Norwegian Cruise Line – Norwegian Star Norway & Iceland

There’s a good reason that Iceland is considered a photographer’s dream destination. Its terrain is visually stunning, offering views of lava flows, hot springs, unspoiled nature – and colourful, fascinating cities like Reykjavik. The world’s most northerly capital brings together quaint villages, exciting museums, a flourishing music scene and restaurants that rival Europe’s finest.

Situated in West Iceland on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, Grundarfjörður is a small fishing village boasting big outdoor adventures. Hike in the surrounding mountains, explore lava fields and visit picturesque waterfalls. Or take to the water on a boating or kayaking tour. And in the summer months, enjoy Viking age re-enactments in a reconstructed Viking village.

Nestled along the shores of one of the most breathtaking fjords in Iceland, Akureyri is the nation’s second largest urban area and a centre of Icelandic folk culture. Visit the museums, hike along the extraordinary vistas or explore the botanical gardens. Shop in one of the charming boutiques and then catch a glimpse of the most northerly 18-hole golf course in the world. After you’ve worked up an appetite, feast on some Nordic specialties like smoked lamb and fresh fish and then indulge in an Icelandic fried pastry.

At Sea

Kristiansund is a municipality on the western coast of Norway in the Nordmøre district of Møre og Romsdal county. The administrative center of the municipality is the town of Kristiansund, which is the major town for the whole Nordmøre region

Situated on the eastern side of Vågsøy island, Måløy is one of the country’s most important fishing ports. Though a small coastal village of only a few thousand residents, the region surrounding Måløy is big on outdoor activities, fresh seafood and is steeped in history. From lounging on the nearly mile-long silver sand beach Refviksanden – considered one of the country’s finest swimming spots – to hiking along the rugged coast and visiting picturesque lighthouses, there are numerous ways to soak in the natural beauty of Norway.

One of Norway’s most beautiful towns, renowned for its Jugend-style architecture and art nouveau style. Cruise visitors will immediately notice Alesund’s unique layout, as it is built on islands extending to the sea, and offers scenic views of fjords and the Sunnmore Alps. Alesund is the fishing capital of Norway.

At Sea

Visitors flock to Húsavik to see its giant residents. This small town is considered one of the best places in the world to view whales – more than 20 species traverse Icelandic waters. Unique characteristics of the bay provide a rich environment for plankton and fish to thrive, which are whales’ preferred food. But there’s so much more to discover in Húsavik. The region’s diverse landscapes are ideal for bird watching and adventure activities, from sea kayaking and horseback riding to hiking, mountain biking and soaking in geothermal hot springs. Or take time to explore the town, including a visit to the very informative Húsavik Whale Museum and the unique Explorers Museum.

As the largest town in Iceland’s remote Westfjords’s region, Ísafjörður is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. Boasting an enchanting fjord ideal for watersports and a mountainous landscape brimming with opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Originally a church site and a 16th century trading post, the town of Ísafjörður is home to wonderful museums and historic sites for those wishing to learn about the region’s rich heritage and local culture.

There’s a good reason that Iceland is considered a photographer’s dream destination. Its terrain is visually stunning, offering views of lava flows, hot springs, unspoiled nature – and colourful, fascinating cities like Reykjavik. The world’s most northerly capital brings together quaint villages, exciting museums, a flourishing music scene and restaurants that rival Europe’s finest.