Iceland Explorer & 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 at the Sky Bar as you toast to the start of an epic adventure. Please book your flight to arrive into Reykjavik prior to 02:00 PM.

Weather permitting, today 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. Today, perhaps explore some of the indulgent spaces on board before dinner, from the welcoming Observation Lounge to the indulgent Senses Spa# with its sauna and heated therapy lounge.

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, bound for Akureyri, the charming capital of the north.

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.

Known as the fjord of adventures, Patreksfjörður is the largest town along the southern part of the Wesrfjords region, though its population is less than 800. Still a busy working fishing port, it also draws tourists for its stunning natural wonders. 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 and the ocean is a vibrant blue (though rarely gets above 10 degrees Celsius). Explore the quaint streets and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of everyday life in this picturesque village.

Grundarfjörður is a picturesque town nestled in the heart of Icelands stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Surrounded by towering mountains and pristine fjords, Grundarfjörður offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and Icelandic charm. Explore the quaint streets lined with colourful houses, or venture into the nearby wilderness to discover hidden waterfalls and volcanic landscapes. Have your camera ready to catch a glimpse of the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts.

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. Later in the evening, well sail by the volcanic island of Surtsey, acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and distinguished as the worlds youngest island.

Scenic Eclipse will return to Reykjavik this morning. This busy, buzzy capital has a captivating creative soul, vibrant 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 from 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.