Full Circle: 10-Night Atlas Iceland Circumnavigation

This 10-night World Voyager sailing circles Iceland from Reykjavík, departing September 4, 2027 and returning September 14. It suits travelers who want to see far more of the country than a Reykjavík stay or a south-coast road trip allows, without the long drives. Early September is shoulder season, with fewer visitors, autumn color and, as nights lengthen, a chance of northern lights on clear evenings, though that’s never guaranteed.

The voyage starts with an overnight in Reykjavík, then heads to Grundarfjörður on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, home to the much-photographed Kirkjufell mountain. Ísafjörður is the main town of the remote Westfjords. Siglufjörður, once the center of Iceland’s herring boom, tells that story in its well-regarded Herring Era Museum, and tiny Grímsey Island sits right on the Arctic Circle.

Akureyri, with another overnight, is the base for Goðafoss waterfall and the Lake Mývatn area. Húsavík is widely known as one of Iceland’s best whale-watching towns. On the east coast, Seyðisfjörður is a colorful fjord village and Djúpivogur a quiet harbor town. The return leg calls at Heimaey in the Westman Islands, where a 1973 eruption reshaped the town, and offers scenic cruising past Surtsey, the island that rose from the sea in the 1960s.

World Voyager is one of Atlas Ocean Voyages’ small luxury ships, a good match for Iceland’s smaller harbors. Atlas fares generally include beverages, gratuities and Wi-Fi, and the atmosphere on board is relaxed and social. Ask us what your fare covers, as inclusions and promotions can vary.

We can add a night at the Blue Lagoon or a countryside hotel before or after your cruise. Tell us your dates and cabin preferences, and we’ll check fares and availability for this departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you see the northern lights on an Iceland cruise in September?
It’s possible. Northern lights season in Iceland generally begins as nights darken from late August, but you need dark, clear skies and solar activity, so sightings are never guaranteed.

What should I pack for Iceland in September?
Plan for cool, changeable weather with wind and rain. Waterproof outer layers, warm mid-layers and sturdy walking shoes will cover most days ashore.

Do I need a visa for an Iceland cruise?
Iceland is part of the Schengen Area, and entry requirements depend on your citizenship. You’ll need a valid passport, and we’ll confirm the current rules for you.