Reykjavik, Iceland - Northern Lights Watching

Cruises from Reykjavík

Cruises from Reykjavik offer a unique gateway to Iceland, Greenland and the Arctic, combining dramatic landscapes with unforgettable itineraries.

Your Gateway to Iceland & Arctic Cruising

Reykjavik is one of Northern Europe’s most unique cruise departure ports, offering access to some of the world’s most dramatic and remote landscapes. From volcanic scenery and glaciers to waterfalls and geothermal wonders, Iceland provides an unforgettable start to any cruise holiday.

Reykjavik, Iceland - Skogafoss Waterfall

Cruise & Stay Holidays in Iceland

Cruising from Reykjavik works perfectly as part of a cruise and stay holiday, with many choosing to spend two or three nights exploring Iceland before departure. Visit the Blue Lagoon, explore the Golden Circle including Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss waterfall, and experience Reykjavik’s vibrant culture and dining scene. Extending your stay allows time to discover Iceland’s natural beauty beyond the city.

Find your next Cruise & Stay Holiday in Iceland ➜

Why Start Your Cruise from Reykjavik?

Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, offers a truly distinctive departure point, with itineraries focused on Iceland, Greenland and the Arctic. The cruise port is located close to the city centre, making embarkation simple. With good flight connections from the UK and Europe, it is an accessible gateway to some of the most remote and breathtaking cruise destinations.

Top 3 Things to Do in Reykjavik

Before your cruise, Reykjavik and the surrounding Icelandic countryside offer some of the most iconic natural experiences in the world.

The Golden Circle

Explore Iceland’s famous route featuring Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area and the powerful Gullfoss waterfall.

Blue Lagoon Experience

Relax in Iceland’s iconic geothermal spa, surrounded by lava fields and steaming mineral-rich waters.

Black Sand Beaches

Discover dramatic landscapes including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, along with Reynisfjara’s famous black sand beach.

Reykjavik, Iceland - Northern Lights Snow

See the Northern Lights in Iceland

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to experience the Northern Lights, with sightings possible from late autumn through early spring. While most cruises operate in summer, extending your stay in Reykjavik before or after your sailing gives you the chance to witness this natural phenomenon. Away from city lights, the dark skies and dramatic landscapes create the perfect setting for an unforgettable Northern Lights experience.

Where Can You Cruise to from Reykjavik?

Cruises from Reykjavik offer a range of unique itineraries across the North Atlantic. Many sailings focus on Iceland intensive routes, visiting multiple ports around the island and showcasing its dramatic coastline, waterfalls and volcanic landscapes. Others explore remote destinations such as the Faroe Islands, known for their rugged scenery and wildlife, before continuing to Greenland, with its glaciers and untouched wilderness. Some itineraries extend further across the Atlantic to Canada and the USA, while others head towards the British Isles and Northern Europe. These journeys offer a rare opportunity to experience remote landscapes, wildlife and natural wonders.

Cruise Lines Sailing from Iceland

Reykjavik is served by a selection of premium and contemporary cruise lines offering destination-rich itineraries.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Freestyle cruising with flexible dining and a wide range of itineraries across Iceland and the North Atlantic.

Sky Princess - Flam, Norway - Norwegian Fjords

Princess Cruises

Refined cruising with immersive itineraries exploring Iceland, Northern Europe and beyond.

Celebrity Apex - Flam, Norway - Norwegian Fjords

Celebrity Cruises

Premium ships with modern design and destination-focused itineraries to Iceland and Northern Europe.

Oceania Cruises

Premium small-ship cruising with a focus on destination immersion, fine dining and longer stays in port.

Holland America Line

Classic cruising with a focus on enrichment, fine dining and carefully curated Northern Europe itineraries.

Explora Journeys

Luxury cruising with elegant ships, spacious suites and immersive itineraries designed for a refined experience.

More Cruise Lines from Iceland

Reykjavik is also a departure point for expedition cruises and boutique cruise lines, offering smaller ships and immersive journeys across Iceland, Greenland and Arctic regions.

Cruises from Reykjavik – Frequently Asked Questions

If you are planning a cruise from Iceland, these quick answers cover common questions about visiting the city before your sailing.

Is Reykjavik a good cruise departure port?

Reykjavik is a unique and growing cruise hub, offering access to some of the most remote and scenic cruise itineraries in the world.

How long should you stay in Reykjavik before a cruise?

A stay of two to three nights is recommended to explore Iceland’s key attractions such as the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon.

Which port do cruises leave from in Reykjavik?

Cruises depart from Skarfabakki and Midbakki terminals, both located close to Reykjavik’s city centre and easily accessible.

How far is Reykjavik airport from the cruise port?

Keflavik International Airport is approximately 45 minutes from Reykjavik by transfer. Domestic Reykjavik Airport is closer but serves limited routes.

When is the best time to cruise from Reykjavik?

Cruises operate mainly from late spring through early autumn, with summer offering milder weather, long daylight hours and the chance to experience the Midnight Sun.

Book Your Next Cruise from Reykjavik

Iceland's capital city, Reykjavik, offers a truly unique start to any cruise, combining dramatic landscapes with access to remote and unforgettable destinations. Spend time exploring Iceland before setting sail on an extraordinary journey. Browse our latest cruises from Reykjavik and start planning your next escape today.