings, lectures and recaps. Entertainment, unforgettable views, a well-stocked bar and opportunities for socializing are available in the comfortable Club Lounge. The numerous outdoor deck areas are open to enjoy passing scenery and barbecues (weather permitting), as well as relaxing in the outdoor hot tub.
The gym includes aerobic and weight-lifting equipment and space for yoga and stretching. Any last-minute items and handmade gifts are available for purchase at the polar boutique. The Bridge is an excellent place to observe wildlife as there is an outdoor platform and the captain and officers have a keen eye for spotting wildlife. Reception is open for questions and concerns and an infirmary with a licensed medical doctor is also available if needed. There is elevator access to all passenger decks.
Dining Aboard Sea Spirit
Contemporary, international cuisine is offered in an open-seating arrangement. Nightly three-course meals are prepared by top chefs and an expert kitchen staff and are plated. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style and offer healthy options. An alternative option for lunch is the Outdoor Bistro offering light meals when the weather is amiable. Daily tea time is a welcomed addition in between exploration activities. Special diets can be accommodated with advance notice.
The Sea Spirit has a full-service bar with professional bartender, serving a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks during the voyage, all at an additional cost. Coffee, tea, cocoa and bottled water are available around the clock, in the Lounge.
Crew & Guides Aboard Sea Spirit
The expedition team includes 12 guides and 1 cruise director and this team takes a lot of pride in their program and aims to deliver the best of Antarctica and the Arctic. Onboard lectures center on a range of topics such as penguins of the Southern Ocean, whale conservation, geology and birds of the Drake Passage. Photography lectures support the natural desire to take the best pictures possible in these unique environments. Optional excursions including hiking, kayaking, birding, Zodiac cruising and camping are available on most departures.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Sea Spirit
All cabins on the Sea Spirit were renovated in 2017 and feature an exterior view and spaciousness not commonly found on other expedition ships of this size. Cabins offer daily turn-down service and have a flat-screen TV, DVD player, in-room safe, refrigerator, individual temperature control, shampoo and body wash, drying line and hair dryers en suite. Satellite phone and internet access is available in every cabin. Private facilities in each cabin include a sink, toilet and shower.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
Sail aboard the all-suite Sea Spirit to experience the Arctic and Antarctica in grand style with all the amenities of a fine hotel. This outstanding vessel is the perfect home away from home.
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