Arctic
Iceland
Arctic
Arctic
Experience the thrill of a complete circumnavigation of Iceland, the legendary Land of Fire and Ice. Explore thundering waterfalls, vast glaciers, and volcanic cliffs on a 12-day journey that crosses the Arctic Circle and discovers the remote Westfjords.
Duration: 12 days / 11 nights
Starts: Reykjavík, Iceland
Ends: Reykjavík, Iceland
Language: English speaking voyage
Includes one hotel night in Reykjavík on the day of arrival.
The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather and ice conditions. Your Captain and Expedition Leader will make the necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience.
Ship Cruise More info about this activity
Not only we travel from one point to another and find our shelter on board the ship we chose. We also enjoy from incredible scenery, landscapes and interactions that only our noble vessel can provide.
Everyday the Bridge Team navigates the ship to position ourselves on the best posible spots, looking for unique opportunities.
Many times, this includes sainig through narrow passages, on the vicinity of glaciers or entering bays and fjords only approachable from the ship.
Enjoy this incredible places from the comfort of the common areas on board, open decks or your own private balcony!
Shore Excursion More info about this activity
Shore excursions are the backbone of almost all itineraries, with most ships making landfall at least once every day once they reach their destination. The weather plays a huge role in your daily itinerary, although given the sheer array of fantastic landing sites all over there are plenty of options your Captain and Expedition Leader can choose from. On-shore excursions allow you to visit scientific research stations, communities, prominent wildlife colonies and take hikes to elevated viewing points for fantastic photography.
Photo Workshop More info about this activity
The photography workshops are composed of onboard lectures and practical activities led by dedicated expedition guide. Each session is meant to give you additional skills you can put into immediate practice out in nature.
You'll become more familiar with your own camera equipment while also learning best practices for taking pictures of moving wildlife and wide-open terrain in typical polar conditions, such as dim lighting and falling snow.
Zodiac cruising More info about this activity
On board the Zodiac you will discover a world of possibilities; accessing the most exclusive landing sites, cruising the coast in search of wildlife or simply enjoying a tour in the calm of the polar regions in search of marine wildlife or bird colonies.
The blue ice an its intimate presence is experienced at its best on zodiac tours.
It is not uncommon to meet curious seals, or humpback whales feeding.
Enrichment Program More info about this activity
Expedition cruising must be one of the most incredible ways of travelling. Not only for the amazing places you visit and the unforgetable wildlife but for the wildlife, the sensory overload and the unimaginable memories.
But all of this needs a context in order to understand where you are and what you are experiencing.
On board your expedition vessell you will find a group of experts, naturalists, zodiac drivers and guides that that will translate the language of nature for you, telling you the stories of the places you are visiting, reviewing the historical, biological, ecological and geological aspects of your trips.
You will experience first hand what surrounds you and arrive back home wiser and loaded with new knowledge.
Citizen Science More info about this activity
There’s important work being done every day, at some of the most renowned climate research facilities around the world, to record and study the incredible changes happening in remote places like Antarctica and th Arctic. As you might imagine, gathering critical on-site data on a regular basis would be a virtually impossible task for these groups. So we do it for them, in partnership with different research facilities.
If you’d like to get a first-hand look at how climate change is impacting our birds, sea life, glaciers, oceans, and weather patterns, and help scientists better understand our evolving planet, you’re welcome to join our Citizen Science program. And don’t let the word “science” scare you. We make it informative, interactive, and fun.
Hiking More info about this activity
Hiking options include very easy beach hikes (good for photographers who need time for photography), easier short hikes, medium-difficulty extended hikes, and more challenging long hikes.
Polar Plunge More info about this activity
The ultimate icy challenge! The Polar Plunge is a classic rite of passage for every explorer, it is a heart-pumping experience that earns you a badge of courage and unforgettable memories.
Kayaking More info about this activity
The experience of sea kayaking in the humbling wilderness of Antarctica or the Arctic is guaranteed to stir your soul.
Sea kayaking is one of the highlights for any Polar Traveller, providing ice and weather conditions are assessed as safe by your Expedition Team.
This activity requires previous kayaking experience.
Paddling More info about this activity
Paddle Excursion Program provides sit-on-top, two-person, inflatable kayaks that provide guests with an intimate, water-level experience in unforgettable locations in both the Arctic and Antarctica. These stable, rugged and comfortable crafts are an ideal way to see the polar regions from a different perspective. On-ship, you'll be provided with instruction and equipment including dry suits, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and waterproof gloves. Experienced guides will lead you safely throughout the paddling excursion. Your group will always be escorted by a safety driver in another kayak who will stay close by to provide additional support.
This expedition offers a complete circumnavigation of Iceland, allowing for a deep immersion in its geological contrasts. From the capital, Reykjavík, you will sail toward the remote Westfjords, a wild region of bird-filled cliffs and monumental waterfalls like Dynjandi. The journey continues north, crossing the Arctic Circle at Grímsey Island, exploring lava fields, steam vents, and the whale-rich waters of Húsavík, before heading to the majestic eastern fjords and the colossal Vatnajökull glacier in the south.
Over 12 days, the program combines sea and land exploration to capture the essence of the "Land of Fire and Ice." You can walk along black sand beaches, navigate among icebergs in the Jökulsárlón lagoon, and visit the Westman Islands, home to one of the world's largest puffin colonies. Guided by experts, you will discover not only the most famous natural landmarks but also the rich Icelandic cultural heritage and modern scientific efforts to preserve this unique ecosystem.
Highlights:
Circumnavigate the entire island nation.
Three days exploring the remote and wild Westfjords.
Cross the Arctic Circle by foot on Grímsey Island.
Photograph Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall.
Visit Vatnajökull glacier and the Jökulsárlón iceberg lagoon.
Day 1: Arrive in Iceland
Welcome to the Icelandic capital
Arrive in Reykjavík and make your way to the included hotel. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city, known for its Norse history and stunning modern architecture.
Day 2: Embark on Ultramarine
Beginning of the voyage
Free morning in the city. In the afternoon, bus transfer from the hotel to the port to board your expedition ship and meet the team.
Day 3 to 5: The Westfjords: Iceland's Hidden Gem
Wild nature and Viking heritage
Explore Iceland's most remote peninsula through Zodiac cruises and hikes. Visit the thunderous Dynjandi waterfall and the private island of Vigur, home to thousands of puffins and seals.
Day 6 to 8: Northern Iceland: Birds, Waterfalls, and Crossing the Arctic Circle
Volcanic geology and midnight sun
Cross the Arctic Circle on Grímsey Island. Visit Dettifoss and Gođafoss waterfalls, Dimmuborgir lava fields, and search for humpback whales on the Húsavík coast.
Day 9: East Iceland: Fjords, Mountains, and Icelandic Heritage
Biodiversity and rugged mountains
Explore Seyđisfjörđur, surrounded by verdant mountains and alpine valleys. Visit the Skálanes center to learn about local science and traditions of living in harmony with nature.
Day 10: Southern Iceland: Djúpivogur and Vatnajökull Glacier
Ice lagoons and diamond beaches
Travel inland to explore Vatnajökull National Park. Marvel at drifting icebergs in Jökulsárlón Lagoon and walk on Diamond Beach, famous for its ice and black sand contrasts.
Day 11: The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar)
Volcanic archipelago and bird colonies
Explore Heimaey, the only inhabited island, known for its 1973 volcanic eruption. Visit massive puffin colonies and sail through Klettsvík, the famous refuge of Keiko the orca.
Day 12: Disembark Reykjavík
End of the circumnavigation
Return to the capital for final disembarkation. A transfer to the city center is provided for those with post-expedition stays.
Day 1: Arrive in Iceland
Welcome to the Icelandic capital
Arrive in Reykjavík and make your way to the included hotel. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city, known for its Norse history and stunning modern architecture.
Day 2: Embark on Ultramarine
Beginning of the voyage
Free morning in the city. In the afternoon, bus transfer from the hotel to the port to board your expedition ship and meet the team.
Day 3 to 5: The Westfjords: Iceland's Hidden Gem
Wild nature and Viking heritage
Explore Iceland's most remote peninsula through Zodiac cruises and hikes. Visit the thunderous Dynjandi waterfall and the private island of Vigur, home to thousands of puffins and seals.
Day 6 to 8: Northern Iceland: Birds, Waterfalls, and Crossing the Arctic Circle
Volcanic geology and midnight sun
Cross the Arctic Circle on Grímsey Island. Visit Dettifoss and Gođafoss waterfalls, Dimmuborgir lava fields, and search for humpback whales on the Húsavík coast.
Day 9: East Iceland: Fjords, Mountains, and Icelandic Heritage
Biodiversity and rugged mountains
Explore Seyđisfjörđur, surrounded by verdant mountains and alpine valleys. Visit the Skálanes center to learn about local science and traditions of living in harmony with nature.
Day 10: Southern Iceland: Djúpivogur and Vatnajökull Glacier
Ice lagoons and diamond beaches
Travel inland to explore Vatnajökull National Park. Marvel at drifting icebergs in Jökulsárlón Lagoon and walk on Diamond Beach, famous for its ice and black sand contrasts.
Day 11: The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar)
Volcanic archipelago and bird colonies
Explore Heimaey, the only inhabited island, known for its 1973 volcanic eruption. Visit massive puffin colonies and sail through Klettsvík, the famous refuge of Keiko the orca.
Day 12: Disembark Reykjavík
End of the circumnavigation
Return to the capital for final disembarkation. A transfer to the city center is provided for those with post-expedition stays.
INCLUSIONS
An official Quark Expeditions® parka to keep
Leadership throughout your voyage by our experienced Expedition Leaders, including shore landings and other activities
All Zodiac transfers and cruising as per the daily program
All shore landings as per the daily program
Shipboard accommodation with daily housekeeping
All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices on board throughout your voyage (Please inform us of any dietary requirements as far in advance as possible.)
Complimentary select beer, wines and cocktails during bar service hours and dinner
Complimentary coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock
Formal and informal presentations by our Expedition Team and guest speakers as scheduled
A photographic journal documenting the expedition
A pair of waterproof expedition boots on loan for landings and Zodiac cruising excursions
Hair dryer and bathrobes in every cabin
Complimentary Wi-Fi service on one device permitting basic Internet browsing, email, posting on social media and voice applications. (Premium packages are available for more data-intensive applications.) Note: Internet access in the polar regions is subject to geography, climate, and other factors beyond our control
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
All luggage handling aboard the ship
One night’s pre-expedition hotel accommodation in Reykjavik, with breakfast
Group transfer from the Reykjavik hotel to the ship on Day 2
Group transfer from the ship to downtown Reykjavik on disembarkation day
EXCLUSIONS
International airfare
Arrival and departure transfers in Reykjavik
Passport and visa expenses
Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned above
Baggage, cancellation, interruption and medical travel insurance—strongly recommended
Excess-baggage fees on international and domestic flights
Mandatory waterproof pants for Zodiac cruising, or any other gear not mentioned
Laundry, bar, spa and other personal charges unless specified
Phone charges may vary by location
Voluntary gratuity at the end of the voyage for shipboard staff and crew
Additional overnight accommodation
Adventure Options not listed in Included Activities
Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). This suite is perfect for guests traveling solo who want to share their experience with other like-minded travelers of the same gender, or for groups of three traveling together. Featuring three separate single beds, and amenities for each of the three guests.
Features: three single beds (two of which can be combined into a double bed), sitting area, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors
Located on Deck 3, and approximately 285 sq. ft. (26.5 m2). These suites are perfect for people traveling together or solo guests looking to share with like-minded individuals. This suite maximizes interior living space while still offering guests the opportunity to stay connected to the outdoors. Our entry-level twin suites are the largest available on a ship of this class.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, picture window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors.
Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 226 sq. ft. (21 m2) of indoor living space, and a 52 sq. ft. (4.8 m2) balcony, this entry-level balcony suite is one of the largest available on a ship of this class. This suite is perfect for guests who are looking for both indoor and outdoor living spaces. There are four connecting suites in this category, making this an excellent option for families or groups wanting to stay connected to each other during their expedition.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors
Located on Deck 6, and approximately 132 sq. ft. (12.3 m2). This suite is perfect for solo guests who appreciate privacy and want to wake up to sweeping views from the comfort of their bed. These are the only solo suites with floor-to-ceiling windows available onboard any ship in its class.
Features: single bed, floor-to-ceiling window, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower and heated floors
Located on Decks 4 and 6, with approximately 299 sq. ft. (27.8 m2) of indoor living space, and a 70 sq. ft. (6.5 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting a larger living space, full bathroom, and a substantial balcony. Deluxe Balcony Suites are the first suite type to offer additional privacy in the bathroom with an enclosed toilet, a full bath and shower to make it easier for guests to get ready together in the morning.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 350 sq. ft. (32.5 m2) of indoor living space, and a 100 sq. ft. (9.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting generous interiors with a wide layout and the largest balconies on the ship. Centrally located on Deck 6, guests will enjoy minimal movement and motion from the comfort of these suites.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private extra-wide balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors.
The only suite category to be located on Deck 7, with approximately 369 sq. ft. (34.3 m2) of indoor living space, and a 67 sq. ft. (6.2 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests wanting to wake up to unobstructed polar views from the warmth and comfort of their bed onboard the ship. These suites offer the best of everything—views, spacious interiors, full bathrooms and generous balcony sizes—as well as easy access to the wellness centre.
Features: one double or two single beds, sitting area with sofa bed, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 446 sq. ft. (41.4 m2) of indoor living space and a 46.3 sq. ft. (4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests who want it all. A large, luxurious suite featuring a private bedroom, full bathroom, powder room, and two separate living spaces. This suite is perfect for families or couples who want all the comforts of home onboard the ship.
Features: one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room
Located on Deck 6, with approximately 563 sq. ft. (52.3m2) of interior living space, and a 46 sq. ft. (4.3 m2) balcony. This suite is perfect for guests who want to travel without compromise. Our largest and most luxurious suite features the most sleeping, entertainment and storage space onboard the ship. It is perfect for families or travelers who want all the comforts of home onboard the ship.
Features: one double or two single beds in a private bedroom with walk-in closet, sitting area with sofa bed and additional walk-in hallway closet, private balcony, desk, refrigerator, TV, private bathroom with shower, bathtub and heated floors and separate powder room
* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.
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