A land of beauty forged by ice and fire
Shaped by lava below and ice above, Iceland is a country of contrasts. Here, tumbling glaciers meet sparkling fjords surrounded by towering volcanoes and smoking hills. Four fifths of the land is uninhabited and wildlife takes the lead, with around 23 whale species in the surrounding waters, joined by dolphins, seals and multitudes of seabirds.
Guided by the HX Expedition Team on our Iceland cruises, you’ll explore the country’s varied landscapes, losing yourself in natural beauty as you skim the waters of a fjord by kayak, scan the waves for ocean giants on small expedition boat cruises, and walk in the realm of the gods, trolls and elves of myth and legend. You’ll visit culture-rich cities and traditional fishing villages, spend long days in forests and geothermal pools and perhaps even cross the Arctic Circle.
Iceland’s famous scenic route features some of the country’s most beautiful geological marvels, including the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall and the Great Geysir in the geothermal area of Haukadalur.
Here, in the middle of a lava field at one of the world’s most famous geothermal spas, you’ll bathe in the warm, mineral-rich, milky blue waters while enjoying its backdrop of rolling hills.
Enjoy a spectacular Snowcat tour, starting at the base of Snæfellsjökul volcano and travelling all the way to the top of its glacier, stopping to soak up the scenery and take photos along the way.
Explore the world’s northernmost capital city, filled with striking modern architecture, Viking history, quirky design and friendly, welcoming locals.
An island of stories, this one has an unforgettable history that includes murder, revenge, pirates and volcanic eruptions. It’s also home to around 8 million puffins every summer.
Thriving amidst the ice
The wildlife of Iceland is as varied and beguiling as its landscapes. It plays host to some of the world's largest bird populations and your Expedition Team will guide you to the best spots to observe Northern Gannets and guillemots, razorbills and puffins. As we sail along the coastline, we'll also be on the lookout for marine mammals such as dolphins and porpoises, Humpback and Minke Whales and - if we're very lucky - the mighty Blue Whale.
Uniquely Icelandic
Icelandic horses are an iconic breed, deeply intertwined with the island nation’s history and culture. Direct descendants of horses brought by Norse settlers in the 9th and the 10th centuries, they’re purebreds protected by Icelandic law. Known for their small, sturdy frame, gentle nature and the rare “tölt” gait, they’re perfectly adapted to the country’s harsh climate.
From the shore to the sky
Iceland is surprisingly rich in birdlife and casual spotters and keen birders alike will enjoy ticking a variety of species off their must-see list. Puffin watching is a particular draw when communities nest on coastal cliffs from late April to early September. In addition to puffins, you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of seabirds, including guillemots and kittiwakes.
Magnificence underwater
Iceland’s nutrient-rich waters attract a wide variety of whales, especially during the summer months. We’ll look out for Humpback, Minke and even Blue Whales as we explore the country’s dramatic coastlines and fjords. You’ll also have the chance to spot orca, dolphins and porpoises.
Charmers of the coastline
As we sail along Iceland’s rugged coastline and disembark at remote beaches, you’ll have the opportunity to observe seals thriving in their natural habitat. Common species here include the Harbor and Gray Seal, which you’ll see sunbathing on rocks or skimming alongside our boats. We may even catch sight of the lesser spotted Ringed Seal, found in the country’s coldest waters.
Adventure is All-Inclusive
A cruise to Iceland with HX includes everything from daily excursions and activities to our onboard Science Centre, meals, gratuities, drinks and more. All designed to give you the expedition experience of a lifetime.
Food
Enjoy daily culinary adventures in our onboard restaurants. Here you’ll be served beautifully prepared meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner, starting with a generous morning buffet and ending with an exquisite dinner, prepared with fresh ingredients by our onboard chefs.
Drinks
Your day begins with freshly brewed coffee and tea, followed by a selection of hot and cold drinks available at all times. After a day on the ice, relax with a glass of wine or beer, or toast your voyage with an expertly mixed cocktail. Drinks are served all day and evening at no additional cost (excluding premium drinks).
Activities
Every day, you’ll be joined by our Expedition Team. Our guides are carefully chosen experts in fields like natural history and climate science, and they’ll lead you on hikes, community visits and small boat trips, offering vital information and insight all the way. They’ll also deliver fascinating talks in our onboard lecture hall, accompany you in our Science Centre and brief you on the next day’s schedule.
Best time to travel
Atlantic Puffins
Iceland plays host to more than 60% of the Earth's entire population of Atlantic puffins, which are called lundi in Icelandic. They usually arrive in late April and early May, and stay until late August, when their chicks are ready to take to the sea. They breed and nest through the summer, so you’re sure to catch sight of a few fluffy chicks – usually in the evening, when they come back to shore after a day spent in the water.
Experience Iceland with HX
Since 1896, we’ve been taking curious travellers on mindful expeditions to the most remote and awe-inspiring places on the planet. An expedition with HX offers the best of both worlds – expedition expertise and luxurious comfort, with the opportunity to change the way you see the world.
Wildlife watching
Wildlife watching in Iceland is an adventure in itself. The land’s diverse and breathtaking landscapes are alive with nature, from puffins and seabirds nesting on cliffs to majestic whales and playful dolphins in the waters. Your observations from the ship and excursion boats, kayaks and hikes will give you deeper insights into Iceland’s unique ecosystems, along with the knowledge and expertise of our expedition guides.
Meeting local communities
From its bustling modern cities to its picturesque fishing villages, Iceland is filled with rich culture and tradition. As you explore, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the warm hospitality of Icelandic people, gathering knowledge of their folklore, traditional crafts and sustainable practices. You’ll depart with a deeper connection to Icelandic heritage along with the lasting impression of its natural surroundings.
Hiking and trekking
This island nation is a hiker’s delight. There’s no better way to experience its astonishing landscapes, from volcanic craters and quiet coves to lush valleys and crystalline glaciers. One moment you’re taking in the views from coastal cliffs and the next you’re gazing upon hot springs or perhaps a waterfall. Whether you prefer to take it easy or relish a challenge, you’ll have the opportunity to experience Iceland's unique geology and rich flora up close.
Kayaking
Iceland’s spectacular coastlines and serene waters are perfect for kayaking, whether it’s your first try or you’re a seasoned pro. Paddling through fjords and glacial lagoons with icebergs towering above you, you’ll gain a unique perspective on the dramatic landscapes you’ve seen from the deck of your ship. It’s also a great way to observe the seals and diverse birdlife of the coast.
Life Onboard
A stay onboard any HX ship is unforgettable. Whether you choose to voyage on MS Spitsbergen or MS Fridtjof Nansen, our entire fleet has been designed to give you the very best expedition experience, as sustainably as we can. With almost 130 years of experience in expeditions, we’re perfectly placed to offer you a balance of intrepid adventure, luxurious comfort and mindful travel that makes a holiday unlike any other.
Comfort and style
With HX, you’ll enjoy a taste of luxury every time you step on board. Our spacious suites include private balconies, walk-in closets, unlimited access to fine dining and complimentary laundry. All designed to envelop you in comfort and relaxation, allowing you to reflect peacefully on the day’s discoveries and gather your energy for the next.
Culinary exploration
Our restaurants offer a wide range of delicious modern dishes, all prepared onboard using fresh ingredients. Our expert chefs bring their passion for food and travel to the table, incorporating local additions where possible, and working to keep their kitchens and creations sustainable.
Rest and relaxation
After hours of exploring in chilly climes, thawing out in our sauna or relaxing in our spa are two perfect ways to celebrate a day well spent. All our ships include an outdoor hot tub and some have a pool, others offer massages and beauty treatments. All well-deserved and welcome before the next day’s adventures.
A deeper understanding
The heart of an HX expedition lies in our onboard Science Centre. Packed with state-of-the-art technology, it offers plenty of opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of everything you’ve seen on land and sea. There are lecture spaces, a small library and specialty areas for workshops in photography, biology and more. It’s also where you'll find our Expedition Team.
Feed your curiosity
Curiosity is the key to an extraordinary expedition with HX. As you explore, you’ll find yourself drawn to find out more about the natural wonders you see and explore, and our Science & Education Program is there to enhance your knowledge and understanding. It’s an immersive learning experience, allowing you to find out more about landscapes, plants and wildlife across the land, supported by experts along the way. You’ll even have the opportunity to support real-time research and collect valuable data that will contribute to the conservation and understanding of our planet.
Active learning
The Science Centre is where guests and crew meet to create a deeper understanding of the areas you explore. You’ll use advanced microscopes to analyse sea water, fossils and biological samples collected earlier in the field, and there are lecture spaces, a small library and speciality areas for workshops in photography, biology and more.
Expert guidance
Our onboard Expedition Team is here to share their wealth of knowledge with you and help you make good use of the ship’s state-of-the-art Science Centre. The team also includes guest scientists conducting their own research while on board, and will only be too happy to share their findings with you.
Get involved
We‘re proud to support many vital Citizen Science projects on board our ships, including NASA cloud research, seaweed biodiversity, studies into Phytoplankton communities and many more. You're welcome to get involved in any projects that spark your interest, contributing valuable data to long-term research and playing your part in expanding our understanding of this extraordinary continent.
The HX Foundation
HX Foundation is a collaboration between HX Hurtigruten Expeditions, our employees and our guests. Together, we unite in our commitment to fight climate change, strengthen local communities and stop unsustainable mass tourism.
