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Discover Iceland's powerful waterfalls, wild scenery and charming communities on this exciting half-circumnavigation of the 'Land of Ice and Fire'
- Sail from Hamburg to Reykjavik via the Shetland and Faroe Islands
- Explore Norway's spectacular Lysefjord and Iceland's Rainbow Road
- Spot Atlantic Puffins on remote Grímsey Island
Trip Details
- Departs
- 7 May 2027
- Returns
- 24 May 2028
- Ship
- MS Fridtjof Nansen
- Operator
- HX Expeditions
13‑day all‑inclusive Iceland expedition cruise from Hamburg to Reykjavík
The 12-night Iceland voyage aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen sails from Hamburg to Reykjavik, calling at Lysefjorden, Lerwick, Thorshavn, Seydisfjordur, Grimsey, Akureyri, Patreksfjordur - hofn, Stykkisholmur - hofn and Heimaey, with 1 day at sea.
- Join an expedition cruise from Hamburg to Iceland via the Shetland and Faroe Islands, and Norway’s spectacular Lysefjord.
- Discover Iceland's powerful waterfalls, wild scenery and charming communities on this exciting half-circumnavigation of the ‘Land of Ice and Fire’.
- Walk along Iceland’s famous Rainbow Road in Seyðisfjörður and scan for the Atlantic Puffins on Grímsey before arriving in laid-back Reykjavík.
You sail aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen. One of two revolutionary hybrid-powered expedition vessels with battery packs that store electric power. The ship has more efficient engines, lower fuel usage, reduced C02 emissions, and the ability to sail almost silently. On board: All cabins and suites enjoy outside views; Science Center with advanced microscopes; Wellness Center with massage and spa treatments; Expedition Team; Three restaurants; Indoor and outdoor gyms with on-deck running track; Outdoor infinity pool and two hot tubs; Sauna with a panoramic outside view.
Departures & Pricing
- 07 May 2027 - 19 May 2027
from $11,865 pp twin share / $17,204 pp sole use * - 12 May 2028 - 24 May 2028
from $13,993 pp twin share / $20,989 pp sole use *
- Polar Outside from $11,865 pp twin share
- Arctic Superior from $13,170 pp twin share
- Expedition Suite from $29,561 pp twin share
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.
MS Fridtjof Nansen
One of two revolutionary hybrid-powered expedition vessels with battery packs that store electric power. The ship has more efficient engines, lower fuel usage, reduced C02 emissions, and the ability to sail almost silently.
- Guests
- 490
- Gross tonnage
- 20,889
- Speed
- 15 knots
- Length
- 140 m
- Launched
- 2020
- Beam
- 23.6 m
- Deck plans
- 9
Deck 11
Source: HX Expeditions, captured 16 September 2026. Deck plans are provided by the cruise line and are subject to change at any time.
Itinerary
- 1
Departing Hamburg
Your adventure begins
Your journey starts in Hamburg, the second-largest city in Germany and one of the greenest urban areas in Europe.
There's much to see and do in Hamburg. If you have time, you'll find many attractions in the old town district of Altstadt, including the St Nikolai Memorial and the historic street of Deichstraße. Hamburg is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Chilehaus and the world's largest historic warehouse complex in Speicherstadt. Art lovers should head to Kunsthalle, the nation's foremost art museum.
Once you embark MS Fridtjof Nansen, you'll have time to meet the crew and Expedition Team and settle in as we set sail.
- 2
At Sea
Relax at sea
As we sail from Hamburg towards Norway's Lysefjord, your expert Expedition Team will introduce what lies ahead with lectures in the Science Center on the wildlife, geology, and culture we'll encounter along the way.
A day at sea gives you plenty of time to get acquainted with the ship and simply relax. Watch the scenery unfold from the deck, settle into the Explorer Lounge & Bar, or unwind in the panoramic sauna or hot tub.
- 3
Sailing Lysefjord
Witness the drama of these famous fjords
With a backdrop of cloud-shrouded mountains and tumbling waterfalls, of small farms and jade-green waters, we'll explore one of the world's most breathtaking fjords. Wind, rain, or shine, head to the deck to take it all in: glide past narrow passages and soak in dramatic scenery that reveals itself from every angle. In autumn, drifting mist and shifting light create an especially memorable atmosphere.
If conditions allow, you may also have the chance to hike to Preikestolen, ’The Pulpit Rock’, one of Norway's most iconic natural landmarks. Rising high above the fjord below, it's worth every step of the climb.
- 4
The Shetland Islands
Explore Scotland's northernmost town
Welcome to the Shetland Islands. Lerwick, the capital, is a friendly, Victorian-influenced fishing town set in beautiful scenery. Navigate its narrow lanes on foot to discover little shops selling local whiskies, woollen sweaters, and fudge, then head to the old waterfront for the Shetland Museum, home to Pictish carvings and intricate lace shawls. Nearby, Fort Charlotte and the regal town hall are worth a look.
Keep your binoculars handy: grey and common seals bask along Lerwick's beaches, and red-throated divers, redshanks, and curlews are often spotted from the shore.
- 5
10th century Tórshavn
A visit to Streymoy in the Faroe Islands
Founded by Norsemen in the 10th century, Tórshavn, Thor's Harbour, is one of Northern Europe's oldest capitals, set on Streymoy, the largest of the Faroe Islands.
Wander through cobbled alleyways lined with colourful turf-roofed houses, or visit the local museums to learn about the city's origins and the islands' flora, fauna, and geology. A short walk out of town brings you to Svartafoss, where a waterfall tumbles over mossy rocks. Along the seafront, look out for eider ducks and the distinctive Faroese starling with its beige-tipped wings.
- 6
Seyðisfjörður's rainbow
Waterfalls and wildlife in special Seyðisfjörður
At the end of a deep fjord with picturesque mountains and waterfalls lies the quirky village of Seyðisfjörður. Colourful wooden houses line the streets, while the aptly-named Rainbow Road offers a vibrant photo opportunity.
Walk to an unusual sound sculpture, Tvisongur, or take a longer hike in the hills above the town. Or you can choose to join a visit to Skalanes, a private nature reserve home to reindeer, Arctic fox and mink. Here, scan the skies for Black-tailed Godwits, Golden-Plovers and Gyrfalcons, Europe’s largest falcon.
- 7
Grímsey Island's puffins
Cross the Arctic Circle and see Atlantic Puffins
A remote, windswept island of breathtaking beauty, Grímsey is rich in wildlife and steeped in myth and legend. Weather permitting, we'll land to visit the Atlantic Puffin colonies.
As Grímsey is the only part of Iceland crossed by the Arctic Circle, you’ll also have the chance to step across the imaginary line of latitude, hopping between the Arctic and back!
By 2050, Grímsey will lie outside the Arctic as the Arctic Circle creeps northwards at a rate of about 48 ft. a year.
- 8
Akureyri and Goðafos
See dramatic moonscapes and waterfalls
Gaze at snow-capped peaks as we sail Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord. It's one of the best places in Europe to spot humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises. Also look out for orcas, blue and fin whales.
Iceland’s 'Northern Capital’, Akureyri, sits at the fjord base. Enjoy the peaceful oasis of the botanical gardens, and enjoy a selection of top-notch eateries and museums.
Farther afield you can visit iconic Goðafoss waterfall, where turquoise waters pound against black rocks. You can also seek out Eider and Harlequin Ducks at Lake Mývatn, one of Iceland's more active volcanic areas.
- 9
The Northwestern Region
Exploring Northwest Iceland, expedition-style
One of the best things about expedition cruising is the feeling of freedom. We plan to spend the day in Iceland’s Northwestern Region, but as conditions can vary, there's no preset plan. Rest assured, your Captain and Expedition Team will find the best opportunities for adventure on the day.
We may go cruising in our small expedition boats or take you ashore for a hike, swim, or beach clean-up. Or perhaps we’ll launch our kayaks. If we spot a pod of whales as we sail, we may stop to enjoy the sight. Be ready for anything!
Don’t forget, you can also join onboard lectures, visit the Science Center, get tips from our professional photographer, or take a sauna.
- 10
Patreksfjörður and its surroundings
A stunning beach, waterfalls and superb birdwatching
In Patreksfjörður you’ll learn all about the fishing traditions in Europe's westernmost village. From here, it’s convenient to travel to some of the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife that make this remote corner of Iceland truly unique.
Explore the surrounding area on a hike through the fjords or visit Rauðasandur beach and see seals. You can also join a tour to Dynjandi waterfalls – six falls combined that together make the largest and most spectacular in the Westfjords. Birdwatchers shouldn’t miss a visit to Látrabjarg, where puffins, Northern Gannets, guillemots and razorbills cling to Europe’s largest bird cliff. ching
- 11
Snæfellsnes peninsula
Visit Iceland in miniature
Snæfellsnes is a peninsula of dramatic coastlines, volcanic peaks, lava fields, black sand beaches, and traditional fishing villages, all set beneath the glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano. It inspired Jules Verne's book, Journey to the Centre of the Earth, and it's often called Iceland in miniature because almost every landscape the country is known for can be found here in one compact stretch of coast.
From our port in Grundarfjörður, overlooked by the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, you can join excursions around the peninsula or explore the surroundings on foot.
- 12
Heimaey's explosive past
Discover the town that defied a volcano
Our first stop is Heimaey, the only inhabited island in the Westman Islands, off Iceland's south coast. In 1973 an eruption nearly buried the town, and the island still carries the evidence.
Visit Eldheimar, a museum built around an excavated house frozen mid-disaster, then hike to Stórhöfði, where around eight million puffins nest each summer, or climb Mount Eldfell for views of the town from the volcano that almost destroyed it.
- 13
Reykjavík and beyond
Disembark in Reykjavík
Your expedition ends in Reykjavík, a city that rewards a longer look. Stroll Laugavegur for independent shops and coffee, take in the striking Hallgrímskirkja church, or lose an afternoon in the city's galleries and museums. If you can, we highly recommend staying an extra night.
This marks the end of your time with us for now, but we hope it won't be the last.
Inclusions & exclusions
What’s included
- A stay in a cabin of your choice.
- All day coffee, tea and soft drinks.
- Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests.
- A complimentary Ocean Bottle water bottle to refill on board and take home.
- Wind and waterproof expedition jacket.
- Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer.
Not included
- International flights
- Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings
- Travel insurance
- Luggage handling
- Optional shore excursions with our local partners
- Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team
Accommodation
MS Fridtjof Nansen
One of two revolutionary hybrid-powered expedition vessels with battery packs that store electric power. The ship has more efficient engines, lower fuel usage, reduced C02 emissions, and the ability to sail almost silently.
On board: All cabins and suites enjoy outside views; Science Center with advanced microscopes; Wellness Center with massage and spa treatments; Expedition Team; Three restaurants; Indoor and outdoor gyms with on-deck running track; Outdoor infinity pool and two hot tubs; Sauna with a panoramic outside view; Explorer Lounge and Bar; Indoor and outdoor observation decks; Expedition launch/Tender pit; On board shop; Lecture hall and group room; 50% of all cabins are suites with a private balcony.
Polar Outside
- RR – Outside cabin: window, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 19–23 m².
Arctic Superior
Arctic Superior cabins are comfortable and spacious.
These cabins feature a double bed that can be divided into two single beds in some cabins on request at the time of booking. Some also have a sofa bed, and many have a private balcony.
All have a private bathroom with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, a minibar (charges apply), European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. A bathrobe and slippers are also available free of charge.
- XT – Outside cabin with balcony: private balcony, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 18 m².
- TT – Outside cabin: window, double bed, optional twin, 27 m².
- XTD – Outside cabin with balcony: private balcony, double bed, 15–19 m².
- XY – Wheelchair-accessible outside cabin with balcony: private balcony, double bed, 19 m².
- XTJ – Outside cabin with balcony: private balcony, limited view, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 18 m².
- TY – Wheelchair-accessible outside cabin: window, double bed, optional twin, 24–26 m².
Expedition Suite
Add some indulgence to your voyage aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen and reserve one of our Expedition Suites.
Spacious, serviced, and with bed combinations for up to four people, these well-appointed apartments offer special features such as private balconies, expansive windows, and hot tubs.
Suites feature a double bed that can be divided into two single beds on request at the time of booking, and some have a sofa bed.
All have a private bathroom with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, a single-serve coffee machine, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
Naturally, the accommodation includes a full range of premium facilities as well as a minibar (charges apply), daily turn-down service, and laundry.
Complimentary fine dining in our Lindstrøm restaurant is part of the experience, and a takeaway service means you can also enjoy dinner exclusively. Champagne on ice and a platter of delicacies are provided for your enjoyment as you set sail.
- MA – XL Suite with balcony: private balcony and large windows, double bed, optional twin, 46–48 m².
- MB – XL Suite: large windows, double bed, optional twin, 44 m².
- MC – Corner Suite with balcony: private balcony, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 20–30 m².
- MD – Large Suite with balcony: private balcony and large windows, double bed, optional twin, 35 m².
- ME – Suite with balcony: private balcony, double bed, optional twin, sofa bed, 22–28 m².
- MF – Corner suite: large windows, double bed, optional twin, 22 m².
Common questions about this voyage
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Book this cruise
Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.
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