Exploring Iceland on a Luxurious Small Cruise: A Journey Worth Every Penny

I had been contemplating the perfect approach to exploring Iceland for a long time. This year, I finally discovered the optimal solution.

I opted for a week-long voyage around Iceland on Windstar's Star Pride ship. The cruise offered uninterrupted vistas of fjords, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant villages from the intimate, cozy vessel.

The combination of breathtaking scenery and convenience turned out to be an exceptional value, leaving me convinced it’s one of the most efficient methods to experience Iceland.

Reykjavík Arrival and Pricing Surprises

My journey commenced in Reykjavík, where I landed early in the morning and headed to Sky Lagoon Spa to shake off the jet lag prior to embarking in the afternoon.

Choosing the Sky Lagoon over the more popular Blue Lagoon was a practical decision due to its proximity, a decision I appreciated when the brief taxi fare exceeded $100.

The steep costs were a recurring theme. Iceland lacks popular rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, making traditional taxis and car rentals unexpectedly costly.

The more I ventured around, the more I encountered inflated prices on everything from groceries and dining out to apparel, including the beautiful Icelandic wool sweaters priced at least $300 each.

A Comprehensive Icelandic Tour for One Price

Celebrating my birthday, I indulged a little extra on the cruise, spending $6,500, though a less lavish trip could be managed for around $5,000.

This may seem excessive, but the cruise covered all necessities.

Every meal was provided on board, including days docked at the ports, sparing me from the costly Icelandic restaurant scene.

The cruise allowed access to remote locales like Heimaey Island, challenging to visit independently.

This remote archipelago hosts a recently active volcano and adorable young puffins, making it a sight not to be missed.

While exploring charming ports such as Seydisfjordur, Akureyri, and Ísafjörður was delightful, the cruise filled with its own adventures.

Navigating the Arctic Circle felt like a genuine exploration, especially with the waves pounding amidst the stark darkness.

Standing on deck, I admired Iceland's expansive skies, majestic waterfalls, rich green moss, and the deep blue sea.

Choosing a Cruise Over Solo Exploration in Iceland

Surprisingly, I concluded the cruise with some funds left over from my travel budget.

The Peaceful Conclusion to an Eventful Journey

An early morning horse ride through mist-laden fields just outside Reykjavík provided a tranquil finale to my voyage. The serene ambiance was only broken by the rhythmic clip-clopping of the horse's hooves.

This peaceful conclusion left me feeling content, knowing my financial planning had been spot on.

Taking a $150 taxi to the airport, a short ride that emphasized the cruise’s value.