Reykjavik cruises, Iceland

Embark on a journey that takes you to the south coast of Iceland and enjoy the breath taking and stunning scenery the coast has to offer. Driving along the coast, with magnificent mountains, glaciers, rivers, waterfalls, lava and beautiful farmland on one side and the mesmerizing Atlantic Ocean on the other side, sit back, relax and enjoy the ride while making a few stops along the way.

DAY 1 South Iceland Waterfalls and Black Sand Beaches

Leaving the pier you’ll drive over Hellisheiði heath that offers a great view of the wide plains formed by glacial rivers, now a fertile farmland on the south coast. Before entering Reykjavik you will pass Hveragerði and see some of the fantastic greenhouses that, built to harness the geothermal energy for the food and horticultural industry. You will see the mighty Eyjafjallajokull volcano, famous for its 2010 eruption. An interesting Lava center at the base of the mountain tells the story of this event. After lunch, you’ll also visit the beautiful waterfalls of Skogarfoss and Seljalandsfoss.

Stop to admire the black sand beach of Reynisfjara and cliffs at Dyrholaey. It truly is a photographer’s dream, with its black pebble sands, the majestic cave of basalt columns and the impressive but ferocious waves. There are also vast bird colonies here, including puffins (generally seen mid-May to early August). Dinner will be served at a local restaurant. After an active day you’ll be taken to your hotel in the Höfn / Glacier Lagoon area.

DAY 2 Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour and Glacier Hike

After breakfast, you’ll drive towards the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where huge, aqua-blue icebergs dot this mystical space.

Jökulsárlón is located at the bottom of Europe’s largest glacier Vatnajokull. Enjoy magnificent landscapes and seize the opportunity to touch the ice, which has broken off Breidamerkurjokull, one of Vatnajokull’s many glacier outlets. In order to get closer to the floating icebergs, you’ll take a trip on especially designed boats - a truly unforgettable experience!

Jökulsárlón has been the setting for a number of films, including Beowulf and Grendel, Tomb Raider, Batman Begins, Die Another Day and A View to a Kill to name just a few.

Refuel with lunch at a restaurant en route to your glacier hiking experience in Skaftafell National park, a 15 minute bus ride will take you to the glacial tongue Falljokull, where your hiking excursion will begin. A short walk along the glacier valley gives you the chance to learn about the unique features of Falljökull and Virkisjökull glaciers and their surroundings. Then put on your crampons and hike on top of the icy but easily accessible glacier slopes.

You’ll see the awe-inspiring ice fall, seeing up close how the ancient ice stoically falls hundreds of meters off the mountain top below as it flows in slow motion towards the ocean.

After this truly magnificent experience, you’ll Return to Höfn for an afternoon flight southwards to Reykjavik, to re-join the ship.

Essential information

This overland will operate by coach, plane, boat and on foot. Guests are advised that all activities are undertaken entirely at their own risk and they must adhere to Glacier Guides instructions and must take responsibility for their own safety. Glacier hiking and related activities carry inherent risks and guests may be requested by Glacier Guides to sign a liability release and assumption of risk prior to certain excursions. It is highly recommended to wear comfortable clothing, weather/rainproof gear, closed-toe, non-slip sole walking/hiking footwear. Walking behind Seljalandsfoss or walking close to Skógafoss waterfall, a rainproof jacket is required. The waves at Reynisfjara beach are strong and unpredictable, please to listen to your guides’ warning about not going to close to the waves. Please ensure you have read the warning signs located on the path at parking area close to the beach. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. The booking deadline for this overland is the 27th April for Aurora R809 and 6th June for Azura A817. Any bookings after this time will be on a request basis only. There is a strict minimum and maximum participation. Please ensure you book the correct tour code for the accommodation you require (Double = REK800 and Single = REK801. Prices shown on your record of shore excursions are per person, not per room. Once our booking is confirmed, any cancellation made after bookings close will incur a 100% cancellation fee.Flight times and further details will be advised on board.Due to the nature of the tour the hotels are modern in design but basic. Hotels and flights are subject to change. This is an inclusive excursion programme. No refunds will be given for any unused portion. The fare includes: transport by coach and economy class air travel, sightseeing and entrances as described, meals as stated, and hotel accommodation. One glass of house wine will be included with luncheon and evening meals. Those wishing to order alternative beverages will be charged separately. The fare does not include: items of a personal nature such as refreshments, telephone calls, laundry, gratuities, room service, fees for doctor’s visits and prescriptions/medication and travel insurance What to pack: please remember your passport and any medication you require. Luggage limit is one case per person with a maximum weight of 20kg. Comfortable walking shoes, waterproof clothing and layers are recommended.

A drive through Hafnarfjordur town, situated picturesquely on an ancient lava flow will take you to the enchanting Kleifarvatn Lake, one of Iceland’s deepest lakes. Arriving at the geothermal fields of Krysuvik, witness the powerful jets of steam from deep below the earth’s crust and the multi-coloured pools of boiling mud.

Continue across the impressive volcanic plateau of Reykjanes and through the fishing village of Grindavik.

Round off your tour with a visit to the Viking World Museum which houses an exhibition containing artefacts, maps, models and audio-visual displays telling the story of the Viking expansion across the North Atlantic. There is also a full-scale replica of a Viking long ship. In the year 2000, this ship called ‘Islendingur’ (The Icelander) was sailed by shipbuilder Gunnar Eggertsson to America to commemorate the 1,000 year anniversary of the Viking discovery of North America.

On leaving the Museum, you’ll travel through the mossy lava fields before arriving back in Reykjavik.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Many of the sites have rough, muddy and uneven ground. Comfortable, enclosed footwear and a wind/rainproof jacket are recommended.

As you travel through dramatic volcanic landscape to the Blue Lagoon, your knowledgeable guide will explain all about the history and science surrounding this famous natural geothermal spa.

The Blue Lagoon is a large pool of hot water which is rich in minerals like silica, algae and sulphur. As you enter the water you’ll feel your stress melt away as your body absorbs the heat and healing powers of the water.

Around the Lagoon silica mud can be found in wooden boxes so you can apply it to your face and body. This pure white geothermal mud deep cleanses, exfoliates and naturally strengthens the skin's barrier function. It brings out your inner glow and gives you a vital energy boost and smooth complexion.

After your rejuvenation, you may wish to visit the café or browse the shop for souvenirs and view their range of skin care products.

On the return journey, you’ll hear about the history and culture of Reykjavik before passing through the busy city centre en route to the pier.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There will be approximately 2½ hours at the Blue Lagoon. Please remember to take swimwear, towels are provided. One complementary drink is included per ticket. Spa treatments are not included but can be purchased separately, booking on arrival is advisable. Please carry a credit card, Icelandic Kroner or Euros to pay for any additional purchases. Children must be aged 2 years and over to participate.