Wild Iceland Escape

Day 1: Reykjavík, Iceland / Embark Ship

Arrive in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies only a fraction below the Arctic Circle and receives just four hours of sunlight in winter and 22 in summer. Have a panoramic overview of the Old Town, including Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral with its 210-foot tower, and perhaps shed some light on Nordic culture at the National Museum, with its Viking treasures, artifacts, and unusual whalebone carvings on display. Embark National Geographic Resolution.

Day 2: Djúpavík

Enjoy a leisurely morning at sea learning about Iceland and its incredible diversity. We spend the afternoon on the remote eastern side of the Westfjords to experience rural Iceland. This corner of Iceland is difficult to access and is seldom visited but boasts spectacular beauty and rich history. We take advantage of the dramatic landscape of the fjord to offer hiking, leisurely explorations of the tundra, and perhaps photography of wildflowers. The tiny town of Djúpavík held its place on the map because of the golden age of herring. During its heyday in the 1930s its herring plant was the largest concrete structure in Iceland. The plant closed in 1954 but remains as a small museum and a memory of the rich productivity of the herring industry in Iceland. We visit the museum and learn about the significance of this resource to all of Iceland in the 20th century.

Day 3: Arnafjörður

In the early morning, our ship glides into beautiful Arnarfjörður along the northwest coast of Iceland. For a more active experience, disembark early and hike several miles along the base of the fjord to visit spectacular Dynjandi Waterfall. Alternatively, join our expedition staff on the bow of the ship as we venture ever deeper into the fjord and then go ashore by Zodiac to walk up to the base of the waterfall, passing nesting Arctic terns along the way.

Day 4: Islands of Surtsey and Heimaey, Westman Islands

The Westman Islands were formed by undersea volcanoes between 5,000 and 10,000 years ago and are among the youngest of the world’s archipelagos. In 1973, Heimaey was threatened by lava flows that nearly closed off its harbor. Drive between the two volcanoes of the island then visit the ruins of old Viking houses dating back to the year 900 A.D. Opt to hike up Eldfell volcano, formed during the 1973 eruption, and have amazing views of areas that were engulfed by lava. In some places the ground is still warm with thermal vents. Watch for nesting Atlantic puffins and gannets along the shores of the island. In 1963 the world witnessed on film the birth of its newest island, Surtsey—a newly designated UNESCO World Heritage site—which we see as we cruise past the coast.

Day 5: Reykjavík / Disembark Ship

Today we complete our voyage, disembarking in Reykjavík. For travelers traveling on afternoon flights, join us on an excursion to the Reykjanes Peninsula and GeoPark to view the Mid-Atlantic Ridge above sea level and the nearby hot spring area, then transfer to the airport for flights home. Alternatively, join us for one of the optional post-voyage land extensions and continue your explorations of this amazing country.

• All accommodations aboard ship or in hotels per itinerary
• All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore
• Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits aboard the ship (except certain super premium brands which are available for purchase)
• Hors d’oeuvres, 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
• Excursions and airport transfers to and from recommended flights, as indicated in the itinerary
• Crew gratuities
• Exploration tools curated to destination, such as Zodiacs, kayaks, guidance and company of leading expedition staff
• Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker
• Complimentary parka or jacket, complimentary reusable water bottle
• Services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic
• Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment
• 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library, and other shared spaces
• Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes

• Airfare (except flights when indicated as included)
• Pre- and post-expedition extensions
• Additional hotel nights (except when indicated as included)
• Private transfers
• Laundry, spa treatments, Wi-Fi, and phone services (except when indicated as included)
• Travel protection plans
• Passport, visa, and immigration fees

Unused services or items included in our programs are non-refundable.