Icelandic Cruises That Let You Avoid the Crowds and See Hidden Sides of the Country

When most travelers think of Iceland, they picture Reykjavík’s colorful streets or the famous Golden Circle. But a cruise around Iceland offers something different  a chance to explore remote fjords, spot puffins in untouched nesting grounds, and experience cultural moments far from the usual tourist trail. Here are three standout cruise options that combine comfort, discovery, and authentic local flavor.

1. National Geographic – Lindblad Expeditions

Best for: Short and educational sailing
From: $6,645 per person

For travelers short on time but hungry for knowledge, the five-night Exploring Iceland cruise is ideal. Aboard the 138-passenger National Geographic Resolution, you’ll sail western Iceland’s fjords and waterfalls, hike scenic trails, and embark on Zodiac rides to get closer to nature. Highlights include the majestic Dynjandi Waterfall (328 feet) and the puffin-filled cliffs of Heimaey. Onboard, a NatGeo-trained photographer helps you capture perfect shots, and adventurous guests can even spend the night in a glass igloo on deck under Iceland’s open sky.

2. Windstar Cruises

Best for: Cultural immersion
From: $3,908 per person

Windstar’s seven-night Around Iceland journey aboard the 312-passenger Star Pride is perfect for those who want to truly connect with the country. Extended port days and an overnight in Seydisfjordur allow you to mingle with locals, sip craft beer, and enjoy laid-back evenings in charming fishing towns. The James Beard Foundation-curated menus bring Iceland’s flavors onboard from fresh-caught fish to artisanal cheeses  paired with regional drinks for an authentic culinary experience.

3. Ponant

Best for: Underwater views
From: $6,990 per person

Ponant’s Iceland Mosaic cruise aboard the 184-passenger Le Bellot delivers something few ships can the Blue Eye lounge, an underwater observatory with whale-eye-shaped windows, live video feeds, and hydrophones so you can see and hear marine life in real time while reclining in a vibrating “body listening” sofa. This western-focused route visits the remote village of Grimseyjarhreppur on Grimsey Island, a spot split by the Arctic Circle and home to vast puffin colonies.

 Why Cruise Iceland This Way?
These itineraries skip the overrun tourist spots and offer rare access to Iceland’s quieter, wilder corners from Arctic wildlife encounters to local culinary traditions. Whether you have five days or a full week, you can experience Iceland’s beauty from a new perspective without the crowds.