Northern Lights Over Virgin Voyages Near Iceland

There are few better reminders that Iceland’s magic does not begin at the harbour. Sailors aboard a Virgin Voyages ship were treated to a spectacular northern lights display just off the Icelandic coast, with green aurora sweeping across the sky above the ship’s glowing red deck.

The photographs were shared by Richard Branson, who described the view spotted by Virgin Voyages sailors as “just spectacular”. The red ship, dark North Atlantic and moving green aurora create a scene that feels almost cinematic.

Iceland is made for a cruise itinerary

A cruise around Iceland can reveal a different landscape at every port. Ships call around the country: Reykjavík in the southwest, Grundarfjörður in the west, Ísafjörður in the Westfjords, Akureyri and Húsavík in the north, Seyðisfjörður in the east, and the Westman Islands in the south.

A single voyage can bring together geothermal valleys, glacier-fed waterfalls, black-sand beaches, volcanic lakes, puffin cliffs, whale-rich fjords and small fishing towns. The right shore excursion turns limited time in port into a well-paced Iceland experience, with meeting arrangements and return timing planned around the ship.

Reykjavík and South Iceland shore excursions

Reykjavík is the gateway to the Golden Circle and the South Coast. These cruise-aware departures combine the classic sights with port pickup and practical return timing.

West Iceland shore excursions from Grundarfjörður

Grundarfjörður sits beneath Kirkjufell, close to volcanic shores, fishing villages and the wild coast below Snæfellsjökull.

Westfjords shore excursions from Ísafjörður

Ísafjörður is surrounded by steep mountains and deep fjords. Shore time can lead to Dynjandi, remote wildlife habitats or an active ride above town.

North Iceland shore excursions from Akureyri

Akureyri offers an excellent choice of shore tours, from a focused visit to Goðafoss to fuller days among Lake Mývatn’s lava and geothermal landscapes.

North Iceland shore excursions from Húsavík

Húsavík is famous for whale watching, but the port is also a practical starting point for Goðafoss, Lake Mývatn, Ásbyrgi and Dettifoss.

East Iceland shore excursions from Seyðisfjörður

Colourful Seyðisfjörður is a memorable arrival by sea. From the harbour, travellers can reach basalt canyons, waterfalls and seasonal puffin habitats.

South Iceland and the Westman Islands

A call in the Westman Islands puts volcanic history close at hand. This local adventure is an active way to see young lava landscapes and the island’s dramatic coast.

How to choose the right Iceland shore excursion

Start with the exact port, docking time and all-aboard time shown by your cruise line. Then choose a route that matches the hours available, your preferred pace and the conditions you are comfortable with. Icelandic weather can change quickly, so warm layers, waterproof outerwear and sturdy shoes are useful even in summer.

Enter the correct ship details when booking and follow the meeting instructions on your voucher. Tour order and individual stops can change when weather, road access or the vessel’s schedule requires it.

Frequently asked questions

From northern lights at sea to Iceland ashore

The Virgin Voyages photographs capture something special about arriving in Iceland by ship: the journey itself can become part of the adventure. One moment may bring northern lights over the ocean; the next day can bring waterfalls, whales, glaciers, lava fields or a quiet fjord village.

Explore Fun Iceland day tours and choose the shore experience that fits your Iceland port call.