Oceanwide Expedition: discovering Iceland
Oceanwide Expeditions, a Dutch company specializing in expedition cruises to the polar regions, offers an intriguing seven-day itinerary aboard the historic three-masted schooner Rembrandt van Rijn: Northeast Iceland Explorer, Aurora Borealis, Hike & Sail. Departing from Akureyri, the journey explores some of the most fascinating and lesser-known locations in northeastern Iceland.
Iceland, a land of contrasts and natural wonders, features landscapes that seem to belong to another world. In its northeastern corner, far from the beaten tourist paths, lies a region of rare beauty: deep fjords, picturesque villages, powerful waterfalls, and terrain shaped by millennia of volcanic activity.
In October, when the days grow shorter and the nights are illuminated by the magnificence of the northern lights, this part of the island transforms into a magical place, ideal for those seeking an authentic and immersive experience.
Rembrandt Van Rijn by Oceanwide Expedition
Northern Lights in Iceland
The itinerary proposed by Oceanwide Expeditions aboard the Rembrandt van Rijn schooner allows you to explore these wild lands in a sustainable and genuine way, combining sailing, hiking, and Zodiac excursions, with the added magic — when the sky allows — of witnessing the aurora borealis.
The journey begins in Akureyri, the “Capital of the North”, located on the shores of the Eyjafjörður fjord. After boarding in the afternoon, if conditions permit, the ship may set sail toward Dalvik or, alternatively, spend the night in the picturesque port of Akureyri. Even on the first night, the sky may offer passengers the chance to glimpse the aurora borealis.
The following day, weather permitting, the ship heads toward Grímsey Island, located on the Arctic Circle. After a Zodiac landing, a guided walk is planned that crosses the Arctic Circle, marked by a monument indicating the coordinates 66°34′N. The night may be spent on the island if conditions allow.
In case of bad weather, the ship remains in Akureyri, and guests have the opportunity to take a bus excursion to the Mývatn lake area, known for its volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and geothermal zones.
Akureyri, Iceland
Grimsey, Iceland
The third day of navigation is dedicated to a visit to Húsavík, known as Iceland’s whale-watching capital. Guests have free time to explore the town and, optionally, visit the whale museum. In the afternoon, the ship crosses Skjálfandi Bay, offering chances to spot humpbacks, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and porpoises.
If sailing is not possible, a bus excursion is planned to the Tjörnes Peninsula to observe local birdlife and geological formations. Afterwards, guests visit Ásbyrgi Canyon, a unique horseshoe-shaped formation in Iceland, with hikes in the area. The day may end with a relaxing bath in geothermal pools.
The next stop is Raufarhöfn, the northernmost village in Iceland. A short distance away lies the Arctic Henge, a monument inspired by Norse mythology, designed as a giant sun calendar. Guests also have the opportunity to join a bus excursion to Dettifoss Waterfall, Europe’s most powerful, with 200 cubic meters of water plunging down from a height of 45 meters every second.
Husavik, Iceland
Myvatn, Iceland
The cruise continues toward Vopnafjörður, a village nestled in the spectacular landscapes of Austurland (East Iceland). The area offers opportunities for hikes and outdoor activities. If landing is not possible, a bus excursion inland is arranged, with the itinerary decided by the expedition leader.
On the penultimate day, the ship heads toward Seyðisfjörður, with a possible stop at Borgarfjörður Eystri, a village known for its legends about elves and stunning landscapes. The village of Bakkagerði, with fewer than 100 inhabitants, is an example of an isolated and authentic community. For those wishing to delve even deeper into these remote realities, a bus excursion inland is available, itinerary determined by the expedition leader.
The journey concludes with disembarkation in Seyðisfjörður, offering passengers a final authentic experience between nature and culture. This small, colorful village is surrounded by spectacular mountains and waterfalls, ideal for peaceful walks. Guests can explore panoramic trails such as the one leading to Vestdalsfossar Waterfalls or admire the unique basalt columns in the nearby Stuðlagil Canyon. A perfect place to soak in the intimate and wild atmosphere of East Iceland.
Rembrandt Van Rijn by Oceanwide Expedition 2
Whale watching in Iceland
In conclusion, this itinerary by Oceanwide Expeditions offers a unique experience, far from mass tourism, with the chance to explore Iceland at its most authentic and untamed. The sighting of the northern lights, excursions in pristine environments, and sailing aboard a historic schooner make this trip an unmissable opportunity for nature and adventure lovers.
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