9 Day Cruise Northern Lights Sailing in Iceland

9 Day Cruise Northern Lights Sailing in Iceland

A special opportunity for expedition cruise lovers and explorers! This package takes you on a sail along the beautiful coastline of Northeast Iceland. You will get to know some of the remotest areas of Iceland with its charming small fishing communities, breath-taking coastal scenery, fjords, deep-blue waters and impressive mountains. This is Iceland’s nature at its best! There will be high chances to spot whales and to observe Northern Lights.

The package includes 6 nights on the beautiful Ship Rembrandt van Rijn.

Highlights

• Remote and authentic Northeast Iceland
• The island of Grimsey & crossing the Arctic Circle
• Charming Husavík – the whale capital
• Spectacular nature to be experienced both on board and on guided tours on land
• High chances to see Northern Lights & to spot whales
• Mystical Borgarfjörður Eystri and East Iceland

Your itinerary

Day 1: Arrival to Iceland, Overnight in Reykjavik
Welcome to your Iceland Adventure! Take your time to arrive in the Arctic North. You can book an optional guided city walk through Reykjavik or explore the capital for yourself. Reykjavik is a charming, creative city full of art galleries, coffee places, shops and street art.

Day 2: Reykjavik – Akureyri, Embark the ship

During your coach transfer from Reykjavik to Akureyri you get a first insight of beautiful Icelandic countryside. Lean back and enjoy the impressive and dramatic scenery passing by.

You embark Rembrandt van Rijn in Akureyri in the afternoon and meet the expedition team on board. If conditions allow, we sail to Dalvik, otherwise we spend the night in the harbor of Akureyri. During this first night, you may already see the magical northern lights dancing in the dark autumn sky.

Day 3: Arctic Circle Crossing, Grimsey

Today you will sail towards the island of Grimsey, a small island located in the Arctic Circle, approximately 40 kilometers off the northern coast of Iceland. It is the northernmost inhabited island of Iceland and is known for its unique natural beauty and wildlife. Grimsey’s small population of 100 people contributes to its peaceful and remote atmosphere.

The goal is a Zodiac landing and a guided walk across the Arctic Circle, the most northerly of Earth’s five major circles of latitude. A sign on the island marks the coordinates at 66:34° north.

Day 4: Charming Husavik – the capital of whales

You will enjoy the morning in Húsavík, with ample free time to explore the charming town. Husavík is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and as a popular destination for whale watching. It is nestled in a picturesque setting, surrounded by majestic mountains and the tranquil Skjálfandi Bay. The town offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including snow-capped peaks and the vast expanse of the North Atlantic Ocean. The town’s harbor is a hub of activity, with colorful fishing boats and tour vessels lining the docks. It provides a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls and offers a glimpse into the town’s maritime heritage. The Húsavík Whale Museum (entrance fee not included) provides insight into the world of whales. Lunch is served on board. In the afternoon, we sail across Skjálfandi Bay, where humpback and minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbour porpoises may appear.

Day 5: Northeast Iceland’s hidden gems (Raufarhöfn area)

In good weather conditions, we hope to sail around northeast Iceland and get to shore in the small town of Raufarhöfn. Raufarhöfn is the northernmost village in Iceland, making it a unique and remote destination. It is surrounded by vast open landscapes, with the Arctic Ocean to the north and the mountains of the peninsula to the south.

Within walking distance from town is the Arctic Henge, a well-known Iceland attraction. The monument was created by the Icelandic artist and sculptor, Jón Gunnar Árnason, and construction began in 1996. However, due to the artist’s untimely death, the project remained unfinished until it was revived and completed in 2010 by a group of dedicated volunteers.

The Arctic Henge consists of massive stone structures arranged in a circular pattern, with the tallest stone reaching a height of 15 meters (49 feet). The monument is aligned with the sun and various celestial events, such as the summer and winter solstices, creating a captivating interplay between light and shadow throughout the year.

Visitors to the Arctic Henge can explore the site and experience its mystical atmosphere. The monument’s design and location aim to evoke a sense of connection with nature and the celestial forces that shape the Arctic landscape. It serves as a place for contemplation, reflection, and a reminder of the timeless relationship between humanity and the natural world.

Day 6: Untouched East Iceland

Today we sail from Raufarhöfn to Vopnafjörður. East Iceland is known for its unique and diverse natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities. It is characterized by its stunning fjords and majestic mountains. The region offers breathtaking views, picturesque landscapes, and opportunities for hiking and exploring the wilderness.

Day 7: Sail to Seyðisfjördur with stop in Borgarfjörður Eystri

Today we sail from Vopnafjörður to Seyðisfjörður and if conditions allow we halt at Borgarfjörður Eystri, a treasure of East Iceland. This fjord gets its name from Álfaborg, the home of the Icelandic elf queen, so it is fitting that the area offers spectacular scenery. The town has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on folklore and traditional Icelandic customs.

Day 8: Disembark, Flight to Reykjavik
Time to say goodbye to your home on water Rembrandt and the remoteness of Northeast Iceland. After a bus transfer to Egilsstadir Airport you fly back to the lively capital of Iceland. Enjoy your last evening by strolling through town, treating yourself with a typical Icelandic dinner (lamb or fish) and have a drink at one of the town’s bars and pubs.

Day 9:  Departure day
Bus transfer to Keflavík airport in time for check in for your international flight.

Departures & Prices for 2024 & 2025

8.10 – 16.10.2024
11.10 – 19.10.2025

In double room /standard & inside twin cabin:
Price per person: from 6150 EUR

Single Occupancy: 10.140 EUR

Included in the package price:

• One way airport bus transfer
• 2 nights: 3 * hotel / RKV – standard DBL/ Twin room with pvt. facilities, including breakfast
• 6 nights voyage aboard Rembrandt van Rijn as per itinerary, twin inside cabin. 2 pax shared one cabin
• All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea
• All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac and coach (if needed)
• Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff
• One way flight from Egilsstadir to Reykjavik, tax included
• One way coach transfer from Reykjavik to Akureyri
• Coach transfer from Seydisfjordur to Egilsstadir
• Service taxes and port charges throughout the program
• AECO fees and governmental taxes

Important remark: Please note that itinerary is for guidance only. Weather in the Arctic North can be unpredictable and program may vary depending on weather conditions. This is part of the experience. Backup plans are in place: in case of bad weather exciting inland excursions by bus will fill your day with adventure and exploration.

Booking and Inquiries:

For questions and bookings please send us an email at nonni@nonnitravel.is.

We are really looking forward to your message.