Circumnavigating Iceland & Crossing the Arctic Circle

Welcome to Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital city. Your journey begins here in Iceland’s quirky and creative heart.    This afternoon, you’ll meet the Captain and crew of your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse. Be welcomed on board with a glass of Champagne and explore your spacious suite. Meet your fellow guests for a drink in the Sky Bar as you toast to the start of an unforgettable journey. Please book your flight to arrive into Reykjavik prior to 02:00 PM.

Welcome to Flatey, a private island nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland’s northwest coast The wooden houses on this remote outcrop were built over 100 years ago, but are so well-preserved you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into the past. Just a couple of farmers live here now, surrounded by pristine beaches and this charming villages frozen in time.   Later this afternoon we will sail past the towering Látrabjarg bird cliffs. This dramatic promontory is the westernmost point of Iceland and is one of the largest bird cliffs in Europe. It’s home to millions of seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, fulmar, guillemot, kittiwakes and more, who nest in the cliff with their chicks.

Known as the fjord of adventures, Patreksfjörður is the largest town along the southern part of the Wesrfjords region. See millions of seabirds, including puffins, razorbills and guillemots, nesting on the dramatic Látrabjarg bird cliffs. Walk along its spectacular beaches, where the sand ranges from powder white to rich gold. Weather permitting, this afternoon we visit the jewel of the Westfjords, Dynjandi Waterfall. Feel the freezing mist on your face as you admire the cascading bridal veil falls and discover why it was nicknamed ‘the thunder’. Tumbling down seven tiers over 100 metres, it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland.

Welcome to Vigur Island, a tranquil oasis where time seems to stand still. This private island is a wildlife sanctuary and protects an enormous colony of birds, including puffins, Arctic terns, eider ducks, black guillemots and razorbills.   Explore this remote sanctuary, dotted with charming houses and lush landscapes, and take in panoramic views of the surrounding fjords. The island is home to the smallest post office in Europe and you can sample a traditional hjónabandssæla cake at the small cafe.

The friendly town of Sauðárkrókur is located in a fertile valley along the south-western shore of Skagafjörður Fjord. Although Sauðárkrókur was officially settled in 1871, it is linked to history dating back to the ancient Grettir’s Saga of the 13th century. It’s the largest town in northwest Iceland, though is home to just over 2,500 people. The charming downtown will welcome you as you stroll through the small collection of distinctive, traditional buildings where the past seems to be brought back to life.

Akureyri is the country’s second largest settlement after Reykjavik, but with only around 20,000 residents it still feels like a friendly small town. Though it sits just 60km below the Arctic Circle, the climate is pleasantly mild and picturesque, with colourful homes set on green hills at the base of a volcanic mountain chain. See the striking Akureyri Church and stroll through one of the world’s most northerly botanic gardens, home to endemic Icelandic flora and hardy foreign species. Keep an eye out for the elves and hidden people that are said to dwell in the town.

Grímsey is a small island north of the Icelandic mainland, home to only 100 people and one million seabirds. Nesting on the high cliffs that surround the whole island, the chatter of seabirds here is constant, especially during the 24 hours of sunshine in summer. This green, grassy outcrop straddles the Arctic Circle, making it one of the few places on earth where you can cross over the Arctic Circle on foot – truly a once in a lifetime experience.  Scenic Eclipse will set sail just after lunchtime, when you will get to sail across the Arctic Circle on your way to Vopnafjörður. 

Vopnafjörður is a hidden gem along Icelands stunning eastern coast. It’s long been a busy trading port and is still a flourishing village, home to around 600 people. Many people with Icelandic heritage can trace their history here as it was the largest emigration point for North America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The highlight here is the sprawling, pristine fjordlands that wind along the coast. Embark on outdoor experiences like hiking and birdwatching in the surrounding mountains, offering a true taste of Icelandic wilderness.

In a country with an abundance of natural drama, Seyðisfjörður may steal the show. Set at the mouth of a beautiful fjord, this is East Iceland’s heart of culture, heritage and hospitality – and then there’s the architecture. The centre of town is known for 19th-century timber houses perched on the side of the lagoon, built by fisherfolk when the region was booming. There’s plenty of culture to go with the small-town country charm, complemented by plentiful wildlife, including reindeer and porpoises drawn by the verdant setting of cascading waterfalls and snow-capped mountains.

The earth is always rumbling beneath Iceland. Today, you’ll see a perfect example of nature’s ability to both create and destroy. When the volcano Eldfell, meaning ‘Hill of Fire’, erupted here in 1973, parts of the island were covered in lava and ash, sealing them in a virtual time capsule. Walking through the town, you’ll be able to see signs of the eruption and fallout.   Keep your eyes open for our black and white friends, with more Atlantic puffins nesting here than anywhere else in the world. It’s also the best place in Iceland to spot orcas and they’re a common sight in spring.

Scenic Eclipse will return to Reykjavik this morning. This is a city that never disappoints – a busy, buzzy capital with a creative soul, wild nightlife and a population of cool, quirky Reykvíkingurs. Stay longer to explore its stylish restaurants, chic boutiques, innovative galleries and fascinating museums.   After one final breakfast on board, you’ll disembark your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht. Farewell the crew and your fellow guests, taking with you a wealth of memories of an unforgettable voyage. Please book your flight to depart out of Reykjavik after 12:00 PM. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. #Spa treatments at additional cost. Please note the itinerary is a guide and may be subject to changes for operational reasons. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.