5 Night Exploring Iceland Fjords Waterfalls and Wildlife Cruise from Reykjavik

Arrive in Reykjavik, the world's northernmost capital, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. Transfer from the airport and spend the day exploring the sights, sounds, and tastes of this Arctic capital before embarking the ship in the afternoon.

Enjoy a leisurely morning at sea learning about Iceland and its incredible biodiversity. Join the expedition staff on the bow of the ship as we keep watch for the close to 20 whale species that call the Westfjords home. We 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 Djupavik 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. We visit the museum and learn about the significance of this resource to all of Iceland in the 20th century.

Skagafjordur is the gateway to north Iceland, known for its glacial rivers, Icelandic horses, and saga history. Take a float trip on the Jokulsa 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.

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

Serving as the center of trade on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula since the 15th century, Grundarfjordur 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.

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