Iceland Northeast Explorer - Aurora Borealis, Hike & Sail – Including Bus Support

Dive into the untouched wilderness of northeastern Iceland and experience an extraordinary expedition with the SV Rembrandt van Rijn. This journey offers you the opportunity to explore the dramatic coastline, hidden fjords, and the impressive geology of the region. Let yourself be enchanted by the fascinating nature while having the chance to observe the magical Northern Lights. Flexibility is key to this adventure, as the route is adjusted according to weather and sea conditions. Enjoy guided hikes and exciting excursions that bring you closer to the beauty and uniqueness of this region. The journey promises remarkable experiences and a deeper connection to nature.
 

Travel Itinerary: Iceland Northeast Explorer - Aurora Borealis, Hike & Sail– Including Bus Support

 
Day 1: Season, Concept, and Departure from Akureyri
October offers the opportunity to explore Iceland’s most remote regions during a special time of year, but it also brings challenges such as cold winds, rough seas, and the first snowfall. With clear skies, you may have a good chance to see the Northern Lights. The itinerary is designed so that excursions are possible regardless of the weather – if the sea is rough, an alternative bus excursion into the interior can be arranged. Guided hikes are adapted to the conditions and the group’s fitness level.

A supplementary bus transfer from Reykjavik to Akureyri (approx. 6 hours) is available and must be booked in advance. In the afternoon (4:00 PM), embarkation takes place and you will meet the expedition team. If conditions allow, we continue the journey to Dalvik (approx. 3 hours); otherwise, we spend the night in the port of Akureyri. You may even be fortunate enough to see the magical Northern Lights on your first night.

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Day 2: Departure to the Arctic Circle
Plan A: In good weather conditions, we hope to head to Grimsey Island. This small but fascinating island offers the unique opportunity to cross the Arctic Circle. Our goal is a Zodiac landing that takes us directly to the island, followed by a guided hike across the Arctic Circle. A prominent sign on the island shows the exact coordinates 66:34° North, emphasizing the special appeal of this expedition. The Arctic Circle is the northernmost of the Earth's five major circles of latitude and a place that captivates many travelers. If conditions permit, we can stay overnight at Grimsey, allowing us to fully enjoy the island's unique atmosphere. Alternatively, we might sail towards the small town of Húsavík and cross the Skjafandi Bay, where we have a good chance of seeing whales majestically gliding through the waters. Plan B: If a trip to Grimsey is not possible due to weather, the ship will remain in Akureyri. A bus is ready to take us on a day trip to Mývatn, an area known for its impressive volcanoes, rushing waterfalls, and fascinating geothermal areas. Hiking will be the focus of this trip as we explore the stunning landscape on foot. In the afternoon, the bus returns to the ship in Akureyri, allowing us to reflect on the day.
 
Day 3: Húsavík, Whales, and the High Seas
Plan A: The morning in Húsavík offers us the opportunity to explore the charming town at our own pace. A highlight is certainly the local whale museum, which provides exciting insights into the world of marine giants, although admission is not included in the price. After a morning full of discoveries, a delicious lunch awaits us on board, fortifying us for the afternoon. Then we set sail and glide through the Skjafandi Bay, an area known for its rich marine fauna. With a bit of luck, we can observe humpback and minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and porpoises in their natural habitat. Plan B: If the weather throws a wrench in our plans and the ship must remain in Húsavík, an exciting excursion is on the program. In the afternoon, a bus takes us to the Tjörnes Peninsula, where we have the opportunity to admire the diverse birdlife and the impressive geology of the region. We continue to Ásbyrgi, a unique, horseshoe-shaped canyon that impresses with its fascinating landscape. Here we take a hike that brings us closer to the beauty of this special area. After an eventful day, the bus returns us to Húsavík. There, we might still have the opportunity to relax in the geothermal-heated outdoor pools and enjoy a soothing spa treatment, although entrance fees are not included in the price.
 
Day 4: Northeastern Iceland's Hidden Jewel
Plan A: In good weather conditions, we hope to circumnavigate northeastern Iceland and land in the small town of Raufarhöfn. This charming town, located in one of Iceland's most remote regions, offers a unique opportunity to experience the untouched beauty of the Icelandic landscape. Just a few minutes' walk from the town is the Arctic Henge, a well-known Icelandic attraction that fascinates both locals and travelers. This monument, still under construction, is intended to be a kind of sun clock inspired by the Völuspá, a poem from the Edda, the medieval Nordic mythological text by Snorri Sturluson. The structure is an impressive example of the fusion of art, nature, and mythology, providing a fascinating insight into Icelandic culture and history. Plan B: If the weather does not cooperate, there is the option to join a bus excursion to Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall. With an impressive water volume of 200 cubic meters cascading over its edge every second, the sight of Dettifoss is a remarkable experience. The waterfall is 45 meters high and 100 meters wide, offering a spectacular natural spectacle that impressively showcases nature's raw power. As usual, hiking is a focus of this expedition, giving you the opportunity to explore the impressive surroundings on foot and enjoy the fresh Icelandic air. In the evening, the bus returns to the ship, allowing you to conclude the day with many new impressions and experiences.
 
Day 5: Untouched East of Iceland
Plan A: We sail from Raufarhöfn to Vopnafjörður, a route that takes us through the fascinating Austurland. This region, also known as East Iceland, captivates with its visually impressive landscapes presented in their untouched beauty. Small, charming villages line our path, inviting us to discover their stories and traditions. The omnipresent nature offers us numerous opportunities to explore the surroundings with interesting hikes and to engage in other exciting activities. Plan B: If the weather or other circumstances require it, a bus is ready to take us inland. The expedition leader will carefully weigh and decide which path to take to make the most of our day in the untouched East of Iceland.
 
Day 6: Remote Fjords
Plan A: We sail from Vopnafjörður to Seyðisfjörður, a route that takes us through some of Iceland's most fascinating and untouched landscapes. If weather conditions permit, we make a stop in Borgarfjörður Eystri, a true gem in the east of the country. This fjord bears the name Álfaborg, home to the Icelandic Elven Queen, and the surroundings are known for their impressive natural scenery. The eastern fjords of Iceland are a largely undiscovered paradise, far from mass tourism. The small village of Bakkagerði, with fewer than 100 inhabitants, offers an authentic insight into life in this remote region. The harbor of the village mainly hosts small boats used for coastal fishing. Our final destination is Seyðisfjörður, a picturesque place known for its charming atmosphere. Plan B: If the weather or other circumstances require it, a bus is ready to take us inland. The expedition leader will then decide which route to take to make the most of our day.
 
Day 7: The Journey Ends in Seyðisfjörður
In the morning, we disembark in Seyðisfjörður - with memories that will last a lifetime. The picturesque place, nestled in Iceland's impressive landscape, offers one last glimpse of the majestic fjords that have accompanied us throughout the journey. A bus transport to Egilsstaðir Airport, which takes about 45 minutes, is available for an additional fee but must be booked before the trip begins. This drive through the Icelandic landscape is a last opportunity to soak in the region's beauty. The flight from Egilsstaðir to Reykjavik must be booked on your own, with a flight time of about one hour. Alternatively, you can choose your own route back to Reykjavik, for example with stops along the southern coast to further explore Iceland's diverse natural wonders. Whether you opt for a direct return journey or an individual discovery tour, the experiences and impressions of this trip will linger long after.
 
Further Information: The travel plans are intended as a guide and may vary depending on local weather, ice, and wildlife conditions. Landings depend on availability, permissions, and environmental regulations. The expedition leader has the authority to determine the final itinerary, requiring flexibility and adaptability to the conditions on board a historic ship. The use of sails depends on weather conditions and is decided by the captain. Safety instructions from the crew must be followed.
 

Included Iceland Northeast Explorer

 
- Voyage aboard the indicated vessel as outlined in the itinerary
- All meals throughout the voyage including snacks, coffee, and tea
- All shore excursions and activities via Zodiac and bus (if necessary)
- Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff
- Free use of rubber boots and snowshoes
- All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program
- AECO fees and governmental taxes
- Comprehensive pre-departure material
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