Spas, whales and Vikings: Top Iceland voyages with P&O Cruises

Cruises to Iceland take in dramatic coastlines, cascading waterfalls and otherworldly landscapes, appealing to adventurers and nature lovers alike – and such voyages are easily within your reach.

British line P&O Cruises offers a wealth of cruises to Iceland in 2024 onwards that not only come with great savings and overnight stays but also the opportunity to tick off such famous cities as capital Reykjavik and far-flung corners of this intriguing island.

Join P&O Cruises on Iceland itineraries (available to book via travel agent Bolsover Cruise Club) and you’ll call at Reykjavik – the world’s northernmost capital – where travellers are greeted with both modern sophistication and Viking heritage.

Wander through the colourful streets of the Old Town, marvel at the striking architecture of the Hallgrímskirkja Church or soak in the rejuvenating waters of the geothermal pools at the Blue Lagoon.

In Isafjordur, within the Westfjords region, you’ll discover a remote fishing village surrounded by towering mountains and pristine fjords on your Iceland cruise holidays. Holiday highlights include hiking, visiting historic sites such as the Ísafjarðarkirkja church or embarking on a whale-watching excursion.

Venturing further north, the tranquil waters of Eyjafjordur welcome P&O Cruises guests to the picturesque island of Hrisey – expect lush landscapes, abundant birdlife and charming fishing villages on your shore experiences.

Selected Iceland P&O Cruises holidays also call at Grundarfjordur, complete with dramatic scenery and soaring peaks, where passengers have the chance to oo and aah at the awe-inspiring Kirkjufell ‘Church’ mountain – often dubbed the most photographed mountain in Iceland. Take a scenic hike, try horse riding (Icelandic horses are one of the oldest and purest horse breeds – and are very cute) or embark on a glacier tour.

Finally, in Akureyri, known as the “Capital of the North,” immerse yourself in Icelandic culture and history at the Akureyri Museum on your P&O Cruises holidays to Iceland or check out the nearby Godafoss waterfall – one of Iceland’s most iconic natural attractions.

What is the best month to cruise to Iceland?

The best month to cruise to Iceland really depends on what you’re after. Iceland P&O Cruises holidays offer an array of summer cruises as June, July and August are the most popular months to visit. This is due to the milder temperatures and longer daylight hours which allow for more time to explore the island’s landscapes and attractions.

Summer doesn’t always mean glorious sunshine, though! Weather in Iceland can be unpredictable regardless of the season, so do pack layers and be prepared for various conditions.

Is Reykjavik walkable from the cruise port?

Yes, Reykjavik is generally walkable from the cruise port, depending on which cruise terminal your ship docks at. Most larger cruise ships, including P&O Cruises vessels, dock in the newest terminal at Skarfabakki which is 4km from the city centre, so it could take you about 30-40 minutes to walk depending on pace.

Alternatively, there are taxis available at the cruise port and shuttle services to transport passengers to and from Reykjavik cruise port to the city centre. Additionally, Reykjavik has a reliable public bus system that can take you from the terminal to various parts of the city.

Can you see the Northern Lights from a cruise ship in Iceland?

Yes, it’s possible to see the Northern Lights on an Iceland cruise, especially if your itinerary includes stops in such northern regions as Akureyri, as P&O Cruises does, or sails the northern coast.

Note voyages during the winter months when the nights are longer and darker offer better chances of seeing the Northern Lights – so don’t hold your breath on summer cruises.

No matter when you travel with P&O Cruises, it’s essential to keep in mind that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and are never guaranteed, even in regions known for frequent aurora activity like Iceland.

What month is best to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

If you’re eager to catch the light show, the best months to see the Northern Lights in Iceland are typically from September to April. During this period, the nights are longer and darker, and the weather conditions are generally more conducive to aurora viewing.

Remember that while these months offer the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights, sightings are still subject to various factors such as solar activity, weather conditions and light pollution.

How far is the Blue Lagoon from the cruise port?

The Blue Lagoon is located approximately 50km southwest of Reykjavik, so it generally takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to travel from the cruise port in Reykjavik to the Blue Lagoon.

Your best bet, for ease, is joining a cruise ship shore excursion – that way you know the timings will align perfectly with your arrival and departure times. Other transportation options available from the cruise terminal to the Blue Lagoon include bus tours, private transfers and rental cars.