DESTINATION

Iceland

Welcome to the land of ice and fire – where volcanoes meet glaciers and the Northern Lights dance overhead. Iceland cruises deliver extraordinary landscapes you won’t find anywhere else, and our expert advisors have sailed these waters firsthand.

Cruise the Icelandic Fjords

Iceland cruises are the perfect way to explore this remarkable island. With its dramatic rise as a sought-after destination, Iceland has earned a reputation for dynamic volcanic terrain, culinary innovation, and genuinely welcoming locals. Today, virtually every major cruise line offers Iceland itineraries – from expedition-style trips through the Arctic Circle to luxurious award-winning packages. Whether it’s your first voyage or your fiftieth, our team of 23+ expert advisors will help you navigate the options and lock in the perfect itinerary at a rate you’ll love.

A stunning panoramic view of Seljalandsfoss waterfall cascading down moss-covered cliffs in southern Iceland, with lush green mountains, a glacial river in the foreground, and visitors exploring the scenic landscape under a partly cloudy sky.
A stunning cascade of multiple waterfalls flowing over dark basalt rock formations into a milky glacial river pool, surrounded by lush green vegetation. The image captures the dramatic natural beauty of Iceland's Hraunfossar waterfall system with its distinctive tiered drops and powerful water flow.
A picturesque cluster of historic Icelandic turf-roofed houses (túrf) with distinctive black wooden walls, white-framed windows, and moss-covered sod roofs nestled in a verdant valley. Snow-capped mountains and coniferous forests frame this traditional settlement, showcasing the iconic architectural heritage of rural Iceland.
A stunning landscape featuring vibrant purple lupine flowers blooming in the foreground across an Icelandic valley, with the dramatic peaks of Stokksnes mountain rising majestically in the background under a partly cloudy sky. Winding rivers and lush green tundra complete this iconic Nordic wilderness scene.

130 Volcanoes

Experience Iceland’s legendary volcanic landscape, from steaming geothermal fields to dramatic lava formations that look like another planet entirely.

269 Glaciers

Sail past crystalline glaciers and towering ice formations that have carved Iceland’s dramatic fjords over millennia. It’s raw nature on a scale that’s hard to comprehend until you see it.

Incredible Wildlife

Spot playful puffins at their breeding grounds, watch whales breach in the fjords, and discover Arctic wildlife up close. Few destinations put you this close to nature.

Popular Ports of Call

Iceland’s island geography means cruises offer a unique opportunity to explore from all angles. With striking black sand beaches and awe-inspiring landscapes at every turn, Iceland beckons you ashore via numerous ports – each with its own distinct character.

A vibrant Greenlandic settlement featuring distinctive brightly-colored houses with grass-covered roofs arranged across rolling tundra, with a snow-capped mountain range dominating the background and small fishing boats visible in the harbor. The scene captures the unique Arctic architectural style and natural landscape characteristic of Greenland's remote communities.

Reykjavik

Iceland’s capital embraces a vibrant, diverse community. Reykjavik has become a dynamic global destination with its familiar rainbow streets, world-class restaurants, and surprisingly active nightlife. Don’t miss the chance to warm up in the world-renowned Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa surrounded by stunning lava fields.

A sweeping panoramic view of Iceland's stark volcanic highlands, featuring a winding glacial river cutting through dark lava fields, dramatic jagged mountain peaks in the distance, and moody storm clouds overhead. The landscape showcases the raw, otherworldly terrain characteristic of Iceland's interior, with patches of golden vegetation dotting the desolate terrain.

Akureyri

Resting at the base of the Eyjafjordur Fjord in Northern Iceland, Akureyri offers staggering vistas of the fjord cliffs and superb whale watching year-round. Visitors can explore the local Botanical Gardens and art museum while sampling crispy battered fish and chips – the perfect way to experience authentic Icelandic hospitality.

A breathtaking panoramic view of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Iceland, featuring countless blue and white icebergs floating in pristine turquoise waters. Snow-capped mountains frame the horizon under a clear blue sky with scattered white clouds, showcasing one of Iceland's most stunning natural wonders.

Isafjordur

Tucked deep in the remote Westfjords, Isafjordur is Iceland at its most untouched. Steep mountains plunge into narrow fjords, and the tiny fishing village offers kayaking, hiking, and a genuine glimpse into traditional Icelandic life far from the tourist crowds.

Iceland Cruise Seasons at a Glance

At a Glance Peak Summer (Jun-Aug) Shoulder (May & Sep) Winter (Oct-Apr)
Daylight Near 24 hours (midnight sun) 16-20 hours 4-8 hours
Key Highlights Puffins, midnight sun, hiking, whale watching Fewer crowds, good wildlife, lower rates Northern Lights, geothermal spas, dramatic skies
Ideal Traveler Families, wildlife enthusiasts, first-time visitors Value-seekers, photographers, experienced cruisers Aurora hunters, winter adventurers
Typical Voyage Length 7-14 nights 10-14 nights 10-21 nights (often combined)
A stunning glacial landscape featuring a pristine blue lake dotted with floating icebergs, with a massive glacier visible in the distance against snow-capped mountains and a bright blue sky. The foreground shows dark volcanic rock shoreline with patches of moss, typical of Iceland's dramatic natural scenery.

Our Iceland cruise expert advisors will show you where to begin.

Iceland’s nickname – “the land of ice and fire” – refers to its incredible volcanic and glacial landscape spread across the world’s 18th-largest island. While HBO fans will recognize several filming locations from Game of Thrones, there’s much more to discover. From the cascading waterfalls of the Golden Circle to the volcanic black sand beaches of Vik, Iceland offers experiences unlike anywhere else on Earth.

Cruise lines like Celebrity, Viking, Regent Seven Seas, Holland America, Princess, Norwegian, and Lindblad Expeditions all offer extraordinary Iceland itineraries. Circumnavigation voyages that sail the entire island typically run 10-12 nights, while combined itineraries with Norway or Greenland can stretch to 21 nights.

Feeling a little overwhelmed by the choices? That’s what we’re here for. Talk to one of our Iceland cruise experts today – with no fees ever and our exclusive group rates, we’ll build an itinerary you’ll love at a rate that makes it even sweeter.

Expand Your Horizons

Many Iceland sailings link up with neighbouring Northern destinations, giving you the chance to add extra bucket-list stops to your voyage.

  • Scandinavia – Departures from Copenhagen with stops in Norway and the stunning Norwegian fjords
  • British Isles – Combine Iceland with Scotland and Ireland for a comprehensive Celtic and Nordic adventure
  • Greenland – Continue to the world’s largest island for glaciers and Inuit culture
  • Arctic Exploration – Expedition cruises continuing to Svalbard for the ultimate Arctic experience
A solitary hiker stands in a remote Arctic valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains shrouded in mist, with a pristine glacial stream flowing across rocky terrain in the foreground. The dramatic landscape features towering peaks with waterfalls and glaciers visible through the fog, creating a stark and otherworldly wilderness scene.

Find your specialty cruise today!

We’ll help find the perfect specialty cruise – whether you’re crossing oceans, transiting canals, or exploring the ends of the Earth.

When to Book Your Iceland Cruise

Unlike the Caribbean, Iceland’s cruising calendar splits into two very different experiences. Each has something remarkable to offer, and our team monitors rates weekly so you always get the best value.

Peak Season (May – September): The summer months deliver the most popular cruising conditions with milder weather, extended daylight hours (including the famous midnight sun), and optimal wildlife viewing. Puffins visit their breeding grounds from May to mid-August, offering delightful panoramas of these playful, colourful birds. These sailings fill quickly, so we recommend booking well in advance.

Winter Season (October – April): For those who value a more spectacular – if somewhat colder – experience, winter cruises provide incomparable views of the Northern Lights. The aurora borealis dancing across Arctic skies creates memories that last a lifetime. Even if it’s chilly standing on deck, travellers can warm up in Reykjavik’s world-renowned Blue Lagoon.

No matter when you’d like to sail, our weekly price monitoring ensures we catch every rate drop on your behalf. And with no fees ever, there’s nothing to lose by letting us keep watch.

A stunning twilight panorama of Iceland's Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, featuring icebergs floating in crystalline turquoise water beneath a dramatic sunset sky painted in shades of crimson, purple, and deep blue. The surreal landscape captures the raw beauty of Iceland's glacial region during the magical golden hour.

Why Book with Cruise Help

Expert Advisors

Specialty cruise specialists who understand the unique requirements of expedition and world voyages.

Exclusive Perks

Access to special deals, onboard credits, and amenities not available when booking direct.

Personalised Planning

Custom recommendations for ships, itineraries, and cabin selection on complex voyages.

Full Support

Assistance from booking through disembarkation and beyond—we’re with you every step.

Your Iceland Cruise Questions, Answered

The peak cruising season runs from May to September, offering milder weather, extended daylight, and optimal wildlife viewing. May to mid-August is ideal for spotting puffins at their breeding grounds. If witnessing the Northern Lights is your priority, consider a winter cruise between October and April when the aurora borealis is most visible. Each season offers something genuinely different. Our advisors can recommend the best timing based on your priorities – whether that’s midnight sun, Northern Lights, or the best value.

Pack layers. Iceland’s weather can change quickly, sometimes within the same hour. Essentials include waterproof outerwear, warm fleece or wool layers, comfortable walking shoes with good grip, binoculars for wildlife watching, and a quality camera for the landscapes. Don’t forget swimwear for the geothermal pools like the Blue Lagoon, and bring a warm hat and gloves even in summer. When you book with Cruise Help, your advisor can provide a personalised packing checklist based on the specific ship and itinerary you choose.

Virtually every major cruise line now offers Iceland itineraries. Popular options include Celebrity Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Holland America, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line. For a more adventurous experience, expedition lines like Hurtigruten and Lindblad offer Arctic Circle voyages. With our team of 23+ advisors and access to exclusive group rates across all these lines, we’ll match you with the perfect ship for your style and budget – at no extra fee.

Yes, U.S. citizens need a valid passport to travel to Iceland. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. Iceland is part of the Schengen Area, so no visa is required for U.S. citizens staying less than 90 days. If you have questions about travel documents, our advisors are always here to help.

Yes. Winter cruises (October through April) offer the best opportunities to witness the aurora borealis. The ship’s deck provides an excellent vantage point away from light pollution. Many cruise lines offer Northern Lights alerts to wake passengers when conditions are optimal for viewing. While sightings can never be guaranteed, Iceland is one of the best places on Earth to see them. Our advisors can recommend specific itineraries that maximise your chances.

Iceland offers incredible wildlife viewing. Look for Atlantic puffins (May-August), humpback and minke whales, orcas, dolphins, Arctic foxes, and numerous seabird species. The waters around Akureyri and Husavik are particularly renowned for whale watching year-round. Your cruise may also visit puffin colonies on remote islands – it’s one of those experiences that’s hard to describe until you’ve been there.

Favourites include the Golden Circle tour (Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall), Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, whale watching from Akureyri or Reykjavik, glacier hiking, visiting dramatic waterfalls like Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, exploring volcanic landscapes, and seeing the famous black sand beaches of Vik. Many cruises also offer Northern Lights tours in winter. Our advisors can share firsthand tips on which excursions deliver the most value and excitement.

Iceland cruises typically range from 7-14 nights. Circumnavigation itineraries that sail around the entire island usually run 10-12 nights. Many cruises combine Iceland with other destinations like Norway, Greenland, or the British Isles for 12-21 night voyages. Your Cruise Help expert advisor can help you find the right duration for your interests and budget.

Absolutely. Several cruise lines offer longer itineraries that weave through Iceland alongside Norway, Scotland, Greenland, or even the Arctic. Repositioning sailings and back-to-back bookings can let you experience multiple regions on one trip. These extended voyages are also a great opportunity to take advantage of our exclusive group rates. Talk to your Cruise Help advisor about multi-destination options – we’ll design a sailing plan that covers everything on your wish list.
A breathtaking panoramic view of Iceland's Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon at twilight, featuring countless icebergs floating in pristine blue waters with snow-capped mountains and a dramatic pink and purple sky reflected perfectly in the still lagoon surface.
A breathtaking landscape featuring multiple cascading waterfalls flowing through a pristine Icelandic valley, with turquoise glacial waters, moss-covered rocks, and dramatic mountain cliffs under a vibrant golden sunset sky. The scene captures the raw natural beauty of Iceland's interior highlands with lush green vegetation and striking geological formations.
A stunning panoramic view of Vatnajökull glacier in Iceland, showcasing brilliant turquoise crevasses and seracs across the massive ice field, framed by dark rocky canyon walls and snow-capped peaks under a partly cloudy sky.
A picturesque cluster of traditional Icelandic turf-roofed houses with distinctive black wooden walls, white-framed windows, and moss-covered sod roofs nestled in a lush green valley. Snow-capped mountains and coniferous forests frame the settlement, showcasing the historic architectural style of rural Iceland.
A breathtaking nighttime scene featuring the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) dancing in vibrant green hues across a star-filled sky above a serene Arctic fjord surrounded by snow-capped mountains and icy shores.
A dramatic panoramic view of the snow-capped Vestrahorn mountain range rising majestically from the black sand beach of Stokksnes near Höfn, Iceland. Golden tundra vegetation frames the foreground while a solitary photographer captures the stunning Arctic landscape under clear blue skies.
A stunning Icelandic landscape featuring vast fields of vibrant blue lupine flowers in the foreground, with a dramatic mountain peak rising majestically in the background across a pristine valley dotted with streams and lakes. The scene captures the raw, wild beauty of Iceland's summer season under a partly cloudy sky.
A pristine Arctic landscape featuring multiple snow-covered volcanic peaks with distinct conical formations rising above a frozen plain dotted with dark rocks. A partially frozen lake or water channel winds through the foreground under clear blue skies, characteristic of remote polar regions.
A breathtaking panoramic view of Iceland's rugged interior highlands, featuring distinctive layered basalt mountains with moss-covered slopes in vibrant greens and yellows, glacial meltwater lakes, and dramatic cloud formations casting shadows across the barren terrain.