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HX Hurtigruten Expeditions - Expedition to Iceland: Hamburg to Reykjavik via North Atlantic Islands

HX Hurtigruten Expeditions – Expedition to Iceland: Hamburg to Reykjavik via North Atlantic Islands

Call free 0800 707 6229 for Extra Savings on HX Hurtigruten Expeditions – Expedition to Iceland: Hamburg to Reykjavik via North Atlantic Islands

  • Take part in an exhilarating expedition cruise from Hamburg to Reykjavik to discover the highlights of Iceland, as well as the Shetland and Faroe Islands, with Norway’s incredible Lysefjord.
  • Experience a range of spectacular sights and sounds, with striking waterfalls, rugged scenery and a rich variety of iconic wildlife.
  • Witness the famous Rainbow Road in Seyðisfjörður and look out for Atlantic puffins on Grimsey Island, ahead of your return to Reykjavik.

13-day itinerary

Day 1: Germany’s second city

Your expedition cruise will begin in Hamburg – Germany’s Hanseatic treasure.

There’s so much to see and do in one of Europe’s greenest urban areas. Visit the Aldstadt district which includes attractions such as the St Nikolai memorial and the historic street of Deichstrasse.

If you have enough time, there are also plenty of UNESCO recognised Heritage Sites while in Hamburg. Be sure to visit Chilehaus, the world’s largest historic warehouse complex in Speicherstadt, along with Kunsthalle, the nation’s prominent art museum.

Day 2: Sea day

After leaving Hamburg, the journey continues towards Norway’s Lysefjord. Take this opportunity to familiarise yourself with the ship’s excellent onboard facilities, including the wellness area, sauna and infinity pool.

The expedition team will be holding lectures about your upcoming destinations in the science centre, so be sure to join them and gain more insights into the wildlife and landscapes you’re are about to see.

Day 3: Sailing Lysefjord

On day three, the MS Fridtjof Nansen will be sailing down the 25-mile-long Lysefjord. Immerse yourself in the sublime scenery of the long, narrow fjord among stark vertical cliffs whilst on the ship’s observation deck, capturing the natural beauty of this unique setting.

From the fjord you will be able to see the world famous pulpit rock, Preikestolen, whilst also keeping an eye out for the renowned Kjæragbolten, which is a giant boulder wedged into a mountain crevasse. Feeling even more adventurous? If so, be sure to join the Expedition Team as they take you on small kayaking and boat cruising expeditions, allowing travellers to view the fjord from a completely different perspective.

Day 4: The Shetland Islands

On this day you’ll be docking alongside Lerwick, the capital of the Shetland Islands. Set against a backdrop of eye-catching scenery, spend the day exploring this endearing, Victorian-influenced town.

Near the old-waterfront, you will be able to immerse yourself in area’s rich history at the Shetland Museum. Discover local shops selling whiskies, fudge, and woollen sweaters, whilst taking in the view of the nearby Fort Charlotte and the Town Hall.

Learn about the lives of local crofters as you traverse the wider island – home to the historic Iron Age villages and the Shetland Croft house Museum.

Day 5: Historic Torshavn

Located on Streymoy, the largest of the Faroe Islands and founded by Norsemen in the 10th century, Torshavn is one of Europe’s oldest capitals. Also referred to as ‘Thor’s Harbour’, or simply ‘Havn’, Torshavn is a vibrant and colourful city with plenty to see and do during your visit on the fifth day of the expedition.

Take a scenic walk through the cobbled alleyways whilst admiring the colourful, turf-roofed houses that can be found here. Gain insights into the city’s flora, fauna and geological history in one of the local museums, and why not visit the Svartafoss waterfall – located around a half mile outside of town.

Scan for the abundance of seabirds and marine life while taking a stroll down the seafront, including eider ducks and the highly distinguishable Faroese Starling which is native to the region.

Day 6: Seyðisfjörður’s rainbow

Surrounded by striking mountains and waterfalls, the charming village of Seyðisfjörður is the ideal next destination on your Icelandic cruise journey. While here, practice your photography skills to capture the unique colourful wooden houses on Rainbow Road, before visiting the intriguing sound sculpture of Tvisongur.

You will also be able to catch glimpses of arctic fox and mink upon visiting Skalanes, whilst also scanning the skies above to see the region’s thriving birdlife, including Black-tailed Godwits, Golden-Plovers and Gyrfalcons.

Day 7: Grimsey Island

Steeped in folklore, including stories about Grimur, the Islands’ first settler, this isolated island is home to only 60 people, with the Atlantic Puffin colonies outnumbering human life in this region.

Despite being home to around one million puffins during Summer months, Grimsey is arguably better known for its proximity to the Arctic Circle, which cuts across the island. Travellers will potentially have the once in a lifetime opportunity to hop back and forth between the Arctic and back on the island, as it’s expected that Grimsey will lie fully outside the Arctic by 2050!

Day 8: Akureyri

Marvel at snowcapped peaks as your cruise journey’s on towards Iceland’s longest fjord – Eyjafjörður.  Along with the nearby Skjálfandi bay, this is one of Europe’s best areas to spot whales.

Referred to by some as Iceland’s ‘Northern Capital’, Akureyri is home to a modern oasis of a botanical garden as well as local restaurants and museums.

Looking further afield, experience the remarkable Godafoss waterfall, where sky-blue waves crash against the black rocks.  Being one of the few places to see the Mid-Atlantic ridge up close, Lake Mývatn’s active volcanic area is another place where travellers will get to witness geology burst into life.

Day 9: Exploring Iceland’s Northwestern region

Depending on the suitable conditions, the expedition’s plan is to spend this day in Iceland’s Northwestern region, with the Expedition Team taking you hiking, kayaking or beach clean-ups. Both the Captain and onboard team will continually monitor the interchangeable surroundings to ensure the visit to this area is as safe and efficient as possible.

Back onboard, you will be able to listen to more intriguing lectures, visit the Science Centre, and take advantage of the excellent facilities inside the MS Fridtjof Nansen.

Day 10: Breathtaking Patreksfjörður

Experience the wondrous natural beauty of Europe’s most westerly village, Patreksfjörður. Being a village built on deep fishing traditions, learn about the history and background of this incredibly distinct part of Iceland, whilst also taking in the incredible views surrounding the area.

Explore the local region by participating in a planned hike through the visit, or alternatively visit Rauðasandur beach to witness the wide variety of wildlife in the area. The six combined falls of the Dynjandi waterfalls make up the largest and most remarkable waterfalls in the westfjords, and guided tours are available for travellers to fully immerse themselves in the magnificent scenery.

Bird enthusiasts’ are also in luck. Látrabjarg is home to a varied ecosystem of birdlife, including puffins, guillemots and razorbills live on Europe’s largest bird cliff.

Day 11: Snæfellsnes peninsula

Stykkishólmur, the small fishing town in Breiðafjörður bay, is the gateway to the spectacular Snæfellsnes. Here, it’s almost as if time has stood still. The sheer contrast between the vibrant houses and the distant mountains creates a picturesque backdrop which you can marvel at, as you commence your expedition adventure.

Often referred to as ‘Little Iceland’ due to its wide variety of volcanic landscapes, Snæfellsnes Peninsula National Park is a must-visit on this journey. Here, you’ll be able to see the striking, ice-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano at the peninsula’s western tip, as well as the extremely unique Djúpalónssandur’s iconic black sand beach.

Day 12: Heimaey’s explosive past

Being the only inhabited town in the Westman Islands, located off the south coast of Iceland, the town of Heimaey has a captivating historical significance, with this small Island still bearing the scars of a volcanic eruption which almost destroyed the entire landscape.

Be sure to visit Eldheimar, a museum featuring an excavated home frozen in time, and learn more about the aftermath of the devastating volcanic eruption. You’ll also have the opportunity to climb Mount Eldfell, with there being incredible views of the town below at the volcano’s summit.

Day 13: Reykjavik and beyond

Your Iceland expedition cruise ends back in the fascinating city of Reykjavik. Miss any sights when you first arrived? This is the best opportunity to experience more of what the city has to offer.

Immerse yourself in more of the Icelandic culture by visiting a geothermal pool or a ‘heittur pottur’, translating to a ‘hot-pot’. Still feel as thou you haven’t quenched your desire to fully experience Iceland’s natural beauty? If so, be sure to visit the ‘Blue Lagoon’, often regarded as one of the true natural wonders of the world with the blend of silica, algae and minerals in its geothermal waters.

Guests will also have the option to join one of the post-programme packages to explore more of the joys of Iceland.

Expedition Cruise

  • A stay in a cabin of your choice
  • Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)
  • All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
  • Meals and take-away available throughout the day during Fredheim restaurant opening hours
  • Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
  • A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
  • A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX kit
  • Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported
  • Use of sauna, hot tubs, pool, fitness room, lounges and more
  • Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX – though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated
  • Range of included activities

Onboard Activities

  • In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
  • Full access to the ship’s Science Centre
  • Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
  • Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
  • Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Landing Activities

  • Escorted landings with small expedition boats
  • Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
  • Expedition photographers on hand to assist you

Notes

  • All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
  • Excursions and activities are subject to change
  • Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
  • Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight might be needed (not included)

What’s not included

  • International flights
  • Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings
  • Travel insurance
  • Luggage handling
  • Optional shore excursions with our local partners
  • Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team

Please call us free on 0800 707 6229 for pricing and availability

Useful Info

Location

Board Basis

All inclusive

Duration

13 days

Holiday Type

Cruise expedition holiday

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