Arctic & Alaska

Icelandic Nature and Traditions

10 Days aboard L’Austral. From AUD $14,080pp.
Small Ship Expeditions
Details

Overview

Discover the most beautiful landscapes of the Icelandic coast during a 10-day cruise. On the edge of the Arctic, between vast glaciers, vertiginous fjords, volcanoes and boiling geysers, this circumnavigation will enable you to discover the wild and romantic landscapes of Iceland.

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Itinerary Highlights

  • Circumnavigation of Iceland, a volcanic land on the edge of the Arctic Circle, between fjords and wild nature, fishing villages, and a visit to Reykjavík.
  • UNESCO site (Vatnajökull National Park), unspoiled nature and rich wildlife (opportunity to observe seabirds, orcas, humpback whales, dolphins, Icelandic horses, etc.)
  • Among your included excursions: the three sites of the "Golden Circle," the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Godafoss waterfalls, etc.

Itinerary in Brief

  • Day 1: Reykjavík
  • Day 2: Sailing around Surtsey Island - Heimaey, Vestmannaeyjar
  • Day 3: At sea
  • Day 4: Djúpivogur
  • Day 5: Grímsey
  • Day 6: Akureyri
  • Day 7: Isafjördur
  • Day 8: Grundarfjördur
  • Day 9: Reykjavík
  • Day 10: Disembarkation

Ship Information

For more information on the L'Austral please view the ship page.

View L'Austral

Travelling with Eclipse

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  • 24/7 emergency numbers and local contacts provided for support while you’re abroad.
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Specialists
  • Our consultants are true destination experts, with firsthand experience and extensive travel in the regions we offer.
  • Expect quick, professional responses and dedicated service from our knowledgeable team.
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Authentic Travel
  • Tailor-made itineraries designed around your unique requirements.
  • Freedom to select your preferred style and standard of accommodation.
  • Unique itineraries that take you beyond the major highlights, immersing you in each location.
  • Committed to responsible travel: we reinvest in the environment and local communities across our destinations.

Day 1: Reykjavík

Embarkation from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Departure at 7:30 pm

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.

Dinner included.

Day 2: Sailing around Surtsey Island - Heimaey, Vestmannaeyjar

A small drop of basalt in the North Atlantic Ocean, Surtsey is a volcanic island formed by a submarine eruption that lasted from 1963 to 1967, off the Westman Islands to the south of Iceland. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To protect its virgin ecosystem against human presence, it is forbidden to land there. Only a few scientists have access to Surtsey to study the plant and animal colonisation of the island. Mosses, fungi and lichens were followed by vascular plants. Around 300 invertebrate species and 90 bird species have gradually colonised it. While sailing around Surtsey, you will enjoy a unique panorama of this extraordinary island’s contours.

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.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 3: At sea

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 4: Djúpivogur

Djúpivogur is a small town and municipality located on a peninsula in the Austurland in eastern Iceland. The coastline consists of three magnificent fjords, Berufjörður, Hamarsfjörður, and Álftafjörður which create a striking landscape to explore. On land, the town is shadowed by Búlandstindur, a pyramid-shaped basalt mountain peaking at 1069 m, making for an incredible sight. Numerous local legends surround this mountain, which is said to grant wishes during the summer solstice.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 5: Grímsey

Grímsey 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.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 6: Akureyri

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 will 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.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 7: Isafjördur

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.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 8: Grundarfjördur

This secret boreal hideaway is located at the foot of the Kirkjufell, on Snaefellsnes peninsula. Arriving by boat means you will 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.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 9: Reykjavík

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.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 10: Disembarkation

After breakfast, you will disembark and continue your onward journey.

This itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather, sea state and other conditions beyond control.

Breakfast included.

Next Departure Date: 27 Jun 2026
DatesCabinFromAdditional
27 Jun 2026 - 06 Jul 2026 AUD$14080ppExpand to view prices
Superior Stateroom AUD$14080ppContact us
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3AUD$15280ppContact us
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4AUD$16980ppContact us
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5AUD$17830ppContact us
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6AUD$18840ppContact us
Deluxe SuiteAUD$26300ppContact us
Prestige Suite - Deck 5AUD$35630ppContact us
Prestige Suite - Deck 6AUD$37500ppContact us
Owner's Suite AUD$47810ppContact us

**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply

Cabin Details

Superior Stateroom

21m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.

Superior Stateroom
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3

18m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.

Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4

18m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.

Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5

18m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.

Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6

18m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service, WiFi access and butler service.

Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6
Deluxe Suite

27m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.

Deluxe Suite
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Suite - Deck 5

36m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, 8m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.

Prestige Suite - Deck 5
Prestige Suite - Deck 5
Prestige Suite - Deck 6

36m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, 8m² private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service, WiFi access and butler service.

Prestige Suite - Deck 6
Prestige Suite - Deck 6
Owner's Suite

45m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, located on deck 6, French design, panoramic views, individually-controlled air-conditioning, bathtub and shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, desk with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service, WiFi access, 1 private transfer (round trip: airport - hotel - port) and 1 free hours of spa treatments.

Owner's Suite
Owner's Suite
Single Deluxe Stateroom

18m², 2 single beds or 1 king bed, private balcony, individually-controlled air-conditioning, shower, minibar, flatscreen, satellite TV, deck with stationery, iPod players, video on demand, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes, satellite direct line telephone, 110/220V outlets, French bath products, 24-hour room service and WiFi access.

Single Deluxe Stateroom
Single Deluxe Stateroom

L'Austral Deckplan

deck plan

Specifications

  • Length: 466 ft
  • Beam: 59 ft
  • Draft: 15.3 ft
  • Cruising speed: 14 knots
  • Ice class: 1 C
  • Classification: Bureau Veritas
  • Flag: French
  • Guest decks: 6
  • Guest capacity (double occupancy): up to 264 pax but capped at 200 for Antarctica
  • Normal crew size: 140
  • Fleet of expedition Zodiac: (Mark V HD)
  • Gross tonnage: 10 944 UMS
  • Electric motors: 2 x 2300 KW
  • Installed power: 6 400 KW
  • Construction: Fincantieri-Ancône-Italy 

What's included?

  • Accommodation in your selected stateroom
  • Landings and zodiac outings
  • A full meal plan
  • Open Bar: beginning with boarding, and during the duration of the cruise, a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wine, beer, Charles Heidsieck champagne, spirits, coffee, tea) is served on request and at any time of the day. Certain premium alcoholic beverages on the menu are not included in the Open Bar.
  • Free Wi-Fi internet access 24 hours a day
  • Port taxes

What's not?

  • Any items not mentioned as included.

Price Assurance

At Eclipse Travel, our expert destination knowledge and decades of travel planning experience come at no extra cost to you. While many think booking through a tour operator is more expensive than planning a trip independently, that’s not the case. We’re paid by our travel partners—such as hotels, activity operators, and cruise providers—via commissions, not by our clients.

Our team negotiates the best rates for you and ensures you receive unbiased advice, with no preference for any particular supplier. In fact, where we secure higher commissions, we often pass the savings on to you, giving us a competitive price edge.

Additionally, we lock in exchange rates at the time of your deposit, ensuring no surprise costs when it’s time for final payment. You can rest easy knowing we’ll handle the details with our suppliers. The only exceptions are national park fee increases or fuel surcharges imposed after your booking, though these are rare.

Take advantage of our team’s expertise and let us help you plan the perfect holiday—hassle-free!

Destination: Arctic

Viking history, Inuit villages and an abundance of wildlife are just some of the wonders you’ll discover in the Arctic. You’ll be amazed by the natural beauty that surrounds you. Search for Polar Bears while cruising through breathtaking fjords or around the nature lovers dream, Spitsbergen.

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Icelandic Nature and Traditions

10 Days aboard L’Austral. From AUD $14,080pp.