Waterfalls cascade over verdant green rolling hills as a traveler stands in front, during the Wild Iceland Escape arctic cruise.
Two travelers stand beside a geyser emitting steam with earthtone rock all around during the Wild Iceland Escape arctic cruise.
Railings lead into the turquoise blue waters of the Blue Lagoon with steam rising and people bathing, during the Wild Iceland Escape arctic cruise.
A group of travelers forms a line while riding on horseback among green fields during the Wild Iceland Escape arctic cruise.
Sheets of crystal teal ice wash ashore to a black sand beach in Iceland seen aboard Wild Iceland Escape Arctic cruise.
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$6780USD
Starting At
5-6
Days
Jul
Polar Regions Arctic Cruise

Wild Iceland Escape

Discover why Iceland is known as the “land of fire and ice” on the compact Wild Iceland Escape cruise. Explore Iceland’s pristine fjords, fascinating tundra and dramatic waterfalls, accompanied by a dedicated team of naturalists. Encounter evidence of volcanic activity while soaking in geothermal hot springs, hike over cooled lava fields and view Iceland’s newest isle, Surtsey.

Discover the rich biodiversity of the remote Westfjords, spotting nesting puffins and gannets on the Látrabjarg cliffs and watching for humpback and minke whales in the surrounding waters. Designed to explore the remote fjords and volcanic isles along Iceland’s western coast, the Wild Iceland Escape voyage reveals stark landscapes formed by volcanic eruptions, still warmed by geothermal activity; towering cliffs teeming with nesting seabirds; and snow-capped plateaus that rise into the clouds.

Not only are Iceland’s landscapes fascinating to explore, but the legacy of Viking explorers and intrepid fishermen is prevalent at historic villages and visitor sites. Choose the option to extend your Wild Iceland Escape voyage with additional adventures ranging from pre- and post-cruise hiking excursions, special ice cave explorations and more.

Explore aboard the 126-guest National Geographic Resolution. Nat Geo Resolution offers a polar ice class 5 rating, state-of-the-art educational equipment and highly qualified naturalist guides, making her the ideal ship for this Arctic cruise. After daily explorations relax in the sauna, yoga room, library or bar. Watch her crush through ice from the bridge or deck and enjoy the highest technologies in ice-stable sailing. Each small expedition ship is technologically advanced, fully stabilized and equipped with a well-rounded set of exploration tools including an ROV and enough kayaks and Zodiacs to send all guests out exploring at the same time. 

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises and Iceland cruises.



Itinerary

2023 Wild Iceland Escape Itinerary

The 6-day Wild Iceland Escape cruise explores the remote Westfjords of Iceland, beginning in Reykjavik, sailing northbound to Djupavik, then sailing southbound to end in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Route map of Wild Iceland Escape Arctic voyage, operating round-trip from Reykjavik with visits to Djúpavík, Arnafjordur, Latrabjarg Cliffs, Surtsey Island, Heimaey Island & the Westman Islands.
Read More
Days 1 - 2
Arrive Reykjavík, Iceland & Embark

After an overnight flight to Reykjavík, Iceland, arrive in the world’s northernmost capital, which lies only a fraction below the Arctic Circle and receives just four hours of sunlight in winter and 22 in summer. Enjoy a guided overview of the Old Town, including Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral with its 210-foot tower, and perhaps learn about Nordic culture at the National Museum, with its Viking treasures, artifacts and unusual whalebone carvings on display. Embark the ship in the afternoon.

Accommodations

n/a (day 1); National Geographic Resolution (day 2)

Meals

n/a (day 1); lunch and dinner (day 2)

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Day 3
Djúpavík

Enjoy a leisurely morning at sea, learning about Iceland and its incredible diversity. Spend the afternoon on the remote eastern side of the Westfjords to experience rural Iceland, which is difficult to access and seldom visited by many people but boasts spectacular beauty and rich history. Take advantage of the dramatic landscape of the fjord with optional hiking, leisurely explorations of the tundra and perhaps photography of wildflowers.

The tiny town of Djúpavík held its place on the map because of the golden age of herring. During its heyday in the 1930s, its herring plant was the largest concrete structure in Iceland. The plant closed in 1954 but remains as a small museum and a memory of the rich productivity of the herring industry in Iceland.  Visit the museum and learn about the significance of this resource to all of Iceland in the 20th century.

Accommodations

National Geographic Resolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Arnafjordur & Latrabjarg Cliffs

In the early morning, the ship glides into beautiful Arnafjörður, along the northwest coast of Iceland. For a more active experience, disembark early and hike several miles along the base of the fjord to visit the spectacular Dynjandi Waterfall. Alternatively, join the expedition staff on the bow of the ship and venture ever deeper into the fjord and go ashore by Zodiac to walk up to the base of the waterfall, passing nesting arctic terns along the way. This afternoon, sail past the immense Látrabjarg Cliffs, the westernmost point of Iceland and home to a huge population of razorbills. The cliffs were once famous for egg collecting, where men tied to ropes lowered like spiders down onto the ledges. Conditions permitting, perhaps launch Zodiacs to see the incredible cliffs from the waterline.

Accommodations

National Geographic Resolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Islands of Surtsey & Heimaey, Westman Islands

The Westman Islands were formed by undersea volcanoes between 5,000 and 10,000 years ago and are among the youngest of the world’s archipelagos. In 1973, Heimaey was threatened by lava flows that nearly closed off its harbor. Drive between the two volcanoes of the island then visit the ruins of old Viking houses dating back to the year 900 AD. Opt to hike up Eldfell volcano, formed during the 1973 eruption, for amazing views of areas engulfed by lava. In some places, the ground is still warm with thermal vents. Watch for nesting Atlantic puffins and gannets along the shores of the island. In 1963, the world witnessed on film the birth of its newest island, Surtsey, a newly designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, which you’ll see while cruising past the coast.

Accommodations

National Geographic Resolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Disembark Reykjavík, Iceland

Today, disembark in Reykjavík. Choose to visit the famous Blue Lagoon thermal baths or enjoy a visit to a hot spring, a geothermal power plant and an Icelandic horse farm, prior to flying home. Alternatively, partake in one of many optional post-voyage land extensions and continue to explore this amazing country!

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, lunch

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Expedition parka to keep; accommodations; meals indicated; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes. Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens. Complimentary beer & wine on National Geographic Venture, National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Sea Lion, National Geographic Sea Bird, with a complimentary full bar on all other ships.

Exclusions

Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

For expeditions departing prior to April 1, 2024:
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $750 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
180 or more days – $750*
179 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 25% of total trip cost
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

*$750 USD will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which only may be applied towards final payment on any future booking.

For expeditions departing April 1, 2024 onward:
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Vaccination Requirement
To join this trip, all guests 5 years and older must provide proof of being fully vaccinated (at least 14 days after your final COVID-19 vaccine shot). There may also be COVID-19 testing or other requirements to participate; your Adventure Specialist will provide details of current policies upon booking.

Arrival & Departure

The 2023 Wild Iceland Escape cruise begins and ends in Reykjavik (KEF). Recommended group flights are available with transfers provided. Flights from the U.S. typically arrive at 6:15am on Day 2 and are followed by an included city tour before embarkation at 4:30pm. Disembarkation is at 8:00am on Day 6, followed by included daytime activities. Guests should plan to depart Reykjavik (KEF) at 5:00pm on Day 6. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include walking, hiking, kayaking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, photography, wildlife observation and morning yoga and stretching.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

2024 Wild Iceland Escape Itinerary

The 5-day Wild Iceland Escape cruise explores the remote Westfjords of Iceland, beginning in Reykjavik, sailing northbound to Djupavik, then sailing southbound to end in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Route map of Wild Iceland Escape Arctic voyage, operating round-trip from Reykjavik with visits to Djúpavík, Arnafjordur, Surtsey Island, Heimaey Island & the Westman Islands.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Reykjavík, Iceland

Arrive in Reykjavík, Iceland, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. Transfer from the airport and enjoy a panoramic overview of the Old Town, including Hallgrímskirkja Cathedral with its 210-foot tower, before embarking the ship in the afternoon.

Accommodations

National Geographic Resolution

Meals

lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 2
Djúpavík

Enjoy a leisurely morning at sea, learning about Iceland and its incredible diversity. Spend the afternoon on the remote eastern side of the Westfjords to experience rural Iceland, which is difficult to access and seldom visited by many people but boasts spectacular beauty and rich history. Take advantage of the dramatic landscape of the fjord with optional hiking, leisurely explorations of the tundra and perhaps photography of wildflowers.

The tiny town of Djúpavík held its place on the map because of the golden age of herring. During its heyday in the 1930s, its herring plant was the largest concrete structure in Iceland. The plant closed in 1954 but remains as a small museum and a memory of the rich productivity of the herring industry in Iceland.  Visit the museum and learn about the significance of this resource to all of Iceland in the 20th century.

Accommodations

National Geographic Resolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Arnafjordur

In the early morning, the ship glides into beautiful Arnafjörður, along the northwest coast of Iceland. For a more active experience, disembark early and hike several miles along the base of the fjord to visit the spectacular Dynjandi Waterfall. Alternatively, join the expedition staff on the bow of the ship and venture ever deeper into the fjord and go ashore by Zodiac to walk up to the base of the waterfall, passing nesting arctic terns along the way.

Accommodations

National Geographic Resolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Islands of Surtsey & Heimaey, Westman Islands

The Westman Islands were formed by undersea volcanoes between 5,000 and 10,000 years ago and are among the youngest of the world’s archipelagos. In 1973, Heimaey was threatened by lava flows that nearly closed off its harbor. Drive between the two volcanoes of the island then visit the ruins of old Viking houses dating back to the year 900 AD. Opt to hike up Eldfell volcano, formed during the 1973 eruption, for amazing views of areas engulfed by lava. In some places, the ground is still warm with thermal vents. Watch for nesting Atlantic puffins and gannets along the shores of the island. In 1963, the world witnessed on film the birth of its newest island, Surtsey, a newly designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, which you’ll see while cruising past the coast.

Accommodations

National Geographic Resolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Disembark Reykjavík, Iceland

Disembark in Reykjavík and take a morning excursion. After lunch, transfer to the airport for flights home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, lunch

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Expedition parka to keep; accommodations; meals indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes.

Exclusions

Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

For expeditions departing April 1, 2024 onward:
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Vaccination Requirement
To join this trip, all guests 5 years and older must provide proof of being fully vaccinated (at least 14 days after your final COVID-19 vaccine shot). There may also be COVID-19 testing or other requirements to participate; your Adventure Specialist will provide details of current policies upon booking.

Arrival & Departure

The 2024 Wild Iceland Escape cruise begins and ends in Reykjavik (KEF). Recommended group flights are available with transfers provided. Embarkation time may vary as it is based upon arrival of group flights. Disembarkation is at 8:00am on Day 5, followed by included daytime activities. Guests should plan to depart Reykjavik (KEF) at 5:00pm on Day 5. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include walking, hiking, kayaking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, photography, wildlife observation and morning yoga and stretching.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Jul 11 - Jul 16, 2023
National Geographic Resolution • 6 days
From $6780USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 15 - Jul 20, 2023
National Geographic Resolution • 6 days
From $6780USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jul 05 - Jul 09, 2024
National Geographic Resolution • 5 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Accommodation

Learn about the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Resolution

The 126-guest National Geographic Resolution is one of the newest additions to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability, efficiency, scholarship and long-range exploration in the polar regions.

Deals

Current Deals on This Trip

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires April 30th, 2023
10% Group Savings On Select National Geographic Expeditions

Save 10% when traveling as a group of 6 or more on select National Geographic expeditions with this special deal. Take advantage of these great savings while enjoying traveling with your friends and family.

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires April 30th, 2023
No Single Supplement On Select 2023 Arctic Departures

Solo travelers! Pay no single supplement fee when you book your select 2023 departure from an array of Arctic expedition cruises.

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires April 30th, 2023
Save 10% On Two Consecutive National Geographic Expeditions

Save 10% when you book two consecutive cruises aboard a National Geographic expedition ship.

Expert Review

Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect

Todd Smith • June 17th, 2022
Expert Aboard: National Geographic Resolution & Endurance Ship Review

Firsthand review of the National Geographic Resolution & Endurance. Learn what makes these the best-in-class next generation expedition ships. From X-Bow design to on deck igloos, this in depth ship review covers what you need to know.

Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

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Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Iceland Cruise

In conjunction with this cruise, the following pre- and post-cruise options are available for a seamless land-and-sea group travel experience with National Geographic guides and fellow passengers. Contact AdventureSmith Explorations for further details and pricing.

Snaefellsnes is a geologically rich, 3-day, post-cruise extension that explores Langjokull Glacier’s aquamarine ice cave, the Viogelmir lava tube cave, walks along the coastline in Snaefellsness National Park, and perhaps a glimpse of the imposing Snaefellsjokull Mountain.

Iceland’s Volcanic Northeast is an adventurous, 3-day, post-cruise excursion into the heart of North Iceland, with Myvatn’s jagged lava fields, glacially carved canyons, standing on the rim of a vast volcanic crater, getting sprayed by dettifoss waterfall—the largest waterfall in all of Europe—and relaxing in two different geothermal hot springs as major highlights.

Add to Wishlist
8 - 9 Day Cruise
Scotland's Highlands & Islands

This cruise highlights seldom-seen Scottish landscapes and top historical sights throughout the interior and along the coast. On the purpose-built Lord of the Glens ship, navigate through the canals that lead through the heart of the Scottish countryside.

Special Offer
From $9250USD
May Jun Jul Aug Sep
Add to Wishlist
10 Day Cruise
Introduction to Spitsbergen: Fjords, Glaciers & Wildlife of Svalbard

On this 10-day adventure aboard 200-guest Ultramarine or 128-guest Ocean Adventurer, cruise Spitsbergen's coastline and discover fjords, sea cliffs, polar bears and walrus.

Special Offer
From $6995USD
May Jun Jul
Add to Wishlist
9 - 10 Day Land Tour
Arctic Watch

Explore the Canadian Arctic on Somerset Island in Nunavut by e-biking, rafting, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, hiking, kayaking, trail running and exploring on ATVs at this unique wilderness lodge and world-class beluga whale observation site.

From $13380USD
Jun Jul Aug
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A Circumnavigation of Iceland

Iceland's world-class geology and unique cultural heritage come alive in this Circumnavigation of Iceland aboard National Geographic ships 148-guest Explorer or 126-guest Resolution or Endurance. Cruise round-trip from Reykjavik; see glaciers, geysers and immense cliffs with world-class guides leading the way!

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16-17 Day Cruise
Norway's Fjords & Arctic Svalbard

Join National Geographic expert leaders aboard 126-guest Nat Geo Endurance or Resolution to see the Arctic's unparalleled beauty, exploring where polar bears prowl and walruses haul out on rocky shores.

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National Geographic Land of the Ice Bears

The National Geographic Land of the Ice Bears cruise aboard sister ships 126-guest Nat Geo Endurance and Resolution sails to the high Arctic archipelago of Svalbard in search of polar bears, walrus and reindeer under the midnight sun.

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From $12350USD
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Wild Iceland Escape

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