Cruises Iceland : Offers and promotions 2026 - 2027

Why choose an Iceland cruise?

Nature at the heart of the country

Known as the "Land of Fire and Ice", Iceland's breathtaking scenery makes it a unique cruising destination. The vast wilderness of glaciers, mountains and lava fields is a breathtaking natural spectacle. A cruise around Iceland allows you to fully immerse yourself in these unspoilt natural settings, where wildlife such as puffins and whales add a touch of life to this grandiose picture. The close proximity to the natural elements makes for a unique experience, far removed from conventional tourist circuits.

Admire the geysers

Geysers, captivating geothermal phenomena, are a must on any cruise to Iceland. The famous Geysir and Strokkur geysers, in the Haukadalur geothermal zone, shoot hot water at regular intervals up to 60 meters high. Geysir and Strokkur are key attractions in Iceland's Golden Circle, a major tourist area that also includes Þingvellir National Park and the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall.

Icelandic cuisine

An Iceland cruise also invites you to discover the unique flavors of Icelandic cuisine. Based on fresh, local ingredients, Icelandic cuisine blends tradition and innovation. Dishes such as marinated herring, mutton stew, skyr (a dairy product similar to yoghurt) and the famous rye bread baked in geothermal steam are all specialties that reflect tradition and the close bond between Icelanders and their natural environment.

The best times to cruise in Iceland

Northern lights in winter

Embark on an Iceland cruise between November and February, with long nights and often clear skies, to enjoy the breathtaking natural spectacle of the Northern Lights. The deep darkness, far from the light pollution of urban areas, reveals dances of green, violet and sometimes red light. The Icelandic winter also offers the opportunity to contemplate snow-covered landscapes and starry nights. It's also the best season to observe polar foxes.

Midnight sun in summer

The Icelandic summer, from June to August, is famous for the phenomenon of the midnight sun, especially observable in the north of the country, on the island of Grímsey, crossed by the Arctic Circle. During this period, the sun flirts with the horizon without ever setting completely, bathing the country in a continuous golden light. This quasi-permanent luminosity and the milder temperatures of the summer season mean that outdoor activities can be enjoyed at all hours, including hiking, kayaking and even midnight golf. Summer in Iceland, enriched by the midnight sun, gives life to unique festivities, where music, art and culture flourish, offering memorable moments in a timeless atmosphere.

Must-see itineraries and stopovers

Reykjavík, gateway to Iceland

As travelers exploring Iceland often take cruises departing from Reykjavík, Iceland's capital is often their first contact with the island. A city on a human scale, it is home to numerous museums and art galleries, and offers an innovative culinary scene blending Icelandic traditions with international gastronomy. Don't miss the National Museum of Iceland for an insight into the country's Viking history, and the interactive Perlan Museum with its futuristic architecture. The main street, Laugavegur, lined with boutiques, cafés and galleries, is an inviting place to stroll. For a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and its surroundings, the tower of Hallgrímskirkja church, the symbol of Iceland's capital, is a must. The seafront offers invigorating walks with views of the Esja mountain. Nearby, the famous Blue Lagoon offers a unique experience of relaxation in its mineral-rich geothermal waters, surrounded by a striking lunar landscape.

Fjords and picturesque villages

Each Icelandic fjord and village tells its own unique story. The wild, isolated fjords of the West offer a grandiose natural spectacle, ideal for hikers. The Snæfellsnes peninsula, nicknamed "Iceland in miniature" for its diversity of landscapes, is a must-see for its famous Snæfellsjökull glacier. In the north of the country, the Eyjafjörður fjord offers breathtaking views. In southern Iceland, Vík í Mýrdal enchants with its emblematic church overlooking the village, colorful houses, local craft stores and superb black sand beaches. Heimaey, in the Vestmann Islands, is remarkable for its village of colorful houses contrasting with the black of solidified lava, and its history marked by the eruption of the Eldfell volcano in 1973, earning it the nickname "Pompeii of the North".

Ísafjörður, Akureyri and Seyðisfjörður

Ísafjörður, with its spectacular scenery and rich maritime culture, offers a fascinating gateway to Iceland's western fjords. Nearby, the breathtaking landscapes of the Hornstrandir nature reserve enchant travellers. Akureyri, nicknamed the "Capital of the North", is a privileged starting point for exploring the wonders of northern Iceland, such as the splendid Goðafoss waterfall and Lake Mývatn, offering a variety of outdoor activities. Seyðisfjörður, with its colorful houses nestling in a spectacular fjord, is famous for its iconic blue church, snow-capped mountains and the surrounding Búðarárfoss and Gufufoss waterfalls.

Wildlife observation

Iceland offers an incredible diversity of wildlife, accessible to visitors all year round. Whale-watching excursions, mainly departing from Húsavík or Reykjavik, are a must, offering the chance to see whales, dolphins and sometimes even orcas in their natural habitat. Summer is a particularly good time to see puffins, Iceland's emblematic birds, especially on the cliffs of Látrabjarg in the Western Fjords and on the island of Heimaey, home to the world's largest colony. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers an ideal setting for seal and bird watching in a remarkable natural environment. For a unique wildlife-watching experience, guided excursions to the Hornstrandir nature reserve in the North-West Fjords (Vestfirðir) include polar fox sightings in one of Europe's last remaining wilderness areas, offering visitors total immersion in spectacular unspoilt nature.

Choosing a cruise line for Iceland

MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean and Costa Cruises offer a wide range of cruises in Northern Europe, with captivating itineraries to discover Iceland. These cruises are ideal for families, with a wide range of activities for all ages. On board the ship, passengers stay in comfortable cabins and suites and travel on a full-board basis. They can enjoy water parks, miniature golf courses, Formula 1 simulators and Broadway-style theaters. MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean and Costa Cruises offer children's and teenagers' clubs organized by age group, as well as a day-care service, guaranteeing fun for all.

Celebrity Cruises’ cruises in Iceland cruises are ideal for couples or families with teenagers, with onboard activities such as theater shows, cooking classes and wine tastings.

For an expedition cruise in Iceland, Hurtigruten Expeditions offers itineraries punctuated by enriching excursions such as whale watching, glacier hiking and Viking culture discovery, offering immersion in the island's natural and cultural wonders.

When it comes to luxury cruising in Iceland, Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea stand out for their exceptional service and first-class culinary offerings. These all-inclusive cruises include full board in gourmet restaurants, most beverages and a wide selection of excursions, all while staying in sumptuous suites. These suites offer unparalleled comfort with exclusive services and benefits such as a personal butler, a welcome bottle of champagne and a range of luxury toiletries. The luxury ships of Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea feature panoramic decks offering spectacular views of the landscape.

What are the ports of departure for a cruise in Iceland?

Reykjavík, the Icelandic capital, is the main port of departure for many itineraries that circumnavigate the island, discovering Iceland's wild and unspoiled landscapes, sometimes including a stopover in Tórshavn in the Faroe Islands. Some cruises depart from Reykjavík and explore both Iceland and Greenland. In North America, New York is the main departure port for cruises to Iceland. Major European departure ports include Southampton in the UK, Rotterdam and Amsterdam in the Netherlands, Hamburg in Germany and Copenhagen in Denmark.

When flights are not included in the cruise fare, Cruise.us offers competitively priced packages to reach your cruise's port of departure.

FAQ : All you need to know about cruises in Iceland

How long is an Iceland cruise?

Cruises around Iceland departing from Reykjavík generally last between 8 and 10 days. For cruises to Iceland departing from European cities such as Southampton, Hamburg, Rotterdam, Amsterdam and Copenhagen, allow 12 to 15 days on average.

What activities are available on an Iceland cruise?

Cruises to Iceland offer immersion in the island's rugged beauty. Activities include exploring black sand beaches, mountains, glaciers, lava fields and waterfalls, as well as observing local wildlife, including Arctic birds such as the iconic puffin, Arctic foxes, and various species of whales and other cetaceans. Whale watching offers an exceptional opportunity to admire these majestic marine mammals in their natural environment, between May and September. Guided hikes allow you to explore these landscapes in greater depth, offering breathtaking views and a unique connection with Icelandic nature. Excursions to see the Northern Lights between November and February offer an unforgettable experience.

What kind of clothes should I pack for an Iceland cruise?

When cruising in Iceland, it's essential to choose the right clothing for variable weather conditions. Layering is key: start with a first layer of technical underwear, add warm intermediate layers such as fleeces or wool sweaters, and finish with a waterproof, windproof outer layer. Don't forget essential accessories like a hat, a warm scarf, gloves and sunglasses to protect you from the wind and sun. Shoes should be waterproof, preferably hiking boots for excursions. And don't forget to bring warm socks. In both summer and winter, a bathing suit is recommended to enjoy the hot springs. Bring formal attire for evenings aboard the boat: a suit for the gentlemen and a gala dress for the ladies.

Can you see the northern lights on an Iceland cruise?

Cruises to Iceland offer a unique opportunity to observe the Northern Lights, particularly between November and February. This period, characterized by long nights and clear skies, is ideal for admiring this natural phenomenon. The absence of light pollution amplifies the visibility of the aurora, creating unforgettable memories.

What's the budget for an Iceland cruise?

Prices for Iceland cruises vary considerably, from around $1,000 for MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, and Royal Caribbean, to $12,000 for luxury Iceland cruises from Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea.