Day 1 - Reykjavik
Arrive in Reykjavik and use your free time to discover the unique charm of the world’s northernmost capital and book a pre-program or explore the sights of south and west Iceland on a self-drive road trip. The Ocean Diamond docks in Old Reykjavik Harbour in the heart of the city, a five-minute stroll from the main squares, shopping and dining. The ship departs in the evening.
Day 2 - Stykkisholmur
Stykkisholmur is the starting point of your adventures on the Snaefellnes Peninsula. Often called “Iceland in Miniature” because of its diverse landscapes, the area is home to bird-rich Breidafjordur Bay and Snaefellsjokull glacier, which sits atop a 700,000-year-old dormant volcano featured in the Jules Verne novel ‘Journey to the Centre of the Earth’.
Day 3 - Isafjördur
Today‘s destination is Isafjordur, an idyllic town in the Westfjords region. This secluded peninsula is connected to the Icelandic mainland by only a narrow strip of land and includes many roadless areas where cars have never been. The landscape includes jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer table mountains that plunge into the sea and pristine North Atlantic vegetation.
Day 4 - Siglufjordur
By morning you will reach the fjord town of Siglufjordur, once the hub of the global herring industry and now enjoying a rebirth in popularity. Learn about the golden age of herring at the award-winning Herring Era Museum located on the vibrant harbour front. Later you will set sail for Akureyri, Iceland’s lovable second-largest city. If weather conditions allow, you will visit Hrísey, the second-largest island of Iceland. With only 153 inhabitants, the island is located in Eyjafjörður, about 35 kilometres north of Akureyri.
Day 5 - Akureyri
Ranging inland from Akureyri, we visit the fascinating Lake Myvatn region, where the bizarre landscape looks as if “heaven and hell” have clashed. One side of the lake features rugged volcanic remnants, while the other side is blessed with lush vegetation and varied birdlife.
Day 6 - Skjalfandi Bay/Husavik
Early this morning you’ll arrive into Skjalfandi Bay and Husavik. Often called the “Whale watching capital” of Iceland, the town’s offshore waters are home to 15 different whale species, as well as dolphins and 30 varieties of birds.
Day 7 - Seydisfjördur
Iceland’s East Fjords are best explored from the impossibly picturesque port of Seydisfjordur, nestled between the sea and steep mountains. Activities include seal spotting, horseback riding, and visiting the beautiful nature reserve Skalanes.
Day 8 - Djupivogur
The fishing village of Djupivogur is today’s starting point to explore Vatnajokull Glacier (optional). Go on a four-wheel-drive Jeep tour (optional) or you might choose to take a boat trip in the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon (optional). Icebergs of all shapes and sizes are floating in the water - an unforgettable adventure.
Day 9 - Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands)
Located off Iceland’s South Coast, the Westman Islands were formed by submarine volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago. Surtsey Island emerged from the sea in 1963 and is one of the youngest landmasses on earth. You will go ashore on Heimaey, the only inhabited island, where half-buried houses remain from a violent 1973 eruption. During the shore landing, there is time for bird watching and you might even spot whales.
Day 10 - Reykjavik
After breakfast, you will bid farewell to the Ocean Diamond and sail back into Reykjavik. Explore inland areas like the Golden Circle and its famous Gullfoss waterfall via our Air & Ground package or explore the sights of south and west Iceland on a self-drive road trip (prices upon request). You can also simply hang out in Reykjavik, a perfect city for those who want to refresh their spirit in a place that combines invigorating outdoor activities, great food and world-class entertainment.
Please note: If you book return flights on your own please choose a connection that does not depart before noon from Keflavik airport on the same day the Ocean Diamond arrives in Reykjavik.
Secure your space today by calling one of our Travel Specialists on 020 8038 1300