Ponant is partnering with Smithsonian Journeys on 21 itineraries this year. Among these is an eight-day voyage along Iceland’s west coast, where glaciers, fjords, volcanoes and geysers are all part of the scenery. Two “Smithsonian Journeys Experts”—geologist and oceanographer Katryn Wiese and Scandinavian languages and literature expert Elisabeth Ward—will bring these rugged landscapes to life through onboard discussions and adventures, including an exploration of the island’s geothermal wonders, an excursion to the Golden Circle and wildlife sightings of humpback whales, wild Icelandic horses and more.
“Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice” (August 13-20, 2023) aboard Le Bellot kicks off in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital city, known for its colorful houses and landmarks such as the Hallgrímskirkja church. From there, guests will sail up the country’s west coast, starting with the bay of Grundarfjördur, where they can opt for a whale-watching expedition or explore the Snæfellsjökull Peninsula, home to a glacier-capped, 700,000-year-old volcano.
Next, it’s off to Grímsey, a remote island that straddles the Arctic Circle and plays host to one of the largest colonies of seabirds in Iceland, besides basalt columns that rise above the churning waters. In Akureyri, an excursion to Lake Myvatn offers the opportunity to explore the geothermal field of Namaskard, known for its mudpots, steam vents and sulfur deposits. Alternatively, guests can relax in the thermal baths in the fishing town of Húsavík.
At Isafjördur, the largest hamlet in the Westfjords, guests can learn more about Iceland’s seafaring history, tour the Maritime Museum and enjoy a live performance of traditional Icelandic folk songs by local singers. The town is steeped in coastal charm, with old wooden houses, imposing mountains and the magnificent Isafjördur fjord. Le Bellot will then stop in Heimaey, the only inhabited island in the Westman archipelago, where excursions include visiting the Beluga Whale Sanctuary or touring the volcanic island and the interactive Eldheimar Museum, which is dedicated to the 1973 Eldfell volcano eruption.
The trip ends in Reykjavík, where guests have the option to travel to the Golden Circle to visit Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Falls and the Geysir Geothermal Area. Another option offers a second opportunity to go whale-watching in search of humpback, minke and sei whales.
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