Iceland’s Westfjords & North Coast 7 Day Expedition Cruise
Welcome to Aurora Expeditions’ Iceland’s Westfjords & North Coast Discovery voyage.
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.
Note: In order to experience some of the incredible scenery of Iceland, a number of the shore excursions on this itinerary require coach travel away from the coast.
Highlights
• Witness the incredible diversity of Iceland’s landscapes forged by the powerful seismic activity that has shaped the island’s appearance and way of life.
• The cliffs at Latrabjarg are the easternmost point in Europe and home to a large colony of nesting puffins.
• Hike on Vigur Island where you can get close to rare Arctic birdlife.
• Marvel at the series of cascades at the dramatic and powerful Dynjandi waterfall.
Having made your way to Reykjavik, you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to our group hotel. Upon arrival at your included hotel, please visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality area where you can leave your luggage and enjoy refreshments if arriving prior to 4pm. Whilst here you can collect your luggage cabin tags speak with our ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine, withdraw cash or purchase last minute items from a local pharmacy or supermarket.
The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.
Accommodation: The Grand Hotel Reykjavik
This morning, please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Your luggage will be collected from your hotel and transferred directly to the port for clearance and delivered to your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. Please keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day.
Breakfast and check-out. Join our guided Golden Circle tour. Our journey takes us to the famous seismic sights of the Golden Circle route - Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir and history-rich Thingvellir National Park. This evening, get to know your fellow expeditioners, expedition team and crew at the Welcome Dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure.
Over the next three days, we 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 Patreksfjordur, a shore excursion by coach takes us to Latrabjarg cliffs. As Europe’s largest bird cliff, Latrabjarg is home to millions of seabirds, such as puffin, razorbill, fulmar and guillemot. Enjoy the impressive variety of natural wonders and unspoiled nature. Latrabjarg also happens to be the westernmost point in Europe, east coast of the North American continent on the other side of the Atlantic.
Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the afternoon as we cruise northward, taking in breathtaking landscapes and keeping a watchful eye for whales. Later, we'll embark on a Zodiac landing to witness the awe-inspiring power of Dynjandi waterfall.
Thingeyri, a quaint village nestled on a slender strip of land, graces the shores of one of Iceland's most picturesque fjords, Dýrafjörður. Much like many other coastal settlements in Iceland, the village's culture and industry have been intricately woven with the influence of the sea over centuries. The surrounding landscape is adorned with towering mountains, lending a distinctive charm to the scenic expanse that envelops Thingeyri. This idyllic region is often hailed as the "Alps of the Westfjords," especially the highland area nestled between the majestic fjords of Dyrafjordur and Arnarfjordur. The beauty of Thingeyri lies not only in its coastal simplicity but also in the dramatic backdrop of high mountains that paints a captivating portrait of this Icelandic village.
Personalise your expedition with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences that best suits your interests and level of fitness.
Option 1 - That Viking Thing Experience
Duration: 2 hours + free time
Level of difficulty: Easy
Today you will step back in time and learn about the Viking ways and how the hardy Norse people lived off the land. Walk through a recreated Viking area, learning about what is fact and what is fiction in the many stories you've heard about the famous Vikings. A short hike brings you to the old ruins of the Viking meeting place called a Thing - the closest translation in English is 'parliament.' Step inside the interactive Viking Museum for a chance to dress up in authentic hand-sewn Viking clothing, take photographs, drink Icelandic Viking beer, bake your own Viking bread, and explore the museum - all part of learning more about Viking ways.
Option 2 - Sandafell Mountain Hike
Duration: 3 hours
Level of difficulty: Moderate-Difficult (dependent on fitness level)
For avid explorers, Iceland is littered with hidden gems, and possibly the best-kept secret of all is the Westfjords. Lying in the most north-westerly area of the island, this sprawling area of natural beauty is truly a hiker’s paradise. Rocky peaks, deep crevices, and charming Icelandic towns all add to the appeal of the Westfjords, not to mention the various hiking trails snaking across the unusual countryside. Today we will hike Sandafell, offering gorgeous views over the town, surrounding mountains and the water below.
On Vigur Island, birdwatchers can try and tick a few species on their list, while others can enjoy walks and hikes of varying levels of difficulty, soaking in the stunning surrounds. The island's unique ecosystem is a haven for birdlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. 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, picturesque landscapes, and fresh sea air, Vigur offers an unforgettable experience.
Picturesque Akureyri is Iceland’s second largest city outside the capital area and is blessed with a superb snow-capped mountain backdrop.
Personalise your expedition with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences that best suits your interests and level of fitness.
Option 1 - Góðafoss, Lake Myvatn & Baths
Duration: 8 hours including lunch
Level of difficulty: Easy
Our first stop will be the the Goðafoss waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. There is a 400-metre trail, easy and mostly flat, approximately 10 minutes to get to the main viewpoint. Next, you'll visit Lake Myvatn and explore the area. At the conclusion of lunch, re-join the coach to travel to Mývatn Nature Baths. Drawing on a centuries-old tradition, the tastefully designed complex offers bathers a completely natural experience that begins with a relaxing dip amidst clouds of steam rising up from a fissure deep in the Earth´s surface and ends with a luxurious swim in a pool of geothermal water drawn from depths of up to 2,500 metres / 8,200 feet.
Option 2 - Góðafoss, Lake Myvatn & Dimmuborgir
Duration: 8 hours including lunch
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Our first stop will be the the Goðafoss waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. There is a 400-metre trail, easy and mostly flat, approximately 10 minutes to get to the main viewpoint. Next, you'll visit Lake Myvatn’s Skútustaðagígar pseudo craters. Wander the marked walking paths through the area. You can easily walk around the bowl-like landmasses or take a hike to reach the top for a magnificent view of the scenic surroundings. At the conclusion of lunch, re-join the coach to travel to Dimmuborgir, an area strewn with enormous lava rocks and cliffs. The formation of these extraordinary lava cliffs and pillars are the result of molten lava flowing over a pond in the eruption of Lúdentsborgir and Þrengslaborgir some 2,300 years ago. The most famous of these formations is "The Church", aptly named, as this is a cave, open at both ends and with a dome-like ceiling.
Option 3 - Hverfjall Volcanic Crater Hike, Dimmuborgir & Dettifoss
Duration: 8 hours including lunch
Level of difficulty: Strenuous
Our first stop will be Dimmuborgir, an area strewn with enormous lava rocks and cliffs. The formation of these extraordinary lava cliffs and pillars are the result of molten lava flowing over a pond in the eruption of Lúdentsborgir and Þrengslaborgir some 2,300 years ago. The most famous of these formations is "The Church", aptly named, as this is a cave, open at both ends and with a dome-like ceiling. From here walk up the steep slopes of Hverfjall Crater and around the crater’s rim for otherworldly and awesome views of the surrounding landscape. This is a 9km loop trail and takes approximately 3 hours or 3.5 hours to include walking around the rim. At the conclusion of lunch, re-join the coach to travel to Dettifoss waterfall in northeast Iceland and is reputed to be the most powerful waterfall in Europe. The falls are 100 metres / 328 feet wide and have a drop of 44 metres / 144 feet down to the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon.
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.
Disembark at approximately 8.00 am. Farewell your expedition team and fellow passengers as you continue your onward journey. Transfer to Akureyri airport.
Note: Passengers who book an early morning flight to Reykjavik must advise us in advance so we can arrange earlier disembarkation and the appropriate transfer.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Aurora Stateroom Triple Share
Aurora Stateroom Superior
Balcony Stateroom Category C
Balcony Stateroom Category B
Balcony Stateroom Category A
Balcony Stateroom Superior
Junior Suite
Captain’s Suite
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: 104 meters
Passenger Capacity: 126
Built / Refurbished: 2020/2021
Launching in October 2021, the Sylvia Earle honours renowned oceanographer and marine conservationist Dr. Sylvia Earle. As the first female chief scientist of NOAA and a Time Magazine Hero for the Planet, Sylvia’s legacy lives on through this state-of-the-art expedition vessel designed for sustainability and exploration.
Built for challenging waters like the Drake Passage, the Sylvia Earle features the cutting-edge Ulstein X-BOW® for smoother sailing, reduced fuel consumption, and better speed through rough seas. Inside the bow, the stunning Glass Atrium Lounge offers panoramic views.
Between landings, enjoy the heated saltwater open-air pool, jacuzzis, gym, sauna, and optional massages in the Wellness Centre. The ship is fitted with advanced safety features, including dual propulsion systems and a fully equipped medical clinic for remote travel.
A champion of responsible travel, the ship runs one of the world’s cleanest marine engines, reducing emissions by up to 80%. Virtual anchoring protects delicate seabeds by avoiding traditional anchors.
Expedition-ready, the Sylvia Earle includes four sea-level Zodiac platforms for fast and safe transfers to shore. Adventure gear is prepped in spacious, expert-designed activity areas with lockers and drying zones for wetsuits and dry suits—perfect for kayaking, diving, and other optional activities.
Inclusions
All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Ushuaia on Day 1.
Lake Escondido tour in Ushuaia, on Day 2.
Charter flight from King George Island to Punta Arenas on Day 19.
Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service.
All meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices during voyage.
Beer and house wine with dinner.
Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket.
Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
Comprehensive pre-departure information.
Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
Wi-Fi*.
*Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.
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• All transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
• One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Reykjavik on Day 1.
• Visit Iceland's famous Golden Circle prior to embarkation, on Day 2.
Exclusions
International or domestic flights – unless specified in the itinerary.
Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
Airport arrival or departure taxes.
Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
Hotel accommodation and meals – unless specified in the itinerary.
Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages (outside of dinner service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges.
Note: A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.
Our Associates Include
