Iceland and Faroes Stitching Cruise

We continue to make our way to Iceland. On Bolette, make the most of the wonderful programme of events and activities as well as stitching workshops with Karin.

Enjoy the morning at sea and work on your projects with Karin. This afternoon we will arrive in Reykjavik, the world’s most northerly capital. Our included excursion this afternoon is to the iconic Blue Lagoon. Surrounded by a mossy green lava field, the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is a truly otherworldly experience. The lagoon has a floor covered in silica mud, which is incredibly healing and soothing for the skin. What was originally a pool of wastewater from a geothermal plant, soon became a national hit as Icelanders started bathing in the water and applying the wholesome mud. Now a luxurious spa, the Blue Lagoon is a glorious destination that still retains its beautiful natural atmosphere and surroundings.

Our included excursion today is to the Golden Circle, the most famous of all the scenic routes in Iceland. Stops include Geysir Geothermal Park boasting spouting springs, including Strokkur, the most active geyser in Iceland, Gullfoss Waterfall, Iceland’s most famous waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Early this morning we arrive into Ísafjörður. Located on the peninsular of the Westfjords, with a backdrop of steep mountains, this area has been one of Iceland’s most popular fishing and trading centres for over two centuries. The area surrounding Ísafjörður is the most rural in Iceland, with many secluded valleys that are home to historic and isolated farms. We depart Ísafjörður late afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day at sea. Hornbjarg is renowned for its spectacular natural beauty and remoteness. The area is a combination of vast tundra, sheer cliffs and flowering fields. Established as a nature reserve in 1975, it’s one of the best places to observe the rich wildlife and flourishing nature. There are about 260 different species of flowering plants and ferns that grow here, many of these are native to the Westfjords, and some unique to Hornbjarg. The incredible midnight sun can be seen during the summer months at the northernmost point on Grimsey Island, a tiny island home to millions of seabirds including Arctic terns and puffins.

This morning we sail into Akureyri. Located at the end of the Eyjafjordur, Iceland’s longest fjord, the waters around the fjord and coastline offer one of the best feeding grounds in the world for cetaceans, particularly humpback whales. Later this afternoon we enjoy scenic sailing, cruising through the magnificent Eyjafjörður and by Hrísey Island, known as the ‘Pearl of the Eyjafjordur’. This is Iceland’s second largest island, yet only around 200 people live here in one tiny fishing village. Those who do live on Hrisey share the flat green lands of the island with more than 40 bird species, including ptarmigans and the largest breeding colony of Arctic terns.

Renowned for its natural beauty, Borgarfjörður Eystri, located in the east of Iceland, is set amongst vast mountains and deep grassy valleys. It is an excellent spot for birdwatching and is considered to be one of the best places to see puffins. We arrive into Seyðisfjörður, regarded as one of Iceland’s most picturesque towns, surrounded by valleys where 25 waterfalls cascade down into the lagoon at the head of the fjord. Skalanes Nature Reserve is situated on the south side of the town and many seabirds, such as the black tailed godwit, and cetaceans, including seal and porpoise, can be found here.

The Faroe Islands, which translate to “Sheep Islands” was a name given by the Norse during the Viking Age, and Tórshavn is the capital city of these islands. Sheep farmers are well established here and produce wool to be made into clothing using traditional methods. Our included excursion will take us to the cultural centre of Kirkjubour, the southernmost village on Streymoy Island and the Faroes’ most historical site. Here we’ll visit the museum, St. Olav’s Church and the ruins of St. Magnus Cathedral. We return to Torshavn to visit the National Museum, where we’ll learn about the geology, botany, zoology, archaeology, folk-life and history of the Faroe Islands. Among the cultural treasures in the exhibition, we'll see the original Faroese rowing boat, traditional Faroese clothes and interesting findings from the Viking era. You can also experience a journey through the natural and geological history of the Faroe Islands with its mammal and bird life and the volcanic geological origin of the islands. Our final stop will be at the art gallery, where we can view some local artwork whilst enjoying coffee and cake.

Located on the island of Borðoy, Klaksvík is the Faroe Islands' second largest town and, thanks to the backdrop of rolling hills and craggy cliffs, one of its most beautiful. This unique town, with its Christianskirkjan Church, traditional farms and busy port, is considered the cultural and commercial hub of the Faroes. Our included excursion will take us around Lake Toftir, the fourth largest natural lake in the islands, where we’ll visit a sheep croft. We continue to Navia, which produces and sells yarn. Sweaters and knitting patterns. Founded as part of a business school project, Navia began as a small company but today is one of the leading companies in not only the Faroes but also overseas.

Our return journey will take us through the sub-sea tunnel of Eysturoy and along the coast. Once back at Klaksvík, we can enjoy the fine architecture of the Christianskirkjan Church before returning to the ship.