Which Cruise Lines Go to Iceland Explore Top Options Now

Which Cruise Lines Go to Iceland: Explore Top Options Now

Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is a destination unlike any other. With its dramatic landscapes, from cascading waterfalls and active volcanoes to vast glaciers and geothermal hot springs, this Nordic island nation captivates travelers from around the globe. While many visitors choose to explore Iceland by car or bus, an increasingly popular and immersive way to experience the country is through a cruise to Iceland. Cruising offers unparalleled access to remote coastal towns, dramatic fjords, and breathtaking natural wonders, all while providing the comfort and convenience of a floating resort. Whether you’re drawn to the midnight sun of summer, the aurora borealis in winter, or the raw beauty of untouched nature, a cruise to Iceland promises an unforgettable journey.

But with so many cruise lines offering voyages to the Land of the Sagas, how do you choose the right one? Which cruise lines go to Iceland, and what sets each apart in terms of itineraries, onboard amenities, and shore excursions? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the top cruise lines that sail to Iceland, highlighting their unique features, seasonal offerings, and must-see destinations. From luxury liners to small-ship expeditions, we’ll explore the best options for every type of traveler—whether you’re a first-time cruiser, a nature enthusiast, or a luxury seeker. So, pack your warm layers and prepare to discover the magic of Iceland from the deck of a ship.

Why Choose a Cruise to Iceland?

The Unique Appeal of Sailing to Iceland

Unlike traditional land-based travel, a cruise to Iceland allows you to wake up in a new destination each day without the hassle of packing and unpacking. This is especially valuable in Iceland, where many of the most stunning sights—like the Westfjords, Seyðisfjörður, and the volcanic island of Heimaey—are located along the rugged coastline and only accessible by sea. Cruising also offers the chance to witness Iceland’s dramatic landscapes from a different perspective: towering cliffs, puffin colonies, and glacial lagoons viewed from the deck of a ship provide a cinematic experience you can’t replicate on land.

Visual guide about which cruise lines go to iceland

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Moreover, many cruise lines partner with local guides and naturalists to offer expert-led excursions that delve deep into Iceland’s geology, folklore, and sustainability practices. These guided tours often include visits to geothermal power plants, glacier hikes, and even whale-watching excursions in the rich waters of the North Atlantic. For travelers seeking both comfort and adventure, a cruise strikes the perfect balance.

Seasonal Advantages of Iceland Cruises

The best time to take a cruise to Iceland depends on your interests. Summer (June to August) is ideal for long daylight hours, mild weather, and access to highland regions via excursions. This is when you’ll experience the famous “midnight sun,” with up to 21 hours of daylight, perfect for late-night photography and extended exploration. Summer itineraries often include stops at Reykjavik, Akureyri, and the Westman Islands.

For those chasing the Northern Lights (September to March), winter cruises offer a rare opportunity to witness the aurora from the deck of a ship—away from city lights and with unobstructed views over the sea. While winter weather can be unpredictable, modern cruise ships are equipped to handle icy conditions, and the chance to see the aurora from the deck of a luxury liner is a bucket-list experience.

Environmental and Sustainable Travel

Iceland is a global leader in sustainability, and many cruise lines are adapting to this ethos. Lines like Hurtigruten and Lindblad Expeditions emphasize eco-friendly practices, including hybrid propulsion systems, waste reduction, and partnerships with local conservation groups. Choosing a cruise that aligns with Iceland’s environmental values ensures your travel has a minimal footprint while supporting local communities.

Top Luxury Cruise Lines Sailing to Iceland

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: All-Inclusive Elegance

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is a favorite among luxury travelers seeking a seamless, all-inclusive experience. Their Iceland itineraries typically depart from London, Southampton, or New York and span 12 to 16 nights, calling at key ports such as Reykjavik, Akureyri, and Grundarfjörður. Regent’s ships, like the Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Explorer, feature spacious suites, gourmet dining, and a high staff-to-guest ratio.

What sets Regent apart is their shore excursion program, which includes complimentary guided tours. For example, in Akureyri, you can visit the Botanical Gardens or take a scenic drive to Goðafoss waterfall. In Reykjavik, a private tour of the Harpa Concert Hall and a visit to the Perlan Museum with its 360-degree viewing deck are included. Regent also offers a “Connoisseur’s Choice” program with optional high-end experiences, such as a private geothermal spa visit or a helicopter tour over the Eyjafjallajökull volcano.

Crystal Cruises: Sophisticated Itineraries and Enrichment

Crystal Cruises, known for its refined ambiance and cultural enrichment, offers Iceland voyages on their Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity. These 14- to 18-night cruises often include stops in the Faroe Islands and Norway, creating a broader Nordic experience. Crystal’s “Crystal Visions” program features lectures by geologists, historians, and even former astronauts, providing deep context for Iceland’s volcanic landscapes and Viking heritage.

Onboard, guests enjoy Michelin-inspired cuisine, a full-service spa, and a theater with Broadway-style productions. Crystal also partners with local artists and chefs for “Icelandic Evenings”, where traditional music, cuisine, and storytelling are showcased. For adventure seekers, optional excursions include a Super Jeep tour of the Golden Circle or a snorkeling adventure in the Silfra fissure—one of the clearest waters on Earth.

Oceania Cruises: Intimate Luxury and Gourmet Focus

Oceania Cruises combines luxury with a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere. Their ships, like the Insignia and Regatta, carry around 684 guests, offering a boutique feel. Oceania’s Iceland cruises often include overnight stays in Reykjavik, allowing for evening exploration and fine dining at local restaurants. Their “Culinary Discovery Tours” take guests to local farms, geothermal bakeries, and artisanal cheese producers, offering a taste of authentic Icelandic cuisine.

Oceania also offers “Go Local” excursions, such as a visit to a family-run sheep farm in the countryside or a guided hike through Þingvellir National Park. With fewer guests, Oceania provides a more personalized experience, including private balcony dining and customized itineraries for small groups.

Expedition and Small-Ship Cruises: For the Adventurous Traveler

Hurtigruten: Pioneers of Arctic Exploration

Hurtigruten is synonymous with polar and Arctic cruising, and their Iceland expeditions are no exception. Operating year-round, Hurtigruten offers both summer and winter voyages on ships like the MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen—hybrid-powered vessels designed for eco-conscious exploration. Their 7- to 14-day itineraries often include stops in the Westfjords, a region known for its dramatic fjords, puffin colonies, and remote villages.

Hurtigruten’s expeditions are led by a team of onboard naturalists, geologists, and historians who provide daily lectures and lead Zodiac landings. One standout experience is a kayaking tour in the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, where you can paddle alongside seals and Arctic foxes. In winter, Hurtigruten’s “Northern Lights Promise” guarantees a free cruise if you don’t see the aurora—a testament to their confidence in the region’s aurora activity.

Lindblad Expeditions: National Geographic Partnership

Lindblad Expeditions, in partnership with National Geographic, offers some of the most immersive Iceland cruises available. Their 10- to 14-day voyages on the National Geographic Explorer and National Geographic Resolution focus on wildlife, geology, and cultural exchange. These ships carry fewer than 150 guests, ensuring an intimate experience with expert guides and photographers.

Lindblad’s itineraries include Zodiac safaris to spot humpback and minke whales, as well as visits to the volcanic island of Heimaey, where you can hike the Eldfell crater. Their “Global Perspectives” program features guest speakers from National Geographic, including photographers and scientists. One unique offering is the chance to assist in citizen science projects, such as collecting water samples or monitoring puffin populations.

Silversea Expeditions: Luxury Meets Adventure

Silversea Expeditions blends the comfort of a luxury liner with the excitement of a small-ship adventure. Their Silver Cloud and Silver Wind ships carry around 250 guests and feature butler service, fine dining, and a full-service spa. Silversea’s Iceland itineraries often include overnight stays in Akureyri, allowing for evening excursions to the nearby geothermal pools of Mývatn Nature Baths.

Silversea’s “Ocean Adventures” program includes guided hikes, kayaking, and even a helicopter tour over Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. Their onboard enrichment includes lectures by volcanologists and geothermal engineers, as well as cooking classes featuring Icelandic ingredients like skyr and Arctic char.

Mainstream Cruise Lines with Iceland Itineraries

Princess Cruises: Accessible and Family-Friendly

Princess Cruises is a great option for first-time cruisers or families seeking a balanced mix of comfort and adventure. Their Iceland itineraries, often part of longer transatlantic or European voyages, typically include stops in Reykjavik, Akureyri, and the Faroe Islands. Ships like the Sky Princess and Regal Princess offer a wide range of onboard amenities, including pools, theaters, and kids’ clubs.

Princess’s “Discovery at Sea” program includes guided shore excursions, such as a visit to the Blue Lagoon (with optional spa access) and a scenic drive to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. For families, the “Youth and Teen Centers” provide supervised activities, while adults can enjoy wine tastings and cooking demonstrations. Princess also offers “MedallionClass” technology, allowing for contactless payments, keyless room entry, and personalized recommendations.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Flexible Itineraries and Onboard Fun

NCL offers Iceland cruises as part of their “Norwegian Getaway” and “Norwegian Encore” itineraries, often departing from London or New York. These 10- to 14-night cruises include stops in Reykjavik, Akureyri, and sometimes the Scottish Highlands. NCL’s “Freestyle Cruising” concept allows guests to dine when and where they want, with over 20 restaurants and bars to choose from.

NCL’s shore excursions include a Golden Circle tour (Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss) and a visit to the geothermal town of Hveragerði. Onboard, guests enjoy Broadway-style shows, water slides, and a full-service spa. For thrill-seekers, the “Ropes Course” and “Aqua Park” provide adrenaline-pumping fun, while the “Spice H2O” adults-only pool offers a relaxing escape.

Royal Caribbean International: Innovation and Entertainment

Royal Caribbean offers Iceland itineraries on ships like the Anthem of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas, featuring cutting-edge amenities such as a skydiving simulator, robotic bartenders, and a full-size ice rink. Their Iceland voyages often include overnight stays in Reykjavik, allowing for evening exploration.

Royal Caribbean’s “Adventure Ocean” program offers kid-friendly excursions, while adults can enjoy wine tastings and spa treatments. Their “Perfect Day at CocoCay” concept extends to Iceland with unique shore excursions, such as a private catamaran tour of the fjords or a guided hike to the top of a volcanic crater. With a focus on entertainment, Royal Caribbean ensures there’s never a dull moment—onboard or ashore.

Specialty and River Cruise Options

Seabourn: Ultra-Luxury with a Personal Touch

Seabourn Cruise Line offers Iceland voyages on their Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Quest ships, known for their all-suite accommodations and attentive service. Seabourn’s itineraries often include stops in the Westfjords and the remote island of Grímsey, which lies on the Arctic Circle.

Seabourn’s “Ventures by Seabourn” program includes guided kayaking, Zodiac tours, and even a helicopter flight over the Langjökull glacier. Their “Seabourn Conversations” feature guest speakers, including historians and geologists, while the “Caviar in the Surf” experience offers champagne and caviar on a private beach. With a guest-to-staff ratio of nearly 1:1, Seabourn delivers a truly personalized experience.

Avalon Waterways: River Cruises with a Nordic Twist

While Iceland doesn’t have traditional river systems, Avalon Waterways offers land-and-sea combination tours that include a cruise segment. These itineraries often begin with a stay in Reykjavik, followed by a cruise to the Faroe Islands and Norway. Avalon’s “Active & Discovery” excursions include guided hikes, geothermal pool visits, and even a chance to try traditional Icelandic fishing methods.

Avalon’s ships feature panoramic windows and open-air balconies, perfect for viewing Iceland’s dramatic coastline. Their onboard dining highlights local ingredients, and their “Avalon Choice” program allows guests to customize their experience—whether it’s a quiet afternoon in a geothermal spa or a thrilling glacier hike.

Comparison Table: Key Features of Top Iceland Cruise Lines

Final Tips for Choosing Your Iceland Cruise

Selecting the right cruise line for your Iceland adventure depends on your travel style, budget, and interests. If you value luxury and convenience, consider Regent, Oceania, or Seabourn. For immersive, educational experiences, Lindblad and Hurtigruten are unmatched. Families and first-time cruisers may prefer the balance of comfort and adventure offered by Princess, NCL, or Royal Caribbean.

Always check the itinerary details—some cruises spend only a few hours in each port, while others offer overnight stays, allowing for deeper exploration. Look for lines that include expert-led excursions, especially if you’re interested in geology, wildlife, or sustainability. And don’t forget to pack appropriately: Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, so layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy hiking boots are essential.

Finally, book early—especially for summer sailings and Northern Lights cruises. Demand for Iceland cruises has surged in recent years, and top itineraries often sell out months in advance. With the right cruise line, you’ll not only see the highlights of Iceland but also experience its magic in a way that few travelers ever do. So, set sail and let the Land of Fire and Ice reveal its wonders from the deck of your ship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines go to Iceland for a summer adventure?

Top cruise lines like Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises offer summer itineraries to Iceland. These voyages often include stops in Reykjavik, Akureyri, and scenic fjords, with departures from the UK or North America.

Are there luxury cruise lines that visit Iceland?

Yes, luxury options include Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Silversea, which feature all-inclusive Iceland itineraries. These cruises provide smaller ships, personalized service, and exclusive excursions like glacier hikes and geothermal spa visits.

Which cruise lines go to Iceland with roundtrip departures from the US?

Cunard, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity Cruises operate roundtrip Iceland voyages from ports like New York or Boston. These 10–14 day trips often combine Iceland with Greenland or Norway for a broader Arctic experience.

Do any small-ship cruise lines specialize in Iceland?

Lindblad Expeditions (with National Geographic) and Hurtigruten offer immersive small-ship cruises around Iceland. These focus on wildlife, rugged landscapes, and off-the-beaten-path ports like Heimaey or Ísafjörður.

Which budget-friendly cruise lines go to Iceland?

Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises provide affordable Iceland options, especially during shoulder seasons. While fewer frills, these lines still cover major ports and include basic shore excursions.

Can I take a cruise to Iceland with Viking Ocean Cruises?

Viking Ocean Cruises offers in-depth Iceland itineraries, often as part of longer Northern Europe routes. Their ships dock in key ports, with included cultural tours like the Golden Circle or Blue Lagoon.