Glaciers, Volcanoes, Waterfalls & Northern Lights

Viking Iceland Cruises

Discover the Land of Fire and Ice aboard Viking's award-winning ocean ships.

Land of Fire and Ice

Viking Iceland Cruises: Discover the Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland is unlike anywhere else on Earth. From dramatic waterfalls and active volcanoes to geothermal lagoons, black sand beaches, and glacier-carved landscapes, this Nordic island nation offers some of the world's most extraordinary natural scenery.

A Viking Iceland Cruise combines immersive destination experiences with the comfort and elegance of Viking's award-winning ocean ships, allowing travelers to explore Iceland's most iconic regions while enjoying luxury accommodations and enriching onboard experiences.

At Trips & Ships Luxury Travel, we help travelers choose the perfect Viking Iceland itinerary, whether you're seeking a complete circumnavigation of Iceland or a broader Northern Europe voyage.

Benefits of Viking Iceland Cruises:

Smaller Ocean Ships
Destination Immersion
Included Excursions
Overnight Stays
Scandinavian Luxury
Cultural Enrichment
CRUISE EXPERT

Angela Hughes

At Trips & Ships Luxury Travel, we help travelers discover Iceland's extraordinary landscapes — from volcanoes and glaciers to geothermal lagoons and Northern Lights.

"

With more than 40 years in the travel industry and travel experience across 121+ countries, Angela Hughes helps travelers plan Viking Iceland cruises that deliver extraordinary Nordic adventures.

SEE THE VIKING EXPERIENCE

Watch Viking Ocean Cruises

Discover why Viking's award-winning ocean ships are the perfect way to explore Iceland and Northern Europe.

Viking Ocean Cruises
Extraordinary Natural Wonders

Why Iceland Is One of the World's Most Fascinating Cruise Destinations

Iceland offers an incredible variety of natural wonders. Travelers experience extraordinary landscapes that exist nowhere else on Earth.

Iceland's Natural Wonders

Active Volcanoes
Massive Glaciers
Dramatic Waterfalls
Geothermal Hot Springs
Whales & Puffins
Northern Lights

The Viking Approach

Iceland is a destination best explored slowly. Viking's destination-focused approach allows travelers to experience Iceland's landscapes, culture, history, and natural wonders in depth.

  • Meaningful destination experiences
  • Overnight stays in key ports
  • Included excursions in every port
  • Scandinavian-inspired comfort

"Rather than rushing between destinations, Viking emphasizes meaningful experiences."

CRUISE PLANNING GUIDE

Most Popular Viking Iceland Itineraries

Viking offers several Iceland itineraries, each showcasing different aspects of this extraordinary Nordic island.

Viking Itinerary Showcase
ITINERARY SPOTLIGHT

Iceland's Natural Beauty

Quick Facts:

  • 8 Days — Roundtrip from Reykjavik
  • Iceland's scenic coastline
  • Waterfalls and geothermal attractions

Highlights:

ReykjavikAkureyriIsafjordurSeydisfjordurGeothermal Sites

An excellent introduction to Iceland's diverse regions.

Nordic Ports & Landmarks

Top Iceland Destinations on Viking Cruises

Reykjavik
Capital City

Reykjavik

Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, Blue Lagoon excursions, Icelandic cuisine, and Viking history. Many itineraries begin or end here.

Akureyri
North Iceland

Akureyri

Known as the 'Capital of North Iceland.' Godafoss Waterfall, Lake Myvatn, geothermal landscapes, and whale watching.

Isafjordur
Westfjords

Isafjordur

Located in Iceland's remote Westfjords. Fjord landscapes, hiking, traditional culture, and wildlife viewing. A hidden gem.

Seydisfjordur
East Iceland

Seydisfjordur

One of Iceland's most picturesque villages. Colorful houses, mountain scenery, art galleries, and waterfalls. Beautiful fjord approach.

Land of Fire and Ice

Natural Wonders You'll Experience

Waterfalls & Volcanoes

Fire and Water

Iceland's volcanic landscapes and thousands of waterfalls create some of the most dramatic scenery on Earth.

  • Godafoss & Gullfoss waterfalls
  • Dettifoss — Europe's most powerful waterfall
  • Active volcanic landscapes
  • Geothermal lagoons & hot springs

Glaciers & Geothermal

Ice and Heat

Massive ice fields cover 11% of Iceland, while geothermal activity creates hot springs, geysers, and steam vents throughout the island.

  • Glacier viewpoints & exploration
  • The famous Blue Lagoon
  • Geysers and steam vents
  • Hot springs & geothermal pools
Coastal Wildlife

Wildlife Encounters in Iceland

Whales

Humpback, minke whales, and orcas frequent Icelandic waters.

Puffins

Millions of puffins nest along Iceland's coastline during season.

Seals

Frequently spotted along Iceland's rocky coastline.

Seabirds

Numerous species thrive throughout the region.

The Ship Experience

Viking Ocean Ships

Most Iceland itineraries operate aboard Viking's award-winning ocean fleet.

Ship Features

  • Adults-Oriented Atmosphere
  • Elegant Scandinavian Design
  • Inclusive Amenities
  • Destination-Focused Experiences

Why Viking for Iceland

  • Smaller ships access remote ports
  • Overnight stays maximize exploration
  • Included excursions in every port
  • Enrichment programs and lectures
  • Exceptional service throughout

"The emphasis remains on exploration rather than onboard distractions."

Seasonal Guide

Best Time for a Viking Iceland Cruise

May

Longer daylight hours, spring landscapes, fewer crowds.

June–July

Peak season with midnight sun, comfortable temps, excellent wildlife.

August

Puffin viewing, scenic exploration, outdoor activities.

September

Fall colors, smaller crowds, Northern Lights potential.

Northern Lights Cruises

Some late-season Viking itineraries provide opportunities to witness the Aurora Borealis. While sightings depend on weather, solar activity, and darkness levels, Iceland is one of the best destinations in the world for Northern Lights viewing.

Is This You?

Who Should Take a Viking Iceland Cruise?

Nature lovers
Photography enthusiasts
Adventure travelers
Wildlife enthusiasts
Couples
Retirees
Cultural travelers
Luxury cruise guests
Northern Europe explorers
EXPERIENCE ICELAND

Watch Iceland's Natural Beauty

Discover the breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and natural wonders that await on a Viking Iceland cruise.

Iceland's Natural Beauty
Expert Guidance

Why Book Your Viking Iceland Cruise with
Trips & Ships Luxury Travel?

Iceland cruises often require careful planning due to limited seasonal availability.

Personalized Planning

Personalized itinerary recommendations, Viking cruise expertise, and dedicated travel support.

Travel Coordination

Airfare coordination, Reykjavik hotel arrangements, and pre- and post-cruise planning.

Travel Protection

Travel protection guidance and expert support ensuring you experience the very best of Iceland.

ELITE INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP

Meet Angela Hughes

Angela Hughes
ELITE ADVISOR ACCREDITATION

Angela Hughes

CEO of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel
Est. 1986 | Global Authority
EDUCATION

Founder of Luxury Travel University

LEADERSHIP

CEO of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel

EXPERIENCE

40+ years in luxury travel

EXPLORATION

Traveled to 121+ countries

SPEAKING

Global luxury travel speaker

MEDIA

Weekly travel columnist

LEADERSHIP

Travel Leaders Network Advisory Board member

HONOR

2024 Luxury Travel Influencer of the Year

PRESTIGE

Named among the Most Influential Women in Travel in 2026

SPECIALTY

Luxury river and ocean cruise specialist

Viking Iceland Cruises:
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best Viking Iceland Cruise itinerary?+
How long are Viking Iceland Cruises?+
Do Viking Iceland Cruises visit Reykjavik?+
Can you see the Northern Lights on a Viking Iceland Cruise?+
What wildlife can I see in Iceland?+
Is Iceland good for first-time cruise travelers?+
Are shore excursions included?+
What is the best month for an Iceland cruise?+
Are Viking Iceland Cruises adults only?+
Can I visit the Blue Lagoon?+
Are Iceland cruises physically demanding?+
What should I pack for an Iceland cruise?+
Do Iceland cruises sail around the entire island?+
How far in advance should I book?+
Is Iceland expensive?+

Viking Iceland Cruises & Polar Excursions Planning Guide

Exploring the dramatic landscapes of Iceland is a hallmark of Viking's ocean and expedition programs. Viking's state-of-the-art ocean vessels navigate the volcanic coastlines of the Land of Fire and Ice, taking guests to ports like Reykjavík, Akureyri, and Seyðisfjörður. The adults-only ships feature heated pool areas, panoramic observation lounges, and Scandinavian styling that mirrors the surrounding environment.

Our guides outline options for circumnavigations or multi-destination itineraries that combine Iceland with Greenland, Norway, the Faroe Islands, or the British Isles. We assist in selecting the best season—from long daylight hours for glacier hiking in July to late-season sailings with opportunities to view the Northern Lights.

Sailing in these waters requires robust ice-class hull designs or stabilizer systems. Viking's fleet handles these currents with extreme comfort, offering stable transits. The onboard experience includes educational lectures from geologists and naturalists who detail the tectonic shifts, volcanic activity, and unique geography of Iceland.

A Viking Iceland cruise usually highlights several key Icelandic ports: Reykjavík (the capital city is the starting or ending point, offering access to the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park), Akureyri (located in the north, this port is near the spectacular Goðafoss waterfall and Lake Mývatn, famous for geysers, thermal baths, and volcanic craters), Seyðisfjörður (nestled in the East Fjords, this scenic village features colorful wooden houses, steep waterfalls, and nesting puffins on cliffs), Ísafjörður (located in the Westfjords, this fishing town provides excursions to Dynjandi waterfall, scenic sea-kayaking, and dramatic Arctic landscapes), and Heimaey (part of the Westman Islands, it is known for the Eldfell volcano hike and puffin colonies).

Viking includes one shore excursion in every port, allowing travelers to walk on black sand beaches, view roaring waterfalls, or relax in geothermal baths without extra charges. The onboard Nordic Spa features a snow grotto and steam rooms, ideal for winding down after active days.

Trips & Ships Luxury Travel manages all planning details. We secure preferred staterooms, coordinate flights, and arrange custom pre- or post-cruise excursions, ensuring a seamless and high-value travel experience.

For guests seeking deep polar experiences, Viking Expedition vessels Viking Octantis and Viking Star offer dedicated science labs where passengers can observe scientists analyzing plankton or tracking weather balloons. Having a luxury travel specialist assists you in choosing between a traditional ocean cruise or a specialized expedition voyage.

Additionally, Viking offers specialized shore excursions that let you experience the Icelandic lifestyle. Guests can join food tours in Reykjavík to taste traditional rye bread baked in geothermal ground, soak in the restorative waters of the Blue Lagoon, or hike across the Solheimajokull glacier with certified mountain guides. On the northern coast, whale-watching excursions in Husavik or Akureyri bring travelers close to humpback, minke, and blue whales. Our travel agency works with preferred tour operators to coordinate private shore guides, guaranteeing a high-quality experience.

Experience Iceland with
Viking Cruises

A Viking Iceland Cruise offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore one of the world's most captivating destinations. From glacier-carved fjords and geothermal landscapes to puffin colonies and vibrant Nordic culture, every day reveals another side of Iceland's remarkable beauty.

Whether you're pursuing a bucket-list adventure, searching for Northern Lights, or exploring Northern Europe in luxury, Viking delivers an unforgettable journey through the Land of Fire and Ice.

Plan your perfect Iceland cruise:
  • Iceland circumnavigation
  • Iceland, Greenland & Canada
  • British Isles & Iceland
  • Northern Lights voyage
  • Wildlife & nature expedition

Contact Trips & Ships Luxury Travel today to find the perfect Viking Iceland Cruise itinerary.

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