Discover the land of fire and ice on a six-day voyage to the remote shores and volcanic isles of northwest Iceland. Hike and bike along rugged fjords and discover stunning waterfalls and nature-filled landscapes. Set out by Zodiac to navigate dramatic shorelines, from the dramatic Westfjords to the storied and adventurous Skagafjörður region. Explore the legacy of Viking explorers and intrepid fishermen during visits to historic villages.


Highlights


• Actively explore Iceland’s pristine fjords and mysterious lava fields on daily hikes, Zodiac cruises, and more while accompanied by a dedicated team of naturalists

• Delve into the rural history of Iceland at a turf farm or float down one of its glacial rivers in the northern region of Skagafjörður

• Discover the rich biodiversity of the remote Westfjords, spotting nesting puffins along the coast and watching for humpback and minke whales in the surrounding waters

• Capture your picture of the most photographed mountain in Iceland, Kirkjufell, alongside a certified photo instructor or National Geographic Photography Expert

• Extend your expedition with a tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle


Arrive in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. Transfer from the airport to the city and spend the day at your own pace exploring the sights, sounds and tastes of this Arctic capital. Check in with the hospitality desk this afternoon before embarking the ship.

Arrival Time: Arrive before 10:00 a.m.

Arrival City: Reykjavík, Iceland

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Enjoy a leisurely morning at sea learning about Iceland and its incredible biodiversity. Join your expedition staff on the bow of the ship as you keep watch for the close to 20 whale species that call the Westfjords home. Spend the afternoon on the remote eastern side of the Westfjords, an area difficult to access but boasting spectacular beauty and rich history. The tiny town of Djúpavík held its place on the map because of the golden age of herring. During its heyday in the 1930s, its herring plant was the largest concrete structure in Iceland. The plant closed in 1954 but remains as a small museum and a memory of the rich productivity of the herring industry in Iceland. Visit the museum and learn about the significance of this resource to all of Iceland in the 20th century. 

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Skagafjörður is the gateway to north Iceland, known for its glacial rivers, Icelandic horses and saga history. Take a float trip on the Jökulsá river or visit a historic rural turf farm to understand rural life in Iceland. Finally, learn about Grettir the Strong and the saga named after him by exploring Drangey Island and spotting the multitudes of birds that call the island home like kittiwakes, shearwaters and possibly even ravens and gyrfalcons.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Explore the beautiful and peaceful Westfjords region of Iceland. Enter Ísafjarðardjúp and land at Vigur Island to visit an eider farm and learn about the down cleaning process. Get to know Ísafjörður, the capital of the Westfjords, on a walking tour—complete with local sights, sounds and tastes—or venture through the trails at a local forest.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Serving as the center of trade on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula since the 15th century, Grundarfjörður is now best known for its Kirkjufell Mountain and picturesque waterfall. Alongside the National Geographic Photography Expert, capture your own images amongst this dynamic landscape and the weather swirling around the Peninsula. Alternatively, hike through a local lava field or explore the town's Saga Center.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Disembark in Reykjavík and transfer to the airport for flights home. 

Departure Time: Depart anytime after 10:30 a.m.

Departure City: Reykjavík, Iceland

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Itineraries are subject to change. 

More Cabin Categories & Prices Available

Please contact us for more information.

Category 1. From

$9,493 AUD pp
Category 1. From
#301-308 — Cabins feature one or two portholes. Most cabins feature two single beds that can be converted to a queen. Cabins #301-306 feature one queen-sized bed. All cabins feature a writing desk, floor length mirror, reading lamps, well-appointed bathrooms with a roomy glass-wall shower, and a TV.

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition

Length: 108 meters

Passenger Capacity: 148 (single & twin cabins)

Built / Refurbished: 1982 / 2008

Originally constructed for Norway’s renowned Hurtigruten Coastal Express, National Geographic Explorer was a natural fit for the Lindblad Expeditions fleet thanks to her exceptional manoeuvrability, ice-strengthened hull, and purpose-built expedition design. Now fully stabilised and refitted with over five decades of exploration expertise, she is ideally suited for navigating the most remote corners of the globe—from the rugged coasts of Europe to the icy passages of the polar regions. With vast windows throughout and a Scandinavian-inspired interior, the ship invites guests to stay connected with their environment at every turn.

Aboard National Geographic Explorer, every feature is tailored to enhance discovery. From the open Bridge and observation deck to the Chart Room and mudroom for expedition gear, the ship is an authentic platform for adventure. Her recently updated suites offer comfort and understated elegance, while public spaces such as the library, Global Gallery, and multiple dining areas encourage camaraderie and relaxation. Carrying expert guides, state-of-the-art tools, and a fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks, this 148-guest ship brings guests closer to nature with all the style and substance expected of a flagship expedition vessel.

Cabin layout for National Geographic Explorer

Inclusions


• All accommodations, meals, and non-alcoholic beverages aboard ships
• Use of snorkeling equipment, wet suits, and kayaks (where available)
• Services of our expert expedition team and guest speakers
• Services of a ship physician on most voyages
• Certain hotels and meals ashore as indicated in the itinerary
• Round-trip transfers based on group flights
• Shore excursions, sightseeing, entrance fees, and special access permits
• Taxes, service charges, and tips (except for ship’s crew, at our guests’ discretion)

Exclusions


• Air transportation (except when we indicated in the itinerary, as included) Extensions
• Passport, visa, and immigration fees
• Travel Protection Plan
• Special and unique excursions such as scuba diving, flightseeing, etc. (where offered)
• Alcoholic beverages (alcohol is included on select ships)
• Items of personal nature
• Phone and Internet Service
• Laundry
• Gratuity for ship’s crew, at our guests’ discretion (crew tips are included on select ships)
6 Days from
$1,583 AUD per day

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NZ Freephone
0800 945 3327

AUS Freephone
1800 107 715

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