Circumnavigating the Enchantments of Iceland by Yacht

The remarkable island of Iceland is an other-worldly landscape of volcanoes and craters, lava fields and waterfalls. Lying just south of the Arctic circle, Iceland is home to rare and wonderful wildlife—including Arctic fox, blue whales, gyrfalcons, and of course, the elusive puffin. One of the best ways to circumnavigate the natural wonders of Iceland is by ship—which is why Country Walkers has partnered with our sister company, Windstar Cruises, for an exceptional active cruise with Iceland: Reykjavík, Akureyri & Ísafjörður by Yacht. As the yacht sails around the entire island over the course of 7 days, you’ll view its remarkable volcanoes and fjords from many angles—plus, you’ll enjoy a wealth of included excursions and walks guided by local Icelandic trip leaders who are eager to introduce you to the magical island they call home.

From Hot Springs to the Star Pride, Welcome to Reykjavík!

The Icelandic capital of Reykjavík is sophisticated, cosmopolitan, and teeming with cultural activities. Before embarking on your cruise, your arrival day is free to explore all it has to offer. “When in Iceland, a visit to the hot springs is an absolute must,” says veteran Country Walkers Trip Designer Katerina Bacevicius. “If you’re looking for a relaxing spa visit on arrival day, the Sky Lagoon is a very short taxi ride from the city center, and it’s an incredibly serene and relaxing experience in a gorgeous setting right on the coast.” Other must-see Reykjavík attractions include the Hallgrimskirkja church, the Reykjavík Botanical Gardens, and the myriad charming boutiques that line the streets of the city center. This is also the perfect time to experience one of Reykjavík’s delightful restaurants, serving quintessential Icelandic dishes such as plokkfiskur fish stew, ponnukokur pancakes served with rhubarb jam, and rugbraud—a unique Icelandic rye bread baked in geothermal ovens. “Geothermal heat is one of the most fascinating things about Iceland,” explains Katerina. “Icelanders are really interested in environmental sustainability. With their vast geothermal resources, and a culture that’s focused on enjoying the island’s spectacular natural environment, this truly a stunning destination for nature lovers.” With an included hike and hot spring visit before boarding your yacht in Reykjavík, there’s plenty of opportunity to enjoy everything the region has to offer.

In Reykjavík’s Skarfabakki Harbor, Windstar’s luxurious yacht, the Star Pride, is waiting. A small cruising vessel with capacity for just over 300 guests, the Star Pride will be your traveling home for the next seven nights. “One of the great things about this tour is that it’s essentially all inclusive,” explains Katerina. “Once we’re onboard the Star Pride, all meals are included, plus beer, wine, soft drinks, and daily entertainment. Country Walkers excursions are also included in the tour price—so you don’t have to pay extra to add those on like you normally would with a cruise excursion. It makes this adventure a truly worry-free experience.” With several on-board restaurants to choose from, you’re sure to find a delightful menu of favorites to suit every palette aboard the Star Pride. But best of all, your Country Walkers trip leaders will lead you ashore for some of the week’s very best included meals at local restaurants serving iconic Icelandic cuisine. “One evening, we’re having a fantastic dinner at a seaside restaurant serving the day’s fresh catch,” says Katerina. “It’s a really vibrant spread with many different types of authentic Icelandic dishes—including rauðrófusalat, which is a delicious salad made with beets. And of course, the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste!” Desserts may include a range of Icelandic pastries, such as kleinur fried dough, kanilsnúðar cinnamon rolls, or ice cream in iconic Icelandic flavors such as licorice, rhubarb, or even rye bread.

Hiking the Hills of the Huldufólk

Throughout your active cruise, your Country Walkers trip leaders will guide you to some of the island’s most beautiful destinations. “Our guided Country Walkers hikes will be different from the excursions Windstar offers,” explains Katerina. “In general, they are longer, more in-depth walks with a wealth of wonderful local insights provided by our Icelandic trip leaders.” If you’re used to on-shore cruise excursions that are barely long enough to snap a few memorable photos, the Country Walkers experience brings you much more in depth—and with two local Icelandic trip leaders to guide you, you’ll discover hidden details about Iceland’s fascinating history, folklore, and unique geology. In their company, you’ll learn about the huldufólk (hidden people, or elves), trölls, and hafmeyjan (also known as mermaids)—and may even bring you to view the spots where they are rumored to hide. “Our visit to Dimmuborgir will be really special,” says Katerina. “It’s this spectacular lava formation where, according to legend, Iceland’s famous troll family, the Yule Lads, are said to live. We’ll get to walk around and explore it. Afterwards, we’re going to have a very authentic lunch at a local restaurant that serves the famous geyser bread from the area that’s baked underground using geothermal heat.”

For anyone who is hip to popular culture, Iceland’s spectacular scenery won’t be entirely unfamiliar. “Our hike near Lake Mývatn is my favorite of the week,” says Katerina. “After docking at Akureyri, we’ll drive about 90 minutes to start our hike at Grjótagjá, the gorgeous underground cave made famous by the TV show Game of Thrones. From there, we’ll hike through lava fields to the Hverfjall crater for some spectacular volcano views.” With plenty of time to spend at sea enjoying the amenities of Windstar’s Star Pride, this Country Walkers adventure also includes $200 in on-board credit for guests to spend as they choose. “On the day our yacht reaches Ísafjörður, we’ll have a lot of optional activities for guests to choose from and this is the perfect opportunity to use that $200 included shipboard credit,” says Katerina. “In Ísafjörður, there are some wonderful opportunities to book optional excursions—including whale watching, kayaking, ATV excursions, or a strenuous hike to the Troll’s Throne. It’s a great opportunity for guests to choose their favorite activity and enjoy it to the fullest.” Your trip leaders can even arrange for horseback riding on this day for those eager to experience the unique gait of Icelandic horses. With so many options and so much to explore, this is truly an active cruise to remembe