Voyage to Iceland
Windswept Isles of the North from Hamburg to Reykjavík
Join us as we sail from Hamburg to Iceland via Norway, the Shetland Islands and the Faroe Islands
From beautiful fjords and soaring cliffs to lonely islands and dramatic landscapes
Rugged coastlines and small fishing villages: sail from Hamburg to Reykjavík
A North Atlantic island odyssey
Setting out from Hamburg, we sail into the North Sea and head in the direction of Iceland. Our first stop is Norway’s sublime Lysefjord before we head back out to sea and visit the highlights of the Orkneys, the Shetlands and the Faroes on our voyage north. These wild and dramatic islands are rugged and green, but they all offer very welcoming inhabitants and fascinating history.
From one great city to another
The adventure begins in Hamburg, Germany’s bustling port city, and ends in stylish Reykjavík. As our journey progresses, we’ll be far from any cities, but we will get to experience the much smaller settlements that dot the North Atlantic islands along our route. And – of course – we'll see some fantastic natural sights and be on the lookout for wildlife. Once we arrive in Reykjavík, this voyage is ideal to combine with one of our Iceland expeditions, such as a circumnavigation.
Key Expedition Details
Itinerary
Your adventure at a glance. Daily highlights, included activities, and optional extras to make it unforgettable.
Your adventure to Iceland begins
Your expedition cruise sets sail from Hamburg – a city full of history, art and culture. There's plenty to see and do here, so take some time to explore before boarding your expedition ship.
You'll discover many of the city's attractions in the old town, Altstadt, including St Nikolai Memorial and the historic street of Deichstraße. Why not discover the interesting history of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Chilehaus and the world's largest warehouse complex.
Once aboard, you'll collect your complimentary expedition jacket, meet your Expedition Team, explore the onboard comforts of your ship and settle into your cabin as we set sail.
Enjoy a leisurely sea day aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen
As your expedition cruise travels from Hamburg towards Norway’s Lysefjord, you'll have the opportunity to learn more about the places you'll visit with your expert Expedition Team. Join them for lectures in the Science Centre and learn all about the journey ahead.
A day at sea gives you plenty of time to relax, and your modern expedition ship allows you to do that in style. Why not head to the wellness area, sauna or infinity pool. You’re sure to enjoy our delicious, locally-sourced Nordic and international dishes served in the three restaurants.
Remarkable landscapes of Lysefjord
Today, we'll sail down 25 mile long Lysefjord. Enjoy a day of remarkable landscapes from the observation decks, taking in the sublime scenery of the long and narrow fjord among striking vertical cliffs.
From the fjord we can take a peek from below at the world-famous Pulpit Rock – Preikestolen – and look out for the equally renowned Kjæragbolten, a giant boulder that seems precariously wedged into a mountain crevasse. If you're feeling adventurous, join our Expedition Team for small expedition boat cruising or kayaking and see the immense fjord from a new perspective.
Discover the deep Norse roots of Scotland's Shetland Islands
We cruise northwest to the Shetland Islands. Lerwick, the capital, is a friendly, Victorian-influenced fishing town set in beautiful scenery.
Navigate the narrow lanes on foot to discover little shops selling local whiskies, woollen sweaters and fudge. By the old waterfront, you’ll find the Shetland Museum, showcasing Pictish carvings and Shetland lace shawls. Nearby you can see Fort Charlotte and the regal-looking town hall.
Keep your binoculars handy to scan for grey and common seals along Lerwick's beaches, as well as local birdlife such as Red-throated Divers, redshanks and curlews.
A visit to Streymoy in the Faroe Islands
Tórshavn is located on Streymoy, the largest of the Faroe Islands. Founded by Norsemen in the 10th century, Tórshavn – Thor’s Harbour – is one of Northern Europe’s oldest capitals.
Wander through the cobbled alleyways and delight in the colourful, turf-roofed houses found here. In the local museums, you can learn about the city’s origins and the flora, fauna and geology of the Faroe Islands.
About half a mile out of town, the Svartafoss waterfall tumbles over mossy rocks. And as you walk along the seafront, look out for Eider Ducks and the distinctive Faroese Starling with its beige-tipped wings.
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea
Spend the day at your leisure as we sail towards Iceland. Savour the quiet moments, simply appreciating the peaceful feeling of being at sea or enjoy panoramic views and chat with fellow guests in the Explorer Lounge & Bar. This is a rare opportunity to disconnect and get a break from the modern world.
Feeling active? You can enjoy a workout in the gym or simply relax in the panoramic sauna while gazing out at the view. As ever, our Expedition Team will be on hand to answer any questions you may have and offer insights about these Arctic islands.
Enjoy Reykjavík at your leisure
As your expedition cruise reaches its conclusion, you still have one last terrific destination to explore – Iceland's art, culture and history-packed capital – Reykjavík.
Stroll along Laugavegur with its boutiques and galleries, admire the striking Hallgrímskirkja church and peruse Reykjavík Art Museum. Consider visiting the Blue Lagoon – one the true natural wonders of the world – and experience the blend of silica, algae and minerals in its famous geothermal waters.
This voyage is ideal to be combined with a circumnavigation of Iceland. See our Iceland Circular Saga — Hamburg to Reykjavík via Windswept Isles of the North voyage, which conjoins the two cruises.
You can also join our Post-Programme and explore Iceland's beautiful south coast, with waterfalls, black sand beaches, geothermal pools and majestic mountains.
Included activities & excursions
These activities are included with your trip. Dates and times will be confirmed closer to departure, you’ll just need to reserve your spot after booking.
What else is included?
Optional extras
Enhance your journey with optional extras. Some activities are only bookable onboard and can’t be reserved online or by phone. Subject to availability.
Our Europe ship
Get a taste of what life is like on board the ships that sail on this itinerary
