At a Glance
MULTI-TRIP PROMOTION Save 10% on each expedition when you book two or more selected expeditions in 2023, and a whopping 30% on each expedition when you book two or more in 2024. This promotion is combinable with Free Single Supplement. Not combinable with any other offers or incentives. Based on availability. Expeditions must sail in the same calendar year. Additional terms and conditions apply*.
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Unearth the remote world of Iceland’s majestic and mystic wonders as you set sail aboard a luxury ice strengthened vessel, the Ocean Endeavour. Embark on a 10-day small ship expedition circumnavigating on a personal voyage of discovery into the land of ‘Fire and Ice’ from extraordinary fjords, volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, mystical glaciers and enthralling wildlife.
Your journey begins in Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland. ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 9 nights’ accommodation aboard the luxury Ocean Endeavour on a twin share basis
- Interactive workshops, educational programs & Nikon camera trial program
- Guided activities, sightseeing and community visits as specified in the itinerary
- All transfers as specified in the itinerary
- All onboard meals with afternoon tea and snacks all round
- All shore excursions and zodiac cruises
- Expert expedition team
- Access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic
- Complimentary expedition jackets
- Comprehensive pre-departure information
- Special access permits, entry, park & port fees
- Evening entertainment
- NOTE: plus $480 USD fuel surcharge ($48 per day)
Itinerary
Arrive at Reykjavik, one of the cleanest and greenest cities on the globe. Explore the capital city of Iceland at your own pleasure. Drop by the bars around downtown, a perfect spot to haunt for beers. The all-inclusive city has a lot to offer like Reykjavík Maritime Museum, the National Museum of Iceland, Viðey Island, Saga museum, Tjörnin pond, and Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach. The murals depicted on the streets will engage your attention. Hallgrímskirkja church is a fine work of architecture. Enjoy a lovely view of Reykjavík from the tower of Hallgrímskirkja church. Sightseeing in Reykjavík is appetizing with its range of eating options, malty with its variety of bars serving fine beers, artistic with its charming street arts, relaxing with an array of geothermally heated outdoor pools, and historic with its museums. |
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An evening departure, see you stepping onboard the Ocean Endeavour. Enjoy welcome drinks and unwind in the luxuries of the ship as your journey into the world of ‘Fire and Ice’ begins. |
Set sail around ‘Iceland in miniature,’ the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Jutting into the Denmark Strait, Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a bite-sized sampler of the best Iceland has to offer, featuring medieval fishing villages, violent geology, eerie legends, and bazillions of wild sea beasts. Nearby is Látrabjarg, where black guillemots, razorbills, common murres, fulmars, kittiwakes, and Atlantic puffins nest on the breathtaking cliffs. Soak in the majesties of one of Iceland’s most amazing coastlines and marvel at is dramatic beauty and fascinating geological history. Today, you’ll have ample opportunity to observe seabirds and marine life as you stroll, hike or take a thrilling zodiac cruise to explore the region in all its glory. |
Today’ adventure will immerse your wild side to the Westfjords, a region known for its jagged bird cliffs and multihued beaches. Your fortunate soul will feel the serenity as only about ten percent of the rest of Iceland’s visitors ever make it here! Be captivated by the coastal fjords, immense mountains, and tiny villages that embrace a traditional Icelandic lifestyle. Admire Iceland’s most spectacular coast boasting a ragged tangle of peaks, ocean passages, vast golden beaches, and off beaten traditional villages. Be left breathless beneath the mighty ‘Bridal Veil’ Waterfall of Dynjandi, meaning thunderous in Icelandic. Soak in the endless array of brooding, snow-clad mountains, some so tall you can see Greenland from their summits. If weather permits, embark on a thrilling kayak adventure (at additional cost) through a bucolic fjord, where the seals are as curious about you as you are about them. |
The day welcomes the foodies and naturalists to look forward to the adventures they always anticipate. Navigate to the west coast of Iceland to lay eyes on the scenic island of Grimsey which lies upon the Arctic Circle (66° 33’ North) and earns Iceland its title as one of the world’s eight Arctic nations—just barely! Set out on a Zodiac cruise around the island, teeming with millions of seabirds including Puffins, gulls, and guillemots, one of the rarest places where birds outnumber the human population! Visit the town of Siglufjörður, a centre of the herring fishing industry, for a cultural immersion tapping into the lively trinity of its nature, culture, and music. Make the most of your time enjoying a wonderful re-enactment at the Herring Era Museum and engage in Icelandic folk music. The food enthusiasts can enjoy visits to the bakery, chocolate factory, and brewery. |
Explore Akureyri, Iceland’s ‘other’ capital, a city both remote and refined Iceland’s second-biggest city, Akureyri. Unearth its lush evergreen forests and the world’s northernmost botanical gardens, boasting thousands of plant species. Marvel at chic-yet-homespun boutiques (Icelandic sweaters!), eateries (lamb rubbed with black-lava sea salt!), craft breweries, and a whopping ten museums to peruse. Take time to meander around and uncover the many shops, cafes and restaurants. Walk up to the steps of Akyureyri’s monumental Lutheran church for sweeping views of the city. |
Catch a sighting of behemoths whales in the harbor town of Húsavík, regarded as one of the best whale-watching places in Europe. Set on northern Iceland’s Skjálfandi Bay, Húsavík has relatively shallow waters mean the creatures tend not to stay submerged for more than 10 minutes at a time, sometimes breaching as they frolic or communicate with other whales. they frolic or communicate with other whales. A hive of cetacean activity, spot pods of orca, dolphins and a birdlife paradise. Be sure to bring your binoculars to spot the fifteen different whale species frequent in the area including humpbacks, seis, minkes, and the biggest creatures to ever live: the mighty blue whales. Hikers can boat across the bay to traverse the wonderfully remote Flateyjardalur Valley or take special trips dedicated to viewing the Puffins of Lundey or birdwatching on Flatey. Take advantage of Húsavík’s diverse museum offerings, including the Whale Museum, the Húsavík Museum, and the Exploration Museum, which houses artifacts from Apollo astronaut training in the area. |
Continuing a journey of serenity, peace, and tranquility, Seydisfjordur is a remote wonder nestled at the tip of its namesake fjord. Stroll the picturesque town of 700, known for its flourishing art scene, cobbled rainbow road, and excellent handicrafts, or take one of the numerous opportunities for hiking, including a walk up to the Tvísöngur sound sculpture on a nearby hill. Visit the Skálanes Nature Reserve near Seyðisfjörður, boasting beautiful bird colonies, abundant plant life, and fascinating archaeology, which is family-owned and operated. Learn about the center’s research and interpretation of Iceland’s environment and cultural history that’s a model for sustainable tourism. |
Gape at the sights of South Iceland, home to a few of the country’s awe-inspiring natural ravishments filled with geological versatility. The Southwestern region pleases you with the relishing swimming pools while the Southeastern region, a colder part, leaves you open-mouthed with its huge glaciers, wondrous waterfalls, and black sand beaches. South Iceland’s highlighting locations such as Geysir, Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Dyrholaey, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Skaftafelll, Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach are enwrapping. Enjoy spectating an exclusive medley of volcanoes, lagoons, glaciers, hot springs, geysers, and waterfalls, either by walking or by Zodiac Cruise. |
Today let your inner history relish as you discover a town that was nearly buried in ash off the south coast of Iceland. Learn the compelling history this volcanically active area that has experienced two major eruptions in recent times. 1963 saw the formation of the island of Surtsey and the Eldfell eruption ten years later destroyed much of Heimaey, the largest of the Vestmannaeyjars and the only island here that is inhabited. Hike to the now-peaceful volcano, and also visit the Eldheimar museum, built around a house excavated after being buried in volcanic ash. Nearby sea cliffs offer excellent opportunities for bird sightings, including razorbills, fulmars, and puffins. Enjoy a beautiful Zodiac cruise searching for the numerous species of seabirds, including the famous puffin, that nest in the steep rock faces along the ocean cliffs here. |
Your inspiring journey ends back in Reykjavík where you’ll disembark the Ocean Endeavour in the morning. Spend your final moments delving deeper into Reykjavík's city vibe of food, culture and nightlife. If you have the time, take a visit to the National Culture House that preserves treasures like the Poetic Edda and the Norse Sagas in their original manuscripts. Note: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
The price is based on Comfort Cabin Category 6 (Double/Twin). Please contact us for available cabins and prices. NOTE: plus $480 USD fuel surcharge ($48 per day). Free Single Supplement (see details below).
More Info
- The departure point is Reykjavík, Iceland
- The finish point is Reykjavík, Iceland
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Reykjavík, Iceland
Iceland, near the Arctic Circle, has a cold and temperate climate due to the North Atlantic Current that carries Gulf Stream warm water north. That means that even though winters are cold, Iceland generally experiences higher average temperatures than other places in the world located at a similar latitude. Iceland's climate includes conditions typical for a Nordic country, but there are some variations between different parts of the island: The south coast tends to be warmer, wetter, and windier than the north, and snowfall in winter is more common in the north than in the south. Known as the Land of Ice and Fire due to its many volcanoes, Iceland is always subject to the possibility of volcanic activity.
The summer months of May through August are ideal for lots of daylight hours. December is also popular for the winter holidays and seeing the Northern Lights, although it will be quite dark during that time and you will see very little—if any—sunlight at all.
Capacity: 198 passengers
Length: 137 metres (450 ft.)
Draft: 5.8metres (19 ft.)
Main Engines: 4 x Skoda Sulzer 6ZL40/48
Propellers: 2 x variable pitch propellers
Cruising speed: 15 knots
Crew: 124
Ice Class: 1B
Lifeboats: 6
Life rafts: 12
Safety Features: 6 fully enclosed lifeboats and 8 life rafts. The ship has an ice-strengthened hull and the lifeboat and life raft capacity exceeds SOLAS requirements with at least 25% additional capacity above the number of people on board.
The Ocean Endeavour is the perfect vessel for expedition cruising. Outfitted with twenty Zodiacs, advanced navigation equipment, multiple lounges, and a panoramic top deck observation room, she is purpose-built for passenger experiences in remote environments. The Ocean Endeavour boasts a 1B ice class, enabling her to explore throughout the polar summers. Launched in 1982, she has had numerous upgrades, most recently in 2018. At 137 meters in length, the Ocean Endeavour has plenty of interior and exterior space. Ample deck space offers comfortable lounge chairs, a swimming pool, two saunas, and a hot tub. The spacious interior allows for varied workshops and presentations to occur simultaneously. The three lounges aboard the Ocean Endeavour are optimal locations for seminars, events, parties, and conversation. Other facilities: Mud Room, Gym, Laundry, Medical Clinic, Elevator service (decks 3-6).
Category 10 (Suite)
Deck seven: orward-facing pic-ture windows, unobstructed view; matrimonial bed, private bath with full tub, refrigerator. Approx. 310 sq. Ft.
Category 9 (Junior Suite)
Deck five: picture windows, unobstructed view; matrimonial bed, sitting area — approx. 270 sq. ft. Deck seven forward: forward-facing picture windows, unobstructed view; matrimonial bed, sitting area, private bath with full tub, refrigerator. Approx. 290 sq. Ft.
Category 8 (Superior Twin)
Deck five: two picture windows, unobstructed view; two lower berths, sit-ting area — approx. 210 sq. ft. Deck seven forward: forward-facing picture windows, unobstructed view; matrimonial bed, private bath with full tub — approx. 180 sq. ft. Deck seven midship: picture windows, partial obstruc-tion; matrimonial bed, private bath, refrigerator. Approx. 190 sq. Ft.
Category 7 (Select Twin)
Deck five: picture windows, unobstructed view; two lower berths, approx. 190 sq. ft.
Deck eight: oversize windows, partial obstruction; matrimonial bed, private bath, refrigerator. Approx. 145 sq. Ft.
Category 6 (Comfort Twin)
Deck four: two porthole windows, unobstructed view; two lower berths. Approx. 175 sq. ft. Deck seven: picture window, partial obstruction; two lower berths. Approx. 135 sq. ft.
Deck eight: picture windows, obstructed view; matrimonial bed, private bath, refrigerator. Approx. 160 sq. Ft.
Category 5 (Main Twin)
Deck five: picture window, unobstructed view; two lower berths, private bath. Approx. 115 sq. ft.
Category 4 (Exterior Twin)
Deck four: porthole window, unobstructed view; two lower berths, private bath. Approx. 100 sq. ft. (twin) / 90 sq. ft. (single).
Category 3 (Interior Twin)
Deck five: interior cabin, two lower berths, private bath. Approx. 125 sq. ft. (twin) / 110 sq. ft. (single).
Category 2 (Triple)
Deck four: interior cabin, three lower berths, two private baths. Approx. 200 sq. ft.
Category 1 (Quad)
Deck four: interior cabin, four lower berths, private bath. Approx. 240 sq. Ft.
Expedition Jackets: (Complimentary) You will receive a complimentary expedition jacket to keep you protected from the elements. Designed specifically for expedition travel, your jacket is waterproof and windproof. This jacket is yours to keep as a coveted and useful memento of your adventure.
Nikon Camera Trial Program: (Complimentary) Travellers aboard Ocean Endeavour expeditions will be able to use precision, professional-quality photography equipment courtesy of the onboard Nikon Camera Trial Program. Together, we empower our guests to create truly dynamic images and tell vibrant stories.
Qajaq/Kayak: (Additional Cost) Explore at sea level in small groups with our experienced kayak guides. We offer excursions on double kayaks, as well as the essential gear for safety and comfort.
Biking: (Additional Cost) Experience communities and landscapes at your own pace! For fitness enthusiasts and independent explorers, we carry a fleet of Kona mountain bikes. These multi-geared, all-purpose bikes are available during select community excursions.
For those who prefer not to share, we have a limited quantity of cabins in Category 3 through to Category 7 with no single supplement!
When travelling on Ocean Endeavour, solo travellers can take advantage of a limited quantity of cabins in Category 3 through to Category 7 with no single supplement! Once these cabins are sold, the single supplement fee is 1.5 times the berth cost.
If you are willing to share a cabin, you may choose to book a berth in cabin categories 1-7 (based on availability) and Adventure Canada will pair you up with another solo traveller of the same gender. If you consent to share, but we do not find you a roommate, you do not pay extra.
Single occupancy in Categories 8–10 is available at full double-occupancy rates.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.