Spitsbergen, 14 Night From Iceland to Hamburg – Half Circumnavigation of the Land of Ice and Fire ex Reykjavik, Iceland to Hamburg, Germany

Day 1
Cosmopolitan Reykjavík
Discover Iceland’s modern capitalYour expedition cruise starts in Reykjavík – a laid-back city of art, culture and history. It’s well worth spending some time getting to know this delightful capital.   Take a stroll along Laugavegur with its boutiques and outdoor shops, gaze in awe at the striking Hallgrímskirkja   Church, and drop in on the fascinating Reykjavík Art Museum.    Your expedition ship awaits you in Reykjavík Harbour. After being welcomed aboard and collecting your complimentary expedition jacket, it’s time to settle into your cabin before enjoying your first dinner aboard.    If you have the time, we recommend booking a Pre-Programme with us and discovering some of Iceland’s natural highlights before your cruise begins.

Day 2
Heimaey’s explosive past
Discover the town that defied a volcanoHeimaey is the only inhabited island in the Westman Islands, found off the south coast of Iceland. It has a fascinating history, and still bears the scars of a powerful volcanic eruption that nearly destroyed the island.  Visit Eldheimar, a museum that features an excavated home frozen in time, and learn more about the eruption and its aftermath. Don’t miss climbing Mount Eldfell – at the volcano’s summit, you’ll have incredible views of the town below.

Day 3
Charming Grundarfjörður
Gateway to spectacular SnæfellsnesThe majestic Kirkjufell mountain, one of the best-known landmarks of Iceland, rises just two miles west of the small harbour of Grundarfjörður, a quaint fishing town in Breiðafjörður bay.  Nearby lies Snæfellsnes Peninsula National Park, with the striking, ice-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano at the peninsula’s western tip. It’s nicknamed ‘Little Iceland’ for the array of landscapes. At the national park, you can visit Djúpalónssandur’s black sand beach and the Saxhóll crater, or take a guided underground tour along a gigantic lava tube.

Day 4
Picturesque Isafjörður
Explore Westfjords’ beautiful harbourside townFlanked by towering mountains on all sides, Ísafjörður is a nearly perfect natural harbour and an excellent gateway to the Westfjords region. Stroll around to see the architecture, shop for a variety of local handicrafts and view some of the oldest houses in Iceland.  One of these historic 18th century buildings is home to Westfjords Heritage Museum, where you can learn about the maritime past of this fascinating port. Or if you prefer something more energetic, you could take the steep hike up to Naustahvilft – the Troll’s Throne. You’ll be rewarded for your efforts at the top by the stunning panoramic view.

Day 5
Djúpavík’s old factory
Explore a ghostly factory and hike in magical surroundingsThe remote village of Djúpavík, at the edge of the Westfjords, has an eerie charm. A vast abandoned herring factory contrasts with a stunning rural setting. A guided tour of the old herring factory should not be missed. Inside its cavernous interior, huge machines rust away quietly, and the everyday objects of the workers sit on desks untouched.   Explore the magical surroundings here on foot and take a short, invigorating hike to the waterfall just above the old factory. Looking down onto the shore, you may spot the old rusting ship from a previous era – this really is a place of contrasts.

Day 6
Akureyri and Goðafoss
See dramatic moonscapes and waterfallsGaze at snowcapped peaks as we cruise into Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord. Together with neighbouring Skjálfandi bay, it’s one of the best places in Europe to spot whales.  Iceland’s so-called ‘Northern Capital’, Akureyri sits at the fjord head. Here, you can enjoy the oasis of a botanical garden and visit local eateries and museums.   A little further afield, witness the picturesque Goðafoss waterfall, where turquoise waters pound against black rocks. You’ll witness geology come to life around Lake Mývatn, an active volcanic area and one of the few places to see the Mid-Atlantic Ridge up close.

Day 7
Húsavík and the Arctic Circle
Cross the Arctic Circle and go whale watchingHúsavík is a pleasant small town famous for its whale-watching opportunities, and we’ll be calling here in the morning. The town looks out over Skjálfandi bay, which enjoys visits from humpback and minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises and occasionally blue whales. If you’re lucky, you might see one or more of these giants at sea, and you can learn more about them at Húsavík’s Whale Museum. Húsavík is also regarded as the gateway to many of the highlights of the north, including Jökulsárgljúfur National Park, the waterfall of Dettiffos, and the horseshoe-shaped valley of Ásbyrgi, which according to Icelandic myth, was made by the eight-legged horse of Odin. Later, we’ll sail along the coast of Grímsey island without landing, passing across the Arctic Circle as we do so, before continuing to our next destination.

Day 8
Tiny Bakkagerði
Explore a place beloved of puffins and elvesYour Iceland expedition cruise continues to Bakkagerði, a tiny, remote settlement. According to folklore, Bakkagerði is inhabited by a large population of local land spirits or elves, known as huldufólk, meaning ‘hidden people’. Walk around town to explore this magical place.  A popular hiking area, here you can walk through lush, green valleys and gorgeous scenery among colourful rhyolite rocks. In season, the coastal cliffs are home to fulmars, kittiwakes, eiders and puffins.

Day 9
Vatnajökull cruising
See the second-largest ice cap in EuropeLeaving the land of ice and fire and heading towards the British Isles, if conditions allow, we hope to cruise by and admire Vatnajökull, the second-largest ice cap in Europe. Set in Vatnajökull National Park, the ice cap is the largest in Europe by volume and area. Given its unique natural characteristics, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. As you explore, your Expedition Team will help you understand more about how climate change impacts glaciers in Iceland and beyond.

At sea
At sea
Relax and recharge with a day at seaRelax and enjoy a day at sea as we sail towards Lerwick in the Shetlands Islands.  Socialise with your fellow travellers in the Explorer Lounge & Bar, and swap stories of your adventures so far. Keep your eyes peeled while on deck formarine life and seabirds – you can even chill out in the hot tub as you do so.  Or why not listen to some lectures from the Expedition Team and find out more about what lies ahead in the British Isles.

Day 11
Lerwick’s past and present
Discover Scotland’s most northerly inhabited islesToday we’ll dock alongside Lerwick, the capital of the Shetland Islands. Set in stunning scenery, we’ll spend the day exploring this friendly, Victorian-influenced fishing town. Navigate the narrow lanes on foot to discover little shops selling local whiskies, woollen sweaters and fudge. By the old waterfront, you’ll find the Shetland Museum, charting the area’s rich history. Nearby you can see Fort Charlotte and the regal Town Hall. The wider island is home to remarkable Iron Age villages and the Shetland Crofthouse Museum, where you’ll learn about the hard life of the local crofters.

Day 12
Far-flung Fair Isle
A scenic stop for bird loversYour cruise continues to the remote Fair Isle, known for its birds and knitwear. A magnet for birders and wildlife photographers, the island is home to 27 bird species. It’s a vital stop for migrating seabirds, drawn to the red sandstone cliffs, green fields and moors. We’ll attempt to land so you can join a clifftop hike to a spectacularly sited lighthouse with the Expedition Team. Gain fascinating insights into the life and history of the 65-strong island community at the local museum. You can support Fair Islanders by buying genuine Fair Isle knitwear direct from local makers. If landing isn’t possible, the scenic cruising is just as spectacular.

Day 13
Highlights of Orkney
Learn about Kirkwall’s Norse heritageToday we cruise to the Orkney Islands’ largest town. You’ll explore Kirkwall, the vibrant, Viking-influenced capital of the Orkneys that’s still compact enough to cover on foot. Visit the regal St Magnus Cathedral, made from distinctive local red sandstone, and the adjacent Earl’s Palace to see the stone ruins of this once-grand Renaissance building. The Neolithic settlement of Scara Brae is also only a bus ride away.  Whisky aficionados will enjoy Kirkwall’s Highland Park and Scapa distilleries for their sublime single malts. If you fancy something different, Orkney Distillery produces gin made from local Orcadian botanicals.

Day 14
A final day at sea
Reflect as you head towards GermanyEnjoy a final day at sea as you cruise from Scotland to Germany.  If you haven’t already, today is a great day to make the most of the ship’s facilities. Relax and enjoy the panoramic sauna or on-deck hot tubs. Work out in the fitness room or drink in the views from the observation decks. You can also enjoy the company of fellow explorers over drinks in the Explorer Lounge & Bar and reflect on the wonderful voyage you’ve had.

Day 15
Germany’s Hanseatic treasure
End your cruise in Germany’s second cityYour expedition cruise comes to an end as we arrive in Hamburg, the second-largest city in Germany and one of the greenest urban areas in Europe. There’s much to see and do in Hamburg. If you have time, you’ll find many attractions in the Altstadt district, including the St Nikolai Memorial and the historic street of Deichstraße.   Hamburg is also home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Chilehaus, and the world’s largest historic warehouse complex in Speicherstadt. Art lovers should head to Kunsthalle, the nation’s foremost art museum.

MS Spitsbergen will take you on a voyage beyond the ordinary.

MS Spitsbergen is named after the crown jewel of Arctic Norway – the Svalbard archipelago and its biggest island, Spitsbergen. Hurtigruten has a long history of travelling to Spitsbergen, beginning in 1896 with the `Sports Route´. MS Spitsbergen cruises along the Norwegian coast from September to May, and becomes part of our global Explorer sailings during the rest of the year.

After complete reconstruction, MS Spitsbergen joined the Hurtigruten fleet in 2016. The ship features high technical standards as well as comfortable, modern public areas and cabins. The vessel´s fresh Scandinavian design reflects a colour palette derived from the sea. She is modern and environmentally progressive, and we plan further improvements that will reduce emissions and fuel consumption even more. The new ship’s maneuverability and optimal size make her quite suitable for exploring polar waters.

HX Expeditions is a leading global expedition cruise line offering immersive journeys to the planet’s most remote and extraordinary destinations. From the icy wilderness of Antarctica and the Arctic to the unique ecosystems of the Galápagos and Alaska, HX delivers authentic small-ship experiences designed for curious travelers seeking adventure, discovery, and meaningful connections with nature.

Operating a modern fleet of purpose-built, sustainable vessels, HX puts environmental responsibility at the heart of every expedition. Guests explore fragile ecosystems with expert-led guidance from naturalists, scientists, and local specialists, ensuring journeys are both educational and transformative.

With an emphasis on small groups and personalized service, HX provides access to hidden places unreachable by larger ships, delivering comfort, authenticity, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Whether witnessing the Northern Lights or exploring pristine shores, HX Expeditions invites travelers to experience the world’s wildest corners in a responsible and impactful way.

Select the Deck to view detail.

Select the Cabin to view detail.

MX - Expedition Suite

These exclusive suites on the upper deck have a double bed, a separated seating area, TV, kettle, tea/coffee, stereo, minibar, bathrooms with shower/WC, and a spacious private balcony. Please note that we have a wheelchair accessible cabin within this category, please contact us to book.

O3 - Polar Outside

This comfortable outside cabin for up to three people on the lower deck have bathroom with shower/WC, separate beds, TV and a chair.

V O3 - Polar Outside

This comfortable outside cabin for up to three people on the lower deck have bathroom with shower/WC, separate beds, TV and a chair.

V A2 - Polar Outside

These comfortable outside cabins for up to two people on the lower deck have bathrooms with shower/WC. All cabins have upper and lower berths.

V AJ - Polar Outside

These outside cabins for up to two people on the middle and upper decks have bathrooms with shower/WC, upper and lower berths, and a limited view.

V J3 - Polar Outside

These comfortable outside cabins for up to three people on the middle deck have separate beds and bathrooms with shower/WC. The cabins have limited or no view.

V QJ - Arctic Superior

These large, comfortable cabins for two or four people on the upper deck have double beds and bathrooms with shower and WC. Some cabins have four single beds also have upper and lower berths. They also have TV. The cabins have limited or no view.

YA - Arctic Superior

This wheelchair accessible cabin on the upper deck has a wider door and adjusted bed. The cabin has a double bed, bathroom with shower and WC, and TV. This cabin has a limited view. (We have a limited number of wheelchair accessible cabins, so we ask that they are booked by guests who require these cabins. Please inform us in advance of your disability – you will find Hurtigruten contact information on the Booking Confirmation document.)

V YA - Arctic Superior

This wheelchair accessible cabin on the upper deck has a wider door and adjusted bed. The cabin has a double bed, bathroom with shower and WC, and TV. This cabin has a limited view. (We have a limited number of wheelchair accessible cabins, so we ask that they are booked by guests who require these cabins. Please inform us in advance of your disability – you will find Hurtigruten contact information on the Booking Confirmation document.)

V MX - Expedition Suite

These exclusive suites on the upper deck have a double bed, a separated seating area, TV, kettle, tea/coffee, stereo, minibar, bathrooms with shower/WC, and a spacious private balcony. Please note that we have a wheelchair accessible cabin within this category, please contact us to book.

V MG - Expedition Suite

These exclusive suites on the upper deck have one large room, a seating area, TV, kettle, tea/coffee, stereo, bathrooms with shower/WC, complimentary internet access, minibar and private balcony.

V Q2 - Expedition Suite

This mini suite for up to two people on lower deck have double bed, TV, window, and bathroom with shower/WC.

Q3 - Expedition Suite

This mini suite for up to three people on lower deck have a double bed with an extra sofabed, window, TV, and bathroom with shower/WC.

V Q3 - Expedition Suite

This mini suite for up to three people on lower deck have a double bed with an extra sofabed, window, TV, and bathroom with shower/WC.

Q4 - Expedition Suite

This mini suite for up to four people on lower deck have a double bed, one sofabed and one single bed, TV, window, and bathroom with shower/WC.

V Q4 - Expedition Suite

This mini suite for up to four people on lower deck have a double bed, one sofabed and one single bed, TV, window, and bathroom with shower/WC.

I2D - Inside cabin

These lower deck cabins also feature: Bathrobes and slippers on request


Lower-deck cabin
No window
Double bed
Bathrobes and slippers on request
Guests: 2| Size: 9-14 m2
Cabin Code: I2D

K4D - Polar Inside

Our cosy Polar Inside cabins can be found on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with shower/WC. Most of the cabins have double beds, while some are equipped with separate beds where one doubles as a sofa or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.

Superior inside cabin for up to 4 travellers
Spacious inside cabin for four travellers, with one double bed and TV.

K2D - Polar Inside

Our cosy Polar Inside cabins can be found on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with shower/WC. Most of the cabins have double beds, while some are equipped with separate beds where one doubles as a sofa or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.

Larger inside cabin for 2 travellers
Spacious inside cabin with double bed and TV for up to two people.

O2D - Polar Outside

Our Polar outside cabins are situated mostly on the middle or lower decks and all have bathrooms with shower/WC. Most have double beds, while others offer separate beds (one of which is a sofa bed) or upper berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.

Outside cabin for 2 travellers
Outside cabin with double bed, TV and window.

J3 - Polar Outside

These comfortable outside cabins for up to three people on the middle deck have separate beds and bathrooms with shower/WC. The cabins have limited or no view.

AJ - Polar Outside

These outside cabins for up to two people on the middle and upper decks have bathrooms with shower/WC, upper and lower berths, and a limited view.

A2 - Polar Outside

These comfortable outside cabins for up to two people on the lower deck have bathrooms with shower/WC. All cabins have upper and lower berths.

U2D - Arctic Superior

Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic superior cabins. Situated on both the upper and middle decks, the cabins all have double beds, bathrooms with shower and WC. They are also equipped with tea and coffee-making facilities. All the cabins have individual specifications.

Outside cabin for 2 travellers
Smaller Outside Arctic Superior cabin with double bed, TV, table and kettle.

QJ - Arctic Superior

These large, comfortable cabins for two or four people on the upper deck have double beds and bathrooms with shower and WC. Some cabins have four single beds also have upper and lower berths. They also have TV. The cabins have limited or no view.

Q2 - Expedition Suite

This mini suite for up to two people on lower deck have double bed, TV, window, and bathroom with shower/WC.

MG - Expedition Suite

These exclusive suites on the upper deck have one large room, a seating area, TV, kettle, tea/coffee, stereo, bathrooms with shower/WC, complimentary internet access, minibar and private balcony.