Magical Iceland & Norwegian Fjords

Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve center and government seat, is home to half the island's population. On a bay overlooked by proud Mt. Esja (pronounced eh-shyuh), with its ever-changing hues, Reykjavík presents a colorful sight, its concrete houses painted in light colors and topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. In contrast to the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík has many tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, as well as imported aspen, pines, and spruces.Reykjavík's name comes from the Icelandic words for smoke, reykur, and bay, vík. In AD 874, Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson saw Iceland rising out of the misty sea and came ashore at a bay eerily shrouded with plumes of steam from nearby hot springs. Today most of the houses in Reykjavík are heated by near-boiling water from the hot springs. Natural heating avoids air pollution; there's no smoke around. You may notice, however, that the hot water brings a slight sulfur smell to the bathroom.Prices are easily on a par with other major European cities. A practical option is to purchase a Reykjavík City Card at the Tourist Information Center or at the Reykjavík Youth Hostel. This card permits unlimited bus usage and admission to any of the city's seven pools, the Family Park and Zoo, and city museums. The cards are valid for one (ISK 3,300), two (ISK 4,400), or three days (ISK 4,900), and they pay for themselves after three or four uses a day. Even lacking the City Card, paying admission (ISK 500, or ISK 250 for seniors and people with disabilities) to one of the city art museums (Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, or Ásmundarsafn) gets you free same-day admission to the other two.

Your journey begins in the world’s northernmost city, Reykjavík, where you’ll be greeted at the airport and escorted to your 6-star ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht. Book an early flight to allow time to visit Reykjavik’s museums and see its street art before setting sail. Upon boarding, meet Scenic Eclipse’s world-class crew and raise a glass of champagne with fellow guests on the Observation Deck as you sail along the Icelandic coastline.

Please book your flight to arrive into Reykjavik prior to 02:00 PM.

Iceland is well-known for its spectacular waterfalls. The iconic Dynjandi waterfall, located in the Westfjords region, is regarded as one of Iceland’s most impressive and majestic waterfalls. At the top, the cascading water is roughly 100 feet wide and tumbles down about 330 feet into the fjord. Its name Dynjandi means, “the thundering one” and its vast size, enormous sound, and sheer force is overwhelming. It has also been nicknamed, ‘The Bridal Veil’ because of the way the water sprays and spreads over the rocks.

Ask your butler to bring you breakfast in bed or savour it in the Yacht Club before spending the day getting to know your Discovery Yacht.

Feel the excitement building as the Discovery Team explains how your Zodiac and optional helicopter^, submersible^, Scenic Freechoice and other Discovery Excursions will work in the coming days.

Weather permitting, you will visit the jewel of the Westfjords, the Dynjandi waterfall, led by expert guides with an on shore excursion or simply stay on board and view these beautiful falls from the luxury comfort of the observation deck as your Discovery Yacht manoeuvres close by.

Today you can walk across the official Arctic Circle on Grimsey Island, about 40km off the north coast of Iceland. There are only around 100 people living in a small village by the harbour, but there’s also one million seabirds nesting in the island’s cliffs. Bird watchers can use the Swarovski telescopes on the Observation Lounge and Deck to take closer looks.

While on board relax and rejuvenate with a treatment# in the Senses Spa, or enjoy infrared saunas, Gessi chromo-therapy showerheads and signature thermal lounges before you arrive in Akureyri for your overnight stay.

Freechoice:
Guided Walk: Discover Grimsey, Iceland's northernmost inhabited island, covering just 5.3 km², easily explored on foot.

Passenger Train: Discover Grimsey Island aboard a petite train looping around the lighthouse, village and Arctic Circle Monument, offering a unique glimpse into island life.

Discovery:
Enjoy immersive Discovery experiences such as kayaking and zodiac cruising, subject to weather conditions and harbour master approval.

Akureyri, called the Capital of the North is the second largest urban area in Iceland, and a lively one at that. Hemmed by the 60-km (37-mile) long Eyjafjörður, Akureyri is sheltered from the ocean winds and embraced by mountains on three sides. Late 19th-century wooden houses impart a sense of history, and the twin spires of a modern Lutheran church rising on a green hill near the waterfront, provide a focal point. To the south of Akureyri is the pyramid-shape rhyolite mountain Súlur. Beyond it is Kerling, the highest peak in Eyjafjörður District.

Akureyri, called the Capital of the North is the second largest urban area in Iceland, and a lively one at that. Hemmed by the 60-km (37-mile) long Eyjafjörður, Akureyri is sheltered from the ocean winds and embraced by mountains on three sides. Late 19th-century wooden houses impart a sense of history, and the twin spires of a modern Lutheran church rising on a green hill near the waterfront, provide a focal point. To the south of Akureyri is the pyramid-shape rhyolite mountain Súlur. Beyond it is Kerling, the highest peak in Eyjafjörður District.

Iceland’s ‘capital of the North’ is the second largest settlement outside of Reykjavik but with only around 20,000 residents it still feels like a friendly town. Akureyri is a photogenic spot with colourful homes set on green hills at the base of a volcanic mountain chain. See the striking Akureyri Church, and stroll through one of the world’s most northerly botanic gardens.

In the evening, settle in at the spacious Scenic Lounge Bar to enjoy your beverage of choice. With Scenic’s signature all-inclusive ultra-luxury philosophy, indulge in top shelf spirits, over 130 whiskeys, a premium wine list and French Champagne.

Freechoice:
Panoramic City and & Forest Lagoon: Enjoy a city tour of Akureyri and relax in the geothermal spa at Vaðlaskógur forest.

Whale Watching Akureyri: Witness humpback whales performing acrobatics in Eyjafjörður Bay, along with other marine wildlife.

Easy walk around Akureyri: Explore Akureyri, North Iceland's cultural gem, on a leisurely walking tour. Discover historic landmarks, charming 19th-century homes, and vibrant streets filled with cafés and shops, all set against the stunning fjord backdrop.

Leisurely Akureiri & Godafoss Waterfall: Explore Akureyri, the “capital of the North,” enjoy its charming architecture and Botanical Gardens, and visit the stunning Goðafoss Waterfall.

Seyðisfjörður, a beautiful 19th-century Norwegian village on the east coast of Iceland, is regarded by many as one of Iceland's most picturesque towns, not only due to its impressive environment, but also because nowhere in Iceland has a community of old wooden buildings been preserved so well as here. Poet Matthías Johannessen called Seyðisfjörður a 'pearl enclosed in a shell'. The community owes its origins to foreign merchants, mainly Danes, who started trading in the fjord in the mid-19th century. But the crucial factor in the evolution of the village was the establishment of the Icelandic herring fishery by Norwegians in 1870-1900. The Norwegians built up a number of herring-fishing facilities, and in a matter of years the little community grew into a boom town. Today, about 800 people live in Seyðisfjörður. The local economy has long been based on the fisheries, while light industry also flourishes. Tourism is playing a growing role, as the picturesque town in its spectacular surroundings attracts more and more visitors. The car/passenger ferry Norrøna, which plies between continental Europe and Iceland every summer, docks at Seyðisfjörður every Thursday. Seyðisfjörður has been a cosmopolitan community from its foundation, and the ferry service has contributed to ensuring that it remains so.

Today, you'll arrive in Seyðisfjörður, on the east coast of Iceland. This marks the start of a spectacular six-day circumnavigation of the 'land of fire and ice', during which you'll explore the most dramatic landscapes.

Seyðisfjörður is at the mouth of a beautiful fjord and is the heart of culture, heritage, art, and hospitality in East Iceland. Surrounded by cascading waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and wandering reindeer and porpoises frequenting the shores, this unique destination will enchant you.

Freechoice:
Chasing Waterfalls – Hike: Experience a breathtaking hiking adventure through the scenic Vestdalur Valley, showcasing stunning landscapes like waterfalls, meadows, wetlands, and ancient human settlements over a thousand years ago.

Vök Baths: Plunge into Iceland´s purest hot spring water that comes from naturally heated springs deep below a frozen lake.

History and Heritage Walk: Visit Fjörður's archaeological site and stroll through the town's historic district. Enjoy refreshments at Skaftfell Bistro and explore the Technical Museum.

Skalanes Nature walk: Explore an archaeological site and Skálanes nature center, spotting diverse wildlife. Enjoy scenic views and local refreshments.

RIB Boat Tour - Discover Seyðisfjörður by RIB boat, with wildlife sightings and local stories.

Discovery:
Enjoy immersive Discovery experiences such as kayaking and zodiac cruising, subject to weather conditions and harbour master approval.

Start your day in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio or work out in the fully equipped gym. We’ll arrive at Tórshavn around lunch time, so you’re free to leisurely enjoy the morning with a delicious breakfast after exercising.

Named after Thor, the Norse god of weather, strength, and growth, Tórshavn is one of the world’s smallest capital cities and Europe’s least travelled destinations. Towering cliffs, craggy fjords and powerful waterfalls create a wild landscape better explored on one of the Scenic Freechoice excursions. Wander down cobbled alleyways between colourful buildings with grassy roofs and imagine life in Viking times.

Freechoice:
Tórshavn the capital: Explore Tórshavn’s Old Town, Tinganes, on a guided walk. Visit the National Museum to learn about the Viking and whaling history of the Faroe Islands.

Hiking in Mountains: Hike along Streymoy sill for stunning views of Vágar, waterfalls, and small lakes before returning to Tórshavn.

Vestmanna Sea Cliffs: Sail through Vestmanna's dramatic cliffs, exploring grottoes and bird colonies with stunning sea views.

Countryside of Eysturoy: Visit a sheephouse and explore Faroese history at Blasastova Museum in Gøta.

Coastal Villages: Visit Kollafjørður’s church and the distinctive village of Saksun, with panoramic views of its ancient farm and bay.

Founded by Dutch fishermen in the 17th century, Lerwick today is a busy town and administrative center. Handsome stone buildings—known as lodberries—line the harbor; they provided loading bays for goods, some of them illegal. The town's twisting flagstone lanes and harbor once heaved with activity, and Lerwick is still an active port today. This is also where most visitors to Shetland dock, spilling out of cruise ships, allowing passengers to walk around the town.

The most northerly point of the British Isles, the Shetland Islands sit almost 200 kilometres off the north coast of mainland Scotland. Lerwick is the island group’s only town and has a charming waterfront lined with sandstone buildings dating back to the 18th century. The sound of traditional Shetland music can often be heard as you walk through the twisting lanes of this pretty harbour town.

In the evening, explore more of the up to 10 all-inclusive dining experiences on board, sampling fine French cuisine at Lumière or vibrant Asian fusion at Koko’s. Alternatively, relax and dine in the comfort of your suite and have your evening nightcap brought by your butler.

Freechoice:
Sumburgh Head to Jarlshof Hike: Travel to the south of the island for a guided hike along Sumburgh Head. Spot thousands of seabirds, dolphins and whales.

Jarlshof and Southern Shores: Visit the remarkable archaeological site of Jarlshof, dating back at least 5,000 years, with an expert guide.

Scenic Shetland, Ponies & Jewellery: Take a scenic drive to the Tingwall Valley to meet a herd of Shetland ponies, then visit the Shetland Jewllery Workshop.

Lerwick Town Walk & Museum: Step back in time and learn about the people of Lerwick on this gentle walking tour, finishing at the Shetland Museum.

The southernmost Shetland Island is home to only sixty people and is owned by the National Trust for Scotland. The island is famous for its traditional crafts, including knitwear that is made by hand or with frames, and its abundant bird life.

During your visit, enjoy local hospitality, visit the museum, and have tea with islanders. 

Discovery:
Join your expert Discovery Team in a lecture in our state-of-the-art theatre to learn more about why Fair Isle is such an important breeding ground for seabirds and the migratory species that stop here every year.

Take in the views along Sognefjord, the largest fjord in Norway, from Scenic Eclipse’s Observation Lounge. Known as the ‘King of the Fjords’, at its deepest, Sognefjord plunges more than 1,300 metres below you as glide between steep mountains on either side.

One of Norway’s most popular destinations, the picturesque village of Flåm is where you can take one of the world’s most spectacular railway journeys. The 20km Flam Railway offers unobstructed views of the valley through the steep mountains towards the town centre. For more incredible views take to the skies in one of the on board helicopters^.

Freechoice:
Fjord Safari: An adventure on board a Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) through the spectacular Aurlandsfjord to Beitelen and back, experiencing nature and wildlife at close range.

Viking Village & Tvinde Water: Capture the beauty of the Tvinde Waterfall before learning about the Viking era and trying traditional activities at an authentic Viking Village.

Scenic Flåm Railway: Admire the stunning scenery and learn about the remarkable engineering of the unique Flåm Railway, including a stop at Kjosfossen Waterfall.

Brekkefossen Waterfall Hike (led by Discovery Team): Experience the beauty of Brekkefossen Waterfall on a guided hike. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through Flåm, then ascend to a scenic ledge for stunning views of the falls and valley—a must-see adventure!

The majestic fjord views continue today as you sail through the narrow part of the Nærøyfjorden to reach the Viking village Gudvangen. Situated at the end of the Nærøyfjorden, where the Nærøydalselvi river flows into the fjord, Gudvangen is home to a village where you can learn about Viking culture.

As you sail through Nærøyfjorden, Scenic Eclipse’s GPS Dynamic Positioning will maintain location without dropping anchor. The fjord is also one of the best kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding opportunities of your voyage and a chance to quietly glide in a narrow fjord surrounded by steep mountains and beautiful waterfalls.

Freechoice:
Fjord Safari: Experience an exhilarating RIB ride through Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord, with stops to admire the stunning natural beauty.

The Royal Fjord Passage: Enjoy a scenic journey through Norway’s landscapes, including a ride on the Flåm Railway, a visit to Voss, and a picturesque drive to Gudvangen.

Brekkefossen Waterfall Hike (led by Discovery Team): Experience the beauty of Brekkefossen Waterfall on a guided hike. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through Flåm, then ascend to a scenic ledge for stunning views of the falls and valley—a must-see adventure!

Kayaking in Gudvangen: Paddle through breathtaking fjord scenery with a guide, stopping for a picnic at Bleiklindi.

Meet the Vikings: Explore the Viking village of Njardarheimr, learning about Viking life with an authentic Viking guide.

On an arm of Sognefjord, Gudvangen is at the foot of steep cliffs soaring 5,500 feet above the water's surface and plunging deep to form one of the region's deepest fjord basins. Snow-capped mountains, green cliffs, and veils of tumbling waterfalls characterize the vertical landscape on the approach to Gudvangen. The fjord is so narrow in places that during winter the sun can't reach the valley floor. Mystical Gudvangen is the site of white caves and medieval stave churches. Standing sentinel over the ornate entrances to the venerable wooden sanctuaries are visages of fierce trolls and dragons, carved by long-dead Viking craftsman from the region.

Surrounded by mountains and sparkling fjords, the waterside city of Bergen has a spectacular setting. There has been a settlement here since medieval times and the colourful waterfront buildings of the Hanseatic wharf, known as Bryggen, are testament to its fascinating history of trade. As Norway’s best known medieval settlement, the Bryggen is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Our comprehensive selection of excursions allows you to discover the many sides of Bergen, such as the fish market and narrow cobbled streets, as well as stunning views of the city from the summit of Mt Fløyen. Alternatively, those who have visited the city previously may like to experience one of the tours that travel further afield. Just 300 yards from the main piers, you will find the Fortress Museum (Fesningsmuseum), which has an interesting collection of objects related to World War II.

You’ll finish your journey in the World Heritage-listed city of Bergen. Savour one last delicious  breakfast on your Discovery Yacht before saying farewell to the crew who have shared this once-in-a-lifetime journey with you. As you disembark, share the highlights of your journey in this spectacular part of the world with your new friends, knowing you have created stories for life.

Please book your flight to depart out of Bergen after 12:00 PM.

^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather, ice and tidal conditions. Helicopters are not operational in the UK/Scotland. #Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.