Iceland – Expedition (Northbound)

Duration: 15 days

Departure:

24 June 2020

Price from:
5690 € per person

Check prices and availability

Explore mystical Iceland – the land of fire and ice
From Hamburg, sail north to the magnificent Norwegian fjords
Fascinating nature with waterfalls, volcanoes and glaciers side by side
A paradise for bird and whale watching

The majestic Dynjandi waterfall. We will call on charming towns and settlements, on the hunt for iconic natural attractions.

Photo: Andrea Klaussner

Beautiful seashore of Grimsey Island, Iceland. Our expedition cruise offers excursions to a variety of islands, towns and settlements, spectacular views and interesting sites, all accompanied by our knowledgeable Expedition Team.

Three puffins on a cliff. Go birdwatching, step across the Arctic Circle and enjoy walks through the coastal landscape of Iceland.

Itinerary

Explore the spectacular natural world and charming towns of Iceland and Norway. The experience of being on deck as we cruise into the majestic Norwegian fjords is unforgettable. Stroll through quaint Arctic villages, learn Viking history, and scan for abundant wildlife on this remarkable expedition cruise.

Day 1-2 Hamburg, Germany - Overnight & Embarkation
Day 3 At sea
Day 4 Kristiansand
Day 5 Lysefjorden
Day 6 Geiranger
Day 7 At sea
Day 8 Seyðisfjörður
Day 9 Grímsey
Day 10 Akureyri
Day 11 Isafjörður
Day 12 Patreksfjördur
Day 13 Stykkishólmur
Day 14 Heimaey
Day 15 Reykjavik - Disembarkation

Day 1-2

Hamburg, Germany - Overnight & Embarkation

Canals and Gardens

Canal in historic Speicherstadt, Hamburg.

Hamburg is one of the greenest urban areas in Europe – boasting large parks, botanical gardens and nature reserves. Enjoy an overnight stay on board which gives you plenty of time to explore the city and some of its many canals.

Optional excursions

Included

Hamburg Harbour Cruise

A visit to the "Hansestadt" Hamburg is simply incomplete without a tour through the harbour, the second largest seaport in Europe
Hamburg - Bremen's Top 10

Come with us to Bremen, a fascinating city and UNESCO World Heritage site with 1,000 years of history!
Hamburg - Lübeck’s Ancient Alleyways & a Pub from the Past

Welcome to Lübeck, once known as the 'Queen of the Hanseatic League' and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This former ‘Free Imperial’ and Hanseatic city is steeped in history and tradition with proud old patrician houses and red-brick churches.
Hamburg - Cycle Tour Along the Elbe River

Experience the ‘Free Imperial’ and Hanseatic City of Hamburg from a different perspective. This is one of Hamburg’s finest tours, especially for passengers who love to combine light outdoor activities with a touch of culture.

Canal in historic Speicherstadt, Hamburg.

Canals of Hamburg,

Admire beautiful sunsets from deck.

Photo: Astrid Mergen

Day 3

At sea

Heading North

Admire beautiful sunsets from deck.

Photo: Astrid Mergen

Enjoy an idyllic day at sea as we head towards Norway. Take in the panoramic views from one of the many viewpoints around the ship, relax with a book or join one of the lectures onboard and find out more about the exciting days ahead.

Day 4

Kristiansand - Half day

Charming Kristiansand

Dining in the harbour of Kristiansand, Norway

Dining in the harbour, or "Fiskebrygga".

Photo: Patricia Thiede Foap

Kristiansand´s beautiful beaches and archipelago, charming old town, interesting local history and nearby nature make it a popular destination. Visit the fish markets, join our optional excursion or enjoy the great outdoors.

Optional excursions

Included

Kristiansand by Foot

This walking tour reflects the city's 371 years of history
Kristiansand - The Jewel of the South

Join us on board the sightseeing boat M/S Maarten for a leisurely cruise along Norway’s southern coastline from Kristiansand to Lillesand.
Kristiansand - River Rafting in Setesdal Valley

This white-water rafting adventure truly is wet and wild! You paddle, you surf, you laugh and you shriek with delight.

Dining in the harbour, or "Fiskebrygga".

Photo: Patricia Thiede Foap

Kilden concert hall and theatre by the sea, Kristiansand, Norway.

Photo: Knut Arne Gjertsen

Panoramic view of the Lysefjord, Norway.

Photo: Dmitriy Belyaev

The Prekestolen plateau, 604 meters from top to bottom.

Photo: Guillaume Baviere

Mountain scenery in Lysefjord.

Photo: Markus Gjengaar

Day 5

Lysefjorden - Half day

Towering Preikestolen

The Prekestolen plateau, 604 meters from top to bottom.

Photo: Guillaume Baviere

Lysefjord is 40 kilometres long and 422 metres deep. The Preikestolen plateau towers an impressive 604 metres over the surface of the water. We will sail into the fjord, enjoy the great landscape from deck and hope to have a fine view of Preikestolen from below.

Day 6

Geiranger

UNESCO Beauty

Stunning aerial view of the Geirangerfjord, Norway.

Photo: Agurtxane Concellon

Geirangerfjord features stunning nature and idyllic villages along its 100 km stretch. The fjord here is world famous for its dramatic landscape and is UNESCO-listed as a World Heritage Site. Enjoy taking in the scenery as we sail into this famous area of stunning beauty.

Stunning aerial view of the Geirangerfjord, Norway.

Photo: Agurtxane Concellon

View of the mountains surrounding the Geirangerfjord, Norway

Famous Geirangerfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Photo: Volker Rohde

The Expedition Team giving lectures on deck.

Photo: Ørjan Bertelsen

Learn about our next destination through on-board lectures.

Photo: Lisa Anderson

Day 7

At sea

Norwegian Sea

The Expedition Team giving lectures on deck.

Photo: Ørjan Bertelsen

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea with on board lectures while we set course towards Iceland. Our Expedition Team will hold talks and workshops and share their knowledge and experience. You will also have the chance to visit our Science Center for interesting topics and discussions.

Day 8

Seyðisfjörður - Half day

Nordic Heritage

Seydisfjordur, with Nordic-style houses from the early 20th century.

Photo: Barry Marsh

The Norwegian heritage of the village of Seyðisfjörður is reflected in colourful Nordic-style wooden houses dating from the early 20th century. The handcrafted architecture creates a truly unique identity in the settlement. Explore this quirky town, join an organised hike or take an optional excursion to Skálanes.

Optional excursions

Included

Seydisfjôrdur - A stroll around Seyðisfjörður

Enjoy a walking tour of Seyðisfjordur’s colourful streets, including visits to the Blue Church and the local culture centre with modern art exhibitions
Skálanes Nature Reserve

Visit one of Iceland’s most remote places that few Icelanders have even seen.
Vök Baths

Plunge into Iceland´s purest hot springs water in the bathing pools at Lake Urridavatn.

Seydisfjordur, with Nordic-style houses from the early 20th century.

Photo: Barry Marsh

Strolling in the picturesque town of Seydisfjordur.

Monumental cliffs, Grimsey, Iceland.

Photo: Andrea Klaussner

Hiking the fields of Grimsey.

Photo: Karsten Bidstrup

Beautiful seashore of Grimsey Island.

Day 9

Grímsey - Full day

Step Across the Arctic Circle

Hiking the fields of Grimsey.

Photo: Karsten Bidstrup

We will use our tender boats to reach this green and grassy island. It is probably best known for its proximity to the Arctic Circle, which cuts across the island. Pending favourable conditions, you will have the chance to step across that line, North to South.

Optional excursions

Included

Grimsey Island - Arctic circle crossing ceremony

Just off the north coast of Iceland is the island of Grimsey – Iceland’s northernmost inhabited island. Covering an area of only 5,3 km², the island is small enough to easily be explored on foot.

Day 10

Akureyri - Full day

Centre in the North

View of Lake Myvatn .

Photo: Markus Trienke

Lively Akureyri is famous for its botanical gardens and pretty traffic lights. This is the most populous Icelandic community outside Reykjavík, and serves as the centre of trade, culture and services for the region. Akureyri is close to many of Iceland’s most renowned natural treasures, such as Lake Mývatn and Goðafoss waterfall.

Optional excursions

Included

Akureyri - Town Walk & Botanical Garden

You will discover the past and present of Akureyri strolling at a leisurely pace around town.
Akureyri - Off the Beaten Track

Dare to venture off the beaten track! This tour offers sights not seen by the usual tours. Our 4x4 Super Jeeps offer the chance for fun and excitement as we discover some of the best of the island.
Akureyri on Horseback

Discover and enjoy Iceland’s beautiful nature on horseback.
Akureyri - Mývatn Nature Baths

We visit the spectacular Godafoss falls before we take you to Mývatn Nature Baths, where you can enjoy a completely natural experience. Enjoy a relaxing dip amidst clouds of steam and a luxurious swim in a pool of geothermal water drawn from depths of up to 2,500 meters.

View of Lake Myvatn .

Photo: Markus Trienke

Typical street in Akureyri.

Idyllic scenery, Ísafjörður.

Photo: Karsten Bidstrup

Dynjandi waterfall.

Photo: Andrea Klaussner

Flanked by towering mountains, Ísafjörður is a nearly perfect natural harbour.

Day 11

Isafjörður - Full day

Wonderful Westfjords

Dynjandi waterfall.

Photo: Andrea Klaussner

Flanked by towering mountains on all sides, Ísafjörður is a nearly perfect natural harbour. Stroll around to see the architecture, shop for a variety of local handicrafts and view the oldest houses in Iceland, including the structure that houses the Maritime Museum.

Optional excursions

Included

Isafjördur - Beach clean-up

The most important daily task of our crews (and our guests) is to stop waste before it enters the oceans
Dynjandi Waterfall & Local Village

Explore the wonders of Iceland´s mystical West Fjords! Experience breathtaking scenery, rugged landscapes, lofty ridgetops, and beautiful, deep fjords where farmers and the inhabitants of small villages huddle together on narrow swathes of land. We also visit Dynjandi waterfall and the remote fishing village of Suðureyri.
Ísafjörður - Savour the flavour of Suðureyri

Taste local produce and learn how to build an eco-conscious fishing village in the North Atlantic. We visit the environmentally progressive fishing village of Suðureyri, where you get an in-depth guided tour from the locals.
Ísafjörður - Vigur Paradise Island

Meet and greet puffins and send a postcard from the smallest post office in Europe, when we offer a guided tour on Vigur Island. We travel by boat on the Ísafjarðardjúp and then set foot in beautiful surroundings. Before we head back, you can enjoy refreshments from the local farm run by the Island’s ten inhabitants.
Hornstrandir Hike

Hike through the unique and pristine environment of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve - untouched by cars, electricity or domestic animals.

Day 12

Patreksfjördur - Full day

Patreksfjörður

Visiting Dynjandi waterfall, Ísafjörður.

Photo: Andrea Klaussner

Patreksfjördur is a charming settlement on the west coast with around 660 inhabitants. The picturesque fjord offers scenic hiking trails if conditions allow. Patreksfjördur is also close to the spectacular waterfall of Dynjandi and to Látrabjarg, a renowned site for birdwatching.

Optional excursions

Included

Patreksfjördur - Stroll through the most western village of Europe

We will start by a stroll through the lively harbour of the fishing village Patreksfjörður, learn about the importance of the fisheries for the village and get to know some different kinds of fish.
Patreksfjördur - Splendid Combination

Admire the beauty and culture of the Westfjords with a scenic drive and walking tour featuring the powerful Dynjandi waterfall.
Patreksfjördur - Latrabjarg Cliff

Walk on Europe’s largest bird cliff, the stunning Látrabjarg, the western-most point of Europe. Enjoy the amazing world of bird life and incredible nature as well as a stop at a fascinating Folk Museum.

Visiting Dynjandi waterfall, Ísafjörður.

Photo: Andrea Klaussner

View to the scenic village of Patreksfjordur, Iceland

Scenic Patreksfjordur.

Photo: Andrea Klaussner

A beacon on a cliff, Stykkisholmur, Iceland.

Photo: Andrea Klaussner

Hiking in rough landscape, Stykkisholmur, Iceland

Go hiking in rough landscape in Stykkisholmur.

Photo: Andrea Klaussner

Different eras of architecture in Stykkisholmur.

Photo: Karsten Bidstrup

Day 13

Stykkishólmur - Full day

Sagaland

Go hiking in rough landscape in Stykkisholmur.

Photo: Andrea Klaussner

Stykkishólmur has beautiful and well-preserved old houses in the town centre and is surrounded by wonderful scenery. Enjoy exploring the town´s interesting museums or join optional excursions to the iconic sites of Snæfellsnes Penninsula, such as the Lóndrangar basalt cliffs or the black sandy beaches of Djúpalónssandur.

Optional excursions

Included

Stykkishólmur - Walking tour & visit to the Eider center

Explore the beautiful town of Stykkisholmur, the largest town on the northern side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula.
Stykkishólmur - Caves, craters and coves

Welcome to an adventurous tour to some of the area’s best loved coastal hiking trails, together with approximately 45 minutes of cave exploration - all under the watchful eye of the famous Snæfellsjökull glacier.
Stykkishólmur - Highlights of Snæfellsnes

This tour visits many of the wonderful highlights on Snæfellsnes peninsula – an area rich in natural beauty, history and culture
Stykkishólmur - Hiking in the Berserk Lava field

Join a guided hike through some of the most fascinating landscapes on Iceland. We visit the enormous Berserk Lava Field, formed by an ancient volcanic eruption about three to four thousand years ago.

Day 14

Heimaey - Full day

Welcome Home

A visit to Heimaey stave church, Iceland.

Photo: Andrea Klaussner

Heimaey, or “Home Island” welcomes us for our visit. The area features dramatic and steep sea cliffs, which are well-vegetated and provide a habitat for countless birds, including the charming Puffin.

Optional excursions

Included

Heimaey - Fun and lively walk over the lava with a local

This hiking tour is a great way to get to know the volcanic history of the island and get in touch with the beautiful nature.
Heimaey Island Tour

Join a 3-hour scenic drive to the main attractions of Heimaey. Visit several stunning natural sites and learn about the volcanic eruption that took place here in 1973 when we visit Eldheimar Museum.
Westman island hiking tour

See the fascinating Helgafell volcano and learn about the volcanic eruption that began on Jan 23rd 1973. Explore the area and see how the island’s inhabitants have built up their houses. We also visit Eldheimar Museum.
Heimaey - Boat tour of Heimaey

Sail around Heimaey and its landscape and wildlife from a different angle.

A visit to Heimaey stave church, Iceland.

Photo: Andrea Klaussner

Arriving Heimaey Island with Hurtigruten

Arriving Heimaey Island in Hurtigruten's complimentary wind- and water-resistant jacket.

Photo: Andrea Klaussner

Harpa concert hall and conference centre, Reykjavík, Iceland.

Photo: Ragnar Th. Sigurdsson

Day 15

Reykjavik - Disembarkation

The World's Northernmost Capital

Harpa concert hall and conference centre, Reykjavík, Iceland.

Photo: Ragnar Th. Sigurdsson

Iceland's capital offers visitors a rich urban life. Relatively close to the city you will find glaciers, waterfalls, geysers and mountains. Reykjavík itself hosts fine restaurants, museums and shops. We arrive in the morning and this is where our voyage ends.

Hurtigruten offers unique expedition cruises to some of the most remote and pristine waters of the world. As with all expeditions; nature prevails. Weather, and ice and sea conditions, sets the final framework for all Hurtigruten’s operations. Safety and unparalleled guest experiences are at all times our top priorities. All our indicative itineraries are continuously evaluated for adaptions, whether this is due to constraints the elements unexpectedly presents – or exciting possibilities nature and wildlife offer. That is why we call it an expedition.

Check prices and availability

What's included

Included in your voyage

Hurtigruten Expedition Cruise in cabin grade of your choice

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR AN ADVENTURE

A rich programme of included activities on all voyages designed to immerse you in the destinations you visit, including small boat cruising and onshore exploration with the Expedition Team
Professional English-speaking Expedition Team - an international handpicked team of highly educated experts of various academic fields with profound knowledge of the region we sail in
Complimentary wind- and water-resistant jacket
Loan of boots, trekking poles, and equipment needed for optional and included activities

ENGAGING ONBOARD ACTIVITIES AND EDUCATION

In-depth lectures on science, history, biology, geography, geology or culture that provide context to your voyage and help you understand the destinations you will experience
Explorer Science programme, with educational and Citizen Science activities that let you learn about the sights you’ll see while contributing to research
Introduction photo lecture, camera adjustment and tips & tricks, photo and film footage from the voyage shared in an Expedition Logbook
Casual opportunities to engage with the Expedition Team and other guests, including a welcome event, daily gatheringsto recap the day and prepare for the day to come
Opportunities to dine and interact with the Expedition Team and officers
Destination-focused onboard library
Port presentations providing destination insight
A Farewell event

PREMIUM ONBOARD COMFORT

All meals including beverages (ship beer and wine, sodas and mineral water in all restaurants)
Coffee and tea included throughout the day
Early riser and afternoon treat offered in addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner
Fredheim restaurant meals included
A la carte restaurant (only for suite guests)
Gym, hot tubs and panoramic sauna
Rejuvenating wellness areas with separate treatment rooms, infinity pool, outdoor gym, running track
Free Wi-fi on board for all guests. Be aware that we sail in remote areas with limited connection. Streaming is not supported.
No gratuities expected

Not included in your voyage

International flights
Optional shore excursions with our local partners
Optional small-group adventures with our Expedition Team such as kayaking and extended hiking (availability pending weather conditions and safety)
Travel insurance
Luggage handling

A large boat in a body of water with a mountain in the background

Photo: Oscar Farrera

Photo: Agurtxane Concellon

Your ship

MS Fridtjof Nansen

Year built	2020
Shipyard	Kleven Yards, Norway
Passenger capacity	530 (500 in Antarctica)
Gross tonnage	20 889 T
Length	140 m
Beam	23,6 m
Speed	15 knots

MS Fridtjof Nansen is the latest addition to Hurtigruten’s fleet of custom built ships – and the next generation expedition ship. She will explore some of the most spectacular corners of the globe.

Optional excursions

Some expedition cruises may include excursions that can be reserved for no additional charge. These included excursions can often be combined with other excursions available in port.

Please note excursions are subject to change and are not yet available for booking for departures after March 2021.

A small boat in a body of water with a city in the background

Hamburg - Hamburg Harbour Cruise

Europe

Duration

1 hr 45 min

Price per person

Free – please reserve

Booking code

INCL-HAM1

Iceland – Expedition (Northbound)

Itinerary

What's included

Included in your voyage

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR AN ADVENTURE

ENGAGING ONBOARD ACTIVITIES AND EDUCATION

PREMIUM ONBOARD COMFORT

Not included in your voyage

Your ship

MS Fridtjof Nansen

Optional excursions

Hamburg - Hamburg Harbour Cruise

Hamburg - Bremen's Top 10

Hamburg – Lübeck’s Ancient Alleyways & a Pub from the Past

Hamburg – Cycle Tour Along the Elbe River

Kristiansand - Kristiansand by Foot

Kristiansand – The Jewel of the South

Kristiansand - River Rafting in Setesdal Valley

Seydisfjôrdur - A stroll around Seyðisfjörður

Seydisfjôrdur - Skálanes Nature Reserve

Seyðisfjörður - Vök Baths

Grimsey Island - Arctic circle crossing ceremony

Akureyri - Town walk & Botanical Garden visit

Akureyri - Off the beaten tracks

Akureyri - Akureyri on Horseback

Akureyri - Myvatn Nature Baths

Isafjördur - Beach clean-up

Ísafjörður - Dynjandi Waterfall & Local Village

Ísafjörður - Savour the flavour of Suðureyri

Ísafjörður - Vigur Paradise Island

Ísafjörður - Hornstrandir Hike

Patreksfjördur - Stroll through town

Patreksfjördur - Splendid Combination

Patreksfjördur - Latrabjarg Cliff

Stykkishólmur - Walking tour & visit to the Eider centre

Stykkishólmur - Caves, craters and coves

Stykkishólmur - Highlights of Snæfellsnes

Stykkishólmur - Hiking in the Berserk Lava field

Heimaey - Fun and lively walk over the lava with a local

Heimaey Island Tour

Heimaey - Westman Island Walking Tour and Eldheimar museum

Heimaey - Boat tour

Extend your cruise

Hamburg: Pre-Programme (20/21)

Reykjavik Post-programme: South Coast (20/21 and 21/22)

Practical information

Sailing with MS Fridtjof Nansen

Before you travel with MS Fridtjof Nansen

Day 3