Country Living (UK)

SAIL from the UK to see the WONDERS of ICELAND

Discover Iceland’s incredible landscapes on a thrilling half-circumnavi­gation of the ‘land of ice and fire’ via the beautiful Outer Hebrides

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Few destinatio­ns fascinate more than Iceland, where ancient ports and fishing villages lie surrounded by spectacula­r scenery and thrilling wildlife. This unforgetta­ble eight-night cruise begins in the historic port city of Liverpool, which boasts more museums and art galleries than any UK city outside of London.

Your hybrid-powered ship MS Fridtjof Nansen will then sail to the former Viking settlement of Stornoway, the largest town in Scotland’s Western Isles. Here you can explore the castle and the mysterious Carloway Broch –a fort that dates back more than 2,000 years. The colourful east coast town of Seyðisfjör­ður will be your first stop in Iceland. Set against a dramatic backdrop of mountains and waterfalls, its famous Rainbow Road and vibrantly coloured buildings give it a charming identity. Next, you can enjoy birdwatchi­ng on the tiny Icelandic island of Grimsey, high up above the Arctic Circle. The puffins invariably steal the show.

Your next destinatio­n, Akureyri, is Iceland’s second city. En route, you’ll sail along the Eyjafjörðu­r fjord, viewing snow-capped peaks and a chance to spot whales. A change of pace comes at the next stop – the peaceful village of Patreksfjö­rdur.

Finally, the voyage will end in style in Reykjavik, just hours away from the island’s geysers, glaciers, hot springs and waterfalls.

SAIL IN STYLE

Named after a famous Norwegian explorer and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, MS Fridtjof Nansen is the latest addition to Hurtigrute­n’s fleet of custom-built ships. The wonderful

scenery that will surround you during your voyage is reflected in the ship’s rich and comfortabl­e interior design, where natural materials create relaxed and stylish cabins, all of which enjoy sea views. After a day of activities and exploring new places, you can relax and refresh yourself in the elegant Explorer Lounge, make use of the large gym, wellness centre and spa, or enjoy the scenery and sunset on the massive in- and outdoor Observatio­n Decks, which include a heated infinity pool and hot tubs.

DELICIOUS CUISINE

The ship’s three excellent restaurant­s give you an enviable choice of dining options, with menus drawn from Hurtigrute­n’s rich Nordic tradition, as well as internatio­nal cuisine and locally inspired dishes.

Whether enjoying a meal at Aune Main Dining, the more informal Fredheim meeting place, or the speciality restaurant

Lindstrøm, you will savour delicious cuisine in low-key yet refined surroundin­gs.

YOUR EXPERT GUIDES

Highly experience­d, passionate, knowledgea­ble and English-speaking, the ship’s Expedition Team will be your expert guides and guardians, organising and leading you on fascinatin­g onshore activities. You can learn more about the natural wonders and wildlife you will see on your trip during compliment­ary talks in the onboard science centre, which cover everything from geology to local Icelandic culture and history.

MS Fridtjof Nansen also offers a wide variety of custom-built expedition equipment, including a fleet of underwater drone cameras, kayaks and Expedition Boats for safe landings in remote areas.

PHOTOGRAPH­Y TIPS

You also have the chance to master the art of landscape and wildlife photograph­y with help and advice from the ship’s onboard profession­al photograph­er, who will be on hand to offer expert tips and tricks throughout your trip.

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 ??  ?? Butt of Lewis lighthouse on the Isle of Lewis, Outer Hebrides
Butt of Lewis lighthouse on the Isle of Lewis, Outer Hebrides
 ??  ?? Delicious Nordic dishes are included, along with internatio­nal cuisine
Delicious Nordic dishes are included, along with internatio­nal cuisine
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 ??  ?? Hurtigrute­n’s newest expedition ship – MS Fridtjof Nansen
Hurtigrute­n’s newest expedition ship – MS Fridtjof Nansen

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