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Icelandic Mosaic
Reykjavík - Reykjavík
Dates:
8/4/2021
to
8/11/2021
Other available dates
8
days
days
7
nights on board
nights on board
Starting from*
$4,970
25% Ponant Bonus
Kids Club 
Guest Speaker Discover the most beautiful landscapes on the Icelandic west coast during an 8-day PONANT cruise.
On the edge of the Arctic, between vast glaciers, vertiginous fjords, volcanoes and boiling geysers, Iceland offers a kaleidoscope of wild and romantic landscapes.
You will board the ship in Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital city. With its houses with colourful roofs and its lake that is home to countless ducks, the city offers a picture-postcard setting. It also boasts numerous cultural treasures, particularly in the field of contemporary art, with the Reykjavik Art Museum.
The first port of call on your cruise: the bay of Grundarfjordur, right near Kirkjufell. This stunning cone-shaped mountain possesses a unique charm and this will be an opportunity to take some beautiful photos.
Your ship will then reach Grímsey, a small, hard-to-reach island where, in certain places, the volcanic rock forms magnificent basalt columns. Birds such as guillemots and puffins reign here.
Finally, you will discover Heimaey. This is the only inhabited island in the Westman archipelago. It is an exceptional place composed of volcanoes and almost-desert landscapes, where fishing is the main food source.
Ref : W040821
Your itinerary
Discovery of Reykjavik, capital of Iceland. Optional Golden Circle excursion: the 3 most emblematic sites in Iceland. Landscapes: vast glaciers, breathtaking fjords, volcanic rock, basalt pillars, jagged...
See detailed itinerary
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects flights and takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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*Price is per person, double occupancy, is based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of cabin to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Dates
Departure
Arrival
Ships
Cruise code
Ponant Bonus
Prices from
6/23/2021 to 6/30/2021
Reykjavík
Reykjavík
LE DUMONT-D'URVILLE
W230621
15% Ponant Bonus
$5,560
Icelandic Mosaic
Deluxe Stateroom
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 4
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 5
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 6
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Fully booked
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Suite Grand Deluxe Deck 6
Fully booked
Owner's Suite
6/30/2021 to 7/7/2021
Reykjavík
Reykjavík
LE DUMONT-D'URVILLE
W300621
20% Ponant Bonus
$5,270
Icelandic Mosaic
Deluxe Stateroom
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 4
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 5
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 6
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Fully booked
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Suite Grand Deluxe Deck 6
Fully booked
Owner's Suite
8/6/2021 to 8/13/2021
Reykjavík
Reykjavík
LE CHAMPLAIN
M060821
25% Ponant Bonus
$4,970
Icelandic Mosaic
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige stateroom Deck 4
Prestige stateroom Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Prestige Suite Deck 5
Prestige Suite Deck 6
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Owner's Suite
8/13/2021 to 8/20/2021
Reykjavík
Reykjavík
LE CHAMPLAIN
M130821
20% Ponant Bonus
$5,270
Icelandic Mosaic
Deluxe Stateroom
Fully booked
Prestige stateroom Deck 4
Prestige stateroom Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Prestige Suite Deck 5
Prestige Suite Deck 6
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Owner's Suite
8/20/2021 to 8/27/2021
Reykjavík
Reykjavík
LE CHAMPLAIN
M200821
25% Ponant Bonus
$4,970
Icelandic Mosaic
Deluxe Stateroom
Fully booked
Prestige stateroom Deck 4
Fully booked
Prestige stateroom Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Prestige Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Prestige Suite Deck 6
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Owner's Suite
8/27/2021 to 9/3/2021
Reykjavík
Reykjavík
LE CHAMPLAIN
M270821
15% Ponant Bonus
$5,560
Icelandic Mosaic
Deluxe Stateroom
Fully booked
Prestige stateroom Deck 4
Fully booked
Prestige stateroom Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Prestige Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Prestige Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Owner's Suite
Fully booked
6/13/2022 to 6/20/2022
Reykjavík
Reykjavík
LE BELLOT
E130622
5% Ponant Bonus
$6,210
Icelandic Mosaic
Deluxe Stateroom
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Fully booked
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Owner's Suite
6/20/2022 to 6/27/2022
Reykjavík
Reykjavík
LE BELLOT
E200622
10% Ponant Bonus
$5,910
Icelandic Mosaic
Deluxe Stateroom
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Fully booked
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Owner's Suite
8/1/2022 to 8/8/2022
Reykjavík
Reykjavík
LE BELLOT
E010822
20% Ponant Bonus
$5,310
Icelandic Mosaic
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Fully booked
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Owner's Suite
8/15/2022 to 8/22/2022
Reykjavík
Reykjavík
LE BELLOT
E150822
25% Ponant Bonus
$5,020
Icelandic Mosaic
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Owner's Suite
8/22/2022 to 8/29/2022
Reykjavík
Reykjavík
LE BELLOT
E220822
30% Ponant Bonus
$4,720
Icelandic Mosaic
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Owner's Suite
8/29/2022 to 9/5/2022
Reykjavík
Reykjavík
LE BELLOT
E290822
25% Ponant Bonus
$5,020
Icelandic Mosaic
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite Deck 3
Deluxe Suite Deck 4
Deluxe Suite Deck 5
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Privilege Suite Deck 5
Privilege Suite Deck 6
Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
Owner's Suite
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Services provided
- Individually-controlled airconditioning
- Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating staterooms available (Children welcome)
- Minibar
- Flat screen satellite TV
- Video on demand
- Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
- Desk with stationery
- Safe
- Hermès® bath products
- Dressing table, bath robes, Hairdryer
- Direct line telephone
- 110V American (two flat pins) /220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- 24hr room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wifi
Choose your stateroom category
Packing Checklist
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
Depending on the itinerary and the program of your cruise, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
Advice
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Kid's Club
Children aged 4 to 17 can take part in age-appropriate activities organised aboard the ship by the PONANT Kid’s Club activity leader: manual, physical or cultural activities, board games, DVD evenings.
These activities are held in the mornings, afternoons and evenings until 9.30 pm (10.30 pm on gala evenings). The times can fit in with your cruise schedule: please check with the activity leaders beforehand.
Each day, the Kid’s Club programme will be added to the standard daily programme to inform you of the details and times of activities planned for the young seafarers the next day!
-------------------------------
The activities on offer will depend on the number children signed up, their respective ages, and the weather conditions.
During the landings with the kids aged 6 and over, the younger children will not be able to attend the Kid’s Club aboard the ship.
Parents or accompanying adults must read the “General information about the PONANT Kid’s Club” document and sign a permission slip authorising the child/children in their care to be looked after by the Kid’s Club on board and during outings.
Highlights
- Discovery of Reykjavik, capital of Iceland.
- Optional Golden Circle excursion: the 3 most emblematic sites in Iceland.
- Landscapes: vast glaciers, breathtaking fjords, volcanic rock, basalt pillars, jagged cliffs and geysers.
- Wildlife: Atlantic puffins, Northern gannets, Arctic terns, Minke whales, humpback whales, Icelandic horses.
- A passionate lecturer on board.
Ports of Call & Excursions
August 4, 2021 Reykjavík
Embarkation 8/4/2021 from 16h00 to 17h00
Departure 8/4/2021 at 21h00
Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical centre where one can stroll along the Skólavördustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.
August 5, 2021 Grundarfjördur
Arrival 8/5/2021 midday
Departure 8/5/2021 late afternoon
This secret boreal hideaway is located at the foot of the Kirkjufell, on Snaefellsnes peninsula. Arriving by boat means you’ll get a closer view of the lava-stone rock standing like a sentinel at the entrance to the bay; Grundarfjörður lies sheltered behind this cone-shaped rock. A stone’s throw from the jetty, crystal clear waters, tundra and beaches give onto the cerulean waters of Breiðafjörður. Scattered with its emerald-coloured lawns, this town, with its buildings that merge into the surrounding countryside, will most certainly win your favour.
2 possible excursions
to this stopover
August 6, 2021 Grímsey
Arrival 8/6/2021 early afternoon
Departure 8/6/2021 evening
Grimsey is the northernmost island of Iceland surging from the Arctic ocean, with the Arctic circle running through the island. Its contrasted contours are surprising. From Grímseyjarhreppur, the island’s only town located on the west coast, then heading due south, you can take in the beauty of the hillsides, lushly carpeted with moss and grass. On the rest of the coastline, imposing basalt cliffs inhabited by sea birds stand proud.
August 7, 2021 Akureyri
Arrival 8/7/2021 early morning
Departure 8/7/2021 mid afternoon
The elegant city of Akureyri is located very close to the Arctic circle, tucked away in the Eyjafjörður fjord. It displays a stunning palette of colours: blue waters in the harbour, bronze mountain ash on the squares and brightly-coloured houses in the historical centre. As you walk along the cobbled streets, you’ll come across rows of terraces with wooden furniture. A vast stairway cut into the hillside leads up to the emblematic feature of the town, namely the Akureyrarkirkja church. The very beautiful botanical garden made possible by a microclimate offers the opportunity to discover the Icelandic flora as well as plants from all over the world.
2 possible excursions
to this stopover
August 8, 2021 Isafjördur
Arrival 8/8/2021 early morning
Departure 8/8/2021 early afternoon
Your ship will take you to the heart of the fjords of North-West Iceland, a wild land of lost valleys and steep cliffs, where man struggles to survive. In this very isolated region we find the Isafjörður fjord, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the country, mainly for its relief, forged by many very ancient basaltic flows. The town of Isafjörður, which nestles at the back of its fjord, between imposing mountains, is a delightful little town that lives exclusively from fishing. The capital of the Western fjords, its old wooden houses bear witness to its past as a major fishing port.
1 possible excursion
to this stopover
August 9, 2021 Heimaey, Vestmannaeyjar
Arrival 8/9/2021 midday
Departure 8/9/2021 early evening
This land seated off the southern coast of Iceland is the largest of the Vestmann islands, and is the only inhabited island in the archipelago. The steep Edfell volcanoes and the green prairies of Herjólfsdalur offer rich contrast of nature. On the Stórhöfði road, look out over grey sand beaches and cliffs carved out by the Arctic ocean. From here, you can also see the bronze landscapes of the mountaintops. You could visit Eldheimar, an ultra-modern and interactive museum which traces the volcanic eruption has experienced Heimaey in 1973.
1 possible excursion
to this stopover
August 10, 2021 August 11, 2021 Reykjavík
Arrival 8/10/2021 early morning
Disembarkation 8/11/2021 at 07h00
Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical centre where one can stroll along the Skólavördustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.
1 possible excursion
to this stopover
The Snaefellsnes peninsula
4 h 45
Upon leaving Grundarfjordur, your journey will take you through the several small fishing villages along the famous Snæfellsjökull glacier-capped volcano. After a stop at Djupalonssandur, take a short refreshing walk to the shore of the Atlantic Ocean.
You will live a unique experience discovering this fabulous and mystical glacier, which was made popular in 1864 by the French writer Jules Verne in his novel A journey to the Centre of the Earth, where he located the entrance to the subterranean journey inside the Snæfellsjökull crater: “Here we had entered the Earth by one volcano, and we had come out by another. And this other was situated more than twelve hundred leagues from Sneffels, from that drear country of Iceland cast away on the confines of the Earth…”
Afterwards, you will pass the cliffs of Londrangar and join the tiny fishing village of Arnarstapi which offers splendid multicolour lava formations and an abundance of bird-life.
After a walk around, you will return to your ship through Budir, famous for its beautiful surroundings of black lava and its long beach of yellow sand. Continue over Frodarheidi Heath to the north coast of the peninsula, back to Grundarfjordur.
- This excursion includes walking on uneven but essentially flat terrain. We recommend you wear a wind and waterproof jacket, bring a warm pullover and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be slippery and steep. Please note that sights may be visited in a different order.
Price range:
More
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Whale watching
4 h 00
Iceland is one of the best locations in the world to enjoy whale watching, so seize the opportunity and join a whale-watching adventure from the harbour of Ólafsvík.
Your trip begins with a 20-minute scenic drive the harbour area in a town next to Grundarfjörður. A friendly crew will welcome you aboard and then embarks on the whale-spotting adventure. The opportunity to enjoy the spectacular Icelandic nature from the sea with the chance of getting close to these large but gentle mammals is an experience unlike any other. Nowhere else in Iceland is there a better chance to see two of the ocean’s top predators, sperm whales and orcas, than along the Snæfellsnes Peninsula coastline. The orcas are more often seen early in the summer, during May and June, but there is a chance of seeing them all the way through the summer months.
Although no sightings can be guaranteed, the prospects of whale watching in Iceland are excellent as whales are spotted on over 90% of tours.
Eleven species of whales dwell in Icelandic waters but up to twenty-three species have been spotted around the country. The most common sightings are minke whales, porpoises, white-beaked dolphins and humpback whales.
- It is recommended that you wear warm layered clothing with a waterproof outer layer. It is good to be prepared with hats, mittens, scarves and sunglasses. Even though the weather in Reykjavik is warm it can be very cold and windy out on the bay. Sunscreen is recommended on sunny days due to the reflection from the sea. We do not recommend this tour for the wheelchair-bound passengers due to difficult access to the whale-watching boat. A minimum of 15 participants is required to operate this tour.
Price range:
More
€€€€: the excursion price is more than €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Godafoss & Akureyri
4 h 00
During a short sightseeing tour, view what remains of the old town of Akureyri before crossing the fjord and heading on to Godafoss, “Waterfall of the Gods”. The name marks the historical event that took place at these falls in the year 1000 when the Chieftain Thorgeir made a public declaration in favour of Christianity, by throwing his carvings of the Pagan Gods into the falls. Thorgeir was also leader of the Althing or Parliament at that time, and it was him who had the difficult task of deciding the Nation’s fate regarding its choice of religion.
Through the wide-open valley Fnjoskadalur, drive into the part of the valley known as Dalsmynni. Formations on the hillsides suggest that a once large pro-glacial lake occupied the valley only to be let down by stages as the ice melted.
Next, continue to the Laufas Folk museum, which originally served as a manor farm and vicarage. The turf farmhouse dates back to 1866 and contains the usual household and agricultural implements used by the gentry during that period and earlier.
Upon arrival in Akureyri and before heading back to the pier, visit the Botanical Gardens which house examples of every species indigenous to Iceland and an extensive collection of high-latitude and high-altitude plants from around the world.
- We recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket and take a warm sweater. Please be aware that sites may be visited in a different order. This tour is only conducted in English.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Discover lake Myvatn
8 h 00
From the pier, your coach will head south towards Godafoss, "Waterfall of the Gods". History tells us that in the year 1000, Thorgeir, chieftain of Ljosavatn district and Lawspeaker of the Althing or parliament at that time, was entrusted with the momentous task of deciding whether Icelanders should adopt the Christian faith. When his decision was formally accepted, he went home and threw his statues of the pagan gods into the waterfall. Godafoss (Waterfall of the gods) is said to derive its name from this event.
Continue to Lake Myvatn. This large (37 sq. km) lake is one of Iceland's natural treasures. Dormant Hverfell looms over the East side and a protected nesting area to its northwest is home to tens of thousands of birds, representing dozens of species of ducks. The surroundings of the lake are of tremendous geological interest. Numerous pseudo-craters at Skutustadir will be explored before continuing to Dimmuborgir, a magnificent lava landscape with strange formations, columns and arches.
The striking geothermal field, next to Namafjall Mountain, is another highlight of this tour, full of mudpots, steam vents, sulphur deposits, boiling springs and fumaroles. Lunch will be served in one of the local restaurants of the Myvatn Area.
The tour continues along the shores of Lake Myvatn and then heads back to Akureyri, where a short city tour will be made before joining the pier and your ship.
- For this moderate excursion, we recommend you wear good and comfortable walking shoes (the terrain can be slippery), a wind and waterproof jacket and take a warm pullover. Please be aware that the order of the visits may be reversed. This tour is only conducted in English.
Price range:
More
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Maritime culture & traditions
3 h 00
Begin your excursion by driving through the centre and taking the narrow coastal road to the tiny town of Bolungarvik, here there will be a chance to visit the church. Your next stop will be at Osvor, a former fisherman's home that was restored in 1988 and once harboured boats. Osvor is a stunning example of nature's grandeur and perfectly illustrates just how difficult life was for Icelandic fishermen up until the 20th century.
The village of Bolungarvik nestles into the heart of a spectacular bay surrounded by neighbouring mountains and bathed by the Isafjardardjup or "Djup" fjord, the biggest on Iceland's east coast. You will drive alongside these impenetrably deep waters to return to Isafjördur via the valley of Tungudalur. You will enjoy here a short stop to contemplate the valley’s landscapes.
On your return, pass through the historic old town and its 18th century buildings before visiting the Maritime Museum. This is one of Iceland's oldest houses, a monument in itself, next to three other buildings that have also been renovated and date back to 1780.
A typically Icelandic tasting will be served at the end of your visit giving you an opportunity to savour local specialities such as Schnapps, dried fish and locally canned fish cooked the Icelandic way.
- For this excursion, we advise you to wear comfortable shoes, to protect yourself from the sun and to bring a warm and waterproof jacket. This tour is only conducted in English. Please note the order of the visits may be reversed.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Circumnavigation of Heimaey
2 h 00
We begin our tour from the harbour that for a long time has been a shelter for the Icelandic fishing fleet, but was almost lost in the volcanic eruption on the island in 1973.
After some 15 minutes of walking, embark aboard a boat to discover the island from the sea.
Sail past the cliffs surrounding the harbour to start an interesting and informative journey passing bird colonies with millions of inhabitants and exploring caves that can only be visited by boat.
The bird life you get a chance to see on this tour is magnificent, as the Westman Islands have one of the largest varieties of sea bird species in Iceland. These include puffin colonies of an estimated 6 to 8 million puffins. Nowhere else in the world can such large number of puffins be found in such close proximity to man.
In addition, the islands also house one of the world’s largest gannet and guillemot colonies. Numerous other species of nesting sea birds can also be seen. In addition to the bird life, whales are also often sighted, including orcas, dolphins and porpoises.
After viewing the island and bird cliffs from every angle, the boat tour (approximately 1 ½ hour) ends by sailing into Klettshellir (Cliff Cave) where a musical instrument is played through the sound system on board to demonstrate how the acoustics in the cave provide a sensational experience. From there, return to the harbour.
- For this easy excursion, we recommend you wear comfortable shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket and you take a warm pullover. Please be aware that this tour is weather depended and that circumnavigation may not be possible. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. This tour will be conducted in English only.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Golden Circle
9 h 00
This classic excursion encompasses the “Big Three” - Thingvellir, Gullfoss and Geysir. They are collectively known as the Golden Circle, and provide a look at some of the scenic wonders for which Iceland is justly renowned.
On departing the pier, your journey begins with a drive inland to Thingvellir national park, about 48 km (30 miles) from Reykjavik. Your visit to this national park allows you to experience one of the most outstanding sceneries in the country. Thingvellir ranks at the top of Iceland's tourist attractions. Thingvellir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004. The area is surrounded by mountains and encompasses a vast lava plain of green moss and wild flowers. It has been regarded by the Icelanders as a sacred place since the presumed oldest legislative body in History, the Althing, first convened here in 930. Of special note are the Law Speaker's rock and the remains of the turf shelters. These shelters were once used as dwellings during the two-week assemblies of the Althing which were held in the height of summer every other year.
Leaving Thingvellir your tour continues to the Gullfoss waterfall. The “Golden Waterfall” is the most famous of the country's many waterfalls. Here the river Hvita drops 96 feet (30 meters) in two falls, creating an awesome spectacle.
During your next stop at the Geysir area, you will be able to see hissing springs and other geothermal phenomena. The active geyser “Strokkur” projects water every few minutes. Here, amongst these scenic surroundings lunch will be served in the Geysir-area. After lunch, and on your way back to the capital, a comfort stop will be made at Hveragerdi. Back in Reykjavik, a short panoramic city tour will be made in the city center before getting back to the pier.
- For this moderate excursion with buffet lunch, we recommend you wear comfortable shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket, a hat and sunglasses and you take a warm pullover. Please be aware that the order of the visits may be reversed.
Price range:
More
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Dumont-d'Urville
Le Dumont-d’Urville belongs to a new generation of ships fitted with innovative equipment and designed to be environmentally friendly, and which come equipped with lounges that are largely open to the exterior, an outdoor swimming pool and a Blue Eye, a multisensorial underwater lounge. Everything is in place for an extraordinary cruise experience. It's now possible to depart for adventure to the most remote places on the planet onboard a ship offering luxury services.
Until 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
112 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Kids Club
Welcome, little sailors! Thanks to the PONANT Kids Club, children aged 4 and up can enjoy activities designed and organised by a team of activity leaders on board, including craft, board games, DVD evenings, discovering the occupations on board, or supervised outings and shore excursions for those over the age of six. Savour the magic of your destination with total peace of mind thanks to a range of activities specially designed for your children and announced each day in the daily programme.
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, the stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or your shore visits, this expert will be there to share his precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
Before your cruise
During the cruise
After your cruise
TRANSFER TO THE PIER OF REYKJAVIK
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organizes your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Reykjavik
Meet at Reykjavik airport in the arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will depart the airport by coach and be directly transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
- Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
- English speaking assistance.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $80
According to availability, price per passenger.
GLACIER ADVENTURE
This overland must be prebooked and prepaid at least 60 days prior to your cruise. Any reservation made after this deadline will be confirmed on board based on availability. A minimum of participants must be booked to operate this tour. 100% of total cost for cancellations made less than 60 days before departure.
This super four-wheel drive tour starts with a visit to Iceland’s first National Park Thingvellir, where the oldest still existing parliament in the world was founded and assembled through centuries in a grandiose landscape. Thingvellir is also very important from a geological point of view.
The route ascends to an elevation of 700 metres (2,300 feet) above sea level over Kaldidalur, a valley-like, rocky and barren defile between the snow-capped Ok (1,198 m – 3,930 ft) and Langjokull Glacier (1,355 m - 4,445 ft). This spectacular glacier is a continuous, solid shield of ice, in places up to 900 metres (2,950 ft) in thickness and about 1,000 square kilometres (386 sq. miles) in area, the country’s second biggest field of ice.
Continuing on, in heated snow four-wheel drive vehicle with covered bodyworks, into the icy world of the glacier. On board our vehicle, we will drive on the glacier as it is suited for travelling around the wonder-world of ice. After returning from this marvellous adventure we have our light lunch break (buffet).
The route continues into the Borgarfjordur district, visiting the extraordinarily beautiful waterfalls Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, where water emerges in many small falls from beneath a lava field. Drive past Reykholt where the 13th century historian and Prose Edda writer, Snorri Sturluson, lived. Next, we stop at Deildartunguhver, Europe’s mightiest hot spring with high-spouting spurts of boiling water. Continuing over mountain ridges and through pretty lake dotted valleys towards one of the longest fjords of the country, the scenic Hvalfjordur fjord and driving along the shores back to Reykjavik.
- We recommend you wear warm clothes and good walking shoes. This excursion is not recommended for persons suffering from back problems. A minimum of 10 participants is required to operate this tour. Please be aware that this excursion is obviously completely subject to weather conditions.
Duration of excursions are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed.
Total : $390
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Snaefellsnes peninsula
4 h 45
Upon leaving Grundarfjordur, your journey will take you through the several small fishing villages along the famous Snæfellsjökull glacier-capped volcano. After a stop at Djupalonssandur, take a short refreshing walk to the shore of the Atlantic Ocean.
You will live a unique experience discovering this fabulous and mystical glacier, which was made popular in 1864 by the French writer Jules Verne in his novel A journey to the Centre of the Earth, where he located the entrance to the subterranean journey inside the Snæfellsjökull crater: “Here we had entered the Earth by one volcano, and we had come out by another. And this other was situated more than twelve hundred leagues from Sneffels, from that drear country of Iceland cast away on the confines of the Earth…”
Afterwards, you will pass the cliffs of Londrangar and join the tiny fishing village of Arnarstapi which offers splendid multicolour lava formations and an abundance of bird-life.
After a walk around, you will return to your ship through Budir, famous for its beautiful surroundings of black lava and its long beach of yellow sand. Continue over Frodarheidi Heath to the north coast of the peninsula, back to Grundarfjordur.
- This excursion includes walking on uneven but essentially flat terrain. We recommend you wear a wind and waterproof jacket, bring a warm pullover and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be slippery and steep. Please note that sights may be visited in a different order.
Price range:
More
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Whale watching
4 h 00
Iceland is one of the best locations in the world to enjoy whale watching, so seize the opportunity and join a whale-watching adventure from the harbour of Ólafsvík.
Your trip begins with a 20-minute scenic drive the harbour area in a town next to Grundarfjörður. A friendly crew will welcome you aboard and then embarks on the whale-spotting adventure. The opportunity to enjoy the spectacular Icelandic nature from the sea with the chance of getting close to these large but gentle mammals is an experience unlike any other. Nowhere else in Iceland is there a better chance to see two of the ocean’s top predators, sperm whales and orcas, than along the Snæfellsnes Peninsula coastline. The orcas are more often seen early in the summer, during May and June, but there is a chance of seeing them all the way through the summer months.
Although no sightings can be guaranteed, the prospects of whale watching in Iceland are excellent as whales are spotted on over 90% of tours.
Eleven species of whales dwell in Icelandic waters but up to twenty-three species have been spotted around the country. The most common sightings are minke whales, porpoises, white-beaked dolphins and humpback whales.
- It is recommended that you wear warm layered clothing with a waterproof outer layer. It is good to be prepared with hats, mittens, scarves and sunglasses. Even though the weather in Reykjavik is warm it can be very cold and windy out on the bay. Sunscreen is recommended on sunny days due to the reflection from the sea. We do not recommend this tour for the wheelchair-bound passengers due to difficult access to the whale-watching boat. A minimum of 15 participants is required to operate this tour.
Price range:
More
€€€€: the excursion price is more than €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Godafoss & Akureyri
4 h 00
During a short sightseeing tour, view what remains of the old town of Akureyri before crossing the fjord and heading on to Godafoss, “Waterfall of the Gods”. The name marks the historical event that took place at these falls in the year 1000 when the Chieftain Thorgeir made a public declaration in favour of Christianity, by throwing his carvings of the Pagan Gods into the falls. Thorgeir was also leader of the Althing or Parliament at that time, and it was him who had the difficult task of deciding the Nation’s fate regarding its choice of religion.
Through the wide-open valley Fnjoskadalur, drive into the part of the valley known as Dalsmynni. Formations on the hillsides suggest that a once large pro-glacial lake occupied the valley only to be let down by stages as the ice melted.
Next, continue to the Laufas Folk museum, which originally served as a manor farm and vicarage. The turf farmhouse dates back to 1866 and contains the usual household and agricultural implements used by the gentry during that period and earlier.
Upon arrival in Akureyri and before heading back to the pier, visit the Botanical Gardens which house examples of every species indigenous to Iceland and an extensive collection of high-latitude and high-altitude plants from around the world.
- We recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket and take a warm sweater. Please be aware that sites may be visited in a different order. This tour is only conducted in English.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Discover lake Myvatn
8 h 00
From the pier, your coach will head south towards Godafoss, "Waterfall of the Gods". History tells us that in the year 1000, Thorgeir, chieftain of Ljosavatn district and Lawspeaker of the Althing or parliament at that time, was entrusted with the momentous task of deciding whether Icelanders should adopt the Christian faith. When his decision was formally accepted, he went home and threw his statues of the pagan gods into the waterfall. Godafoss (Waterfall of the gods) is said to derive its name from this event.
Continue to Lake Myvatn. This large (37 sq. km) lake is one of Iceland's natural treasures. Dormant Hverfell looms over the East side and a protected nesting area to its northwest is home to tens of thousands of birds, representing dozens of species of ducks. The surroundings of the lake are of tremendous geological interest. Numerous pseudo-craters at Skutustadir will be explored before continuing to Dimmuborgir, a magnificent lava landscape with strange formations, columns and arches.
The striking geothermal field, next to Namafjall Mountain, is another highlight of this tour, full of mudpots, steam vents, sulphur deposits, boiling springs and fumaroles. Lunch will be served in one of the local restaurants of the Myvatn Area.
The tour continues along the shores of Lake Myvatn and then heads back to Akureyri, where a short city tour will be made before joining the pier and your ship.
- For this moderate excursion, we recommend you wear good and comfortable walking shoes (the terrain can be slippery), a wind and waterproof jacket and take a warm pullover. Please be aware that the order of the visits may be reversed. This tour is only conducted in English.
Price range:
More
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Maritime culture & traditions
3 h 00
Begin your excursion by driving through the centre and taking the narrow coastal road to the tiny town of Bolungarvik, here there will be a chance to visit the church. Your next stop will be at Osvor, a former fisherman's home that was restored in 1988 and once harboured boats. Osvor is a stunning example of nature's grandeur and perfectly illustrates just how difficult life was for Icelandic fishermen up until the 20th century.
The village of Bolungarvik nestles into the heart of a spectacular bay surrounded by neighbouring mountains and bathed by the Isafjardardjup or "Djup" fjord, the biggest on Iceland's east coast. You will drive alongside these impenetrably deep waters to return to Isafjördur via the valley of Tungudalur. You will enjoy here a short stop to contemplate the valley’s landscapes.
On your return, pass through the historic old town and its 18th century buildings before visiting the Maritime Museum. This is one of Iceland's oldest houses, a monument in itself, next to three other buildings that have also been renovated and date back to 1780.
A typically Icelandic tasting will be served at the end of your visit giving you an opportunity to savour local specialities such as Schnapps, dried fish and locally canned fish cooked the Icelandic way.
- For this excursion, we advise you to wear comfortable shoes, to protect yourself from the sun and to bring a warm and waterproof jacket. This tour is only conducted in English. Please note the order of the visits may be reversed.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Circumnavigation of Heimaey
2 h 00
We begin our tour from the harbour that for a long time has been a shelter for the Icelandic fishing fleet, but was almost lost in the volcanic eruption on the island in 1973.
After some 15 minutes of walking, embark aboard a boat to discover the island from the sea.
Sail past the cliffs surrounding the harbour to start an interesting and informative journey passing bird colonies with millions of inhabitants and exploring caves that can only be visited by boat.
The bird life you get a chance to see on this tour is magnificent, as the Westman Islands have one of the largest varieties of sea bird species in Iceland. These include puffin colonies of an estimated 6 to 8 million puffins. Nowhere else in the world can such large number of puffins be found in such close proximity to man.
In addition, the islands also house one of the world’s largest gannet and guillemot colonies. Numerous other species of nesting sea birds can also be seen. In addition to the bird life, whales are also often sighted, including orcas, dolphins and porpoises.
After viewing the island and bird cliffs from every angle, the boat tour (approximately 1 ½ hour) ends by sailing into Klettshellir (Cliff Cave) where a musical instrument is played through the sound system on board to demonstrate how the acoustics in the cave provide a sensational experience. From there, return to the harbour.
- For this easy excursion, we recommend you wear comfortable shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket and you take a warm pullover. Please be aware that this tour is weather depended and that circumnavigation may not be possible. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. This tour will be conducted in English only.
Price range:
More
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
The Golden Circle
9 h 00
This classic excursion encompasses the “Big Three” - Thingvellir, Gullfoss and Geysir. They are collectively known as the Golden Circle, and provide a look at some of the scenic wonders for which Iceland is justly renowned.
On departing the pier, your journey begins with a drive inland to Thingvellir national park, about 48 km (30 miles) from Reykjavik. Your visit to this national park allows you to experience one of the most outstanding sceneries in the country. Thingvellir ranks at the top of Iceland's tourist attractions. Thingvellir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004. The area is surrounded by mountains and encompasses a vast lava plain of green moss and wild flowers. It has been regarded by the Icelanders as a sacred place since the presumed oldest legislative body in History, the Althing, first convened here in 930. Of special note are the Law Speaker's rock and the remains of the turf shelters. These shelters were once used as dwellings during the two-week assemblies of the Althing which were held in the height of summer every other year.
Leaving Thingvellir your tour continues to the Gullfoss waterfall. The “Golden Waterfall” is the most famous of the country's many waterfalls. Here the river Hvita drops 96 feet (30 meters) in two falls, creating an awesome spectacle.
During your next stop at the Geysir area, you will be able to see hissing springs and other geothermal phenomena. The active geyser “Strokkur” projects water every few minutes. Here, amongst these scenic surroundings lunch will be served in the Geysir-area. After lunch, and on your way back to the capital, a comfort stop will be made at Hveragerdi. Back in Reykjavik, a short panoramic city tour will be made in the city center before getting back to the pier.
- For this moderate excursion with buffet lunch, we recommend you wear comfortable shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket, a hat and sunglasses and you take a warm pullover. Please be aware that the order of the visits may be reversed.
Price range:
More
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
TRANSFER FROM THE PIER TO THE AIRPORT OF REYKJAVIK
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Reykjavik
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
You will then be transferred to the airport of Reykjavik in time for check-in of the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes :
- Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of an English-speaking assistance.
Your programme does not include :
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent ; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $80
According to availability, price per passenger.