Iceland Circumnavigation (Ultramarine)

Duration

12 days

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodations

Comfortable

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Iceland is sculpted by fire and ice and is popular for its cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, geysers that spontaneously erupt and stunning shorelines dotted with fishing villages and glaciers.

Highlights

Circumnavigate the island nation of Iceland aboard the Ultramarine – a small, comfortable polar ship with amazing onboard amenities and an Expedition crew that will teach you about the geology and history of the area.
Take helicopter rides over remote parts of Iceland – the best way to sightsee through this rugged landscape. You may also get the chance to go kayaking!
Explore two national parks, visiting volcanoes, basalt columns, thundering waterfalls and landscapes that were seen in Game of Thrones.
Cross the Arctic Circle by sea – a milestone for any polar traveller!
See the iconic Vatnajokull glacier, Kirkjufell Mountain, Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, then visit Latrabjarg – the tallest bird cliff in Europe.

Trip Details

Duration

12 days

Transportation

Ship,Zodiac,Coach bus,helicopter

Tour Type

Group Tour

Guide Language

English

Starts

Reykjavik, Iceland, Iceland

Finishes

Reykjavik, Iceland, Iceland

Accommodations

Comfortable

Travel Style

Polar

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Reykjavik, Iceland

Welcome to Iceland! When you arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, make your way to your hotel for a free afternoon and evening. You can arrive at any time, as you have the full day at leisure to settle in and explore the city at your own pace.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Embark in Reykjavik

After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a free morning in Reykjavik before your transfer to the ship this afternoon. When you arrive at the port, you’ll embark and be introduced to your Expedition Team, the onboard amenities and your upcoming journey. Get ready for a great adventure ahead on your technologically advanced ship – the Ultramarine, equipped with two twin-engine helicopters and a fleet of 20 quick-launching Zodiacs to deliver unique off-ship experiences.

Accommodation:

Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3-6: The West-Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Today, disembark and hop in a coach bus to explore the scenic Snaefellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland – renowned for its diverse landscapes, including glaciers, mountains, lava fields, geothermal areas and rugged coastlines. Often referred to as ‘miniature Iceland,’ the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a microcosm of all the natural wonders you’ll see throughout Iceland. Visit the lonely Kirkjufell (Church Mountain), which rises from the sea as a dramatic backdrop for Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall—undoubtedly the most photographed location in all of Iceland. Kirkjufell may be familiar to fans of Game of Thrones (the mountain appears as one of the landmarks beyond The Wall). You may also visit some of the tiny villages that dot the peninsula. These small settlements, the most notable of which include Arnarstapi, Grundarfjorour and Stykkisholmur, are located on the northern side of the peninsula, where communities rely on the rich fishing grounds of Breioafjorour Bay. Take a short walk along coastal cliffs for views of the Arnarstapi rock arch – also known as Gatklettur, formed from massive basalt columns. A section of this trail passes through a lava field – a signature Icelandic experience. End the day with a visit to the Bjarnarhofn Shark Museum and an Icelandic food tasting experience that inclues hakarl (fermented shark).

Accommodation:

Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 4)

Day 7-8: Northern Iceland (Norourland)

Over the next two days, you’ll see how Iceland is a land of contrasts. As your coach bus follows the iconic Diamond Circle route, you’ll see the north of Iceland, with its long valleys and peninsulas, is interspersed with mountains, lava fields and smooth hills carved out over time. As you approach the Arctic Circle, get ready for the captivating midnight sun. You’ll also see some of the most impressive waterfalls in Europe – Dettifoss, Godafoss (the Waterfall of the Gods) and Aldeyjarfoss (which cascades 20 m over a wall of hexagonal basalt columns). See the spectacular Kolugljufur and Jokulsargljufur gorges, the rocky sea stacks of Hvitserk and Storakarl, the horseshoe-shaped Asbyrgi Canyon, the geological wonders of Myvatn and the lava fields of Dimmuborgir, which also appeared in Game of Thrones. At Hverir, you’ll see bubbling mud pots and geothermal vents. At Skutustadir, you’ll encounter pseudocraters – volcanic features formed not by eruptions but by steam from underground. Fulfill a polar milestone on this voyage by crossing the Arctic Circle. You’ll visit the small island of Grimsey (population of 70), which is the only part of Iceland that lies within the Arctic Circle. Expect to see large populations of puffins and some gorgeous scenery.

Accommodation:

Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 2)

Day 9-10: East Iceland (Austurland)

East Iceland is characterised by deep narrow fjords and tall mountains. The region is home to the country's largest forest (Hallormsstadaskogur), farmlands and plenty of streams and mountains. Thanks to the abundant fjords and their natural harbours, fishing villages also line the coast. Iceland's biggest rhyolite (volcanic) formations are found around the village of Borgarfjordur Eystri, while impressive magma chambers filled with colourful mineral deposits can be visited along the eastern coast. In the summer months, the east of Iceland becomes a creative hub for artists and young people from Iceland and abroad. You’ll have opportunities over the next two days to go on a heli flightseeing adventure, and you’ll take a coach excursion to Vatnajokull National Park – with its abundance of glaciers (notably Vatnajokull), volcanoes, waterfalls and geothermal springs. While in the park, you’ll travel to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon – a stunning glacial lake – and explore the spectacular icebergs. Spend time at black sand Diamond Beach and take a guided glacier hike in Skaftafell area.

Accommodation:

Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 2)

Day 11: The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar)

Today you'll journey to The Westman Islands by ship and Zodiac. The archipelago of 15 islands, and surrounding sea cliffs, are teeming with birdlife. In fact, The Westman Islands group is home to one of the largest puffin colonies in the world and is also renowned for its rich fishing grounds and whale population. Formed by below sea-level eruptions, the islands’ soil is shallow and not suitable for agriculture. You’ll see large stretches of rocky soil and lava. However, some rare plants grow in Herjólfsdalur valley. you'll also visit Heimaey, the only inhabited island, to see the puffins at Stórhöfði. There’s also a beluga sanctuary and an oceanarium.

Accommodation:

Expedition Cruise Ship (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Reykjavik, Iceland

Today, you’ll disembark the Ultramarine in Reykjavik, marking the end of your spectacular journey. If you’ve booked post-trip accommodation, you’ll take an included transfer to a central downtown location. If you’d like to spend more time here, just make sure to contact your booking agent ahead of time.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

From
AUD $19695

AUD $17,726

(Tour only)

Offer ends 18 Sep, 2025 Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 12 days

Trip Type: Group Tour

Activity Level: Light

Iceland is sculpted by fire and ice and is popular for its cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, geysers that spontaneously erupt and stunning shorelines dotted with fishing villages and glaciers.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 27 Jul 2026

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Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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