There’s something intoxicating about Iceland—the way the midnight sun illuminates the fjords at 2 a.m., or how the wild Atlantic collides with black sand beaches. It’s a place that’s both ancient and young, volcanic and glacial, dramatic and serene. But experiencing this elemental wonderland aboard a small luxury ship like Azamara Pursuit? That’s where the adventure becomes extraordinary.
Why Small Ships Win in Iceland
Big ships can’t get close to Iceland’s most intimate ports. But Azamara, with its boutique fleet and destination-immersive approach, sails where others can’t—from the narrow passageways of Seyðisfjörður to the storybook harbor of Akureyri. Think fewer crowds, more access, and an all-around slower, richer, more refined travel experience.
Azamara’s Iceland itineraries typically span 7 to 11 nights, circling the island or weaving into select ports in Greenland or the Faroe Islands. But it’s not just the itinerary that makes the voyage unforgettable—it’s how you travel.
Life Onboard: Effortless Elegance
From the moment you step aboard, the Azamara Pursuit feels more like a private club than a cruise ship. With only 700 guests, you’re welcomed by name. Staterooms are elegantly appointed, and the Club World Owner’s Suites offer panoramic sea views worthy of any design magazine cover.
Daily life flows with an unhurried rhythm—morning yoga on deck, an espresso in the Mosaic Café, perhaps a glass of Champagne before indulging in a seafood feast at Aqualina. The spa? Heavenly. And with nearly everything included—from gratuities to boutique wines—you can truly unwind.
Destination Immersion at Its Finest
Azamara is known for Destination Immersion®, and nowhere is that more apparent than in Iceland. With longer stays in port and overnight docking in key cities like Reykjavik, you’re not just skimming the surface. You’re soaking in geothermal baths, sipping Icelandic schnapps with locals, and exploring volcanic landscapes on small-group excursions that feel bespoke.
A Taste of Iceland, Onboard
While the ship’s restaurants offer international cuisine, there’s a conscious nod to Icelandic fare—from Arctic char with dill sauce to flaky skyr desserts. Local beers and schnapps often pop up during cocktail hour, and wine pairings shift to reflect the regional palate.
Unforgettable Shore Excursions
Azamara excels at excursions that reveal Iceland’s wild heart:
The Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik hits all the high notes: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal field, and the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall.
Husavik Whale Watching offers the chance to see humpbacks and blue whales in the rich waters of Skjálfandi Bay.
A visit to the iconic Blue Lagoon offers a serene contrast to Iceland’s wild landscapes—soaking in its warm, mineral-rich waters is pure bliss.
These excursions are designed for curious, active travelers who want more than photo ops—they want understanding, connection, and adventure.
Why Iceland with Azamara Is So Special
Iceland is raw, unfiltered nature, but it’s also sophisticated in its own Nordic way. Azamara matches that duality. You spend your days adventuring—trekking to waterfalls, sailing past glaciers, spotting seals—and your nights sipping Champagne under the midnight sun in a hot tub on deck.
There’s a deep sense of place in everything Azamara does. Local guides, regional cuisine, authentic storytelling—it’s all curated for the traveler who doesn’t want cookie-cutter. You’re not checking off ports. You’re sinking into them.
Ready to experience Iceland like never before?
Call us now at 888-717-5074 to reserve your suite aboard Azamara and begin your luxury cruising Iceland journey. Our travel experts are standing by to tailor the voyage of a lifetime.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is a small ship cruise better for Iceland?
A: Absolutely. Smaller ships like Azamara’s can access off-the-beaten-path ports and offer a more personal, immersive experience in Iceland.
Q: What is included on an Azamara Iceland cruise?
A: Most fares include gratuities, select drinks, onboard dining, cultural evenings, and shore excursions tailored to each port.
Q: When is the best time to cruise Iceland?
A: Summer (June to August) offers mild weather, extended daylight, and wildlife spotting. Azamara’s itineraries capitalize on this peak season.
Q: Do I need to be very active to enjoy the shore excursions?
A: Not at all. While many excursions involve hiking or outdoor activity, Azamara offers a range of options, including cultural and culinary tours.
Q: Is Iceland safe for travelers?
A: Yes. Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, and traveling with Azamara adds another layer of security and comfort.
