Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
19 m²
2
- Last staterooms
Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice – with Smithsonian Journeys
Reykjavík - Reykjavík
Dates:
13/8/2023
to
20/8/2023
Other available dates
days
nights on board
Shore excursion or activity in each port of call + transfers included
In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.
This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.
Discover the most beautiful and rugged landscapes on the Icelandic west coast during this spectacular 8-day voyage.
On the edge of the Arctic, between vast glaciers, vertiginous fjords, volcanoes, and boiling geysers, Iceland offers a kaleidoscope of wild landscapes.
You will board Le Bellot in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital city. With its houses with colourful roofs and its lake that is home to countless ducks, the city offers a picture-perfect setting.
The first port of call on your cruise is the bay of Grundarfjördur, from where you may choose to explore the villages along the Snæfellsjökull glacier-capped volcano or embark on a whale watching excursion in search of orcas and humpback, minke, sperm, and pilot whales.
Your ship will then reach Grímsey, a small, hard-to-reach island where, in certain places, the volcanic rock forms magnificent basalt columns. Sea birds reign here.
Le Bellot then sails for Akureyri, where an excursion to the otherworldly Lake Myvatn area offers the opportunity to explore the geothermal field of Namaskard to see mudpots, steam vents, sulfur deposits, boiling springs, and fumeroles. Also see the spectacular Godafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods.” Alternatively, choose to relax in the thermal baths at Húsavík.
At Isafjördur, explore Iceland’s seafaring history at the Maritime Museum and enjoy a performance of traditional Icelandic folk songs performed by a group of local singers. Or visit the abandoned village of Hesteyri, a 19th-centurty whaling community located along some of the most rugged landscape in the country.
You will then discover Heimaey. This is the only inhabited island in the Westman archipelago. Choose to explore the volcanic island, which is summer home to millions of seabirds. Or enjoy an exclusive visit the world’s first Beluga Whale Sanctuary where you can view its two residents from a safe distance by boat.
End on the outskirts of Reykjavík, where you’ll have the opportunity to travel the Golden Circle, consisting of three spectacular sights: Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir Geothermal Area. Another option offers a second opportunity to go whale watching in search of humpback, minke, and sei whales.
The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Ref : RRBW45US - EE130823
Your itinerary
A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Engaging...
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Your trip in detail
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Included in your cruise
For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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7/11/2023 to the 22/11/2023
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1/10/2023 to the 8/10/2023
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
6/2/2024 to the 3/3/2024
LE BORÉAL
7/7/2024 to the 20/7/2024
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Katryn Wiese
Katryn Wiese is a professor of Geology and Oceanography at City College of San Francisco, where she has taught field, lab, and lecture classes since 1995. She studied Earth and Ocean Sciences at Caltech, Oregon State University, and Stanford University and focused her early research experiences on volcanic processes in Australia, Iceland, and the surrounding seafloor. Since then, she has journeyed worldwide as a scientist and field guide, gaining local geologic and oceanographic expertise across the U.S., Central and South America, Arctic and Antarctic locales, and a multitude of ocean island locations including the Azores, the Galápagos Islands, Palau, Tahiti, Fiji, the Hawaiian Islands, and many more. In the classroom, in the field, or through her Earth Rocks! YouTube video channel, Katryn’s primary focus today is helping students of all ages recognize and understand better the geologic and oceanographic phenomena that build and modify the landscape and impact the organisms that live within that landscape and the climate that supports them.
Language spoken: English
Elisabeth Ward
Assistant Curator of the Smithsonian Institution's special traveling exhibition, Vikings: The North Atlantic Saga, from 2000 to 2004, Elisabeth Ward went on to complete her Ph.D. in Scandinavian Languages and Literature from the University of California at Berkeley, and continues to lecture for Smithsonian Journeys. Dr. Ward has a long-term passionate interest in all things Icelandic. Listening to her mother, Margrét Guðmundsdóttir, speak to her grandparents in the Icelandic language, Elisabeth became fluent over many years while growing up in Southern California and traveling to Iceland during the summer. As part of her Ph.D. research, Dr. Ward lived in Iceland from 2006 to 2010, receiving Icelandic citizenship. Her dissertation focuses on the medieval Icelandic narratives called the Sagas of Icelanders; Dr. Ward’s research reveals the relationship between those stories and the actual physical landscape of Iceland. She argues they are “co-constituted”, meaning one cannot be read without the other.
In addition to appearing on documentaries for the Smithsonian Channel and others, she also worked as the Program Director for Vikingaheimar Museum in Reykjanesbær, Iceland, and as the Director of the Scandinavian Cultural Center at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma Washington. Since 2005, she has served as a consultant for Walt Disney World’s Epcot Center helping to create exhibitions for their Norway Pavilion about the Vikings, Norwegian folk culture, and Norse mythology. She recently returned to California to take a position as Executive Director of the Los Altos History Museum. The daughter of an American serviceman who met his wife while stationed in Iceland in the 1960s, Elisabeth is the mother of a 16-year-old son named Palmar Gudmundur, who also has Icelandic citizenship.
Languages spoken: English, Icelandic
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Smithsonian Journeys
Smithsonian Journeys is the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, consisting of 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, education centers, research facilities, cultural centers, and libraries. Drawing on Smithsonian's resources dating back 175 years, these sailings will feature notable experts and experiences that embrace local cultures and dive deeper into a destination’s history, cuisine, language, environment, and wildlife. For more than 50 years, Smithsonian Journeys has been rooted in and focused on cultural immersion and discovery – with a goal of inspiring guests to become global citizens through travel.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion or activity in each port of call.
- Engaging discussions onboard with two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, including geologist and oceanographer Katryn Wiese and Scandinavian languages and literature expert Elisabeth Ward.
- Landscapes: vast glaciers, breathtaking fjords, volcanic rock, basalt pillars, jagged cliffs, hot springs, and geysers.
- Wildlife: Arctic terns, minke whales, humpback whales, orcas, and Icelandic horses.
- The geothermal landscapes of Lake Myvatn and Geysir Geothermal Area
- Two opportunities to go whale watching.
- A Golden Circle excursion featuring three of the most emblematic sites in Iceland.
- An exclusive visit the Beluga Whale Sanctuary on Heimaey.
Ports of Call & Excursions
13 August 2023 - Reykjavík
Embarkation 13/8/2023 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 13/8/2023 at 9:00 pm
Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical centre where one can stroll along the Skólavördustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.
14 August 2023 - Grundarfjördur
Arrival 14/8/2023 midday
Departure 14/8/2023 late afternoon
This secret boreal hideaway is located at the foot of the Kirkjufell, on Snaefellsnes peninsula. Arriving by boat means you will get a closer view of the lava-stone rock standing like a sentinel at the entrance to the bay; Grundarfjörður lies sheltered behind this cone-shaped rock. A stone’s throw from the jetty, crystal clear waters, tundra and beaches give onto the cerulean waters of Breiðafjörður. Scattered with its emerald-coloured lawns, this town, with its buildings that merge into the surrounding countryside, will most certainly win your favour.
15 August 2023 - Grímsey
Arrival 15/8/2023 early afternoon
Departure 15/8/2023 evening
Grímsey is the northernmost island of Iceland surging from the Arctic ocean, with the Arctic circle running through the island. Its contrasted contours are surprising. From Grímseyjarhreppur, the island’s only town located on the west coast, then heading due south, you can take in the beauty of the hillsides, lushly carpeted with moss and grass. On the rest of the coastline, imposing basalt cliffs inhabited by sea birds stand proud.
16 August 2023 - Akureyri
Arrival 16/8/2023 early morning
Departure 16/8/2023 mid afternoon
The elegant city of Akureyri is located very close to the Arctic circle, tucked away in the Eyjafjörður fjord. It displays a stunning palette of colours: blue waters in the harbour, bronze mountain ash on the squares and brightly-coloured houses in the historical centre. As you walk along the cobbled streets, you will come across rows of terraces with wooden furniture. A vast stairway cut into the hillside leads up to the emblematic feature of the town, namely the Akureyrarkirkja church. The very beautiful botanical garden made possible by a microclimate offers the opportunity to discover the Icelandic flora as well as plants from all over the world.
17 August 2023 - Isafjördur
Arrival 17/8/2023 early morning
Departure 17/8/2023 early afternoon
Your ship will take you to the heart of the fjords of North-West Iceland, a wild land of lost valleys and steep cliffs, where man struggles to survive. In this very isolated region we find the Isafjörður fjord, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the country, mainly for its relief, forged by many very ancient basaltic flows. The town of Isafjörður, which nestles at the back of its fjord, between imposing mountains, is a delightful little town that lives exclusively from fishing. The capital of the Western fjords, its old wooden houses bear witness to its past as a major fishing port.
18 August 2023 - Heimaey, Vestmannaeyjar
Arrival 18/8/2023 midday
Departure 18/8/2023 early evening
This land seated off the southern coast of Iceland is the largest of the Vestmann islands, and is the only inhabited island in the archipelago. The steep Edfell volcanoes and the green prairies of Herjólfsdalur offer rich contrast of nature. On the Stórhöfði road, look out over grey sand beaches and cliffs carved out by the Arctic ocean. From here, you can also see the bronze landscapes of the mountaintops. You could visit Eldheimar, an ultra-modern and interactive museum which traces the volcanic eruption has experienced Heimaey in 1973.
19 August 2023 20 August 2023 - Reykjavík
Arrival 19/8/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 20/8/2023 at 7:00 am
Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical centre where one can stroll along the Skólavördustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.
Whales of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Iceland is one of the best, and fastest growing, locations in the world for whale watching. Its inlets and fjords provide excellent shelter and abundant food, and a variety of species are found here throughout the year. The most common sightings are of minke whales, porpoise, white-beaked dolphins, and humpback whales, but at least 23 different species have been spotted around the country.
This excursion begins with a 20-minute scenic drive to the small fishing village of Ólafsvík, where you board a twin-engine, specially outfitted boat for a three-hour adventure in the waters along the northern coast of the peninsula. Cruising in the shadow of the magnificent Snæfellsjökull glacier, there is nowhere else in Iceland with a better chance to see toothed whales—orcas, sperm whales, and pilot whales—than along this coastline. The most common sightings here, as elsewhere in Iceland, are minke whales, humpback whales, and white-beaked dolphins.
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We recommend that you wear warm layered clothing with a waterproof outer layer. It is good to be prepared with hats, mittens, scarves, and sunglasses. It can be very cold and windy out on the bay. Sunscreen is recommended on sunny days due to the reflection from the sea.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Upon leaving Grundarfjordur, your journey will take you through several small fishing villages along the famous Snæfellsjökull glacier-capped volcano. After a stop at Djupalonssandur, take a short refreshing walk to the shore of the Atlantic Ocean.
You will enjoy a unique experience discovering this fabulous and mystical glacier, which was made popular in 1864 by the French writer Jules Verne in his novel A Journey to the Center of the Earth, where he located the entrance to the subterranean journey inside the Snæfellsjökull crater: “Here we had entered the Earth by one volcano, and we had come out by another. And this other was situated more than twelve hundred leagues from Sneffels, from that drear country of Iceland cast away on the confines of the Earth…”
Afterwards, you will pass the cliffs of Londrangar on the way to the tiny fishing village of Arnarstapi, which offers splendid multicolor lava formations and an abundance of bird-life.
After a walk around, you will return to your ship through Budir, famous for its beautiful surroundings of black lava and its long beach of yellow sand. Continue over Frodarheidi Heath to the north coast of the peninsula and back to Grundarfjordur.
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This excursion includes walking on uneven but essentially flat terrain. We recommend you wear a wind and waterproof jacket, bring a warm pullover and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be slippery and steep. Please note that sites may be visited in a different order.
Total : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Splendors of Lake Myvatn
From the pier, your coach heads southeast toward Lake Myvatn, situated between dormant Hverfell to the east and a protected nesting area to the northwest that is home to tens of thousands of birds, including dozens of species of duck. The area around the lake is a stunning collection of geological treasures.
You pause first at the geothermal field of Namaskard, full of mudpots, steam vents, sulfur deposits, boiling springs and fumaroles. Next is the remarkable landscape of Dimmuborgir, where you will explore the wondrously surreal structures left behind when a massive lava lake collapsed into the marshes below. (This fantasy world was featured in HBO's Game of Thrones as the background of the Wilding camp.)
Lunch will be served in one of the local restaurants in Skutustadir, and you will have the opportunity to walk among the large number of pseudo-craters for which this small town is known.
After lunch, your coach heads back toward Akureyri, stopping along the way at Godafoss. Legend has it that in the year 1000, Thorgeir, chieftain of the Ljosavatn district and Lawspeaker of the ancient parliament, signaled his decision to adopt Christianity by throwing his statues of the pagan gods into the Falls. Hence the name Godafoss ("Waterfall of the Gods").
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For this moderate excursion, we recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes (the terrain can be slippery), a wind and waterproof jacket and take a warm pullover. Please be aware that the order of the visits may be reversed.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Thermal Baths of Husavik
Iceland is justly famous for its geothermal baths, and one of the very best of these natural healing pools is the focus of this full-day excursion.
On a scenic drive northward from Akureyri, your motorcoach stops at Godafoss, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. Legend has it that in the year 1000, Thorgeir, chieftain of the district and Lawspeaker of the ancient parliament, signaled his decision to adopt Christianity by throwing his statues of the pagan gods into the Falls. Hence the name Godafoss ("Waterfall of the Gods").
Continuing through the fascinating landscape of northern Iceland, you arrive at the coastal town of Húsavík, said to be the oldest settlement in the country. Situated just 60 miles south of the Arctic Circle, Húsavík is known for incredible ocean views, its colorful houses, a stunning wooden church, and since 2018, for the unique bathing experience at the GeoSea SeaBaths. Here you may relax in 100°F mineral-¬rich seawaters drawn from two nearby drill holes as you enjoy the spa's many amenities, including multiple infinity-edged pools, a man-made waterfall, and a swim-¬up bar. In the baths, you are surrounded by the tranquility of the Icelandic fjords, with views of the mountains to the west, Skjálfandi Bay just beyond the rim of your pool, and the Arctic Circle itself on the horizon.
After this rejuvenating experience for body and soul, return to your ship in Akureyri.
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This is an easy excursion. The walking at Godafoss, although as much as half a mile over uneven terrain, is entirely optional. You will want to bring appropriate clothing for the thermal baths—swimwear and sandals—and as always, you will need protection from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Traditions of the Westfjords Peninsula
Your excursion begins with a drive along a narrow coastal road to the tiny town of Bolungarvik and to the Osvor Fisherman's Hut. Consisting of a series of old turf-and-stone fishing shacks restored in 1988, the hut houses a variety of relics that tell the story of how arduous life was for the men and women who eked out an existence by catching and salting fish before the technological innovations of the 20th century.
The village of Bolungarvik itself is nestled in the heart of a spectacular bay surrounded by mountains and bathed by the Isafjardardjup or "Djup" fjord, the largest on the Westfjords Peninsula. The nearby Hólskirkja ("church on the hill") contains several interesting pieces, including two grand bells meant to drive away the demons who live on the heath. Your visit here features a short musical program of traditional Icelandic folk songs performed by a local group of singers.
On your return to Isafjördur, pass through the historic old town and its 18th-century buildings to reach the Maritime Museum. The museum is a monument in itself, comprising several buildings that date to the 1780s. As you browse the collections, you will enjoy a tasting of local specialties such as Schnapps, dried fish and locally canned fish cooked the Icelandic way.
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For this excursion, we advise you to wear comfortable shoes, to protect yourself from the sun and to bring a warm and waterproof jacket. Please note the order of the visits may change.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Abandoned Village of Hesteyri
A visit to the village of Hesteyri, on the southern edge of Iceland's northernmost peninsula, is an opportunity to see some of the most rugged landscape in the country and to get a sense of the lives of those a century ago who tried to eke a living from this unforgiving environment.
Accessible only by boat and only in the summer months, the area's first human habitation dates from the end of the 19th century, when Norwegian whalers set up a camp here, which was closed down in 1915 when Iceland banned whaling in its waters. In the mid-1920s, a Reykjavik company converted the station to a herring factory, which in its turn ceased operation due to overfishing in 1940. Local residents began to leave Hesteyri in search of employment elsewhere, and by 1956, the village was completely abandoned.
Today, Hesteyri serves as a base for hikers exploring the remote reaches of the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, and it also welcomes visitors interested in its unusual history. Your guide will lead you on a short hike around what remains of the village—about 10 houses mainly used as summer homes by the descendants of earlier villagers and the remains of the church that once served the community. You will also learn about the flora and fauna that led to the creation of the Reserve. The tour ends at the Old Doctor's House, which has been converted to a guesthouse and café for the summer months, where you can enjoy a hearty meal of Icelandic pancakes and traditional rye bread.
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This is a moderate excursion, involving walking a total of approximately 1.25 miles over uneven terrain. You should wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Layered clothing, including a waterproof jacket for the boat ride to and from Hesteyri are also recommended.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Volcanic Island of Heimaey
The largest of Iceland's Westman Islands, Heimaey serves as summer home to millions of seabirds — puffin, fulmar, guillemot and others — whose eggs have traditionally been an important source of food for the islanders. You will observe many of them nesting on the tall cliffs that surround the harbor as your motorcoach sets off on an exploration of this rugged outpost in the North Atlantic.
Your route takes you first through the Herjólfsdalur Valley, where ruins of old farmhouses, some dating back to the 7th century, are found. Continue along the scenic western coast, where you can view the outer islands of the archipelago. The youngest of these, Surtsey, was formed in a volcanic eruption in 1963; it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stop briefly at the puffin nesting ground of Stórhöfði for magnificent views over the island before the route back to the harbor takes you between two volcanic craters, the 5,000 year old Helgafell, “Holy Mountain”, and the considerably younger Eldfell, “Fire Mountain.” Eldfell erupted in 1973, forcing an evacuation of the entire population. During the six-month eruption, a massive operation was mounted to slow and control the lava flow by pumping seawater and spraying the leading edge. Although many houses were destroyed, the effort was successful in preventing the harbor from being closed. This story is documented in the recently opened Eldheimar Museum, where you will have the opportunity to see the excavated remains of a house buried for 40 years in ash.
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We recommend you wear good and comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers. The walk up to the viewpoint at Stórhöfði is very steep and can be slippery.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Beluga Whale Sanctuary
No more than a 10-minute walk from the ship you will discover the world's first Beluga Whale Sanctuary. In pursuit of their mission to protect marine wildlife, the Sea Life Trust, a UK charity, founded this sanctuary as an alternative to confining captive belugas in aquariums. There are currently two resident whales in the sanctuary, transported from Shanghai, China in 2019. You will explore the sanctuary's Visitor Center, which includes an aquarium of local marine life, and you will also learn about the work of the Puffin Rescue Center, which is attached to the sanctuary. Your tour of the shoreside facilities is followed by a short boat ride to the sanctuary itself, where you will see the whales in their private bay, as you observe from a safe and discreet distance.
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This is an easy excursion, involving less than a half mile total walking over paved paths. We recommend comfortable shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket, a hat and sunglasses. You may also wish to bring an extra layer for the boat ride.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Iceland's Golden Circle
This classic excursion encompasses Iceland's “Big Three” attractions—Thingvellir, Gullfoss and Geysir. Collectively known as the Golden Circle, these sites, within easy driving distance of Reykjavik, provide an overview of the scenic wonder for which Iceland is justly renowned.
Your journey begins with a drive inland to Thingvellir National Park, which ranks at the top of Iceland's most visited places and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004. Occupying a vast lava plain of green moss and wild flowers, Thingvellir has been revered by Icelanders since the year 930, when the oldest legislative body in history, the Althing, first convened here. During your visit, take special note of the Law Speaker's rock and of the remains of the turf shelters that were once used as dwellings during the two-week assemblies of the Althing at the height of summer every other year.
Leaving Thingvellir your tour continues over Lyngdalsheidi heath and through the fertile farmlands to the south, where you discover the most beautiful waterfall of the country, the "Golden Waterfall" of Gullfoss. This is where the river Hvita drops 96 feet in two cascades, creating an awesome spectacle.
At the Geysir area, you will encounter a remarkable collection of hissing hot springs, bubbling mud puts and geysers. "Strokkur," the most active geyser, spouts water and steam every few minutes. Here, amid these remarkable geothermal phenomena, enjoy a buffet lunch of soups, salads, meats and vegetables.
After lunch, return to Hafnarfjördur through the Grimsnes region, stopping in Hveragerdi, where geothermal energy has been used to power an extensive greenhouse industry. Continue to the Pearl, a glass dome built atop giant tanks that store hot water for metropolitan Reykjavik. The Pearl's viewing deck affords panoramic views of the city.
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For this moderate excursion, we recommend you wear comfortable shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket, a hat and sunglasses and you take a warm pullover. Please be aware that the order of the visits may be altered.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Reykjavik Whale Watching
Iceland is one of the best, and fastest growing, locations in the world for whale watching. Its inlets and fjords provide excellent shelter and abundant food, and many species are found here throughout the year. The most common sightings are of minke whales, porpoise, white-beaked dolphins, and humpback whales, but at least 23 different species have been spotted around the country.
Your adventure begins with a drive to the center of Reykjavik's harbor, from where you set off on a three-hour cruise to the outer stretches of the harbor and beyond in search of the humpback, minke, and sei-whales that feed and frolic here. Your boat is equipped with a powerful double-engine that enables speeds up to 20 knots, allowing it to cover large areas in a relatively short time as your captain and crew study the horizon for signs of activity.
The ship is equipped with a dining room and bar, and there is ample seating on the ship's deck for those who want to enjoy the scenic Icelandic landscape from the sea.
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We recommend that you wear warm layered clothing with a waterproof outer layer. It is good to be prepared with hats, mittens, scarves, and sunglasses. Even though the weather in Reykjavik is warm it can be very cold and windy out on the bay. Sunscreen is recommended on sunny days due to the reflection from the sea.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Bellot
Like the other ships in the PONANT EXPLORERS series, Le Bellot has been designed to provide absolute comfort for its passengers, even at the heart of the world's most remote and isolated regions.
Racy lines, state-of-the-art equipment, a refined design, a softly muted and at the same time convivial ambiance together with a deliberately restricted number of cabins all contribute to the modernity of Le Bellot, a unique ship in the world of cruising.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Shore excursion or activity in each port of call + transfers included
PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys have organised the following included programme for you, which starts the day of embarkation.
Included features:
- A program of onboard enrichment provided by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, including geologist and oceanographer Katryn Wiese and Scandinavian languages and literature expert Elisabeth Ward
- Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in Reykjavík to the ship on the day of embarkation
- Comprehensive 7-night cruise aboard the deluxe Le Bellot, with all the amenities for which PONANT ships are famous
- One included shore excursion or activity in each port of call (see “Itinerary” for more information and choice of excursions, if applicable)
- Transfer from the ship to the airport in Reykjavík at the end of the cruise on the morning of disembarkation
Not included:
- Independent meals and beverages ashore
- Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, etc.)
Notes:
- This voyage is offered on a space available basis
- Programme is subject to change without notice
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
Whales of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Iceland is one of the best, and fastest growing, locations in the world for whale watching. Its inlets and fjords provide excellent shelter and abundant food, and a variety of species are found here throughout the year. The most common sightings are of minke whales, porpoise, white-beaked dolphins, and humpback whales, but at least 23 different species have been spotted around the country.
This excursion begins with a 20-minute scenic drive to the small fishing village of Ólafsvík, where you board a twin-engine, specially outfitted boat for a three-hour adventure in the waters along the northern coast of the peninsula. Cruising in the shadow of the magnificent Snæfellsjökull glacier, there is nowhere else in Iceland with a better chance to see toothed whales—orcas, sperm whales, and pilot whales—than along this coastline. The most common sightings here, as elsewhere in Iceland, are minke whales, humpback whales, and white-beaked dolphins.
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We recommend that you wear warm layered clothing with a waterproof outer layer. It is good to be prepared with hats, mittens, scarves, and sunglasses. It can be very cold and windy out on the bay. Sunscreen is recommended on sunny days due to the reflection from the sea.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Upon leaving Grundarfjordur, your journey will take you through several small fishing villages along the famous Snæfellsjökull glacier-capped volcano. After a stop at Djupalonssandur, take a short refreshing walk to the shore of the Atlantic Ocean.
You will enjoy a unique experience discovering this fabulous and mystical glacier, which was made popular in 1864 by the French writer Jules Verne in his novel A Journey to the Center of the Earth, where he located the entrance to the subterranean journey inside the Snæfellsjökull crater: “Here we had entered the Earth by one volcano, and we had come out by another. And this other was situated more than twelve hundred leagues from Sneffels, from that drear country of Iceland cast away on the confines of the Earth…”
Afterwards, you will pass the cliffs of Londrangar on the way to the tiny fishing village of Arnarstapi, which offers splendid multicolor lava formations and an abundance of bird-life.
After a walk around, you will return to your ship through Budir, famous for its beautiful surroundings of black lava and its long beach of yellow sand. Continue over Frodarheidi Heath to the north coast of the peninsula and back to Grundarfjordur.
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This excursion includes walking on uneven but essentially flat terrain. We recommend you wear a wind and waterproof jacket, bring a warm pullover and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be slippery and steep. Please note that sites may be visited in a different order.
Total : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Splendors of Lake Myvatn
From the pier, your coach heads southeast toward Lake Myvatn, situated between dormant Hverfell to the east and a protected nesting area to the northwest that is home to tens of thousands of birds, including dozens of species of duck. The area around the lake is a stunning collection of geological treasures.
You pause first at the geothermal field of Namaskard, full of mudpots, steam vents, sulfur deposits, boiling springs and fumaroles. Next is the remarkable landscape of Dimmuborgir, where you will explore the wondrously surreal structures left behind when a massive lava lake collapsed into the marshes below. (This fantasy world was featured in HBO's Game of Thrones as the background of the Wilding camp.)
Lunch will be served in one of the local restaurants in Skutustadir, and you will have the opportunity to walk among the large number of pseudo-craters for which this small town is known.
After lunch, your coach heads back toward Akureyri, stopping along the way at Godafoss. Legend has it that in the year 1000, Thorgeir, chieftain of the Ljosavatn district and Lawspeaker of the ancient parliament, signaled his decision to adopt Christianity by throwing his statues of the pagan gods into the Falls. Hence the name Godafoss ("Waterfall of the Gods").
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For this moderate excursion, we recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes (the terrain can be slippery), a wind and waterproof jacket and take a warm pullover. Please be aware that the order of the visits may be reversed.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Thermal Baths of Husavik
Iceland is justly famous for its geothermal baths, and one of the very best of these natural healing pools is the focus of this full-day excursion.
On a scenic drive northward from Akureyri, your motorcoach stops at Godafoss, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. Legend has it that in the year 1000, Thorgeir, chieftain of the district and Lawspeaker of the ancient parliament, signaled his decision to adopt Christianity by throwing his statues of the pagan gods into the Falls. Hence the name Godafoss ("Waterfall of the Gods").
Continuing through the fascinating landscape of northern Iceland, you arrive at the coastal town of Húsavík, said to be the oldest settlement in the country. Situated just 60 miles south of the Arctic Circle, Húsavík is known for incredible ocean views, its colorful houses, a stunning wooden church, and since 2018, for the unique bathing experience at the GeoSea SeaBaths. Here you may relax in 100°F mineral-¬rich seawaters drawn from two nearby drill holes as you enjoy the spa's many amenities, including multiple infinity-edged pools, a man-made waterfall, and a swim-¬up bar. In the baths, you are surrounded by the tranquility of the Icelandic fjords, with views of the mountains to the west, Skjálfandi Bay just beyond the rim of your pool, and the Arctic Circle itself on the horizon.
After this rejuvenating experience for body and soul, return to your ship in Akureyri.
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This is an easy excursion. The walking at Godafoss, although as much as half a mile over uneven terrain, is entirely optional. You will want to bring appropriate clothing for the thermal baths—swimwear and sandals—and as always, you will need protection from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Traditions of the Westfjords Peninsula
Your excursion begins with a drive along a narrow coastal road to the tiny town of Bolungarvik and to the Osvor Fisherman's Hut. Consisting of a series of old turf-and-stone fishing shacks restored in 1988, the hut houses a variety of relics that tell the story of how arduous life was for the men and women who eked out an existence by catching and salting fish before the technological innovations of the 20th century.
The village of Bolungarvik itself is nestled in the heart of a spectacular bay surrounded by mountains and bathed by the Isafjardardjup or "Djup" fjord, the largest on the Westfjords Peninsula. The nearby Hólskirkja ("church on the hill") contains several interesting pieces, including two grand bells meant to drive away the demons who live on the heath. Your visit here features a short musical program of traditional Icelandic folk songs performed by a local group of singers.
On your return to Isafjördur, pass through the historic old town and its 18th-century buildings to reach the Maritime Museum. The museum is a monument in itself, comprising several buildings that date to the 1780s. As you browse the collections, you will enjoy a tasting of local specialties such as Schnapps, dried fish and locally canned fish cooked the Icelandic way.
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For this excursion, we advise you to wear comfortable shoes, to protect yourself from the sun and to bring a warm and waterproof jacket. Please note the order of the visits may change.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Abandoned Village of Hesteyri
A visit to the village of Hesteyri, on the southern edge of Iceland's northernmost peninsula, is an opportunity to see some of the most rugged landscape in the country and to get a sense of the lives of those a century ago who tried to eke a living from this unforgiving environment.
Accessible only by boat and only in the summer months, the area's first human habitation dates from the end of the 19th century, when Norwegian whalers set up a camp here, which was closed down in 1915 when Iceland banned whaling in its waters. In the mid-1920s, a Reykjavik company converted the station to a herring factory, which in its turn ceased operation due to overfishing in 1940. Local residents began to leave Hesteyri in search of employment elsewhere, and by 1956, the village was completely abandoned.
Today, Hesteyri serves as a base for hikers exploring the remote reaches of the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, and it also welcomes visitors interested in its unusual history. Your guide will lead you on a short hike around what remains of the village—about 10 houses mainly used as summer homes by the descendants of earlier villagers and the remains of the church that once served the community. You will also learn about the flora and fauna that led to the creation of the Reserve. The tour ends at the Old Doctor's House, which has been converted to a guesthouse and café for the summer months, where you can enjoy a hearty meal of Icelandic pancakes and traditional rye bread.
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This is a moderate excursion, involving walking a total of approximately 1.25 miles over uneven terrain. You should wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Layered clothing, including a waterproof jacket for the boat ride to and from Hesteyri are also recommended.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Volcanic Island of Heimaey
The largest of Iceland's Westman Islands, Heimaey serves as summer home to millions of seabirds — puffin, fulmar, guillemot and others — whose eggs have traditionally been an important source of food for the islanders. You will observe many of them nesting on the tall cliffs that surround the harbor as your motorcoach sets off on an exploration of this rugged outpost in the North Atlantic.
Your route takes you first through the Herjólfsdalur Valley, where ruins of old farmhouses, some dating back to the 7th century, are found. Continue along the scenic western coast, where you can view the outer islands of the archipelago. The youngest of these, Surtsey, was formed in a volcanic eruption in 1963; it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stop briefly at the puffin nesting ground of Stórhöfði for magnificent views over the island before the route back to the harbor takes you between two volcanic craters, the 5,000 year old Helgafell, “Holy Mountain”, and the considerably younger Eldfell, “Fire Mountain.” Eldfell erupted in 1973, forcing an evacuation of the entire population. During the six-month eruption, a massive operation was mounted to slow and control the lava flow by pumping seawater and spraying the leading edge. Although many houses were destroyed, the effort was successful in preventing the harbor from being closed. This story is documented in the recently opened Eldheimar Museum, where you will have the opportunity to see the excavated remains of a house buried for 40 years in ash.
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We recommend you wear good and comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers. The walk up to the viewpoint at Stórhöfði is very steep and can be slippery.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Beluga Whale Sanctuary
No more than a 10-minute walk from the ship you will discover the world's first Beluga Whale Sanctuary. In pursuit of their mission to protect marine wildlife, the Sea Life Trust, a UK charity, founded this sanctuary as an alternative to confining captive belugas in aquariums. There are currently two resident whales in the sanctuary, transported from Shanghai, China in 2019. You will explore the sanctuary's Visitor Center, which includes an aquarium of local marine life, and you will also learn about the work of the Puffin Rescue Center, which is attached to the sanctuary. Your tour of the shoreside facilities is followed by a short boat ride to the sanctuary itself, where you will see the whales in their private bay, as you observe from a safe and discreet distance.
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This is an easy excursion, involving less than a half mile total walking over paved paths. We recommend comfortable shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket, a hat and sunglasses. You may also wish to bring an extra layer for the boat ride.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Iceland's Golden Circle
This classic excursion encompasses Iceland's “Big Three” attractions—Thingvellir, Gullfoss and Geysir. Collectively known as the Golden Circle, these sites, within easy driving distance of Reykjavik, provide an overview of the scenic wonder for which Iceland is justly renowned.
Your journey begins with a drive inland to Thingvellir National Park, which ranks at the top of Iceland's most visited places and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004. Occupying a vast lava plain of green moss and wild flowers, Thingvellir has been revered by Icelanders since the year 930, when the oldest legislative body in history, the Althing, first convened here. During your visit, take special note of the Law Speaker's rock and of the remains of the turf shelters that were once used as dwellings during the two-week assemblies of the Althing at the height of summer every other year.
Leaving Thingvellir your tour continues over Lyngdalsheidi heath and through the fertile farmlands to the south, where you discover the most beautiful waterfall of the country, the "Golden Waterfall" of Gullfoss. This is where the river Hvita drops 96 feet in two cascades, creating an awesome spectacle.
At the Geysir area, you will encounter a remarkable collection of hissing hot springs, bubbling mud puts and geysers. "Strokkur," the most active geyser, spouts water and steam every few minutes. Here, amid these remarkable geothermal phenomena, enjoy a buffet lunch of soups, salads, meats and vegetables.
After lunch, return to Hafnarfjördur through the Grimsnes region, stopping in Hveragerdi, where geothermal energy has been used to power an extensive greenhouse industry. Continue to the Pearl, a glass dome built atop giant tanks that store hot water for metropolitan Reykjavik. The Pearl's viewing deck affords panoramic views of the city.
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For this moderate excursion, we recommend you wear comfortable shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket, a hat and sunglasses and you take a warm pullover. Please be aware that the order of the visits may be altered.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Reykjavik Whale Watching
Iceland is one of the best, and fastest growing, locations in the world for whale watching. Its inlets and fjords provide excellent shelter and abundant food, and many species are found here throughout the year. The most common sightings are of minke whales, porpoise, white-beaked dolphins, and humpback whales, but at least 23 different species have been spotted around the country.
Your adventure begins with a drive to the center of Reykjavik's harbor, from where you set off on a three-hour cruise to the outer stretches of the harbor and beyond in search of the humpback, minke, and sei-whales that feed and frolic here. Your boat is equipped with a powerful double-engine that enables speeds up to 20 knots, allowing it to cover large areas in a relatively short time as your captain and crew study the horizon for signs of activity.
The ship is equipped with a dining room and bar, and there is ample seating on the ship's deck for those who want to enjoy the scenic Icelandic landscape from the sea.
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We recommend that you wear warm layered clothing with a waterproof outer layer. It is good to be prepared with hats, mittens, scarves, and sunglasses. Even though the weather in Reykjavik is warm it can be very cold and windy out on the bay. Sunscreen is recommended on sunny days due to the reflection from the sea.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.