Cruise · HX Expeditions · 14 nights

Iceland and Beyond - Reykjavík to Hamburg via Scotland's Northern Isles

Comfortable and intimate expedition cruise aboard MS Spitsbergen
Complimentary expedition jacket, water bottle and Wi-Fi
Onboard facilities include gym, sauna, hot tubs and observation decks

$15,277 pp twin share

$25,971 pp solo share

14 nights

Enquire

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Iceland and Beyond - Reykjavík to Hamburg via Scotland's Northern Isles

Iceland and Beyond - Reykjavík to Hamburg via Scotland's Northern Isles – route map

Reykjavík and Beyond

Heimaey's explosive past

Charming Grundarfjörður

Picturesque Isafjörður

Djúpavík's old factory

Akureyri and Goðafoss

Húsavík and the Arctic Circle

Tiny Bakkagerði

Vatnajökull cruising

At sea

Lerwick’s past and present

Far-flung Fair Isle

Highlights of Orkney

A final day at sea

Germany’s Hanseatic treasure

MS Spitsbergen

Cruise Snapshot

14 Nights

Sail from Reykjavik to Hamburg, exploring Iceland, the Shetland Islands and Orkney, witnessing geological wonders and Viking history

Discover Iceland's volcanoes, glaciers, geysers and hot springs
Explore Iron Age sites and Viking influences in the Northern Isles
Go whale watching and marvel at vast ice caps and soaring mountains

Trip Details

Departs: 21 September 2026
Returns: 5 October 2026
Ship: MS Spitsbergen
Operator: HX Expeditions

Iceland Cruise - Iceland and Beyond - Reykjavík to Hamburg via Scotland's Northern Isles

The 14-night Iceland voyage aboard MS Spitsbergen sails from Reykjavik to Hamburg, calling at Heimaey, Grundarfjordur, Isafjordur-hofn, Djupavik, Akureyri, Husavik - hofn, Bakkagerdi, Lerwick, Fair Isle and Kirkwall, with 2 days at sea.

Explore Iceland, the Shetland Islands and Orkney on this expedition cruise from Reykjavík to Hamburg.
Witness geological wonders as you half circumnavigate the land of ice and fire, from volcanoes and glaciers to geysers and hot springs.
Go whale watching, marvel at vast ice caps and soaring volcanoes, discover Iron Age sites, and explore towns where Viking influences can still be seen.

You sail aboard MS Spitsbergen. After being completely rebuilt for exploration travel with a modern Scandinavian-inspired interior design, MS Spitsbergen joined our fleet in 2016. As one of our smaller expedition vessels, it offers a comfortable and intimate sailing experience. On board: Indoor gym; Sauna with outside view; Outdoor hot tubs; Observation decks; Explorer lounge and bar; Onboard shop; Expedition Team; Restaurant Aune.

$15,277

pp twin share

$25,971

pp solo share

Enquire

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When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs

21 September 2026

Returns

5 October 2026

Duration

14 nights

From pp twin share

$15,277 pp

From pp solo cabin

$25,971 pp

21 Sep 2026 - 05 Oct 2026
from $15,277 pp twin share / $25,971 pp sole use *

Additional Pricing Information

Arctic Superior from $15,277 pp twin share
Expedition Suite from $32,287 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.

Life in transit

MS Spitsbergen

Details · HX Expeditions

MS Spitsbergen

After being completely rebuilt for exploration travel with a modern Scandinavian-inspired interior design, MS Spitsbergen joined our fleet in 2016. As one of our smaller expedition vessels, it offers a comfortable and intimate sailing experience.

Guests: 150
Gross tonnage: 7,344
Speed: 14.5 knots
Length: 100 m
Launched: 2009
Beam: 18 m
Deck plans: 6

MS Spitsbergen · Deck plans

Deck 8

Source: HX Expeditions, captured 16 September 2026. Deck plans are provided by the cruise line and are subject to change at any time.

Day by day

Itinerary

1
Reykjavík and Beyond
Embark in Reykjavík
Your expedition begins in Reykjavik, 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 booking our pre-voyage programme to explore the Blue Lagoon, Þingvellir National Park, and the Langjökull glacier.
From here, it’s time to board MS Fridtjof Nansen and get ready for departure.
2
Heimaey's explosive past
Discover the town that defied a volcano
Heimaey is the only inhabited island in the Westman Islands, found off the south coast of Iceland. It has a fascinating history, and still bears the scars of a powerful volcanic eruption that nearly destroyed the island.
Visit Eldheimar, a museum that features an excavated home frozen in time, and learn more about the eruption and its aftermath. Don’t miss climbing Mount Eldfell – at the volcano’s summit, you’ll have incredible views of the town below.
3
Charming Grundarfjörður
Gateway to spectacular Snæfellsnes
The majestic Kirkjufell mountain, one of the best-known landmarks of Iceland, rises just two miles west of the small harbour of Grundarfjörður, a quaint fishing town in Breiðafjörður bay.
Nearby lies Snæfellsnes Peninsula National Park, with the striking, ice-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano at the peninsula’s western tip. It’s nicknamed 'Little Iceland' for the array of landscapes.
At the national park, you can visit Djúpalónssandur's black sand beach and the Saxhóll crater, or take a guided underground tour along a gigantic lava tube.
4
Picturesque Isafjörður
Explore Westfjords’ beautiful harbourside town
Flanked by towering mountains on all sides, Ísafjörður is a nearly perfect natural harbour and an excellent gateway to the Westfjords region. Stroll around to see the architecture, shop for a variety of local handicrafts and view some of the oldest houses in Iceland.
One of these historic 18th century buildings is home to Westfjords Heritage Museum, where you can learn about the maritime past of this fascinating port. Or if you prefer something more energetic, you could take the steep hike up to Naustahvilft – the Troll’s Throne. You’ll be rewarded for your efforts at the top by the stunning panoramic view.
5
Djúpavík's old factory
Explore a ghostly factory and hike in magical surroundings
The remote village of Djúpavík, at the edge of the Westfjords, has an eerie charm. A vast abandoned herring factory contrasts with a stunning rural setting. A guided tour of the old herring factory should not be missed. Inside its cavernous interior, huge machines rust away quietly, and the everyday objects of the workers sit on desks untouched.
Explore the magical surroundings here on foot and take a short, invigorating hike to the waterfall just above the old factory. Looking down onto the shore, you may spot the old rusting ship from a previous era – this really is a place of contrasts.
6
Akureyri and Goðafoss
See dramatic moonscapes and waterfalls
Gaze at snowcapped peaks as we cruise into Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord. Together with neighbouring Skjálfandi bay, it's one of the best places in Europe to spot whales.
Iceland’s so-called 'Northern Capital’, Akureyri sits at the fjord head. Here, you can enjoy the oasis of a botanical garden and visit local eateries and museums.
A little further afield, witness the picturesque Goðafoss waterfall, where turquoise waters pound against black rocks. You'll witness geology come to life around Lake Mývatn, an active volcanic area and one of the few places to see the Mid-Atlantic Ridge up close.
7
Húsavík and the Arctic Circle
Cross the Arctic Circle and go whale watching
Húsavík is a pleasant small town famous for its whale-watching opportunities, and we’ll be calling here in the morning. The town looks out over Skjálfandi bay, which enjoys visits from humpback and minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises and occasionally blue whales. If you’re lucky, you might see one or more of these giants at sea, and you can learn more about them at Húsavík’s Whale Museum.
Húsavík is also regarded as the gateway to many of the highlights of the north, including Jökulsárgljúfur National Park, the waterfall of Dettiffos, and the horseshoe-shaped valley of Ásbyrgi, which according to Icelandic myth, was made by the eight-legged horse of Odin. Later, we’ll sail along the coast of Grímsey island without landing, passing across the Arctic Circle as we do so, before continuing to our next destination.
8
Tiny Bakkagerði
Explore a place beloved of puffins and elves
Your Iceland expedition cruise continues to Bakkagerði, a tiny, remote settlement. According to folklore, Bakkagerði is inhabited by a large population of local land spirits or elves, known as huldufólk, meaning 'hidden people'. Walk around town to explore this magical place.
A popular hiking area, here you can walk through lush, green valleys and gorgeous scenery among colourful rhyolite rocks. In season, the coastal cliffs are home to fulmars, kittiwakes, eiders and puffins.
9
Vatnajökull cruising
See the second-largest ice cap in Europe
Leaving the land of ice and fire and heading towards the British Isles, if conditions allow, we hope to cruise by and admire Vatnajökull, the second-largest ice cap in Europe.
Set in Vatnajökull National Park, the ice cap is the largest in Europe by volume and area. Given its unique natural characteristics, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019.
As you explore, your Expedition Team will help you understand more about how climate change impacts glaciers in Iceland and beyond.
10
At Sea
Relax and recharge with a day at sea
Relax and enjoy a day at sea as we sail towards Lerwick in the Shetlands Islands.
Socialise with your fellow travellers in the Explorer Lounge & Bar, and swap stories of your adventures so far. Keep your eyes peeled while on deck formarine life and seabirds – you can even chill out in the hot tub as you do so.
Or why not listen to some lectures from the Expedition Team and find out more about what lies ahead in the British Isles.
11
Lerwick’s past and present
Discover Scotland's most northerly inhabited isles
Today we'll dock alongside Lerwick, the capital of the Shetland Islands. Set in stunning scenery, we’ll spend the day exploring this friendly, Victorian-influenced fishing town.
Navigate the narrow lanes on foot to discover little shops selling local whiskies, woollen sweaters and fudge. By the old waterfront, you’ll find the Shetland Museum, charting the area's rich history. Nearby you can see Fort Charlotte and the regal Town Hall.
The wider island is home to remarkable Iron Age villages and the Shetland Crofthouse Museum, where you'll learn about the hard life of the local crofters.
12
Far-flung Fair Isle
A scenic stop for bird lovers
Your cruise continues to the remote Fair Isle, known for its birds and knitwear.
A magnet for birders and wildlife photographers, the island is home to 27 bird species. It's a vital stop for migrating seabirds, drawn to the red sandstone cliffs, green fields and moors.
We’ll attempt to land so you can join a clifftop hike to a spectacularly sited lighthouse with the Expedition Team. Gain fascinating insights into the life and history of the 65-strong island community at the local museum. You can support Fair Islanders by buying genuine Fair Isle knitwear direct from local makers.
If landing isn’t possible, the scenic cruising is just as spectacular.
13
Highlights of Orkney
Discover Norse heritage in Kirkwall
Today we visit Kirkwall, the vibrant, Viking-influenced capital of the Orkney Islands, easily explored on foot.
Start with the majestic St Magnus Cathedral, built from the region's distinctive red sandstone, and admire the stone ruins of the adjacent Earl's Palace, a once-grand Renaissance building. The Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae is also just a short bus ride away.
Whisky lovers will appreciate the excellent single malts from Highland Park and Scapa distilleries. If gin is more your thing, the Orkney Distillery produces small-batch spirits with local botanicals.
14
A final day at sea
Reflect as you head towards Germany
Enjoy a final day at sea as you cruise from Scotland to Germany.
If you haven’t already, today is a great day to make the most of the ship’s facilities. Relax and enjoy the panoramic sauna or on-deck hot tubs. Work out in the fitness room or drink in the views from the observation decks. You can also enjoy the company of fellow explorers over drinks in the Explorer Lounge & Bar and reflect on the wonderful voyage you’ve had.
15
Germany’s Hanseatic treasure
End your cruise in Germany’s second city
Your expedition cruise comes to an end as we arrive 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 Altstadt district, including the St Nikolai Memorial and the historic street of Deichstraße.
Hamburg is also home to 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.

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

A stay in a cabin of your choice.
All day coffee, tea and soft drinks.
A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home.
A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX kit.
Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer.
Complimentary Wi-Fi.

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

Where you’ll stay

Accommodation

MS Spitsbergen

On board: Indoor gym; Sauna with outside view; Outdoor hot tubs; Observation decks; Explorer lounge and bar; Onboard shop; Expedition Team; Restaurant Aune; Brygga Bistro; Wi-Fi.

Polar Inside

Our cosy Polar Inside cabins feature

Double beds and some have additional Pullman beds.
All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.

I2D – Inside cabin: no window, double bed, 9–14 m².
K2D – Larger inside cabin: no window, double bed, 15–20 m².

Polar Outside

Most of our Polar Outside cabins onboard MS Spitsbergen have double beds. Some include a single or double sofa bed and two Pullman beds (upper/lower berths).
All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.

O3 – Outside cabin: window, two pullman beds, upper/lower berths, 13–14 m².
J3 – Outside cabin: window, limited view or no view, two pullman beds, upper/lower berths, 11–12 m².
O2D – Outside cabin: window, double bed, 13–14 m².
J2D – Outside cabin: window, limited view or no view, double bed, 11–12 m².

Arctic Superior

Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins.

They feature double beds, some with a sofa bed.
All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.

QJ – Outside cabin: window, limited view or no view, double bed, 14–18 m².
YA – Wheelchair-accessible cabin: window, limited view or no view, double bed, 18 m².
P2D – Outside cabin: window, limited view or no view, double bed, 11 m².
U2D – Outside cabin: window, double bed, 13–14 m².

Expedition Suite

Add some indulgence to your voyage aboard MS Spitsbergen 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 minibars (charges apply).
Suites feature double beds, some with a seating area, some with a sofa bed or a Pullman bed.
All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, tea-making facilities, and a single-serve coffee machine. Naturally, the accommodation includes a full range of premium facilities including daily turn-down service and laundry.
Champagne on ice and a platter of delicacies are provided for your enjoyment as you set sail.

MX – Owners Suite: private balcony, double bed, sofa bed, 32–33 m².
MG – Grand Suite: private balcony, double bed, sofa bed, 28–29 m².
Q2 – Mini Suite: window, double bed, 16–17 m².
Q3 – Mini Suite: window, double bed, 22–23 m².
Q4 – Mini Suite: window, double bed, 21–22 m².

From the operator