Reasons To Cruise To Iceland
There are so many reasons to visit Iceland as it offers so much to see and do. Here are the top five reasons why you simply must explore Iceland at least once in your lifetime
Stroll The Arctic Botanical Garden
Located within walking distance to many of the attractions in the town center is the Botanical Garden . As one of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world, this lush greenspace is home to thousands of different species of flora including some native to Iceland and some gathered from around the world.
The public park was opened formally in 1912 but the actual Botanical Garden did not open until 1957. The park has been expanded three times since then, and it now comprises about 9 acres. For being located so close to the Arctic Circle, the climate is rather temperate in Akureyri allowing the gardens to thrive over the years. There is also a central water fountain and a lovely cafe on the grounds.
A stroll through the Akureyri Botanical Garden is certainly a tranquil experience and a good add-on to another activity. Some cruise line sponsored excursions will include a stop at this greenspace as part of a longer tour. Or,; you could certainly opt to visit on your own before or after another tour depending on how long you are docked in this picturesque town.
Given the size, you will probably not need to spend any more than an hour at this attraction, unless of course you just want to chill out while people watching and enjoying nature.
Iceland Lifestyle And Culture
Icelanders have a profound relationship with their land. Despite the countrys evocative name, glaciers cover only about 11 percent of the nation. And Icelands natural geology has provided geothermal power for the fuel-starved island. Iceland has been able to make use of its vast thermal energy and waterways to become one of the most renewable energypowered nations in the world.
The isolation brought about by Icelands remote location has infused the people with an unwavering sense of independence. In the least populated European nation, with about 332,000 residents, self-reliance and determination are especially prized characteristics.
While the sea serves as a natural border, it also provides Icelanders with a ready supply of seafood. The commercial fishing industry is an important part of the economy. Beginning in the mid20th century, territorial disputes with Great Britain over fishing rights led to a series of intense negotiations known as the Cod Wars.
With no outside influence, the Icelandic language has remained strikingly similar to the Norwegian tongue spoken by the first settlers. Discussions over dinner sound much the same as they did in the 8th century, though the topics have changed.
The Lutheran Church of Iceland counts the most adherents, and it serves as the state church. The majority of citizens are of Nordic and Gaelic ancestry.
Also Check: Are Msc Cruises Any Good
Where Do Cruise Ships Dock In Iceland
Iceland has 17 ports but most of these arent big enough for cruise ships to dock. There are just three cruise ports in Iceland where medium and large cruise ships can dock. These are Akureyri, Reykjavik and Isafjord.
Some of the smaller ports in Iceland can be visited by small cruise ships, most of which offer an adults-only ultra-luxury or expedition cruising experience.
A list of the top Icelandic cruise ports and the number ships scheduled to call there in 2022:
- Akureyri 96 cruises
- Grimsey 1 cruise
Introduction To Cruise Liners In Iceland
Photo;from 10 Day Cruise Around Iceland by Sea
Without doubt, the most time-and-cost effective means of travelling to Iceland from abroad is by catching a flight. With more connections being made to Iceland from the US, Europe and elsewhere, the possibilities for finding and securing a financially worthwhile transfer are more abundant than ever.
By the end of 2018, Keflavík International Airport saw almost ten million people passing through, with predictions of 2019;expected to exceed that.;
On the contrary, Iceland;saw roughly 147,000;cruise liner passengers, from 167 cruise ships,;frequent its shores in the same year, proving that the interest in ocean travel in Iceland is not just alive and well, but steadily proving to be an essential contributor;to the country’s tourism economy.
- See also:;;What To Pack For Travel in Iceland;
The body responsible for cruise liners in Iceland, the Reykjavík Harbour Authority, have already detailed the schedule for 2019, which will see 178 cruise ships and 191,000 passengers. You can find all the arrivals to the capital here.;By these numbers alone, Icelanders can expect to see a steady increase in this traffic as long as tourism continues to act as this country’s economic engine.;
Also Check: What Cruise Lines Depart From Bayonne Nj
Cruise Excursions And Day Tours In Iceland
Travel with us without worry, we guarantee that you will be on time to catch your ship!
You can travel with us, worry free, as we guarantee that you will be on time to catch your ship! Our cruise excursions and day trips depart directly from the dock in Reykjavik, Akureyri, Ísafjörður and Seyðisfjörður.;Please send us an enquiry and we will do our best to serve you as well as possible. Please note that private tours are also available, we love to make adventures happen.;
Soak In The Blue Lagoon
First time visitors to Iceland will probably have a trip to Blue Lagoon at the top of their list of things to do. This geothermal spa located about 45 minutes outside of the city is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Iceland. Whether you book an excursion with your cruise line or purchase tickets directly from the attractions website, you will love the time you spend soaking in the warm, soothing water of the Blue Lagoon.
These pools have a milky coloration and are composed of;algae, silica, and minerals that are thought to have medicinal powers. There is even an in-water bar and in-water massages available for an additional cost. Its not every day that you get to relax in a thermal hot spring with a drink in hand. We recommend allotting at least 2 hours at the lagoon. See our review for more details on how to visit Blue Lagoon on a cruise.
Read Also: How Much Is Disney Cruise Insurance
Cruise Ships In Reykjavik 2020
For many people and years a cruise is a dream they do not fulfill until their later years. Just the thought of spending a few weeks on a luxurious liner along the coast of South America or from city to city in the Mediterranean brings up some romantic thoughts.
When looking for cruise excursions the cruise company is often the first stop, but many passengers try to find their tours and activities with local operators instead.
You can find our tours under this link. The grand difference is that our tours are private so you will have your own driver . This means that he or she will wait for you and make sure that you are back on the ship in time to leave to your next adventure. The atmosphere of such a private tour is less of a guide telling you than a friend showing you around his home country.
In recent years Iceland has added itself to this map, often being part of cruises covering the British isles and mainland Scandinavia. There are a few lines which use Iceland and especially Reykjavik for their stops:
· Fred Olsen Cruises, Go to for more information
· Cruise and Maritime ,
· Quark expedtions,
· Celebrity Cruises,
· Aida Cruises,
· MSC Cruises,
· Norwegian Cruise Line,
Ships docking at Skarfabakki:
Stroll The Streets Of Downtown Reykjavik
If your cruise ship is docking at the Skarfabakki terminal, the Downtown Reykjavik area will be about a 45-minute walk. You could certainly meander your way along the waterfront or simply take a taxi into town. A taxi ran us about $30 USD at the time of this posting. Most cruise lines will also offer shuttle service, which was $11 one-way for each person on our recent Celebrity cruise.
Once in the Downtown area, there are certainly a few stops that you wont want to miss. The Sun Voyager sculpture is a popular photo stop along the water. Located very nearby is the Harpa concert hall. Its unique design and brightly colored glass definitely makes this landmark worthy of a visit as well. Continuing further into town, you can wander the main shopping street of Laugavegur lined with stores, restaurants, and bars. You will also want to pay a visit to the Hallgrimskirkja Church, the unique architecture of the building is worth the trip alone but be sure to also take the elevator to the top for magnificent views of the area . Free guided walking tours of the city are available.
Recommended Reading: Marriott Vacation Club Points Cruises
Culture & History Of Reykjavik Cruise Port
Though people have lived in Iceland since at least 874 AD, the city wasnt officially created until the late 18th century. After World War II, Icelands population and trading importance boomed. Today, Reykjavik is the capital city of Iceland and the largest city in the country. In recent years, Reykjavik has become a symbol of Icelandic tourism thanks to its beautiful systems of fjords, stunning auroras, and cosmopolitan energy.
Reykjavik Port Facilities & Location
Theres not a lot to do around the Reykjavik cruise port, but there are information desks, rental services, and some duty-free souvenir shopping available to you when you arrive. Most people will either walk to the city center or take a complimentary cruise line shuttle bus.
Ports & Harbours In Iceland
Credit:;Closer to nature | Whales & Birds in Eyjafjordur Fjord.
One of the most popular means of discovering Iceland through cruise ship travel is to take a circumnavigational trip around the island, making stops at a number of countrys ports. This way, guests will have the opportunity to see each of Icelands unparalleled regions, as well as soak in the Icelandic coastline in all of its glory.
There are eighteen ports in Iceland which will be listed in alphabetical order below. Reykjavík, however, is by far the busiest, and a city;with two major harbours, so to avoid any confusion, it will be discussed first.
Don’t Miss: Transportation From London To Southampton Cruise Terminal
Private Airport Transfer From Cruise Ship Port In Reykjavik Or Keflavik Int Airport
Are you looking for a convenient, comfortable, and smart ride from Keflavik International Airport to the cruise ship? Or are you disembarking from the cruise ship to go back home? We at Iceland Highlights Private Tours provide the top quality service that you can rely on.
We provide the solution for clients that would like to travel with ease. Imagine that when you arrive early in the morning in a foreign country, and you know that there will be someone there to meet and greet you at the airport, like a friend. How nice it is! now you just sit back and enjoy the ride to your requested accommodation.
What makes us different from others is our customer service, professionalism, comfortable vehicle, and fixed rates,;and Free WIFI. From the moment you arrive in Iceland or the cruise ship, our driver will be there for you, right at the last customs exit. You will soon recognize him/ her holding a sign with your name written on it.
Our driver will help you to load your suitcases to the car and make sure to get you to the port or airport safely.We can collect you from all main cruise ship ports, including Miðbakki , Skarfabakki, Sundabakki.
Is your cruise ship not on the list? Contact us via for a quote.
Can I Walk To Any Places Of Interest
Pint-sized central Reykjavik is easy to navigate on foot, so smaller-ship passengers docked in Old Harbour will be within minutes of everything. Those heading into town along the waterfront from the main cruise port will pass Sun Voyager: a ship-shaped sculpture that commemorates Reykjavik’s bicentenary.;
Don’t Miss: Best Time To Go On A Mediterranean Cruise
What To Pack For An Iceland Cruise
Iceland enjoys a milder climate than its name might suggest with the weather in Iceland averaging 14°C in July, although it can be as warm as 25°C . Almost all Iceland cruises take place between May and September so theres really no need to pack snow boots and thermals for your cruise.
When youre in Iceland youll probably hear the joke if you dont like the weather, just wait five minutes. Icelands weather changes many times each day due to the combination of warm air coming in on the Gulf Stream from the Caribbean and cold Arctic air from the north.
Packing light layers is the key to staying comfortable on your Iceland cruise. Youll also want to make sure that you have a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella. Celebrity Cruises has a good packing list for Iceland.
Cruises To Iceland From The Us
If you live in the United States, its possible cruise to Iceland without flying. However, most cruises to Iceland from the US are one-way trips. It may actually be easier to fly to Europe and cruise from there.
Cruises to Iceland from Boston
There is just one cruise to Iceland from Boston in 2022. This 24-night Canada, New England and Iceland cruise is a round-trip on Holland America Lines ms Nieuw Statendam in August 2022.
Cruises to Iceland from New York
Its not possible to take a round-trip cruise from New York to Iceland. However, you can cruise one-way from New York to Iceland as a segment of a world cruise, as part of a transatlantic crossing to Southampton or on a one-way cruise from New York to Reykjavik.
There are several cruise lines to choose from, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea and Oceania Cruises all cruising one-way from New York to Iceland in 2022.
Don’t Miss: Best Time To Visit Alaska On Cruise
How To Cruise To Iceland
This post may contain affiliate links. If you click one, I may earn a commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
With its dramatic glaciers, beautiful waterfalls and incredible volcanoes, Iceland is a country that deserves to be pretty high up on anyones bucket list. If youre considering a cruise to Iceland, youll be pleased to know that taking a cruise is one of the best ways to visit this incredible country.
In this article, Ill tell you everything you need to know to plan your cruise to Iceland. Youll learn which cruise ships go to Iceland, which ports you can begin your cruise from and what there is to see and do in Iceland on a cruise.
What Can I Do In Four Hours Or Less
Those keen to experience the city in the comfort of a group can book classic Panoramic Reykjavik excursions offered by the likes of Cruise & Maritime Voyages and Viking Cruises. Though such tours cover more ground, passengers can also explore the highlights independently. Get your bearings by climbing Hallgrimskirkja church’s tower for views across the rooftops, then stroll down through the shopping district to spot Arctic terns on Tjörnin lake. Or learn about local heritage at the National Museum of Iceland and The Settlement Exhibition, which both uncover Iceland’s Viking roots.;
The redeveloped Old Harbour appeals with its cafés and fish restaurants, but it’s also the departure point for wildlife-watching excursions. Those tight for time can choose an hour-long puffin-spotting tour, while longer whale-watching trips go further out to seek minke and humpback whales. It may be cheaper to book such tours in person on the dock, but pre-arranging with your cruise line cuts the chance of trips selling out . Alternatively, escape the crowds on Videy: a nearby island where wild geese and wading birds breed. Ferries depart from the Old Harbour or the pier adjacent to the cruise terminal.;
Recommended Reading: Where Is The Cruise Port In Amsterdam
Which Cruise Lines Go To Iceland
You can cruise to Iceland with most of the mainstream cruise lines including:
- AIDA
- Royal Caribbean
- TUI
As well as the mainstream family-friendly cruise ships, Iceland is a popular port of call for ultra-luxury cruise lines like Crystal Cruises, Seabourn, Silversea and Viking and expedition cruise lines such as Hurtigruten, Aurora Expeditions and Lindblad.
What Days Of The Week Do Cruise Ships Dock In Reykjavik
We are going to be in Iceland with a campervan for 8 days in August and want to time our visit to the most popular sites, like the Golden Circle sites. Want to avoid overwhelming cruiseship crowds.
Thank you in advance!!
There is no specific day of the week. This site lists the ships docking in 2019.
The cruise ships are just a small percent of the tourists in Iceland. Go early to the sites . Cruisers will still be eating breakfast onboard.
cruise line has ships that port in Reykjavik every day.
@Jeff W: Are you sure you are not confusing Norway and Iceland? As far as I know Hurtigruten only has one ship that does cruises around Iceland. They do have a lot of ships going up and down the Norway coast though.
-:- Message from Tripadvisor staff -:-
This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. We hope you’ll join the conversation by posting to an open topic or starting a new one.
To review the Tripadvisor Forums Posting Guidelines, please follow this link:
We remove posts that do not follow our posting guidelines, and we reserve the right to remove any post for any reason.
Removed on
Read Also: Royal Caribbean Bayonne Parking