Iceland is a land of breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences that are best explored on a circumnavigational cruise. The exclusive circular itinerary offered by National Geographic Explore/Lindblad provides travelers with a privileged insight into what makes Iceland so special. With access to smaller ports and fjords that are unavailable to larger ships, each day on this cruise brings a new adventure. The added comfort of returning to the same lodging every night ensures an exceptional experience for all travelers.
Before or after embarking on the circumnavigational cruise, visitors to Iceland must experience the Blue Lagoon. This geothermal bath offers multiple soak options in the blue-lit water, making it a prime attraction for tourists. The level of access and pampering available at the Blue Lagoon spans from basic entry to the full spa experience. The innovative bracelet system provides visitors with access to lockers, drinks, dining, and other amenities with just a wave of the hand. With four dining options onsite, the Blue Lagoon is the perfect destination for a day-long relaxation experience.
Exploring Vigur Island
One of the stops on the circumnavigational cruise is Vigur Island, a place known for its quiet and peaceful fjords. Vigur Island is also the source of world-renowned eider down, which is collected and processed by the island’s inhabitants. Notably, Vigur Island is home to Felicity Aston, one of the island’s farm owners and the only woman who can ski solo across the Antarctic. Her resilience and connection to the hardy life of Iceland are truly inspirational.
Siglufjordur, the northernmost main settlement in Iceland, was once the center of a thriving herring fishing and processing industry. Today, visitors can explore a set of museum buildings and live demonstrations that chronicle the history of the herring industry in the region. Notably, Siglufjordur has a local forestry association that is working to further the forestry movement and conservation efforts in Iceland by planting trees.
As travelers arrive in southern Iceland, they are greeted by black sand beaches and the vast Vatnajokull icecap. A visit to the icy lagoon of Jokulsarlon offers a unique glimpse into Iceland’s natural beauty. Travelers can also explore more remote valleys and waterfalls in the region by 4 x 4 vehicles, providing an opportunity to immerse themselves in Iceland’s stunning landscapes.
The islands of Westmann were formed by undersea volcanoes around 10,000 years ago. Travelers can visit the most recent lava crater on Westmann, which is an easy hike and still emanates heat from underground activity. The island of Surtsey, which emerged from the sea in 1963, is now a UNESCO Heritage Site, showcasing the raw power of Iceland’s volcanic landscape.
Iceland’s beauty is best experienced through a circumnavigational cruise that offers unparalleled access to the country’s unique landscapes and experiences. From the geothermal wonders of the Blue Lagoon to the quiet fjords of Vigur Island and the volcanic landscapes of Westmann, Iceland’s natural treasures are waiting to be explored by adventurous travelers.
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