Stykkisholmur is the starting point of our adventures on the Snaefellnes Peninsula. Often called “Iceland in Miniature” because of its it diverse landscapes, the area is home to bird-rich Breidafjördur Bay and Snaefellsjökull glacier, which sits atop a 700,000-year-old dormant volcano that was featured in the Jules Verne novel Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Today‘s destination is Isafjördur, an idyllic town in the Westfjords region. This secluded peninsula is connected to the Icelandic mainland by only a narrow strip of land and includes many roadless areas where cars have never been. The landscape includes jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer table mountains that plunge into the sea and pristine North Atlantic vegetation.

By morning we reach the fjord town of Siglufjördur, once the hub of the global herring industry and now enjoying a rebirth in popularity. Learn about the golden age of herring at the award-winning Herring Era Museum located on the vibrant harbor-front. In the early afternoon we head to uninhabited Grimsey Island. Located about 25 miles (40 km) off the mainland on the Artic Circle, the island harbors a variety of bird species including puffins, guillemots and gulls. Later we set sail for Akureyri, Iceland’s lovable second largest city.

Ranging inland from Akureyri, we visit the fascinating Lake Myvatn region, where the schizophrenic landscape looks as if “heaven and hell” have clashed. One side of the lake features rugged volcanic remnants, while the other side is blessed with lush vegetation and varied bird life. Summer shore excursion options include a journey to Askja volcano via Super Jeep.

In the early morning hours we steam into Skjalfandi Bay and Húsavík. Often called the “Whale watching capital” of Iceland, the town’s offshore waters are home to 15 different whale species, as well as dolphins and 30 variety of bird. Watching these graceful ocean giants in their Arctic habitat is an unforgettable experience.

Iceland’s East Fjords are best explored from the impossibly picturesque port of Seydisfjördur, nestled between the sea and steep mountains. Activities include seal spotting, horseback riding, kayaking and guided hikes of the Vestadalur area.

Today’s port of call is Djupivogur fishing village in southeast Iceland, starting point for an optional excursion to Vatnajökull glacier.

Located off Iceland’s south coast, the Westman Islands were formed by submarine volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago. Surtsey Island emerged from the sea in 1963 and is one the youngest land masses on earth. We go ashore on Heimaey, the only inhabited island, where half-buried houses remain from a violent 1973 eruption. During the shore landing there is time for bird watching and you might even spot whales.

After breakfast we bid farewell to the OCEAN DIAMOND as we sail back into Reykjavik. Explore inland areas like the Golden Circle and its famous Gullfoss waterfall via our Air & Ground package or other post-cruise programs. Or simply hang out in Reykjavik, a perfect city for those who want to refresh their spirit in a place that combines invigorating outdoor activities, great food and world-class entertainment.