Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and North America, Iceland has emerged as a sought-after travel destination. While it's possible to explore this small island independently, some travelers seek alternative options. Sailing around Iceland provides an opportunity to witness its stunning landscapes effortlessly. For solo adventurers like myself, opting for a cruise allows someone else to handle the logistics while enjoying the convenience of unpacking only once during a nine-day journey. After thorough research, I chose Iceland ProCruises, which delivered an unforgettable experience.
The parent company behind Iceland ProCruises is Icelandic-owned, specializing exclusively in cruises around Iceland and Greenland. This focus ensures a high-quality experience. The crew comprises native Icelanders, enhancing cultural authenticity. Even the head chef is Icelandic, ensuring genuine culinary offerings aboard the MS Seaventure. Our knowledgeable expedition team provided insightful commentary during excursions and delivered engaging lectures on Icelandic culture, flora, fauna, language, and folklore.
Local experiences were abundant, offering unique tastes of Iceland. I sampled fermented shark, sipped Brennevin liquor, tried various Icelandic beers, and enjoyed folk songs performed by one of our opera-singer guides. The MS Seaventure, with its 82 cabins, was compact enough to dock in exclusive locations inaccessible to larger vessels yet spacious enough to offer numerous amenities. Public areas included a large lounge, an observation deck, and even a library stocked with books. The dining room comfortably seated all guests, fostering social connections among travelers.
Each day presented a choice of three to four excursions, ranging from hikes to culturally-focused tours. Iconic sights such as Kirkjufellsfoss, Dynjandi waterfall, Myvatn thermal fields, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon awaited us. Some excursions were uniquely tailored by Iceland ProCruises, including a visit to Flatey Island for close encounters with puffins and walking across the Arctic Circle. In Siglufjordur, we witnessed a living history demonstration by modern Herring Girls showcasing their grandmothers' contributions to the local herring industry.
Onboard meals enriched the cultural experience, featuring fresh, locally caught fish daily. Buffet-style breakfasts and lunches catered to diverse dietary needs. Excursions also offered chances to taste traditional dishes; during my Dynjandi Waterfall excursion, we stopped in Pingeyri village for homemade fish soup. My nine-day circumnavigation with Iceland ProCruises exceeded expectations, combining adventure with comfort and luxury. This expedition-style cruise marked the beginning of my love for soft adventures.