Hikers walk back from large cliffs overlooking gushing waterfall under sunny skies & among green grass in Iceland.
Travelers on Iceland's Westfjords & North Coast cruise hike over tundra & boulders near large waterfall in misty conditions.
Small group of Iceland's Westfjords & North Coast cruise guests in blue jackets walk a mowed grass path as birds fly above.
Zodiac boat with waving Iceland's Westfjords & North Coast cruise guests moves through calm water under cloudy skies.
Woman hiker in blue jacket smiles as man in gray shirt looks uphill on a hike in green shrubs along Iceland's Westfjords & North Coast.
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Polar Regions Arctic Cruise

Iceland’s Westfjords & North Coast Cruise

On this 7-day Discovery Expedition, explore Iceland’s Westfjords & North Coast, one of the remotest and most pristine regions in Iceland—ideal for nature hikes and bird and whale viewing. Discovery Expeditions are jam-packed with guided, choose-your-own-adventure excursions that highlight local nature, culture and history.

Experience diverse landscapes including thundering waterfalls, lava fields that breathe steam and verdant valleys that stretch beyond the horizon. In Husavik(2025), keep your eyes and cameras ready to catch the fluke of a whale tail as it takes a deep dive. Atlantic puffins can be found in large numbers in Iceland, and you’ll have many opportunities to encounter these charismatic birds nesting in their burrows.

The highlights are many on this cruise. Witness the incredible diversity of Iceland’s landscapes forged by the powerful seismic activity that has shaped the island’s appearance and way of life. Witness amazing bird activity at the Latrabjarg cliffs, the easternmost point in Europe and home to a large colony of nesting puffins. Hike on Vigur Island where you can get close to rare Arctic birdlife.

Home base is the 132-guest Sylvia Earle, but note that in order to experience some of Iceland’s incredible scenery, a number of the shore excursions on this itinerary use overland coach to travel away from the coast for the best of both worlds.

Read on for details about this Iceland circumnavigation, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Iceland cruises, Svalbard cruises, Greenland cruisesNorthern Europe cruises, Arctic cruises and Arctic trips.



Itinerary

2026 Iceland's Westfjords & North Coast Itinerary

On this 7-day Discovery Expedition of Iceland’s Westfjords & North Coast, sail round-trip from Reykjavik to explore one of the remotest and most pristine regions in Iceland—ideal for nature hikes and bird and whale viewing. This itinerary does not visit Siglufjordur or Arnarstapi & Grundafjordur.

Route map of 7-day Iceland's Westfjords & North Coast cruise from Reykjavik to Akureyri.
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Day 1
Arrive Reykjavik, Iceland

Having made your way to Reykjavik, you will be met by a ship representative and transferred to the group hotel. Upon arrival at your included hotel, please visit the hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with the ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine, withdraw cash or purchase last-minute items from a local pharmacy or supermarket. The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.

Accommodations

The Grand Hotel Reykjavik (or similar)

Meals

n/a

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Day 2
Embark Reykjavik

This morning, ensure any cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags and take it down to hotel reception. Luggage will be collected from the hotel and transferred directly to port for clearance and delivered to your cabin ahead of embarkation. Keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day.

Enjoy breakfast and then check out. Join your guided Golden Circle and Geothermal Energy tour. With 85% of its electricity sourced from renewable sources, Iceland sets an outstanding example when it comes to sustainable energy.

Your journey takes you to the famous seismic sights of the Golden Circle route – Gullfoss waterfall, geysir, and history-rich Thingvellir National Park, before you’ll experience first-hand how green, sustainable energy is produced at one of the largest single-site geothermal power plants on the planet at the Geothermal Energy Exhibition and Ljósafossvirkjun Power Station. This evening, get to know your fellow expeditioners, expedition team and crew at the welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure.

Accommodations

Sylvia Earle

Meals

breakfast, dinner

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Day 3
Patreksfjordur & Dynjandi - Westfjords

Over the next 2 days, explore the Westfjords region featuring outstanding landscapes with jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer table mountains that plunge into the sea and pristine North Atlantic vegetation.

At Patreksfjordur, a shore excursion by coach takes us to Latrabjarg cliffs. As Europe’s largest bird cliff, Latrabjarg is home to millions of seabirds, such as puffin, razorbill, fulmar and guillemot. Enjoy the impressive variety of natural wonders and unspoiled nature. Latrabjarg also happens to be the westernmost point in Europe, east coast of the North American continent on the other side of the Atlantic.

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the afternoon as we cruise northward, taking in breathtaking landscapes and keeping a watchful eye for whales. Later, we’ll embark on a Zodiac landing to witness the awe-inspiring power of Dynjandi waterfall.

Accommodations

Sylvia Earle

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
Thingeyri - Westfjords

Thingeyri, a quaint village nestled on a slender strip of land, graces the shores of one of Iceland’s most picturesque fjords, Dýrafjörður. Much like many other coastal settlements in Iceland, the village’s culture and industry have been intricately woven with the influence of the sea over centuries. The surrounding landscape is adorned with towering mountains, lending a distinctive charm to the scenic expanse that envelops Thingeyri. This idyllic region is often hailed as the “Alps of the Westfjords,” especially the highland area nestled between the majestic fjords of Dýrafjörður and Arnarfjörður. The beauty of Thingeyri lies not only in its coastal simplicity but also in the dramatic backdrop of high mountains that paints a captivating portrait of this Icelandic village.

You can choose from a selection of shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the That Viking Thing Experience, walk through a recreated Viking area including ruins and an interactive Viking Museum including opportunities to dress up and take photos, drink Icelandic Viking beer and bake Viking bread. And on the Sandafell Mountain Hike, take on a moderate-difficult hike for gorgeous views, followed by a cruise along breathtaking landscapes with possible whale sightings and a Zodiac trip to the Dynjandi waterfall.

Accommodations

Sylvia Earle

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
Vigur Island

On Vigur Island, birdwatchers can try and tick a few species on their list, while others can enjoy walks and hikes of varying levels of difficulty, soaking in the stunning surrounds. The island’s unique ecosystem is a haven for birdlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Stroll along the coastline, keeping an eye out for puffins and other seabirds, or venture deeper into the island to discover hidden gems. With its rolling hills, picturesque landscapes and fresh sea air, Vigur offers an unforgettable experience.

Accommodations

Sylvia Earle

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
Akureyri

Picturesque Akureyri is Iceland’s second largest city outside the capital area and is blessed with a superb snowcapped mountain backdrop.

You can choose from a selection of shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the Góðafoss, Lake Myvatn & Baths excursion, visit Godafoss Falls and soak at Myvatn Nature baths, an outdoor hot spring bathing complex surrounded by mountain views. On the Góðafoss, Lake Myvatn & Dimmuborgir tour, explore the Godafoss waterfall, Lake Myvatn and Dimmuborgir with its enormous lava rocks and cliffs. And on the Hverfjall Volcanic Crater Hike, Dimmuborgir & Dettifoss outing, visit Dimmuborgir and then take on a strenuous hike up the Hverfjall Volcanic Crater.

Enjoy a free evening in Akureyri. Discover the charm of this northern gem as you explore its vibrant streets. Unwind in cozy pubs, savor the taste of Iceland’s finest craft beers at local breweries, or immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere.

Accommodations

Sylvia Earle

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
Disembark Akureyri, Iceland

Disembark at approximately 8:00am. Say farewell to your expedition team and fellow passengers as you continue your onward journey. Transfer to the Akureyri airport.

Note: Passengers who book an early morning flight to Reykjavik must advise in advance so earlier disembarkation and the appropriate transfer can be arranged.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All airport transfers mentioned in itinerary; one night’s hotel accommodation in Reykjavik on Day 1 (including breakfast on Day 2); group tour to visit Iceland’s famous Golden Circle prior to embarkation, on Day 2; onboard accommodation during voyage including daily cabin service; all meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage; beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner; Captain’s Welcome and Farewell receptions including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages; all shore excursions & Zodiac cruises; educational lectures and guiding services from expedition team; complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consult); a 3-in-1 waterproof polar expedition jacket; complimentary use of muck boots during the voyage; comprehensive pre-departure information; port surcharges, permits and landing fees; WiFi (where connection is possible); crew gratuities (suite guests only).

Exclusions

International or domestic flights, unless specified in the itinerary; transfers not mentioned in the itinerary; airport arrival or departure taxes; passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination charges; travel insurance, emergency evacuation charges or personal insurance (required); hotels and meals not included in itinerary; optional excursions not included in the itinerary; optional activity surcharges; all items of a personal nature including but not limited to: alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges; automatic crew gratuities of $15 per person, per day (non-suite guests) which may be removed or amended at the end of the cruise.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of $2,500 is required per person at time of booking (additional nonrefundable $250 deposit is required for optional activities). 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:
91 days or more – 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’s Westfjords & North Coast cruise begins and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland. Plan flights to arrive to Reykjavik’s Keflavik International Airport (KEF) anytime on Day 1, but we highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. An arrival transfer to the group hotel is included on Day 1. Plan flights to depart Reykjavik no earlier than 12:00pm noon on disembarkation day. A group transfer to the airport is included following disembarkation. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

The Your Choice shore excursions listed in the itinerary are included, but your preferences must be selected at least 60 days prior to embarkation and cannot be amended after this time. If your selections are not received by this time, you will be allocated excursions by an automated system.

Birdwatching, walking, Zodiac cruising, photography tips, lectures, a polar plunge & all trips ashore are included in the rate. The 2026 Iceland Circumnavigation departure does not offer any optional, added-cost activities.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 50% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Starting April of 2026, select double-occupancy cabins are available with no single supplement; inquire with your Adventure Specialist for details and availability. Solo travelers willing to share may be matched with a person of the same gender, and if the other cabin berth goes unsold, will only pay the standard double-occupancy rate.

Families & Children

Kids 8 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Children between 8-17 years of age must pay the adult price of the expedition.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers, signed by their doctor, is required for every departure. Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum required coverage of $250,000 USD per person, covering medical, accident and repatriation/emergency evacuation, as well as baggage loss and cancellation or curtailment of holiday. In addition, 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.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Jun 09 - Jun 15, 2026
Sylvia Earle • 7 days
From $9395USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
Sylvia Earle

Sylvia Earle offers a robust menu of adventure activities from kayaking and polar diving to mountaineering and camping. Cruise responsibly knowing this brand new icebreaker polar expedition ship was built with cutting edge nautical technology including one of the lowest polluting marine engines in the world.

Expert Review

Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Todd Smith • January 19th, 2021
Expert Aboard: Sylvia Earle & Greg Mortimer Ship Review

Read a detailed ship review about the identical polar sister ships Greg Mortimer & Sylvia Earle and what they offer travelers. Our expert has been aboard and writes this from his firsthand experience.

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