Elves, Sagas and Volcanoes - Hurtigruten Circumnavigation of Iceland

Details

Transportation

MS Spitsbergen

MS Spitsbergen is named after the crown jewel of Arctic Norway – the Svalbard archipelago and its biggest island, Spitsbergen. Hurtigruten has a long history of travelling to Spitsbergen, beginning in 1896 with the `Sports Route´. MS Spitsbergen cruises along the Norwegian coast from September to May, and becomes part of our global Explorer sailings during the rest of the year.

After complete reconstruction, MS Spitsbergen joined the Hurtigruten fleet in 2016. The ship features high technical standards as well as comfortable, modern public areas and cabins. The vessel´s fresh Scandinavian design reflects a colour palette derived from the sea. She is modern and environmentally progressive, and we plan further improvements that will reduce emissions and fuel consumption even more. The new ship’s maneuverability and optimal size make her quite suitable for exploring polar waters.

Year built: 2009
Ship yard: Estaleiro Navais de Viana do Castelo (POR)
Passenger capacity: 320
Beds: 200

Ship facilities:

• Expedition Team
• Explorer bar
• Panoramic lounge – Explorer lounge
• Compass Service Centre
• Brygga bistro
• Shop
• Torget main dining
• Wi-Fi
• Sauna
• Fitness room
• Lift
• Jacuzzi
• Guest launderette
• Panoramic deck 8
• Outside bar for events, decks 7 & 8

MS Spitsbergen has its own on-board Expedition Team and serves as a university at sea. Interesting lectures inside the ship as well as out on the sun deck make this an exciting and educational journey. Topics depend on the season and the waters we sail in. The Expedition Team host a lecture programme and evening gatherings daily. Out on deck you can participate in live points of interest to learn more about the nature, culture and other phenomena we encounter along the coast. In addition, the Expedition Team will introduce you to the uniquely Norwegian notion of friluftsliv´ (outdoor life), and encourage you take part in friluftsliv´ hikes and activities during the journey.

MS Fram 2020 Voyages:

After a decade of exploring some of the most spectacular waters on our planet, Hurtigruten’s MS Fram will receive a total makeover – and reemerge as a brand-new expedition ship.

Leading up the 2020 season, MS Fram will be completely upgraded with new suites, new cabins, more environmentally friendly engines and a total makeover of all public areas – including new restaurants and Hurtigruten’s signature, high-tech Science Center.

Included

• Hurtigruten Expedition Voyage (11 nights for 2019 - 8 nights for 2020) in cabin grade of your choice on a full board basis
• Wind and water-resistant jacket
• Landings with Polarcirkel boats and activities onboard and ashore
• Professional English speaking Expedition team that gives lectures as well as accompany landings and activities
• Free tea and coffee
• Suites include a range of additional complimentary amenities such as drinks with meals and a welcome gift.
• Free rubber boot rental service on board

Not Included

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Optional excursionsand gratuities
• Luggage handling

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive Reykjavik

45 minutes after touching down at Keflavík International Airport, located among lava rocks, moss and mountains, you find yourself in Reykjavik, a charming and vibrant town with lots of restaurants, museums and shops on narrow streets.

Meals

Day 2 - Welcome to the "Sagaland"

West Iceland is often referred to as “The Sagaland”. Experience Stykkishólmur’s diversity of lava and rock formations, glaciers, volcanic activity and hot and cold springs.

Explore the town of Stykkishólmur on your own or join an optional excursions to explore more of the Snæfellsnes peninsula which is said to be a miniature version of Iceland. In addition to its characteristic Snæfellsjökull glacier, there are black sandy beaches, bird cliffs, spectacular mountains and volcanic craters.

On the charming island of Flatey, time appears to stand still. Take a stroll around the village and travel back in time along the scenic lanes.

Meals

Day 3 - Bildudalur

One of Iceland’s best-kept secrets is the scenic beauty of the Westfjords area. In the morning, we sail around the tip of the Látrabjarg peninsula. If conditions are right, you can see the Bjargtangar lighthouse, Europe’s westernmost point, from the deck.

Please note: Due to a human error, an earlier version of the online version of this itinerary wrongfully stated that we would take guests ashore on Látrabjarg cliffs. As Hurtigruten operates on strict environmental and operational guidelines, taking guests on shore in areas where access has been restricted due to vulnerability of nature and wildlife is of course not part of our program.

Meals

Day 4 - Ísafjörður

Flanked by towering mountains on all sides, Ísafjörður is a nearly perfect natural harbour. Stroll around to see the architecture, the variety of local handicrafts and the oldest houses in Iceland, including the structure that houses the Maritime Museum. With our wide range of optional excursions, you can choose to follow in the footsteps of trolls or enjoy the beautiful scenery from horseback.

Meals

Day 5 - Hornbjarg cliff is one of the greatest seabird habitats in Iceland

The Hornbjarg cliff is one of the greatest sea bird habitats in Iceland. From deck, you will be able to enjoy the spectacular views of the wildlife. Reykjafjörður can only be reached on foot or by boat, and we plan to take a closer look at this stunning area as well.

Please note: In an earlier version, the text in this online version of the itinerary could wrongfully be interpreted as we would do landings on Hornbjarg Cliff. As Hurtigruten operates on strict environmental and operational guidelines, taking guests on shore in areas where access has been restricted due to vulnerability of nature and wildlife is of course not part of our program.

Meals

Day 6 - Siglufjörður & Grímsey

Hrísey is a peaceful island in the middle of Eyjafjörður, a well-known paradise for birdwatchers. The most abundant species at this spot is the ptarmigan, but in all about 40 species of bird nest here. The 200 Islanders live in a trim fishing village with paved streets, tidy gardens and everyone has a view of the spectacular surrounding mountains. Next stop is Akureyri, a lively and energetic town. In fact, it is the most populous community outside Reykjavík, and serves as the centre of trade, culture and services for the north of Iceland. Akureyri is close to many of Iceland’s most renowned natural treasures, although the town itself is a popular destination. Enjoy an optional hike or join an excursion to the impressive Goðafoss waterfall or Myvatn nature baths.

Meals

Day 7 - Step across the Arctic Circle

At Grímsey we will use our small boats to reach this green and grassy island. It is probably best known for its proximity to the Arctic Circle, which cuts across the island. You can have the chance to step across that line, North to South.

Meals

Day 8 - Húsavík

Húsavík is the oldest settlement in Iceland. The town’s most famous landmark is Húsavíkurkirkja, a wooden church built in 1907. Over the years, Húsavík has become increasingly popular in Iceland as a whale watching centre and is home to the Húsavík Whale Museum. After leaving the town, we will sail past the Langanes peninsula in the evening.

Meals

Day 9 - Borgarfjörður - this area is known for its natural beauty and as “the land of the elves”

Bakkagerdi is the main settlement in Borgarfjörður. This area is known for its natural beauty and is “the land of the elves”. Puffin colonies abound in the fjord, making this a popular place for birdwatching. Bakkagerdi is off the typical tourist track, and offers peace, quiet and lovely views. If you prefer more action, join us for an optional tour to the natural forest of Hallormsstaður. The Norwegian heritage of the village of Seyðisfjörður is reflected in colourful Nordic-style wooden houses dating from the early 20th century. The handcrafted architecture creates a truly unique identity in the settlement. Explore the town, join an organised hike or take an optional excursion to Skálanes.

Meals

Day 10 - Glaciers and Art

The natural world around Djupivogur is highly varied. The Búlandsnes bird sanctuary is renowned among bird lovers throughout the world, because this is a place where you can observe most Icelandic birds nesting in their natural habitat close by. The Vatnajökull glacier is the largest in Europe, and a spectacular sight. Join our optional excursion to Vatnajökull lagoon, or stay and hike in the beautiful surroundings of the town. Langabúð is the oldest house in Djúpivogur, originally built in 1790, and has now been renovated to serve as a cultural centre. It houses some of the works of sculptor Ríkarður Jónsson, a heritage museum and a coffee shop with delicious homemade cakes and a display of local handicrafts. Don't miss the outdoor sculpture, Eggin í Gleðivík, by the world famous Icelandic artist Sigurður Guðmundsson, consisting of 34 eggs.

Meals

Day 11 - Whale spotting around Surtsey, a volcanic island, formed by an eruption that started 425 feet below sea level and reached the surface in 1963

Heimaey is the largest of the Westman Islands, which are located off Iceland's south coast, and is dominated by magnificent cliffs. These form natural habitats for many different seabirds, including puffins and kittiwakes. The islands are also a great place for spotting whales. In 1973, a huge volcanic eruption surprised their residents of Heimaey. It forced the entire population to evacuate and set sail to mainland Iceland. A large number of buildings were buried under lava and ash. Many were completely destroyed, but others were later unearthed and restored. An entire museum, Eldheimar, has been built around the remains of one of the homes.

Meals

Day 12 - Return to Reykjavik

Our voyage of discovery and adventure ends in Reykjavik. If you have the time, join our exciting post-programme Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon optional excursions.

Meals

Important Information

Hurtigruten Environment and green navigation Policy:

Our Captains take pride in route planning that minimises the load of the engines and reduces emissions. We never dump waste in the sea and we ask you not to leave any waste when you are on shore excursions. We ask you to respect the saying: 'Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures.'

Note:

• Planned landings will depend on weather and ice conditions.
• We reserve the right to change the scheduled program and itinerary.
• Medical questionnaire mandatory
• Free rubber boot rental service on board