ICELAND’S WEST FJORDS AND NORTH COAST
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7 DAYS
Geologically, Iceland is one of the youngest countries on Earth. It’s a land of spectacular geology that is rich in wildlife, culture and human history. On this voyage, you’ll explore Westfjords, one of the remotest and most pristine regions in Iceland—ideal for nature hikes and bird and whale viewing. Discover diverse landscapes including thundering waterfalls, lava fields that breath steam and verdant valleys that stretch beyond the horizon. Atlantic puffins can be found in large numbers in Iceland, and you’ll have many opportunities to encounter these charismatic birds nesting in their burrows.
ITINERARY SUMMARY
| Day | Place | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Reykjavik,Iceland | Arrive Reykjavik, transfer hotel and enjoy your leisure time. |
| Day 2 | Embarkation | Sightseeing - the Golden Circle areas and embarkation. |
| Day 3 | Patreksfjordur and Dynjandi - Westfjords | Explore the Westfjords region. Excursion by coach takes us to Látrabjarg cliffs. |
| Day 4 | Thingeyri - Westfjords | Explore Thingeyri and Westfjords. |
| Day 5 | Vigur Island | Birdwatchers paradise, while others can enjoy walks and hikes with rolling hills, picturesque landscapes. |
| Day 6 | Akureyri | Akureyri Iceland’s second largest city, choose your walking experience Goðafoss waterfall or Dimmuborgir. |
| Day 7 | Akureyri | Disembark Akureyri. |
SHIP OFFERING THIS ITINERARY
Sylvia Earle
The Sylvia Earle is a new purpose built, polar expedition vessel taking 120 guests. This vessel has been designed in close consultation with Antarctic expedition specialists and is the first expedition cruise ship designed with the ULSTEIN X-BOW hull. This cutting edge nautical technology allows for gentle travel and motion at sea, improved comfort and safety on-board, reduced vibrations, lower fuel consumption and emissions and ‘virtual anchoring’ which means the ship can float anchor-less while launching the Zodiacs without disturbing delicate sea floor areas. There are four sea-level launching platforms for fast and efficient access to and from Zodiacs.
Day 1 Reykjavik, Iceland
Arrive in Reykjavik, you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day to explore at your leisure.
Day 2 Reykjavik, Embarkation
Follow the path of the Golden Circle. Stops along our route include Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, next we explore the geothermal fields and geysir’s for which Iceland is famous. Late afternoon return to Reykjavik to board your ship.
Day 3 Patreksfjörður and Dynjandi – Westfjords
Over the next three days explore the Westfjords region featuring outstanding landscapes with jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer table mountains that plunge into the sea and pristine North Atlantic vegetation.
At Patreksfjörður, a shore excursion by coach takes us to Látrabjarg cliffs.
Day 4 Thingeyri – Westfjords
Thingeyri, a quaint village nestled on a slender strip of land, graces the shores of one of Iceland’s most picturesque fjords, Dýrafjörður. Personalise your expedition with options for hiking. Step inside the interactive Viking Museum or hike Sandafell, offering gorgeous views over the town, surrounding mountains and the water below.
Day 5 Vigur Island
The island’s unique ecosystem makes it a birdwatchers paradise, while others can enjoy walks and hikes of varying levels of difficulty, soaking in the stunning surrounds. Stroll along the coastline, keeping an eye out for puffins and other seabirds, or venture deeper into the island to discover hidden gems. With its rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, Vigur offers an unforgettable experience.
Day 6 Akureyri
Iceland’s second largest city outside the capital area and is blessed with a superb snow-capped mountain backdrop. Options to visit Goðafoss waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland, Lake Mývatn & Dimmuborgir or Hverfjall Volcanic Crater hike including Dettifoss.
Return to Akureyri for a free evening. Discover the charm of this northern gem as you explore its vibrant streets. Unwind in cosy pubs, savour the taste of Iceland’s finest craft beers at local breweries, or immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere.
Day 7 Akureyri, Disembark
During the early morning, we cruise into Akureyri and disembark at approximately 8.00 am. Farewell your Expedition Team and fellow passengers as we all continue our onward journeys. Transfer to Akureyri airport.