Iceland, Greenland, Nova Scotia and the Bay of Fundy
Grand Cruise Journey of Arctic Geysers, Calving Glaciers, and Fiery Lands of Ice
STARTING IN REKJAVIK ICELAND AND ENDING IN NEW YORK CITY
ON THE BRAND NEW LUXURY SHIP EXPLORA I FROM MSC’S NEW ULTRA LUXURY EXPEDITION BRAND EXPLORA JOURNEYS
CRUISE DATES SEPTEMBER 9-25, 2023
The panoramic vistas of sea and mountains over Nuuk Greenland
The exotic and lavish indoor pool with retractable roof on the brand new Explora I
WITH OPTIONAL 2 NIGHT PRE CRUISE IN REYKJAVIK featuring a visit to the Blue Lagoon Hot Springs
Relaxing in the thermal waters of the Blue lagoon Hot Springs in iceland
Join us for a cruise on another brand new luxury cruise ship, cruising to more exotic locations.
The Explora I from Explora Journeys (the new luxury brand cruise line from MSC Cruise Line)
Explora Journeys ships are upscale luxury similar to the luxury found on the former Crystal cruise line. (So if you loved cruising on Crystal, you will love cruising on Explora !!!)
The cabins on Explora I are all over 300 feet in size (which is 2 to 3 times the size of mainstream cruise lines.) They are truly suites rather than just cabins !
And…
They all have a private terrace - similar to but much larger than a traditional cruise balcony, the private terraces on the Explora I have not just a table and 2 chairs, but actually the private terraces in each cabin on Explora I have a table, 2 chairs AND A DAY BED TO RELAX IN THE SUNSHINE ON YOUR OWN LUXURIOUS TERRACE OF YOUR OWN SUITE ON EXPLORA I !!!
The ship’s maiden voyage will be on May 31 of 2023, so our voyage September 9 of 2023 will be an exciting time to sail on this amazing new ship.
Explora I Quick Facts
- Maiden voyage May 31, 2023
- 63,900 tons
- 900 guests max.
- All cabins are suites, with PRIVATE TERRACES – LARGER THAN TRADITIONAL BALCONIES, THE TERRACE ON YOUR SUITE HAS ITS OWN DAY BED FOR YOU TO RELAX IN THE SUNSHINE
- Lead-in suites start at 377 square feet and the higher category suites go up to over 3,000 sq ft
- Six restaurants and eleven dining options >> all but 2 of these culinary experiences are included in your cruise (unlike mainstream cruises which charge extra for all but the main dining room on the ship)
- Wifi is unlimited INCLUDED
- All Gratuities are INCLUDED
- Drinks are unlimited and INCLDUED ACROSS THE SHIP AND IN YOUR SUITE’S OWN MINI BAR…PERFECT FOR RELAXING WITH FRIENDS ON THE SUN DECK, OR IN ONE OF THE FINE RESTAURANTS, OR ONE OF THE MANY LOUNGES ONBOARD, OR EVEN ON THE TERRACE OF YOUR OWN SUITE.
- Shuttle transfers from the ship to the city center (in ports where available) are included
- Access the Spa Thermal area is INLCUDED
The Aft pool and sun deck has sun loungers with and without canopies, so you can decide how much sun you enjoy while relaxing on deck.
All Cabins are suites and all are at least 377 square feet and all have private terraces, much larger than traditional cruise cabin balconies
A DAY BED IS ON THE PRIVATE TERRACE OF EVERY SUITE SO YOU CAN RELAX IN THE SUNSHINE ON YOUR OWN LUXURIOUS TERRACE OF YOUR OWN CABIN ON EXPLORA I !!!
DAILY CRUISE ITINERARY
Day 1 | Saturday, September 9th, 2023 – Reykjavik | Overnight
Arrive at a time of your leisure without worry, as our cruise remains docked in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland overnight, giving you the freedom and flexibility in booking your flights.
Enjoy the beauty of Reykjavik tonight with the ship’s free shuttles to and from the city center if you wish.
OR YOU MAY WISH TO BOOK OUR OPTIONAL TWO NIGHT PRE CRUISE STAY AT THE BLUE LAGOON HOT SPRINGS SPA AND RESORT. SEPT. 7-9, 2023
Day 2 | Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023 – Reykjavik | Depart 11:00 am
Day 3 | Monday, Sept. 11, 2023 – Akureyri | Arrive 9:00 am – Depart 6:00 pm
Quiet and unassuming, this charming town offers and abundance of authentic experiences. Located along one of the region’s largest fjords, discover museums, galleries, and the northernmost botanical gardens and nearly – northernmost golf course. Take to the skies for the ultimate view or watch the scenery unfold as you raft down a glacial canyon. Sink into a beer bath, ride Icelandic horses, or visit the waterfall of the Gods. Something of a bathing mecca, refresh in the town’s geothermal swimming pool, soak up hot spring minerals within the My’vatn Nature Baths and encounter incredible views as you let the warm sea work miracles at the restorative GeoSea baths. Wellbeing personified.
Nestled along the shores of one of the most breathtaking fjords in Iceland, Akureyri is the nation’s second largest city in Iceland and a center 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.
Akureyri Iceland
Day 4 | Tuesday, September 12th, 2023 – Isafjordur | Arrive 8 am – Depart 5 pm
Feel free within the peaceful, beautiful countryside that surrounds a handful of tin-roofed towns. Roam the wild Westfjords territory; whale watch, bird watch, kayak, horseback ride, hike, cycle or play golf – the options are endless. Learn of maritime heritage at the Westfjords Museum, travel by boat to the remote Hornstrandir peninsula, visit friendly fishing villages, spot Arctic foxes and experience life as a Viking at Skalinn Viking Centre. Small and unspoiled, Isafjordur exhibits a largely uninhabited Icelandic wonderland.
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.
Isafjordur Iceland
Day 5 | Wednesday, September 13th 2023 – Day at Sea
Enjoy the many luxurious offerings of our floating resort, along with a trivia contest amongst our own singles group if you wish.
All drinks are included on Explora 1, so visit the various lounges onboard and sample the special libations if you wish, at the bar, or while reclining on your favorite sun deck chair.
The boat has 13 decks ( 5 with cabins), featuring:
- Food and beverage venues (18 total),
- Wellness facilities (Spa & Fitness),
- Infirmary/medical center,
- Aft Marina Deck (for launching watersports activities)
- Marina Lounge & Bar, Forward Lounge, Coffee Lounge (patisserie),
- Gelateria & Creperie Bar,
- Aft Lounge & Bar,
- Lower Aft Plunge Pool & Lounge,
- Upper Aft Pool & Lounge, Forward Pool & Lounge (adults-only sundeck with a large swimming pool),
- Panorama Lounge & Bar,
- Lobby Hall (Reception & Tour Desk),
- Casino, Boutiques (duty-free shops), Art Gallery,
- The ship has 6 amazing restaurants – INCLUDED IN YOUR CRUISE FARE
- Mediterranean-style,
- International-style,
- Concept, Steakhouse,
- Pan-Asian,
- All-Day Dining/Lido Buffet),
Details below, so scroll down for the delicious details of these restaurants)
- 4x swimming pools (3x outdoor + 1x indoor/covered with a retractable glass roof),
- Several whirlpools (indoor and outdoor Jacuzzies/spa pools)
- Sports Court, Running Track (2-lane),
- Various sundeck spaces (for relaxation, sunbathing, open-air seating, including daybeds
- There is also an adults only pool/sundeck on deck 12. Acess is Included in your cruise fare.
The indoor pool covered by a retractable roof
Lounge & be entertained
- Ten indoor and outdoor bar and lounge experiences with curated entertainment and intimate performances. All drinks are included throughout the ship, so relax with your favorite drink and be entertained.
- Casino, art gallery and curated shopping experiences
Day 6 | Thursday, September 14th, 2023 – Sailing the Prins Christian Sound Waterway |
Arrive 2:00 pm – Depart 3:00 pm
Relax this morning and enjoy all that our splendid luxury ship has to offer.
This afternoon, join us on the outer decks or just relax on your own balcony as we sail through the stunning Prince Christian Sound – our first sights of Greenland’s scenic wonders unfolding before our eyes!
Arriving into Prince Christian Sound Waterway at the entry point to Greenland
The Prince Christian Sound connects the Labrador Sea with the Irminger Sea. It is around 100 km (60 miles) long and it is narrow, sometimes only 500 metres (1,600 ft) wide. There is only one settlement along this sound, Aappilattoq.
The long fjord system is mostly surrounded by steep mountains in general reaching over 1,200 metres (3,900 ft), one of them 2,220 metres (7,280 ft) high[3][4] Many glaciers go straight into its waters where they calve icebergs.
Glaciers in Prince William Sound Dramatic cliffs along the coast of PWS
Day 7 | Friday, September 15th,2023 – Paamuit |Arrive 10:00 am – Depart 7:00 pm
Keep quiet about Paamiut – it’s the best kep secret in the region. Head of the well-trodden path and be welcome with mugs of kaffemik coffee and many a story. Noble and colonial-style, the harbor-side gives way to brightly colored, protected buildings – a chuch, museum and just a few residents. Hike trails through untouched landscapes, spot spiritual white-tailed eagles and find peace in this natural habitat at the entrance to the Kuanersooq Fjord. This place is good for the soul but remember not to tell a soul.
One major attraction for many people to Greenland is the amazing fjords. These natural structures are so amazing that you will have a time of your life marveling at them. Since Greenland is an ice-filled location you can enjoy the views from different parts. You can enjoy watching the fjords and other natural structures which make your stay awesome.
There are so many natural resources in Paamiut and you can take your time to explore each one of them
There are also many small islands around Paamiut which make for great seascape photos, especially from a distance as our ship approaches.
Islands around Paamuit, make for a most interesting topography as we arrive –
watch it from the terrace of your suite as we sail into the port.
Day 8 Sat., September 16th, 2023 – Nuuk (Godthaab) Arrive 8AM – Depart 5pm
Absorb rich Inuit tradition and history amid gourmet restaurants, fashion boutiques and humpback whales. Against the backdrop of the majestic Sermitsiaq mountain, discover rainbow-colored houses, mummies at the National Museum, drum dance shows and local craft beer at Greenland’s largest microbrewery. And then explore untouched wilderness, hover by helicopter over the world’s second largest fjord, get acquainted with marine life by boat or gently kayak through creeks. For such a tiny capital, Nuuk goes big in Greenlandic experiences, combined with hordes of fresh air.
Mountains over Nuuk A statue to a local hero in Nuuk
The panoramic vistas of sea and mountains over Nuuk Greenland
Day 9 | Sunday, September 17th, 2023 – Day at Sea
Enjoy the many luxurious offerings of our floating resort, along with a trivia contest amongst our own singles group if you wish. Its numerous pools and hot tubs, sun loungers, the casino, fitness center and more all await you. And if you wish, again, join us for our own trivia competition amongst our group’s passengers.
All drinks are included on Explora I, so visit the various lounges onboard and sample the special libations if you wish, at the bar, or while reclining on your favorite sun deck chair.
Tonight, after the sun has set, watch the northern skies as September is an ideal time and the dark skies at sea in Greenland, far away from city lights, are ideal for spotting the Northern Lights.
The northern lights are one of the most exquisite phenomena that always have people talking. The aurora borealis is a major aspect of the Greenland skyline. If you want to see the northern lights then you should visit this location during the months of September through March.
The northern lights add a different dimension to the unique features that you have ever seen in the world. The lights in exquisite shades of mostly green and occasionally red or purple, paints something magical and whimsical in the sky for you to gaze at from either the ship’s open decks or from your own suite’s private terrace. Some of the award-winning photographs have been taken from this location.
The bright, dancing colors of the Northern Lights, or Aurora borealis, are as mysterious to some as they are beautiful. Shades of red, blue, green, yellow, and violet can be seen in the night sky, enchanting viewers.
What causes this natural phenomenon?
When gaseous particles in Earth’s atmosphere collide with charged particles released by the sun’s atmosphere, light is emitted. Usually, these particles are usually deflected by Earth’s magnetic fields, but these fields are weaker at the poles, allowing the particles to enter the atmosphere.
The green whimsical Northern Lights dancing above a small village in Greenland.
They are best seen however, at sea, or anywhere which is away from city lights.
Day 10 | Mon, Sept. 18th, 2023 – QaQortoq (Julianehab) | Arrive 7 am – Depart 4 pm
Step into the boots of Eric the Red and into a city that means white, with green land and colorful houses. Unfold layers of Norse culture, history and nature within Stone & Man carvings and sculptures and explore local fish markets and homebrewed beer. Witness amazing arctic sights of icebergs, glaciers and tundra by boat or helicopter, within the warm waters of Uunartoq Hot Spring, or at your own pace by kayak. Feel your mind and body warmed - from the standard Inuit welcome, to the perfectly balanced climate.
Greenland is filled with different places where you can go and enjoy exploring the glaciers. The coastline is filled with inlets and fjords all of which attract large sheets of ice. You can check these areas as you take pictures and get to understand the dynamics of the place.
Qaqortoq - things to do...
When visitors come by boat, as you navigate towards Qaqortoq through Julianehåb Fjord, you’ll see the many colorful houses which the city is famous for.
From Qaqortoq, you may wish to take an excursion to see the glaciers up close.
Tourist excursion boats from this port, cruise north, past the town of Narsaq and across Ikerssuaq Fjord, zig-zagging through the water to past the many drifting icebergs which come from the Greenland Ice Sheet.
The destination is a reasonably accessible glacier tongue known locally as Tvillingebræen, which means the Twin Glacier. Once on land, walking a few hundred meters will enable visitors to touch the ice. From here its possible to observe how much the ice has receded over the past few decades. Back in the 1980s, the glacier actively calved directly into the fjord.
The different colors of ice cap are clearly visible here, contrasting with the water, the mountains and the sky. This is one of the most photogenic places in South Greenland. The return journey to Qaqortoq passes bird cliffs and a small waterfall.
The city is full of public art and colorful personalities around the streets.
The few restaurants and cafes are well-attended as people catch up on each other's lives. This is a very social place.
As with many cities in South Greenland, there are plenty of opportunities for short or long walks with varying levels of difficulty.
Qaqortoq is the largest city in South Greenland and the perfect base from which to explore the Norse (Viking) ruins encompassed by the extensive UNESCO-listed Kujataa World Heritage Site.
A short boat trip from Qaqortoq will take you to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Hvalsø Church Ruin and the beautiful Uunartoq hot springs (bring your swimsuit), as well as the inland fjord system. This is a very attractive region to travel by boat.
An excursion to see the glaciers of Greenland up close.
Day 11 | Tuesday, September 19th, 2023 – Day at Sea
Enjoy the many luxurious offerings of our floating resort, along with a trivia contest amongst our own singles group if you wish. Its numerous pools and hot tubs, sun loungers, the casino, fitness center and more all await you. And if you wish, again, join us for our own trivia competition amongst our group’s passengers.
All drinks are included on Explora I, so visit the various lounges onboard and sample the special libations if you wish, at the bar, or while reclining on your favorite sun deck chair.
Day 12 | Wednesday, September 20th, 2023 – Day at Sea
Enjoy the many luxurious offerings of our floating resort, along with a trivia contest amongst our own singles group if you wish. Its numerous pools and hot tubs, sun loungers, the casino, fitness center and more all await you. And if you wish, again, join us for our own trivia competition amongst our group’s passengers.
All drinks are included on Explora I, so visit the various lounges onboard and sample the special libations if you wish, at the bar, or while reclining on your favorite sun deck chair.
Day 13 Thurs. Sept. 21st, 2023 – Sydney Nova Scotia Arrive 9:00 am – Depart 8:pm
Embrace the perfect blend of urban charm, historic sites, captivating scenery and warm hospitality in Cape Breton. Applaud buskers along the charming waterfront, capture a moment beside the world’s largest fiddle and drop into eclectic boutiques. Hike along part of the far-reaching Cabot Trail – a must for anyone wishing to absorb the spectacular scenery. Immerse yourself in Nova Scotian culture as you engage in the works of local artisans – from painters to carpenters and glass blowers to chocolatiers, this is truly a handicraft haven.
As with many Nova Scotian communities on the ocean, the heart of Sydney is its waterfront. On a warm, summer evening it’s a great place to go for a walk, stop to watch to a busker and to watch ships in the harbour. Along the way, be sure to get your photo taken beside the world’s largest fiddle, built in recognition of Cape Breton’s musical talent.
Exploring the great outdoors in Nova Scotia is a must-do when visiting and the perfect opportunity to clear your mind while breathing in the fresh sea air.
Take in an organized event, go hiking on our lush wooded trails, cycle scenic coastal roads, run challenging seaside courses, or paddle our beautiful waters - just make sure to pack your sense of adventure!
The Largest fiddle in the World greet you as you arrive into Sydney harbor
Day 14 | Friday, September 22, 2023 – Day at Sea
Enjoy the many luxurious offerings of our floating resort, along with a trivia contest amongst our own singles group if you wish. Its numerous pools and hot tubs, sun loungers, the casino, fitness center and more all await you. And if you wish, again, join us for our own trivia competition amongst our group’s passengers.
All drinks are included on Explora I, so visit the various lounges onboard and sample the special libations if you wish, at the bar, or while reclining on your favorite sun deck chair.
Day 15 | Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023 – Saint John, Bay of Fundy - Arrive 8 am – Depart 8 pm
Immerse yourself in Canada’s oldest incorporated city. Learn about the province’s heritage and stunning Beaux-Arts architecture. Zip-line over lush landscapes and discover freshwater lakes, miles of nature trails, sandy beaches, salt marshes and waterfalls. Admire the thriving sea bird population in the Bay of Fundy ecosystem, enjoy seafood and caviar, attend a wine-tasting or simply drift gently through remote and calming fishing villages.
Visit the Old City Market. Inside this busy market you will find local produce, fresh seafood, old-fashioned butchers, delightful bakeries and interesting souvenirs and crafts. The perfect place to fill your picnic basket or to buy yourself a little something to remember your time Saint John.
Dating back to the War of 1812, Carleton Martello Tower played an important role in protecting this Loyalist City all the way up until WWII. See restored barracks and black powder magazine at this site as well as stunning scenes of the surrounding city and harbor.
Day 16 | Sunday, September 24th, 2023– Day at Sea
Enjoy the many luxurious offerings of our floating resort, along with a trivia contest amongst our own singles group if you wish. Its numerous pools and hot tubs, sun loungers, the casino, fitness center and more all await you. And if you wish, again, join us for our own trivia competition amongst our group’s passengers.
All drinks are included on Explora I, so visit the various lounges onboard and sample the special libations if you wish, at the bar, or while reclining on your favorite sun deck chair.
Day 17 | Monday, September 25th, 2023 – New York City | Arrive 7:00 am
Book your return flight to conveniently fly home from one of New York City’s three airports. Transfers from the ship to the airport are available for purchase from the cruise line if desired.
Explora I Quick Facts
- Maiden voyage May 31, 2023
- 63,900 tons
- 900 guests max.
- All cabins are suites, with PRIVATE TERRACES – LARGER THAN TRADITIONAL BALCONIES, THE TERRACE ON YOUR SUITE HAS ITS OWN DAY BED FOR YOU TO RELAX IN THE SUNSHINE
- Lead-in suites start at 377 square feet and the higher category suites go up to over 3,000 sq ft
- Six restaurants and eleven dining options >> all but 2 of these culinary experiences are included in your cruise (unlike mainstream cruises which charge extra for all but the main dining room on the ship)
It is with much excitement I share with you the culinary experiences we will be offering you aboard Explora I,
we are pleased to offer 11 experiences across six restaurants, plus in-suite dining and 12 bars and lounges…
All of these, ARE INCLUDED IN YOUR CRUISE FARE, with the exception of the last two items on this list (Chef’s Kitchen and the Anthology restaurant)
Sakura – An immersive, authentic dining experience offering the finest Pan-Asian cuisine, representing Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, and Malaysian. Expansive ocean views, bold design with distinct Japanese cues, Asian-influenced beverages, and a Sake sommelier, combined with seamless service and modern Asian music create a dynamic dining experience.
Marble & Co. Grill – A redefined European steakhouse experience., inspired by the marbling found in only the finest beef, serving exceptional cuts, personally sourced and sustainably farmed. The experience is augmented by an in-house dry ager and a cellar boasting a superb selection of fine wines.
Med Yacht Club – A relaxed celebration of the flavours, ambience, and dolce vita of the Mediterranean. Inspired by sailings across crystal clear waters, the Med Yacht Club is influenced by sophisticated, beachside Mediterranean restaurants, embracing the varied cuisines of the region and infusing tastes and textures of Italy, Spain, Greece, and France. Wines will showcase the rich vineyards of the Mediterranean with fresh juices and cocktails honouring regional ingredients.
Emporium Marketplace – Effortless all-day dining, bringing the global culinary talent and produce to the fore to offer diverse cuisines with a focus on quality produce, inspired by local destinations. Bathed in natural bright light, 18 separate cooking stations evolve throughout the day with cuisines representing every corner of the globe. Features include sushi, fresh seafood and a daily rotisserie offering grilled, roasted, and slow-cooked meats. Pasta is cooked to order, and freshly baked pizzas and bread are on offer as are homemade sandwiches. Charcuterie, fromagerie, boulangerie and patisserie stations enhance the experience A selection of wines, champagne and beverages are available to complement meals throughout the day.
Fil Rouge – A common red thread that unites international flavours with a French influence. A sophisticated and intimate restaurant, offering a global tasting tour of French-inspired international cuisine. An elegant dessert cart tempts with the freshest creations served tableside, and a superb wine selection showcases the best of both the Old and New World vineyards.
In-Suite Dining – Available 24 hours, guests can enjoy refined dining in the comfort of their suite or private terrace.
Chef’s Kitchen* – The Chef’s Kitchen is an immersive experience held in an ocean-front private kitchen setting for 12 guests. Our team of culinary experts guides guests through a journey of discovering new ingredients, flavours, textures, and cultures, regardless of their cooking skills level. An exclusive experience fee applies.
Anthology* – Anthology is defined as a collection of selected works of art or music reflecting the restaurant that acts as a culinary stage for guest chefs to curate menus showcasing global cuisines. Exquisite cuisine celebrating the talents and masterpiece specialities of guest chefs from around the world, reflecting the journey and its destinations, and unique wine pairing in a setting of contemporary refined elegance. An exclusive experience fee applies.
Bon Appetit!
OPTIONAL 2 NIGHT PRE CRUISE IN REYKJAVIK\
IF YOU WANT TO SEE MORE OF THE CAPITAL CITY OF ICELAND AND UNWIND BEFORE YOUR CRUISE, JOIN US FOR A TWO NIGHT PRE CRUISE PACKAGE IN REYKJAVIK.
We will enjoy two nights at a hotel in the city center, a Golden Circle tour of the waterfalls and other natural wonders surrounding the capital city and a visit to the world famous Blue Lagoon Hot Springs.
Thursday September 7th 2023 – Arrive into Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland at your own arrangement and then make your way to our hotel in the city center.
We will have an orientation at our hotel tonight.
Tonight, if you wish, take an optional nighttime excursion designed to search for the Northern Lights (aurora borealis) in the night skies outside the city. (approx.. $75)
The bright, dancing colors of the Northern Lights, or Aurora borealis, are as mysterious to some as they are beautiful. Shades of red, blue, green, yellow, and violet can be seen in the night sky, enchanting viewers.
Friday September 8th, 2023
Today we will enjoy the classic golden Circle tour of geysers, waterfalls and more natural wonders of this region
Witness the three wonders of the famous Iceland Golden Circle on this day trip from Reykjavik. Travel by air-conditioned vehicle with an expert guide and learn the history and geology of each site. See the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall, the bubbling pools and Strokkur waterspout at Geysir and the incredible tectonic rift at Thingvellir National Park. On route, drink in Iceland’s stark beauty and learn how islanders are using its natural steam and geothermal waters to produce sustainable energy.
Get into the history of Iceland at Thingvellir National Park, witness the powerful beauty of a multi-tiered waterfall at Gullfoss and walk among bubbling geothermal pools at Geysir Geothermal Area.
Learn about some of the thrilling and somewhat gruesome history of Iceland at Thingvellir National Park. It’s significance is so great that it is a designated UNESCO world heritage site. You’ll walk the grounds where Icelandic democracy began and visit sites where Viking-era justice was carried out including the Drowning Pool and the Gallows Rock. Thingvellir is also the place where two tectonic plates are gradually separating creating a gorgeous landscape of steep cliffs and broad fields featuring Thingvallavatn, the largest natural lake in Iceland.
Deep gorges and canyons in Thingveilir National park
Geysir
The Great Geysir, the first of its name, resides in Haukadalur in the Geysir Geothermal Area. The entire area is bubbling with geothermal activity from steam vents to boiling mud pits and the real stars of the geothermal show, the geysers. All other geysers, the world over, are named for Geysir.
Gullfoss Waterfall
The most popular waterfall in Iceland is, without a doubt, Gullfoss (the golden falls). And that is saying quite a lot in a country that is home to thousands of waterfalls. Gullfoss is also considered by many to be one of the most beautiful in Iceland and it is certainly one of the largest. Hearing the roar of the Hvita River as it plunges 32 meters over two tiers into the gorge below is exhilarating. On sunny days, rainbows are abundant in the mist rising from the falls and there are several paths available around the waterfall including one leading down to its bottom so come equipped with your raincoat and have your camera at the ready..
Seeing a rainbow over Gulfoss Waterfall is common in this area and makes for great photos on your visit.
After returning to our hotel to relax and if you wish, get an early dinner at our near our hotel, we will then be picked up to go to
Discover the Wonder- THE BLUE LAGOON HOT SPRINGS
Healing waters. A subterranean spa. Gourmet cuisine. Luxurious suites. Otherworldly vistas. A universe of radiant wellbeing.
An otherworldly wonder in the heart of a volcanic landscape
, Blue Lagoon Iceland is a place where the powers of geothermal seawater create transformational spa journeys. It is a massive outdoor hot springs and spa complex.
You can soak in its huge outdoor hot springs heated geothermally and if you wish, you can even get a massage while floating on a raft in the natural hot springs.
The spa also offers a full range of other spa, massage and beauty treatments .
The mineral-rich water of the Blue Lagoon is said to be quite therapeutic. Past guests rave about the healing benefits.
The relaxing Blue Lagoon Hot Springs
Yes, it is a massive size, so you will never feel too crowded at the Blue Lagoon Hot Springs
Your visit includes:
- Entrance to the Blue Lagoon to soak in the huge outdoor geothermal hot springs
- Silica mud mask
- Use of towel
- 1st drink of your choice
There are also lockers available for all guests to change clothes before and after entering the hot springs and before/after spa services.
Our visit will be in the early evening so we can see the hot springs and its surrounding scenery both by day and after the sun sets and a magical feeling envelopes the hot springs.
And since the hot springs are located approx. 20 minutes drive away from the city, the night skies are dark enough to sometimes see the Northern Lights, directly from the soothing waters of the hot springs. We will hope to be lucky enough to see the northern lights (also called the Aurora Borealis) as we soak under the night skies.
The bright, dancing colors of the Northern Lights, or Aurora borealis, are as mysterious to some as they are beautiful. Shades of red, blue, green, yellow, and violet can be seen in the night sky, enchanting viewers.
What causes this natural phenomenon?
When gaseous particles in Earth’s atmosphere collide with charged particles released by the sun’s atmosphere, light is emitted. Usually, these particles are usually deflected by Earth’s magnetic fields, but these fields are weaker at the poles, allowing the particles to enter the atmosphere.
The Blue Lagoon also has three restaurants so if you wish a fine dining experience or spa dining, you can find that here.
Our visit will last approx. 3 hours from approx.. 7-10pm and then we will return to our hotel.
Saturday September 9th, 2023 – We will be picked up at our hotel and taken to the cruise terminal to board our ship.
PRICING FOR THIS ONCE IN A LIFETIME AMAZING CRUISE AND PRE CRUISE
CRUISE SEPTEMBER 9-25,2023 ABOARD THE EXPLORA I of Explora Journeys
includes:
- All cabins are suites, with PRIVATE TERRACES – LARGER THAN TRADITIONAL BALCONIES, THE TERRACE ON YOUR SUITE HAS ITS OWN DAY BED FOR YOU TO RELAX IN THE SUNSHINE, plus a table and two chairs.
- suite sizes start at 377 square feet and the higher category suites go up to over 3,000 sq ft
- Six restaurants and eleven dining options >> all but 2 of these culinary experiences are included in your cruise (unlike mainstream cruises which charge extra for all but the main dining room on the ship)
- Wifi is unlimited INCLUDED
- All Gratuities are INCLUDED
- Drinks are unlimited and INCLUDED ACROSS THE SHIP AND IN YOUR SUITE’S OWN MINI BAR…PERFECT FOR RELAXING WITH FRIENDS ON THE SUN DECK, OR IN ONE OF THE FINE RESTAURANTS, OR ONE OF THE MANY LOUNGES ONBOARD, OR EVEN ON THE TERRACE OF YOUR OWN SUITE.
- Shuttle transfers from the ship to the city center (in ports where available) are included
- Access the Spa Thermal area is INCLUDED
- ALSO INCLUDED FOR EVERYONE BOOKING INTO THIS GROUP ON THIS CRUISE IS $250 PER PERSON SHIP BOARD CREDIT (BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY) OR $500 PER PERSON SHIP BOARD CREDIT (BASED ON SINGLE OCCUPANCY). This ship board credit can be used toward purchasing shore excursions or spa services onboard the ship, or toward purchases at any of the fine merchandise shops on the ship.
Based on double occupancy in category OT2 Suites All are at least 377 square feet with their own private terrace overlooking the ocean.
Each private terrace has its own plush daybed for relaxing in the sun as you wish, plus a table and two chairs. $6750 per person
Optional Single Occupancy Supplement: Starting at Only 15 percent (based on availability , so contact us quickly to get the lowest single supplement rates)
OPTIONAL 2 NIGHT PRE CRUISE PACKAGE IN REYKJAVIK ICELAND
INCLUDES:
- 2 nights hotel accommodations at a city center location
- Grand Circle tour (approx. 7 hours as indicated above)
- Visit to the Blue Lagoon Hot Springs spa (approx. 3 hours
- Group Transport from the hotel to the cruise ship.
$649 per person based on double occupancy or $899 single occupancy
DEPOSITS:
EXPLORA JOURNEYS REQURIES A 25% DEPOSIT WITHIN 7 DAYS OF BOOKING YOUR CRUISE
THE BALANCE OF YOUR CRUISE IS DUE APRIL 14TH
CANCELATION POLICY
IF Booking single occupancy you can cancel for a full refunds less a $200 fee held by Explora journeys for cancelations made by April 5th, 2023
If booking in double occupancy, with a friend of your own arrangement as your roommate, the same cancel policy will apply.
If requesting that we find you a roommate, you can cancel until February 15th and receive a future trip credit in the full amount of your deposit, valid toward any trip on our singles trips calendar through the remainder of 2023 (less the $200 fee that Explora Journeys will keep). However, if we find a replacement for your canceled space (or you find a replacement) by April 5th, you will get the full deposit refunded to you (less the $200 that Explora will keep)
We highly recommend travel insurance to protect you from loss of non-refundable expenses. Insurance is available from the cruise line or from a travel insurance provider directly. (ask us for a travel insurance quote if desire
