Iceland Cruise Guide: Itineraries, Northern Lights & Glacier Excursions - Voyage Privé
Luxury holidays

Iceland cruise


Table of contents

An Iceland cruise reveals the raw beauty of fire and ice in ways no land tour can match. As your ship glides through remote fjords flanked by volcanic peaks and calving glaciers, you'll witness landscapes forged by millennia of tectonic fury and Arctic chill. Onboard naturalists guide you to whale-rich waters where humpbacks and minke whales feed, while evening sailings offer front-row seats to the Northern Lights dancing across inky skies. Shore excursions range from glacier lagoon Zodiac tours among towering icebergs to hikes across geothermal valleys steaming with hot springs, combining adventure with the comfort of returning each night to your floating hotel. Register with Voyage Privé to unlock exceptional Iceland cruise packages and curated Reykjavik stays featuring top-tier inclusions and exclusive offers.

The most beautiful Voyage Privé hotels and cruise packages in Iceland

Iceland Cruise: The Land of Fire and Ice - Reykjavik

Iceland Cruise: The Land of Fire and Ice - Reykjavik

This 7-night discovery cruise aboard the MS Panorama departs from Reykjavik and sails to Akureyri, exploring Iceland's dramatic coastline, Westfjords, and northern ports. The package includes 2 nights in Reykjavik, full board on the ship, and optional shore excursions to the Golden Circle, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and remote Westfjords villages. Perfect for first-time cruisers seeking a comprehensive Iceland experience combining city exploration with coastal discovery. Ideal for couples and families wanting a well-rounded itinerary with flexible excursion choices.

What we love: The combination of Reykjavik city time and a full week exploring Iceland's northern fjords and fishing villages, with the flexibility to tailor shore excursions to your interests—from geothermal wonders to birdwatching cliffs.

Discover this cruise

Discover Iceland and Greenland with Iceberg Cruise - Reykjavik

Discover Iceland and Greenland with Iceberg Cruise - Reykjavik

This combined Iceland and Greenland itinerary takes you beyond Iceland's shores to the iceberg-filled waters of Ilulissat, Greenland. The multi-day programme includes flights and transfers for selected options, with optional excursions such as husky sledding and iceberg cruises among towering ice formations. This expedition-style adventure suits travellers seeking dramatic polar landscapes, wildlife encounters, and the chance to witness calving glaciers. Ideal for adventurous couples and photographers wanting bucket-list Arctic experiences across two extraordinary destinations.

What we love: The rare opportunity to combine Iceland's volcanic drama with Greenland's pristine icebergs and Inuit culture, all in one seamless itinerary with included logistics and expert-led excursions.

Discover this cruise

Arctic Express Cruise: Greenland's Northern Lights - Reykjavik

Arctic Express Cruise: Greenland's Northern Lights - Reykjavik

This expedition-style 7+ night cruise focuses on East Greenland and the remote Scoresby Sund, offering opportunities to witness the Northern Lights dancing over Arctic waters and encounter polar wildlife including seals, whales, and seabirds. Sailing aboard small expedition ships like the Ocean Nova, this intimate voyage suits adventurous travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path exploration, Zodiac landings, and expert naturalist guidance. Best for autumn and early winter departures when Aurora activity peaks and the Arctic landscape transforms into a winter wonderland.

What we love: The expedition focus on East Greenland's untouched fjords and the thrilling combination of Northern Lights viewing from the ship's deck with daytime wildlife encounters and glacier exploration.

Discover this cruise

Iceland Escape - Reykjavik

Iceland Escape - Reykjavik

Perfect for time-pressed travellers, this short 4–5 night Reykjavik break includes whale-watching excursions, Blue Lagoon relaxation, and optional Northern Lights hunts—ideal as a weekend escape or pre/post-cruise extension. The compact itinerary packs in Iceland's greatest hits around the capital, with flexible activity choices to suit your pace. Great for couples seeking a romantic city-and-nature break or families wanting an introduction to Iceland without committing to a full week at sea. Combine with a longer cruise for the ultimate Iceland adventure.

What we love: The flexibility to experience Iceland's highlights in under a week, with easy access to Reykjavik's vibrant culture, geothermal spas, and coastal wildlife—perfect as a standalone escape or cruise add-on.

Discover this escape

Overview: what an Iceland cruise is and who it suits

Types of cruises

Aurora Nights & Iceland's Natural Wonders

Iceland cruises come in four main formats, each designed for different traveller profiles and priorities. Discovery cruises operate aboard comfortable mid-sized ships that circumnavigate Iceland or focus on northern and western coasts, calling at ports including Reykjavik, Akureyri, Isafjordur, and offering organised shore excursions to waterfalls, geothermal sites, and cultural attractions. Expedition cruises deploy smaller, ice-strengthened vessels carrying 50–200 passengers, designed for remote landings via Zodiac, often venturing to East Greenland, Scoresby Sund, or Jan Mayen, with naturalist guides and a focus on wildlife, glaciers, and photography. Combined Iceland and Greenland itineraries run 10–14 nights, blending Iceland's volcanic landscapes with Greenland's icebergs and Inuit villages. Short fjord escapes offer 4–5 night mini-cruises from Reykjavik focusing on nearby fjords, Northern Lights viewing, and quick coastal highlights. Discovery cruises suit first-timers and families, expedition voyages attract adventurers and nature enthusiasts, combined itineraries appeal to bucket-list seekers, and short escapes work for weekend breakers or pre/post-cruise extensions. The Iceland Cruise: The Land of Fire and Ice exemplifies a classic 7-night discovery itinerary, while the Discover Iceland and Greenland with Iceberg Cruise showcases expedition-style combined voyages.

Typical departure ports and who each type suits

Reykjavik serves as the most common departure port for Iceland cruises, offering pre- and post-cruise city stays and convenient flight connections from the UK. Southampton and other UK ports provide no-fly cruise options for UK passengers, typically on longer itineraries combining Iceland with Norway or the Faroes. Copenhagen is popular for Scandinavian-Iceland loops, while Akureyri and smaller Icelandic ports occasionally host repositioning or expedition sailings. UK port departures suit families with young children or nervous flyers who prefer avoiding airports altogether. Reykjavik departures attract couples and adventure travellers wanting to maximise time in Iceland and add city exploration before or after their voyage. Copenhagen appeals to those combining Iceland with Scandinavia in a single trip. Expedition cruises often start or end in Reykjavik or Kangerlussuaq in Greenland, requiring flights but attracting serious wildlife and photography enthusiasts. Packages with Reykjavik-based cruises include hotel nights and transfers, simplifying logistics for UK travellers.

Typical duration and how it affects what you'll see

Cruise duration shapes the Iceland experience in fundamental ways. Short 4–5 night escapes focus on Reykjavik and nearby highlights including Snaefellsnes, a single fjord, Blue Lagoon, and Northern Lights excursions—perfect for first-timers or add-ons but offering limited coastal coverage. Seven-night cruises, the most popular format, allow a half or full circumnavigation, visiting 4–6 ports including Akureyri, Isafjordur, Westfjords, and offering diverse shore excursions covering waterfalls, whale watching, geothermal sites, and puffin cliffs. Extended 10–14 night expeditions venture to remote East Iceland, Jan Mayen, or Greenland, with more sea days, Zodiac landings, and wildlife focus—suited to patient, adventurous travellers. Longer itineraries increase chances of Northern Lights sightings through more nights at sea and allow deeper exploration of fjords and glaciers. Families and first-timers often prefer 7 nights for variety without excessive sea days, while nature lovers and photographers opt for 10+ nights. The Iceland Escape exemplifies short breaks, while the Arctic Express Cruise represents extended expedition voyages.

Suggested itineraries and route examples

7-night discovery cruise

Discover Iceland Guided Group Tour

A classic 7-night Iceland discovery cruise follows this sample outline: Day 1—Embark in Reykjavik, explore the city visiting Hallgrimskirkja, Harpa, and the waterfront or take an optional Golden Circle excursion. Day 2—Sail to Snaefellsnes Peninsula, visiting Kirkjufell mountain and lava fields. Day 3—Isafjordur in the Westfjords, with shore excursions to remote villages, birdwatching, or kayaking. Day 4—At sea, sailing along the north coast, with onboard lectures and Northern Lights watch. Day 5—Akureyri, Iceland's northern capital, offering excursions to Godafoss waterfall, Lake Myvatn geothermal area, or whale watching. Day 6—Husavik or Grimsey Island for Arctic Circle crossing, puffin colonies, and whale-rich waters. Day 7—Scenic cruising past volcanic coastlines, returning towards Reykjavik. Day 8—Disembark in Reykjavik, with optional post-cruise Blue Lagoon visit. This itinerary balances port calls with scenic sailing, offers diverse excursions covering nature, culture, and wildlife, and suits first-time cruisers and families seeking comprehensive coverage. The Iceland Cruise: The Land of Fire and Ice provides a real-world example of this voyage type.

Expedition-style Iceland and Greenland

Expedition-style Iceland and Greenland cruises deliver immersive Arctic experiences aboard small ships carrying 50–150 passengers with ice-strengthened hulls, expert naturalist guides, daily briefings, photography workshops, and observation decks for wildlife spotting. Onboard atmosphere remains informal, with all-inclusive dining and polar libraries. Shore activities feature Zodiac landings on remote beaches, glacier fronts, and Inuit settlements, guided hikes on tundra and moraine, iceberg cruises in Disko Bay or Ilulissat Icefjord (a UNESCO site) among towering blue ice formations, visits to Greenlandic villages for cultural exchanges, and wildlife encounters including humpback and minke whales, seals, Arctic foxes, and seabirds. The expedition ethos embraces flexible itineraries subject to weather and ice, early starts, active participation, and a focus on immersion rather than luxury. These cruises suit fit, adventurous travellers comfortable with basic conditions and unpredictable schedules. The Discover Iceland and Greenland with Iceberg Cruise and Arctic Express Cruise exemplify this immersive style.

Short escapes focused on Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon and a fjord or Northern Lights cruise

Short 4–5 night Iceland escapes pack maximum impact into minimal time. Typical itineraries include a base in Reykjavik with 1–2 nights pre-cruise in a central hotel, embarkation on a mini-cruise lasting 2–3 nights exploring nearby fjords such as Faxafloi Bay or Snaefellsnes, or a dedicated Northern Lights sailing with evening departures and onboard Aurora viewing. Return to Reykjavik for a final night includes a Blue Lagoon visit or Golden Circle day tour. These compact itineraries are ideal for long weekends, combining city culture—museums, restaurants, nightlife—with a taste of Iceland's coastal beauty and natural phenomena. Short escapes suit time-pressed travellers, couples seeking a romantic break, or those wanting to trial cruising before committing to a longer voyage. They also serve as pre- or post-extensions to longer cruises or land tours. The Iceland Escape package offers a flexible short-break option, while pairing with the Discover Iceland Guided Group Tour creates a land-and-sea combination.

Top activities and shore excursions to prioritise

Northern Lights hunts

4, 5 or 6-Night Tour of Iceland

Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) excursion options on Iceland cruises include fjord boat tours—evening sailings from ports like Reykjavik or Akureyri into dark fjords away from light pollution, with expert commentary and hot drinks. Super jeep excursions take passengers on 4x4 drives into the highlands or remote coastal viewpoints for optimal Aurora viewing, often combined with stargazing and photography tips. Shore viewing consists of organised walks to dark beaches or headlands near the ship's berth, with blankets and guidance from the crew. Northern Lights appear from late August to mid-April, with peak activity from September to March. Success depends on clear skies, solar activity, and luck—never guaranteed. Book excursions early as they often sell out, either pre-cruise through the cruise line or onboard on embarkation day. Some ships offer complimentary Aurora wake-up calls. Expedition cruises often include Northern Lights viewing as part of the itinerary. The Aurora Nights and Iceland's Natural Wonders tour provides dedicated Aurora-focused land extensions.

Glacier lagoons and iceberg cruises

Jökulsárlón, Iceland's famous glacier lagoon, offers amphibious boat or Zodiac tours among floating icebergs calved from Breidamerkurjokull glacier, with seals often spotted on the ice. Nearby Diamond Beach features ice chunks washing ashore on black sand, creating dramatic photo opportunities. Ilulissat Icefjord in Greenland (a UNESCO site) provides boat excursions into the fjord filled with colossal icebergs from Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, one of the most active in the world, featuring towering ice formations, deep blue hues, and the sound of calving ice. Expect guided commentary on glaciology and climate change, extraordinary photo opportunities, and cold conditions even in summer. The humbling scale of the ice leaves lasting impressions. Safety notes: always follow guide instructions, wear provided life jackets, stay seated in small boats, never touch icebergs as they are unstable and can roll, and dress warmly in waterproof layers. These excursions highlight any Iceland or Greenland cruise and suit all ages, though small children may find boats bumpy. The Discover Iceland and Greenland with Iceberg Cruise features itineraries including Ilulissat.

Wildlife and birdwatching: whale watching and puffin cliffs

Wildlife and birdwatching opportunities on Iceland cruises include whale watching excursions from Husavik (the whale capital of Iceland), Akureyri, or Reykjavik to spot humpback, minke, and occasionally blue whales, plus dolphins and porpoises. Peak season runs from May to September when whales feed in nutrient-rich waters. Puffin cliffs feature visits to colonies on islands like Grimsey, Vestmannaeyjar, or coastal cliffs in the Westfjords. Puffins nest from May to August, with July being peak viewing when chicks fledge. Expect close-up views of these charismatic seabirds along with guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes. Summer (June–August) is best for both whales and puffins. Outside this window, whale sightings drop and puffins migrate to sea. Clothing tips: layer up even in summer as sea wind chills, wear waterproof jacket and trousers, sturdy non-slip shoes for boat decks and cliff paths, hat and gloves, and bring binoculars and a camera with zoom lens. Wildlife excursions suit families and nature lovers of all fitness levels. The Iceland Cruise: The Land of Fire and Ice calls at top wildlife ports.

Practical information for planning an Iceland cruise

Best time to go

Iceland cruise seasonality helps travellers choose the best time for their priorities. Summer (June–August) offers midnight sun or near-24-hour daylight, warmest temperatures (10–15°C), peak wildlife season (whales, puffins, seals), lush green landscapes, and most cruise departures—ideal for families, first-timers, and wildlife enthusiasts, but also the busiest and most expensive period. Shoulder seasons (May, September) provide longer nights allowing Northern Lights viewing (especially September), fewer crowds, lower prices, still-decent weather, and good whale-watching—excellent for couples and photographers seeking balance. Winter (October–April) delivers best Aurora Borealis activity, dramatic winter landscapes, fewer tourists, but very cold conditions (sub-zero), limited daylight (4–6 hours in December), rough seas, and fewer cruise departures (mostly expedition-style)—suits hardy adventurers and dedicated Aurora hunters. Most mainstream cruises operate from May to September, while expedition cruises extend into autumn and winter. Weather remains unpredictable year-round, so pack for all conditions. The Arctic Express Cruise focuses on autumn/winter Aurora-focused voyages.

What to pack and clothing advice for ship and shore excursions

A detailed packing list for Iceland cruises includes a layering system: thermal base layers, fleece or wool mid-layers, and waterproof and windproof outer shell (jacket and trousers). Even in summer, temperatures can drop to 5–10°C with wind chill. Footwear requires waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and grip for shore excursions across lava fields, muddy trails, and Zodiac landings. Bring a second pair in case one gets wet. Accessories include a warm hat, gloves (waterproof outer, warm liner), scarf or neck gaiter, sunglasses (glare off water and ice), sunscreen (UV reflection), and a small backpack for excursions. Onboard requires smart-casual attire for dinners (no formal nights on most Iceland cruises), comfortable indoor clothes, and swimwear for any onboard pool or hot tub. Extras include binoculars, camera with spare batteries (cold drains them fast), seasickness tablets, reusable water bottle, and a dry bag for electronics. Expedition cruises often provide waterproof boots and parkas—check with your cruise line. Pack light but versatile, as cabin storage is limited. Voyage Privé's Iceland cruise packages offer pre-departure packing guidance.

Booking checklist: visas, travel insurance, ATOL and flight connections, shore excursion booking timing

A comprehensive booking checklist for Iceland cruise travellers covers essential details. Visas: UK passport holders do not need a visa for Iceland (Schengen) or Greenland (Danish territory) for stays up to 90 days. Ensure your passport remains valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates. Travel insurance is essential—choose a policy covering cruise-specific risks including itinerary changes due to weather, medical evacuation in remote areas, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. Declare any pre-existing conditions. ATOL protection: if booking a package with flights, ensure ATOL protection applies (Voyage Privé packages include this). For cruise-only bookings, check the cruise line's financial protection. Flight connections: book flights with generous layover times as Iceland weather can cause delays. Consider arriving a day early in Reykjavik to avoid missing embarkation. Shore excursion booking: popular excursions (Northern Lights, whale watching, glacier tours) sell out fast. Book online pre-cruise or immediately upon embarkation. Some expedition cruises include excursions in the fare. Other essentials: inform your bank of travel dates, download offline maps, and register with the UK Foreign Office's travel advice service. Voyage Privé's Iceland and Greenland packages include flights and transfers.

An Iceland cruise delivers unmatched access to the land of fire and ice, where volcanic peaks meet calving glaciers, Northern Lights illuminate Arctic skies, and whales breach in fjords carved by ancient ice. Whether you choose a discovery voyage circumnavigating the coast, an expedition adventure to remote Greenland, or a short escape combining Reykjavik culture with coastal wonders, your journey will reveal nature at its most raw and magnificent. Register with Voyage Privé to explore curated Iceland cruise packages with exceptional value, expert guidance, and seamless logistics from the UK.

Iceland cruise

The best month depends on your priorities. June–August offers the warmest weather, midnight sun, peak wildlife including whales and puffins, and most cruise departures—ideal for families and first-timers. September balances Northern Lights viewing with reasonable weather and fewer crowds. May and early June deliver spring landscapes and good whale watching at lower prices. October–April suits dedicated Aurora hunters and winter-landscape lovers, but expect cold, limited daylight, and fewer cruise options. July is statistically the warmest and driest month, while September balances Aurora chances with milder conditions.

An Iceland cruise is absolutely worth it for travellers seeking dramatic natural beauty, wildlife, and hassle-free exploration of remote areas. Cruising allows you to visit multiple fjords, islands, and coastal highlights without constant packing or driving Iceland's challenging roads. You'll enjoy onboard comfort, expert-led excursions, and the chance to see Northern Lights, whales, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes in one trip. It's especially worthwhile for older travellers, families, and those who prefer guided experiences. Independent travellers who enjoy driving may prefer a land-based tour. Combining a cruise with pre/post Reykjavik nights offers the best of both worlds.

Expect to pay £1,200–£2,500 per person for a 7-night Iceland discovery cruise in an inside or oceanview cabin, including full board but excluding flights, drinks, gratuities, and shore excursions. Expedition-style Iceland and Greenland cruises lasting 10–14 nights range from £3,000–£7,000+ per person, often including excursions and flights. Short 4–5 night escapes start around £800–£1,500. Prices vary by season (July–August peak), cabin type (suites cost more), and cruise line (luxury vs. mainstream). Shore excursions add £50–£150 each. Voyage Privé offers exclusive Iceland cruise packages with competitive pricing and added-value inclusions like hotel nights and transfers.

Weather is unpredictable—pack layers and waterproofs even in summer. Shore excursions book up fast—reserve popular ones like Northern Lights and whale watching as early as possible. Seasickness can be an issue in exposed waters—bring medication and choose a mid-ship cabin. Iceland is expensive—budget for drinks, tips, and excursions not included in your fare. Itineraries can change due to weather or sea conditions—stay flexible. Northern Lights are never guaranteed—enjoy the journey even if Aurora doesn't appear. Bring binoculars and a good camera—wildlife and landscapes are spectacular. Register with Voyage Privé for expert advice and curated cruise packages with transparent inclusions.

Iceland cruises are generally very safe, but be aware of rough seas—North Atlantic and Arctic waters can be choppy. Take seasickness precautions and follow crew instructions during bad weather. Cold and hypothermia risk require dressing warmly on deck and during shore excursions, especially on Zodiac landings. Slippery surfaces—lava fields, wet boat decks, and icy paths—require sturdy footwear and caution. Remote locations mean limited medical facilities in small ports and at sea, so ensure comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation cover. Unpredictable weather demands following guide advice and being prepared for excursion cancellations. Reputable cruise lines have rigorous safety protocols, experienced Arctic crews, and medical staff onboard.

  1. Voyage Privé
  2. Luxury holidays
  3. Iceland cruise