What To Expect on a Cruise Around Iceland

Set sail to the Nordic wonderland of Iceland on a luxury cruise and experience breathtaking scenery, dramatic waterfalls, wildlife-rich areas, and more. At Edgewood Travel, we’re excited to invite you on the cruise of a lifetime with our very own Anne Bond in the summer of 2024.

But what, exactly, can you expect from a cruise around Iceland? This month, we will dive into more detail to help inspire your dream journey to the region.

Sailing the Arctic Seas: what to expect on a cruise around Iceland

A cruise around Iceland will take you through the North Atlantic and Greenland Sea, touching the Arctic Circle. There’s plenty to enjoy in this land of natural wonders, including its folklore and Nordic history.

Read on to discover information on Iceland’s scenery, picturesque towns, and what to pack for your visit.

Enjoy the scenic wonders along Iceland’s coast

The wildlife is one of the greatest pleasures you’ll gain from cruising around Iceland’s coast. You’ll see plenty of seabirds, but the rarest treat is the puffin, with the largest colony found along the island’s southern coast. Keep your eyes trained on the ocean, too, as orca whales and dolphins are not uncommon here. 

As you make your round trip from Reykjavík, you’ll understand why it’s known as a land of fire and ice, with dramatic landscapes created from volcanic activity. The jagged rock formations, massive glaciers, and rugged mountains can all be seen from the comfort of your seat onboard a cruise.

Explore Icelandic gems

There’s so much to see for a small island and many mesmerizing locations to explore. 

• The capital, Reykjavík, offers stunning, clean architecture, while the Saga Museum will bring you an insight into the country’s history.
• Learn folk tales from Iceland’s past and gaze at the beauty of the Barnafoss Waterfall and the Hraunfossar Waterfall as you travel through Borgarfjörður.
• Don’t miss the epic Gullfoss Waterfall, featuring a double fall of thundering, icy waters, sure to make you appreciate the warmth of the hot springs at the Secret Lagoon and the warming dishes back in Reykjavik.
• Visit Surtsey Island, one of the youngest, having only formed in 1960, where you’ll see Atlantic puffins and sea cliffs swarmed with birds. Heimaey Island is also worth the journey, showing you the site of a modern-day volcanic eruption.
• Sail along the waterways of Seyðisfjörður, with quaint wooden buildings and the Skalanes Nature Reserve. You can even take a hike along the Fjardara River, which winds through the town.
• Akureyri lies at the bottom of snowy mountains, ideal for skiers, but is also home to various galleries and shops. After a day of exploration, soak your muscles in the Myvatn Nature Baths.
• Once reliant on fishing, Ísafjörður is now home to alternative music, giving local artists a platform alongside big acts from around the world.
• Find glaciers, lava fields, caves, waterfalls, and more in the Snæfellsjökull National Park in Grundarfjörður, a truly spectacular place of beauty between the mountains and the ocean.

Onboard experiences and amenities

As well as luxuriously appointed accommodations, Windstar Cruises features a wealth of onboard activities and experiences. 

Onboard Windstar’s Star Pride, you’ll experience a small cruise ship journey that will take you closer to your destination than many other cruises can, while the spacious design in every suite provides unparalleled comfort as you watch the ever-changing landscape glide serenely by. Discover a variety of dining venues on board, as well as spaces to relax, including fitness areas, a soothing spa, and an inviting infinity pool.

Also onboard, Windstar Cruises offers engaging lectures where you’ll hear from experts in Icelandic natural beauties and culture, delectable food, engaging entertainment, and shore excursions that let you dive into the local culture and provide you with an authentic experience.

Tips for cruising around Iceland

While summer temperatures in Iceland are much milder than winter, the nights can still see freezing temperatures. In addition to this, the wild and open landscape can allow for strong winds, so packing essential, appropriate clothing for your Icelandic cruise is key.

We recommend the following items to help make your journey as comfortable and enjoyable as you’ve been dreaming:

• Cold-weather clothes – including base layers, fleece, and a jacket
• Water-resistant boots – ideal for both hiking and to combat any wetter shore excursions
• Gloves – a good pair of thermal gloves will keep your hands protected from exposure
• Backpack – allowing you to bring along essentials such as a camera and snacks
• Headgear – retain your body heat through a beanie or special winter headwear
• Water bottle – a reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated and protects the environment

Don’t miss out on this incredible Icelandic adventure — reserve your place on our 7-night hosted Iceland cruise with Anne, who will ensure you get the ultimate experience on this once-in-a-lifetime journey. Find out more details about the voyage and many other trips with our team on our dedicated trips page.

Call us today and we’ll take the hassle out of planning your next epic adventure with a focus on luxury and enrichment.