Wonders of Iceland with the Solar Eclipse

A delight to explore in the summer, Tórshavn promises a charming blend of history, nature, and dramatic coastal scenery. As you wander through the historical heart of the city, Tinganes, with its characteristic red wooden buildings with turfed roofs, you can admire one of the oldest parliamentary meeting places in the world. There will be opportunities to experience traditional Faroese culture at the Nordic House, and sample dishes prepared with local produce, such as fish, lamb, and seabirds, in one of the city’s restaurants or cafés. Alternatively, you may choose to explore nearby islands on a boat tour to discover hidden sea caves and witness remarkable bird cliffs, or learn about Kirkjubour, one of the most historically significant sites in the Faroe Islands, believed to be the oldest wooden house still in use today.

Reykjavik is renowned as the perfect starting point for experiencing the Golden Circle Tour, visiting three remarkable locations: Thingvellir National Park, a keystone of Icelandic geological history; the Geysir geothermal area, home to the impressive Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes; and Gullfoss waterfall, one of the most picturesque and impressive in Iceland. You will also have opportunities to take a dip in the soothing waters of the geothermal pools of the nearby Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon.

On Wednesday 12^th August 2026, you will have the opportunity to experience the unique phenomenon of a total eclipse of the sun. The first of its kind in continental Europe since 1999, it will be visible to the west of Iceland, where the moon will cover the sun for the longest period, offering the most dramatic occurrence with extended totality. It can also be seen in Spain where the path of totality will offer a full eclipse before the sun sets. Experiencing this rare and special event at sea will provide you with spectacular and uninterrupted viewing experiences from the decks of your smaller ship.

Renowned for its spectacular fjords, mountains, and valleys, Ísafjörður is a delight to explore in the summer months.  Enjoy Ísafjörður from the unique perspective of the fjord on a kayak or guided boat trip. You’ll also have the chance to visit the spectacular waterfall at Dynjandi, which flows down the mountainside, spreading out like a bride’s veil. Meanwhile, enjoy sampling traditional Icelandic dishes, particularly freshly caught seafood, or local specialities like dried fish and stew.

Nestled within the steep mountains of Eyjafjörður, visiting Akureyri in August offers fantastic opportunities to discover this small fishing town, overlooked by its distinctively shaped church and the volcanic lands that surround it. The fjord becomes a breeding ground for humpback and minke whales in the summer, so a whale-watching trip is ideal for spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. You could experience the breathtaking ‘Waterfall of the Gods’, Godafoss Waterfall, or enjoy a hike to Súlur Mountain that towers over Akureyri, offering panoramic vistas over the town and surrounding fjord. There will also be chances to immerse yourself in local life by sampling traditional Icelandic dishes using local ingredients, like Arctic char, lamb, and skyr.

Surrounded by calm blue waters, emerald-green valleys, and snow-capped mountains, even in the summer months, cruising past Seydisfjörður will offer outstanding vistas of incredible displays of nature, like the magnificent Gufufoss waterfall that cascades down into a lagoon at the head of the fjord. As you sail close to Seydisfjörður, you will be able to see the colourful wooden houses in vibrant shades of red, blue, yellow, and green, and the iconic Blue Church, nestled in the heart of the town.

The picturesque town on Seyðisfjörður is surrounded by green valleys where, during the summer months, over 20 waterfalls cascade down into the lagoon at the head of the fjord. You will have the opportunity to explore nearby Skálanes bird cliff on a tour from your cruise ship, where you will find many species of seabirds, including the black-tailed godwit, and several species of plant life. On your return, you may be able to spot seals and porpoise in the surrounding waters. In the town itself, you will be able to admire the brightly coloured wooden houses, in hues of red, blue, yellow, and green, sitting alongside the quaint bright blue church; or immerse yourself in Icelandic life by hiking to waterfalls in Vestdalur Valley; or enjoy a horseback ride on the unique Icelandic breed of horse.