Djupavik

Port Djupavik, Iceland, a true standout among cruise ports, offers an exceptionally intimate and dramatically scenic gateway to the Westfjords that larger ports simply can't match. The approach itself is memorable: a glide past towering basalt sea cliffs, emerald bays, and seabird colonies as jagged shorelines rise from the North Atlantic; once tied up, guests step into a landscape where rugged trails, small red-roofed structures, and the hush of the Arctic wind set the tempo for days ashore. Signature experiences center on two elements: a visit to the iconic Djúpavík fish-drying factory ruins—an atmospheric relic of Icelandic maritime history—and guided excursions that reveal the wild coastline through short hikes, Zodiac cruises to sea caves and seal colonies, and optional coastal swims in sheltered pools when conditions allow. Destinations emphasize remote, pristine panoramas over crowds, with careful shore landings into the village and the surrounding Hornstrandir-adjacent scenery that few itineraries can offer. Fleet features are tailored for this off-the-beaten-path port: compact expedition vessels with shallow drafts and nimble maneuverability, flexible tenders, and observation spaces designed for wildlife viewing and dramatic photography. Onboard services blend Icelandic hospitality with expedition-grade practicality: expert naturalists delivering context-rich briefings, intimate dining that highlights local seafood and foraged ingredients, comfortable cabins, and lounge areas that encourage storytelling after days of exploration.