Why Not Cruise Iceland By Small Ship?

Iceland is a country that begs to be explored, and you’ll navigate to hard-to-reach areas, unlocking the secrets of the west coast on this 8-day small ship adventure cruise.

Encounter a dramatic volcanic landscape of geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, glaciers and black sand beaches. Experience rugged landscapes, ancient stories of Vikings and the Norse, and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.

Aboard the M/Y Callisto, surrounded by rich fabrics, woodwork, antiques and fine works of art, cast off from Akureyri and cruise past soaring coastal cliffs lined with birds to the far north-western reaches of the island, where few travellers tread.

Disembark to learn about Iceland’s unique heritage and culture, exploring historic museums and towns – from tiny fishing villages to the country’s northernmost city Siglufjordur. Walk to waterfalls of the gods, see Europe’s most powerful glacier, choose to visit volcanoes on an isolated island, then dock in fascinating Reykjavik. This cruise will reveal the inspirational, ancient, and untamed beauty of Iceland.

Why we love this trip

• Icelandic tourism is booming, but it’s still mostly land-based around the famous – yet well-worn – Golden Circle route. We’re the only adventure company offering this unique coastal itinerary.
• While bigger cruise liners have to moor out at sea and commute into shore via tender, we’ll drop anchor in the middle of port towns like Akranes or Isafjodur. You can hop on or off the boat as you please.
• On Day 4 we sail directly beneath the incredible Latrarbag Cliffs, a sheer 450 metre wall of volcanic rock, home to millions of puffins and northern gannets.
• Many land-bound Iceland itineraries never make it to the stunning West Fjordlands, and rarely to the fishing villages of the north coast. You’ll meet native herring fisherman and get a feel for the local way of life.

Is this trip right for you?

• This is a small ship adventure cruise, which means you’ll be sailing on a yacht with between 30 – 50 other people. The boat is spacious and comfortable, but it focuses more on the destination than on-board activities. Instead of a pool, we have the sea itself. Instead of a casino, we’ve got board games and a good book. There’s also no formal dress code to worry about. Wifi is available for a small charge.

• Our ship moves under engine power, rather than sailing, so all cabins will experience light engine noise when the ship is moving (and occasionally when we drop anchor). It’s probably worth packing earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
• Onshore activities and excursions will involve a bit of walking. You’ll be visiting sites where at times you may have to cross uneven ground and challenging conditions underfoot. If you have any concerns, please speak to your group leader before taking part.
• If you’re concerned about seasickness, there are seasickness tablets on-board. The ship will experience some roll and pitch in choppy conditions, however all of our ships come equipped with stabilisers to minimise movement. Most of our departures run in peak season, when the seas are calmer. Your crew will do all they can to minimise any discomfort.
• There are no lifts (elevators) on-board our ships, so you’ll have to navigate a few steep flights of stairs on-board. Handrails are always available.
• If you’re keen to swim off the boat, this may not be the tour for you. Even in high summer, the waters around Iceland are far too cold for a dip.

Sailings:

We sail 3 times a year: June, August, September.