Iceland
Circumnavigating Iceland: A Small Ship Expedition
Program No. 24370RJ
Circumnavigate Iceland’s unique natural wonders on an expedition voyage that will bring you up close with glaciers, fjords, whales, puffins and so much more.
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14 days
13 nights
34 meals
13B 10L 11D
1
In transit to program.
In flight
3
Golden Circle
Reykjavik
4
Embarkation
Reykjavik
5
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Snaefellsnes Peninsula
6
The Westfjords
Westfjords
7
Siglufjörður and Grímsey
Grimsey
8
Akureyri
Akureyri
9
Húsavík
Husavik
10
Seyðisfjörður
Seyoisfjorour
11
Southeast Iceland
Southeast Iceland
13
Disembarkation, Free time
Reykjavik
14
Program Concludes
Reykjavik
At a Glance
The most sparsely populated country in Europe, Iceland is filled with awe-inspiring natural beauty. Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime circumnavigation of Iceland on board the expedition ship, Ocean Endeavor. Explore dramatic fjords, medieval fishing villages and wildlife on land and sea. Via Zodiac, get up-close to dramatic fjords, hot springs and ice-filled lagoons as you search for seals, whales and puffins. Learn about volcanic activity and the unique and varied landscape from local experts. Along the way, enjoy a reenactment at the Herring Era Museum, take a field trip to the Akureyri Botanical Gardens and walk up to Tvisöngur Sound Sculpture.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
I like to spend much of the day exploring. Whether walking through historic neighborhoods at a moderate pace or out and about on a coach, I prefer to keep my days full. Stairs don’t bother me, and I love to keep up with the group.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
What You'll Learn
- Visit the Blue Lagoon, located in a lava field, to discover its rejuvenating, healing waters and geological history.
- Experience remote Arctic hamlets with their colorful houses, cheerful people and Icelandic folk music, bakeries and breweries.
- Get up close to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ilulissat Ice Fjord at the mouth of one of the world’s most active glaciers.
Suggested Reading List
(20 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Circumnavigating Iceland: A Small Ship Expedition
Program Number: 24370
The Sagas of Icelanders
Nine sagas and six tales composed between the years 1000 and 1500, including an account of Leif Eriksson's voyage to North America, all newly translated.
The Blue Fox: A Novel
Winner of the Nordic Council Literature Prize, Sjón is a celebrated Icelandic poet and novelist. Set in 1883 in Iceland, follow the priest, Skugga-Baldur, on his hunt for the enigmatic blue fox.
Ring of Seasons, Iceland, Its Culture and History
A longtime resident of Reykjavik, Lacy weaves tales of family life, anecdote, lore and history into this illuminating personal portrait of Iceland.
Song of the Vikings, Snorri and the Making of Norse Myths
Brown brings to life not just the great Norse tales of medieval Iceland but also the life and times of the worldly Icelandic chieftain, known as the "Homer of the North."
The Oxford Illustrated History of the Vikings
Twelve leading scholars draw on the latest research and archaeological evidence to provide the clearest picture yet of this fabled people. Painting a fascinating portrait of the influences that the "Northmen" had on foreign lands, the
contributors trace Viking excursions to the British Islands, Russia, Iceland, Greenland, and the northern tip of Newfoundland, which the Vikings called "Vinlund."
The Prose Edda: Tales from Norse Mythology
Written in Iceland a century after the close of the Viking Age, The Prose Edda is the source of most of what we know of Norse mythology.
The History of Iceland
Gunnar Karlsson, Icelands premier historian, chronicles the age of the Sagas, consulting them to describe an era without a monarch or central authority.
Independent People, An Epic
Rich in local color, this great mock-epic by the Icelandic Nobel Prize-winner features the indelible Bjartur of Summerhouses, a hard-headed, independent-minded sheep farmer.
Nordic Runes: Understanding, Casting, and Interpreting the Ancient Viking Oracle
A comprehensive and practical guide to the ancient oracle based on the runic alphabet of the Norse. Nordic runes are a potent and profoundly transformative magic system that gives contemporary readers access to the ancient wisdom tradition of Northern European cultures.
A Viking Voyage
An unforgettable adventure story that will take you to the heart of some of the most magnificent, unspoiled territory on earth, and even deeper, to the heart of a journey like no other.
Penguin Historical Atlas of the Vikings
The history of the Vikings told through a series of innovative maps and excellent photographs. This book traces the routes of the ninth-century Viking merchants and explorers throughout Europe and onto the New World.
Names for the Sea, Strangers in Iceland
A stranger in a strange land, British novelist Sarah Moss captures the spirit of Iceland in this tale of a year in Reykjavik with her husband and two children.
Hrafnkel's Saga and Other Icelandic Stories
This collection of the most famous of Icelandic sagas includes stories with titles like Thorstein the Staff-Struck and Ale Hood. Dating from the 12th century, these tales vividly recreate the society of medieval Iceland.
Letters from Iceland
Written with fellow poet Louis MacNiece, this quirky, under-appreciated masterpiece captures the spirit of Iceland, its people and landscapes.
A History of Scandinavia: Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland
Scandinavia from prehistory to the present with chapters on the Viking and Lutheran kingdoms, medieval times, monarchies, the World Wars and modern period, emphasizing the common cultural, political and social backgrounds.
Iceland: Land of the Sagas
Circumnavigating Iceland in summer and winter, Krakauer and Roberts encounter tales of monks and Vikings, outlaws and adventurers, trolls and witches. While touring and photographing, they discover the myths and legends of Iceland's stirring history.
Beyond the Northlands: Viking Voyages and the Old Norse Sagas
Beyond the Northands explores this world through the stories that the Vikings told about themselves in their sagas.
The World of the Vikings
This book explores Viking life and culture in detail: their appearances, warfare, targets, crafts, and weapons, as well as their stunning pattern-welded swords and helmets.
Insight Guide Iceland
This guide emphasizes culture and history, with wonderful photographs, maps and essays from experts.
North: The New Nordic Cuisine of Iceland
Catering to a rising interest in Nordic cuisine, this cookbook celebrates Iceland’s food alongside its haunting landscapes, portrayed in starkly beautiful, full-color photos.
All itineraries and excursions are subject to change. Weather and water conditions may affect the progress of the ship, and we may miss ports if it is not safe to dock. The operators reserve the right to change the content and duration of excursions without prior notice and so the cruise itinerary should always be regarded as provisional. Whenever possible, Road Scholar’s published daily schedule will indicate port arrival and departure times. Prior to departure, if there is a major change, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
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14 days
13 nights
34 meals
13 B 10 L 11 D
Activity Note
Walking with luggage from airport terminal to bus; driving to Viking World, Blue Lagoon, hotel; about 50 miles throughout the day, approximately 1.5 hours total riding time. Those who wish to swim in the Blue Lagoon, pack bathing suit in carry-on luggage; towels provided, slippers, bathrobes, spa treatments are available at an additional cost. Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.
Breakfast:
At Viking World for participants arriving early.
Morning:
Once all participants have joined the group at Viking World we will board our motorcoach and drive south through the Reykjanes Peninsula to our lunch venue, Salthusid in Grindavik. The Reykjanes Peninsula runs along the Mid-Atlantic Rift, a geological wonder that is still volcanically active. After remaining dormant for more than 800 years, Mount Fagradalsfjall, a volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula, erupted in March 2021. The eruption lasted for several months, altering the nearby landsape by adding 10.3 million cubic feet of new lava.
Lunch:
At Salthusid in Grindavik.
Afternoon:
We will reboard the bus and continue our Icelandic learning adventure at the Blue Lagoon, where we will have an opportunity to soak in the mineral-rich, geothermally-heated waters. (Entrance fee and towels included at Blue Lagoon; slippers and bathrobes available at additional cost.) There are other “blue lagoons” but this one is truly unique. The stark volcanic terrain that surrounds it creates an otherworldly feeling. The lava field is surely natural, but in fact the lagoon owes its existence to a geothermal power station built in 1975. Superheated water from a nearby lava flow feeds into the power plant system and finally flows into the lagoon, where the temperature stays between 98°-104°F (36°-40° C). Minerals from the underground geological layers account for the coloration. Not only is lounging in the waters delightfully comfortable, the minerals and white silica mud are reputed to provide benefits for skin conditions. Next, we’ll continue our ride to central Reykjavik to check in to our hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is free to freshen up and relax before dinner.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
Orientation. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. The remainder of the evening is at leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow participants, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 60 miles, approximately 2 hours riding time. Walking up to 2 miles; uneven, hilly terrain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll set out from the hotel by bus for a full-day field trip around the Golden Circle. Our field trip will begin with an exploration of Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. It was here that the Althing, an open-air representative assembly, was established in 930 CE. It is the world’s oldest existing parliament. Thingvellir is considered the most sacred place in Iceland due its historical significance and for the fact that this is also the meeting point of the American and European continental plates.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Moving on, we’ll reach Gullfoss — golden falls — the most famous waterfall in Iceland. Water from the Langjökull glacier flows into the Hvítá (White) River. When it reaches the great Gullfossgljúfur canyon, it falls in two stages more than 100 feet (32 meters). We’ll then continue our ride to Geysir, where the active Strokkur geyser bursts forth every few minutes in a cloud of steam. Returning to our hotel in the late afternoon, we’ll have some time to freshen up and relax before dinner.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus. Walking up to 2 miles; uneven, hilly terrain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will check out of the hotel and enjoy an expert led lecture on Iceland’s past and present. We’ll then board a bus and ride to the National Museum of Iceland. The charming museum traces the history of this remote island nation from the Settlement era to the modern day. Our field trip will continue with riding and walking in Reykjavik. We will see sites such as the historic Höfði House, site of the 1986 summit between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev that precipitated the end of the Cold War. We will also drive by Lake Tjornin, a small lake in downtown Reykjavik known for its birdlife, as well as walking through the Parliament House and City Hall with its large topographic map of Iceland.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
We will meet this afternoon for a briefing with Adventure Canada, during which we will meet our Resource Staff and fellow travelers before embarking the Ocean Endeavour. While on board, rotating members of the ship's resource staff will offer educational presentations on a variety of topics. Many are active researchers with expertise in areas such as history, paleontology, geology, and biology. At each expedition port of call, you will have a choice of field trips that will vary by location such as nature activities (minimal walking), short walks (about .5 - 1.5 miles), longer walks (2-3 miles) and photography sessions led by resource staff. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Updates will be provided aboard ship. Thank you for your understanding. Expedition ships — more rugged than traditional sailing vessels — are designed to venture into remote landscapes, enabling us to seek opportunities for getting up close to nature and wildlife. These educational adventures have flexible schedules. The itinerary may change daily based on weather, sailing conditions, and potential wildlife sightings. There may also be serendipitous occasions to experience something unexpected. Due to the remote location of the ports, each embarkation and disembarkation will be done via zodiac rafts. Staff will be available for assistance. Should you require medication during the day, please ensure you keep this with you.
Dinner:
Aboard ship meals consist of meat, seafood, and vegetarian options, plus water, coffee, and tea. Additional beverages are available for purchase. The chefs try to incorporate local delicacies when possible.
Evening:
At leisure. Enjoy evening activities aboard the Ocean Endeavour.
Activity Note
Zodiac landing; possibility of rough seas; getting in/out of Zodiac with assistance from staff. Walking distances up to 2 miles on uneven and hilly terrain.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
Today we will explore one of Icelands amazing coastlines known for its interesting geological history and unique landscape. Located in western Iceland, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is home to the Snæfellsjökull volcano, the Londranger cliffs, and a Black Lava Pearl beach called Djupalonssandur. We’ll have a chance to explore the coastline via zodiac. Weather, wildlife, and sea conditions will influence our choice of landing today. Onshore, an expert-led field trip will further enhance and enrich our day’s experience.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
We’ll gather in the onboard meeting space for an illuminating lecture by an onboard expert that will expand on the program theme.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Enjoy evening activities aboard the Ocean Endeavour.
Activity Note
Zodiac landing; possibility of rough seas; getting in/out of Zodiac with assistance from staff. Walking distances up to 2 miles on uneven and hilly terrain.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
Today we will visit the remote Westfjords. Only about 10% of the rest of Iceland’s visitors make it here. Birdwatchers will delight as we view the tall, jagged bird cliffs. Embrace the Icelandic lifestyle as we view the coastal fjords, giant mountains, and small villages.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
After lunch we will continue exploring the Westfjords by ship and if the weather permits, by zodiac.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Enjoy evening activities aboard the Ocean Endeavour.
Activity Note
Zodiac landing; possibility of rough seas; getting in/out of Zodiac with assistance from staff. Walking distances up to 2 miles on uneven and hilly terrain.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
This morning we’ll have a chance to travel to the island of Grimsey via Zodiac. This island just barely sits on the Arctic Circle making it one of the world’s eight Arctic nations. We’ll have a chance to see the wildlife living on the island including gulls, puffins, and guillemots.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
This afternoon we’ll visit Siglufjörður that was once the center of the herring industry. At the Herring Era Museum, we’ll enjoy a re-enactment. After the re-enactment we’ll enjoy some free time to explore what Siglufjörður has to offer including a bakery, chocolate factory, brewery, and Icelandic folk music center.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Enjoy evening activities aboard the Ocean Endeavour.
Activity Note
Zodiac landing; possibility of rough seas; getting in/out of Zodiac with assistance from staff. Walking distances up to 2 miles on uneven and hilly terrain.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
Today we will visit Iceland's second largest urban area, Akyureyri. We'll take a Zodiac to shore where we will visit Akyureyri's Lutheran church where we can climb it's steps and get an amazing view of the city. Next we'll visit the Akureyri Botanical Gardens which is home to over 7,000 species of plants.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
This afternoon we'll have a chance to explore the city of Akyureyri on our own.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Enjoy evening activities aboard the Ocean Endeavour.
Activity Note
Zodiac landing; possibility of rough seas; getting in/out of Zodiac with assistance from staff. Walking distances up to 2 miles on uneven and hilly terrain.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
This morning we will explore Húsavík’s Skjálfandi Bay via Zodiac. We'll keep our eyes peeled for whales, dolphins, and birds.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
This afternoon we'll continue exploring Húsavík. We'll have a chance to explore the Whale Museum, Húsavík Museum, and the Exploration Museum.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Enjoy evening activities aboard the Ocean Endeavour.
Activity Note
Zodiac landing; possibility of rough seas; getting in/out of Zodiac with assistance from staff. Walking distances up to 2 miles on uneven and hilly terrain.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
This morning we'll start our exploration of Seyðisfjörður by visiting Skálanes Nature Reserve. Here we'll learn about the research the center is doing as well as it's interpretation of Iceland's environment and cultural history.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
This afternoon we'll have several activities to choose from as we continue our exploration of Seyðisfjörður. Choose to go on a hike, take in the art scene, walk up to Tvísöngur sound sculpture, or stroll along the cobbled rainbow road.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Enjoy evening activities aboard the Ocean Endeavour.
Activity Note
Zodiac landing; possibility of rough seas; getting in/out of Zodiac with assistance from staff. Walking distances up to 2 miles on uneven and hilly terrain.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
Today we'll take in the beautiful views of waterfalls, volcanoes, lagoons, and glaciers in Southeast Iceland. We'll have a chance to explore via Zodiac cruise or on land.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
This afternoon enjoy a lecture by one of the ships knowledgeable staff.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Enjoy evening activities aboard the Ocean Endeavour.
Activity Note
Zodiac landing; possibility of rough seas; getting in/out of Zodiac with assistance from staff. Walking distances up to 2 miles on uneven and hilly terrain.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
Today we'll visit the largest of the Westman Islands, Heimay. We'll learn about this volcanically active area that has recently experienced two eruptions. We'll take a Zodiac cruise around the island keeping our eyes peeled for wildlife including puffins, which nest along the ocean cliffs.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
We'll continue our exploration of Heimay, weather and sea conditions permitting.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Enjoy evening activities aboard the Ocean Endeavour.
Activity Note
Disembark the ship and take a bus to the hotel.
Breakfast:
Aboard the ship.
Morning:
On the final day of our expedition, we will return to Reykjavik where we will disembark the ship and transfer to the hotel.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
This afternoon take time to do what interests you most in Reykjavik.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure, get ready for check out and departure tomorrow.
Activity Note
Hotel Check Out 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!