are iceland cruises rough seas

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Rough seas circumnavigating Iceland?

By N51EC , January 25, 2023 in Ask a Cruise Question

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We are considering a NatGeo cruise which circumnavigates Iceland but I am concerned about rough seas as I get seasick easily. We would fly directly to Iceland, not cruise to get there. Any input would be appreciated!

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CruiserBruce

Seas can be rough any time any location,  and aren't predictable more than a few days in advance. ANY TIME you get on a ship you could encounter rough seas, thus you need to be prepared. 

SPacificbound

You can prepare yourself for possibility of being seasick by making sure you have ginger in any form,  pills/capsules, cookies, candy, etc. and Bonine which is OTC and can be ordered on Amazon.

As others have said, sea conditions are unpredictable and that would include the waters around Iceland.  But the National Geo ship is quite small and would likely move around more than most larger vessels.  Take along sea bands, Bonine, etc.  Like the Boy Scouts say, "be prepared."

I’m a huge believer in Meclizine. There are other choices as well. But the key is there are ways of keeping seasickness away. Even in rough seas. Even in a small ship. That sounds like a trip of a lifetime. Don’t let seasickness worried keep you away. 

GeezerCouple

49 minutes ago, wcook said: I’m a huge believer in Meclizine. There are other choices as well. But the key is there are ways of keeping seasickness away. Even in rough seas. Even in a small ship. That sounds like a trip of a lifetime. Don’t let seasickness worried keep you away. 

Please consider taking a trial dose (or two) of any new med *before* you are away from home, on a trip.  Make sure it "agrees with you", etc.

And if you are on other meds, a quick question to your physician about any potential concerns might be prudent.

And then ENJOY.  We'd love to take a cruise like this... and maybe we will! 🙂  

YourWorldWithBill

23 hours ago, N51EC said: We are considering a NatGeo cruise which circumnavigates Iceland but I am concerned about rough seas as I get seasick easily. We would fly directly to Iceland, not cruise to get there. Any input would be appreciated!

We were on a cruise around Iceland in August/September 2021. The seas were very calm, except near Reykjavik, but were never very bad. As others said, you never know. My wife gets seasick easily, but using the patch behind the ear worked for her. It should be applied a certain number of hours before cruising. 

edinburgher

And choose a cabin/stateroom lower down and close to midships if possible.

Charles4515

On 1/25/2023 at 4:18 PM, N51EC said: We are considering a NatGeo cruise which circumnavigates Iceland but I am concerned about rough seas as I get seasick easily. We would fly directly to Iceland, not cruise to get there. Any input would be appreciated!

I did an 8 day land vacation in Iceland. I don't see much advantage to a cruise around but of course we only did land tours. Iceland was near the top of the places I have been and we will return but on land for sure. If you get seasick no need at all to do a cruise. Do a land vacation. 

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Pros and Cons Of Cruising To Iceland (Rather Than Land-Based Trip)

by Gary Bembridge · August 30, 2019

What are the pros and what are the cons of cruising to Iceland? What are the good and bad about choosing to come to Iceland on a cruise rather than a land-based trip? What do you need to know?

Watch my Iceland Cruise Pros and Cons Video

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fQxNT19HZUY

Location of key sights

Probably one of the biggest pros and good things about choosing to cruise around Iceland, rather than do it land-based, is the fact that all of the key sights and places you should go to are around the coastal area.

The centre of Iceland is basically a large wasteland of lava, and so all the key sights and places you’re going to want to see, stop at or go to are around the coast. So, going on a cruise is very logical. If you want to see Iceland by land, you have to drive around one key road that goes right around the island. This is Highway 1, the Ring Road, and it is 880 two miles long (1,300 kilometres) and, if you want to see the island, you’re going to have to go all the way around the coastal area.

So, a cruise is a great way of getting there. The Ring Road is not a particularly big road and can be very busy, so it makes a lot of sense to go on a cruise. It’s going to take you to all of the key places and sights that you want to see as they are in easy access of the port’s that you call on.

The two big classic things that you’re going to want to see are what’s known as the “Golden Circle” out of Reykjavik, and then you also have the “Jewels of the North”. If you go on the “Golden Circle”, you’re going to see three of Iceland’s most impressive and important landmarks: Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir.

If you go to see the “Jewels of the North” you visit the bubbling mud pots of Namaskard, Dimmuborgir and then the incredibly beautiful Godafoss, the waterfall of the gods. All the key sights that you’re going to want to see are on the coast or accessible from the coast. You will have to drive quite long distances or fly to some of these places if you want to be land based, but as you really need to get around the island to see the key places, why not go on a cruise?

Range of excursions

On a cruise at all of the ports of call you’re also going to have a wide range of excursions. The cruise line will have curated and pulled together all the important places you need to see , and you don’t have to do any research as they will take you on things like whale watching, can to see birds like puffins, some take you to key sites where the Game of Thrones series had some of its key scenes filmed and, of course, there will be a series of different excursions, particularly at places like Reykjavik to the baths, like the famous Blue Lagoon.

I think the next key reason for doing a cruise around Iceland, rather than land-based, is all of the benefits of going on a cruise. I think these are particularly important when it comes to Iceland.

The fact on a cruise you only unpack and have to pack once. If you’re going to try and see Iceland on land, you have to keep moving between different places and you will have to be packing and unpacking quite a lot. On a cruise, you get all of that hassle and stress taken away.

Then, of course, you have all of the perks of being on a cruise ship. For example, on the Saga Cruise I wrote this on, we had a choice of different places we could eat, including room service. On board Saga there were bands playing in the various bars, a show every night which was either guest entertainers or a production show.

And of course, even facilities like a Medical Centre if you had any medical issues was available, so no need to worry like on land with dealing with all of that. There was a shop on board if you’d forgotten any bits and pieces.

Coming to Iceland on a cruise makes it so much easier, and you can just focus on the whole experience of enjoying the place.

Another big Pro is for those people who don’t like to fly, or want to avoid the hassle of flying, is you can do no-fly cruises from a number of places in Europe.

For example, out of the UK you can cruise on cruise lines like the one that I’m on, which is a Saga Cruise. They sail out of Dover up to Iceland around the island and back to Dover. If you are UK-based, you can avoid flying. There are other cruise lines that will come to Iceland out of other ports around mainland Europe, so if you are based in Europe (or you want to minimise the amount of flying) going on a cruise to Iceland is definitely one way of doing that.

Expensive on land

For me another big pro of going on a cruise rather than land-based is that when you’re on land in Iceland, it is pretty expensive. If you want to have snacks, buy drinks, go out for meals or book accommodation and hotels, it can all mount up.

It’s surprisingly expensive in Iceland, which I guess makes sense because they have to ship so much of stuff into the island and Iceland is pretty far away. The first time I came to Iceland I thought I was getting the exchange rate wrong because things seemed really expensive when I converted them, but that’s not the case as things are expensive across Iceland.

The advantage of coming on a cruise is you’re going to know what it’s going to cost you to get there, get around and other costs associated with eating and dining. You will know that before you go and once you’re in Iceland you’re not going to have a lot of additional costs.

The fact that Iceland is a pretty expensive place once you here on land, going on a cruise is great because before you go what it’s going to cost you, and you have that all locked down.

For me personally, one of the big pros is that when you come on a cruise, you’re can learn a huge amount about the place and the line will have curated what you need to know, and they make sure you see the key sights.

For example, on the cruise that I was on with Saga there are enrichment lectures, a whole series of experts who talked about the history, ports, sights, folklore, culture and food.

You learn a huge amount Iceland and it is all included within your fare.

On the cruise ship you get destination guides for all of the ports, with information around history, what to see, what to do, where to go and maps of the places. On the in- room television you’ll often find the cruise ship will have documentaries about Iceland.

You have an opportunity to learn about, know about and understand what you’re seeing, where to go and how to do it without having do the research yourself.

You also have the shore excursion team who will have been to Iceland a number of times and you ask them questions and they can help you. You have all these experts on hand with huge amounts of information about Iceland that you can learn and get without having to do any extra work.

You have all the excursions to choose from with expert guides, so again you know you’re going to see the places you need to see, and the local guides know the place inside out.

Excursion cost not included

One of the key additional costs above your cruise fare is likely to be excursions. If you come to Iceland you certainly want to go out and see all the great sights but bear in mind most cruise lines do not include excursions within your fare.

For example, here on Saga, everything other than excursions were pretty much included: drinks, accommodation, all the dining options including speciality dining, some Wi-Fi and gratuities were included. The only extras were things like spa treatments and shopping, and also excursions were additional.

These can add quite a lot. For example, to give you a sense of what that could be, if you go on a Golden Circle tour that cost around about £120 per person (US$150), Jewels of the North was about £175 (US$200) per person. If you went whale watching, depending on where it was, that could be anything from £129 / $1505 up to $200 or £190 pounds per person.

Bear in mind that one of the downsides of going on a cruise is that you still will have excursions to do, and there is a cost associated with those.

Lack of lack of local immersion

One of the cons that you could argue of going on a cruise, is that you are traveling around Iceland in a little bit of a bubble as you’re not on land staying hotels, eating in local restaurants and so you will not get much immersion and interaction with local people.

Of course one thing you could do if you go on a cruise is, there will be excursions which are going to give you more cultural immersion and opportunities to mix and get closer to the Icelandic people, and there are some ports, like Reykjavik, where many cruises stay overnight. On my cruise we had a night in Reykjavik so there was an opportunity to go out and experience much more of the city and the local bars and places to eat.

Still crowds

The other con one could argue, is that a cruise isn’t going to buffer and protect you from the crowds at the key sights, and certainly isn’t going to guarantee you great weather.

Iceland has become incredibly popular, especially since about 2010, and many of the key sites, particularly Golden Circle and Jewels of the North, get very busy and coming on a cruise is not going to give you any special access or ways of avoiding the crowds. Of course, the guides when they take around will try and take you the best times, but it is pretty difficult.

Final thoughts

Do the cons outweigh the pros?

The fact that I’ve come here for a second time cruising to Iceland probably answers the question! I think a cruise is a phenomenal way of seeing Iceland.

If you want to come to Iceland you do really need to go around the whole island to see the key places, so why not do it on a cruise?

I have many more videos including some about Iceland, loads around cruising with tips and advice, so why don’t you watch one of those right now: http://www.youtube.com/tipsfortravellers

Note: I travelled as a guest of Saga Cruises on a round Iceland cruise. See more of my content about Saga on my Saga Cruises Tips For Travellers Page

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Gary Bembridge

I grew up in Zimbabwe, but I have been based in London since 1987. My travel life spans more than three decades and that includes more than 95 cruises. In 2005, I launched Tips for Travellers to make it easy and fun for people to discover, plan and enjoy incredible cruise vacations. And the rest, as they say, is history. I have the largest cruise vlogger channel currently on YouTube, with more than 3 million video views per month.

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Iceland Step by Step

Plan an amazing vacation to Iceland!

Taking a Cruise around Iceland: A Comprehensive Guide

In the last 5 years or so, lots of cruise companies have started offering Iceland circumnavigation cruises. These are cruises that start and end in Reykjavik, and stop in many ports around Iceland along the way. In 2022 and 2023, you have Iceland cruise options from Iceland ProCruises, Hurtigruten, Viking, Windstar, and Crystal Cruises. Norwegian Cruises offers an Iceland and Greenland cruise, and may offer an Iceland only cruise soon.

Should you take a cruise around Iceland? If so, which company is the best? Which excursions should you choose? We can help with everything you need to plan an amazing Iceland cruise vacation!

Also be sure to check out our new Facebook group all about Iceland Cruises !

Small ship cruising around Iceland

I’m a big fan of a single-country cruise. Of course, our web site is all about Iceland, so we’re biased. Still, you can’t help but find a deep appreciation for Icelandic culture when you spend a week there. You don’t get that if you wake up in a new country every other day.

Cruise ships that go around Iceland are small; you won’t find any of the typical enormous cruise ships stopping in these smaller Icelandic towns. Fewer passengers is one of the reasons these cruises are expensive; often significantly more expensive than planning a trip around Iceland yourself. But they take away almost all of the stress of planning your trip. Food, lodging, and transportation are all taken care of. And activities are too, since you’ll likely pay to add excursions!

Let’s look at the pros and cons of each of the companies that offers Iceland cruises.

Iceland ProCruises in Iceland

In 2021, we took a trip with Iceland ProCruises ( IcelandProCruises.com ), and recommend it. One of the co-owners is Icelandic, and most of the excursion team is too. Their ship only holds a maximum of 210 passengers. This is definitely a unique way to see some more remote parts of Iceland! Here’s a typical itinerary for an Iceland ProCruises cruise:

Pros of an Iceland ProCruises cruise

• Co-owned by a local Icelander. Most of the staff is Icelandic, and so you get to spend a lot of time hanging out with Icelanders
• The smallest ship option. Ocean Diamond holds a maximum of 210 passengers.
• The least expensive option by a good margin. The price for a group or family of 3 is absolutely unbeatable.
• Excursions are clearly shown on the web site, and premium excursion prices are reasonable.

Cons of an Iceland ProCruises cruise

• The small ship doesn’t have many amenities. There’s a small spa and one restaurant. The hot tub hasn’t worked on recent cruises
• Focuses on Iceland. All of their cruises visit only Iceland, or Iceland and Greenland
• No free excursion options. (But Iceland Step By Step can customize city walking yours for you, for free!)
• The ship doesn’t stop on the south coast, so you miss some parts of Iceland. You can cover this with a land tour before or after, though.

Hurtigruten cruises in Iceland

Hurtigruten is a UK based company that has been offering cruises since 1893. The tend to offer cruises to more remote areas: Iceland and Greenland, but also The Galápagos Islands and Antarctica. Hurtigruten offers scientific exploration as well as tourism. The circumnavigation map is similar to Iceland ProCrusies, though they stop at different ports in the Westfjords and in North and East Iceland.

There are 2 different ships doing Iceland circumnavigations in 2022: Fram and Nansen. Fram holds 250 passengers, and Nansen holds 528. Nansen is much bigger, but also much newer: It was built in 2020! Fram was built in 2007, but is expected to be refurbished in early 2022. So if you join Hurtigruten for an Iceland circumnavigation cruise in 2022, you’re getting a new ship. Nansen is the brand new ship that you’ll be on on the June 2022 Iceland cruises. it’s a beautiful ship:

Pros of a Hurtigruten Iceland cruise

• Brand new or refurbished ship
• Children as young as 6 welcome (but the cruise is wonderful for adults too!) 50% discount for kids,
• Opportunities for citizen science
• Many excisions are included for free (Mostly walking tours.)

Cons of a Hurtigruten Iceland cruise

• No Icelanders on the expedition team. (You won’t fund any outside of Iceland ProCruises, though!)
• Significantly more expensive than the cheapest options with Iceland ProCruises
• Only a few date choices for Iceland Circumnavigation per summer

Viking Cruises in Iceland

Viking is the big player in Iceland circumnavigation cruises. They have a cruise leaving Reykjavik every week throughout the summer. The Viking Star will spend its entire summer going round and round Iceland. While Viking claims this ships holds “only” 930 passengers, that’s the largest ship offered for a circumnavigation Iceland cruise!

But that larger ship gives you access to many more amenities. You’ll find 2 pools, a premium Nordic spa, a sports deck, and several lounges. The Star won’t match the amenities on larger ships; there’s no casino here. Still, you’ll find the most offerings on this ship for an Iceland circumnavigation cruise.

The itinerary is similar to the others, though with fewer port stops; the cruises are a day or 2 shorter, since the ship is back in Reykjavik every week.

Pros of a Viking Iceland cruise

• The most amenities of any ship here
• Frequent departures mean you can book a cruise that fits your schedule
• Inexpensive relative to most of the options here. Frequent promotions can make Viking about as cheap as Iceland ProCruises for double occupancy.
• Free walking tour excursions at all ports.

Cons of a Viking Iceland cruise

• The larger ship may not always be able to dock on land (at the Westman Islands, for example.) A zodiac boat will ferry you to shore.
• No one under 18 is allowed (though you may see this as a good thing!)
• Excursion options are all listed on the web site, but prices are not shown

Windstar Cruises in Iceland

Windstar’s cruise is similar to Viking; trips leaves most weeks from Reykjavik, which means it’s a slightly shorter trip with fewer stops. You’re onboard the Star Pride, which was renovated in 2021 to have all suite rooms.

The Star Pride holds 312 passengers, but you still get many of the amenities of the larger Viking ship: an infinity pool, a spa, several restaurants, and ample lounge space.

The Windstar cruise also only makes 5 stops, just like Viking. Hurtigruten makes 6, and Iceland ProCruises makes 8.

Pros of a Windstar Iceland cruise

• Brand new all suite layout. There are many different types of rooms, but all feature a separate living area.
• Includes a zodiac boat tour of Surtsey, a protected island that emerged from the ocean in the 1960s.
• A good amount of amenities for a smaller ship.

Cons of a Windstar Iceland cruise

• No free shore excursions.
• Many excursions seem very expensive (whale watching in Akureyri, for example.)
• (Optional) outside dining on Star Pride might not be enjoyable on cold Icelandic evenings

Crystal Cruises in Iceland (well, reborn in 2023! )

Crystal Cruises’ Expedition Iceland is the longest cruise you’ll find here: 10 nights. It’s also the most expensive, and far and away the most luxurious. You will have 24-hour access to a butler! The ship is the brand new Crystal Endeavor, and it only holds 200 passengers. But there’s a casino, a 2-story solarium, and so much more.

The long duration of the cruise lets you get to some places the other ships skip.

Many of those stops in North Iceland would take you hours of driving to see; no other cruise is going to get you to the stunning Látrabjarg bird cliffs. But this cruise doesn’t come cheap; the cheapest price is more than twice the cost of any other cruise. But what a cruise it is.

Pros of a Crystal Cruises Iceland cruise

• Free warm clothing. A good selection of free and paid excursions
• Luxury like no other Iceland cruise: A butler and Michelin-inspired dining
• The longest option with access to surprising area up north

Cons of a Crystal Cruises Iceland cruise

• Very expensive. Several times the price of cheaper options on other ships
• That’s really it. If you can afford it, this is an amazing cruise on an amazing ship.

Aurora Expeditions Iceland Cruises

Aurora gives you just one Iceland circumnavigation cruise per year, at least in 2022. You only choice is August 1-11. If that works for your schedule, this is an option worth considering. This is the smallest ship here, at least by length: The Greg Mortimer (yes, that’s the name of the ship!) holds just 126 passengers, and is just 343 feet long.

The small ship allows you to get to one port that no other ship here stops at: Höfn. Höfn is on the South coast of Iceland, and is very close to famous glacier lagoons in that part of the country. If you want to see those lagoons on other cruises, you may find yourself on a 2-hour bus journey from a very different port.

Pros of Aurora Expeditions Iceland Cruises

• A smaller ship gets you better access to the south coast of Iceland
• basic excursions are included in the price

Cons of Aurora Expeditions Iceland Cruises

• The smaller ship means higher prices, though not as high as Crystal Cruises
• Only one cruise per year around Iceland

National Geographic Iceland Cruises

National Geographic partners with Lindblad Expeditions to operate 3 cruises around Iceland every summer. You’ll be on either the National Geographic Explorer, which holds 148 passengers, or the National Geographic Resolution, which holds 126 passengers.

These cruises are all-inclusive. You can add on land days before or after the cruise, but on the cruise itself, everything is included. All excursions are induced in the price, including a clever land portion up North. You aren’t even expected to tip!

Note the red “Motor Route” on the map above. You get off the ship at Akureyri, and then explore the Diamond Circle and Mývatn areas up North. Then the ship meets you up in Húsavík to continue the cruise.

Pros of a National Geographic Iceland Cruise

• All inclusive. Everyone does the same thing at the same time.
• Small boats, with under 150 passengers
• Clever bus portion of the trip up North to see more interior areas without backtracking.
• A walking tour and meals are included on your arrival day in Reykjavik before boarding the ship.

Cons of a National Geographic Iceland Cruise

• Expensive. The only more expensive option in Crystal Cruises. The all-inclusiveness does make the cost less extreme, though.
• The National Geographic Explorer ship is older, and lacks some amenities like a pool. But you’re probably not in Iceland for the pool!

Which Iceland circumnavigation cruise to choose?

Every single one of these cruises will be an amazing Iceland experience. They all have well-thought out itineraries and will lead to an unforgettable adventure.

With that said, we’re partial to Iceland ProCruises. This is the least expensive option, for one of the longer trips. Many of the expedition members are Icelandic, which to me is a big perk. You won’t find many amenities on the ship, so look elsewhere if a pool and expansive spa are what you’re looking for.

Hurtigruten is another good choice, with the option of a brand new ship and some unique science-based opportunities.

Viking is another great choice, with weekly departures and larger ships with more amenities.

But seriously, these are all fantastic options. Contact us if you’d like help planning your trip! We often have discounts or bonuses we can provide you as a travel agent for your Iceland vacation. And we can create custom pre- and post- cruise touring options you won’t get anywhere else.

Just fill out the short form below and we’ll be in touch soon!

Eric writes about Iceland for Iceland With Kids and Iceland Step by Step.

Reader Interactions

August 21, 2023 at 1:52 am

Looking at a 2025 trip

The Real Person!

Author Eric acts as a real person and passed all tests against spambots. Anti-Spam by CleanTalk.

September 1, 2023 at 2:16 pm

We just reached out to help you plan your Iceland cruise!

October 2, 2023 at 4:31 am

We have been to the south side. I really want to do the full circle! I’m mulling whether to really consider taking a daughter and two granddaughters who will be 14 and 12, great travelers and truly good kids. Is there a trip you would recommend and that also touches Greenland? Thank you in advance

October 31, 2023 at 2:14 pm

Hi Lorna! You have a few options for cruises that visit Iceland and Greenland. Norwegian is your cheapest option, with a 10 day cruise. But it’s on a very large ship, and it on;y makes 3 stops in Iceland before heading to Greenland.

Iceland ProCrusies offers a combo package of 2 cruises. First you circumnavigate Iceland, and then once you’re back in Reykjavik, the same ship leaves for Greenland.

Hurtigruten also offers a longer cruise that visits both Iceland and Greenland.

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Travelling to Iceland by Cruise Ship

• Introduction to Cruise Liners in Iceland
• Why Travel by Cruise Ship to Iceland?
• Ports & Harbours in Iceland
• The Harbours of Reykjavik
• Other Ports and Harbours Around Iceland
• Taking Tours From Cruise Ships
• Cruise Liners and the Environment

Photo above from 10 Day Cruise Around Iceland by Sea

• Check out this Reykjavik and Reykjanes Sightseeing Tour for Cruise Ships
• Don't miss out on this 10-Day Cruise Around Iceland by Sea

Introduction to Cruise Liners in Iceland              

Without doubt, the most time-and-cost effective means of travelling to Iceland from abroad is by catching a flight. With more connections being made to Iceland from the US, Europe and elsewhere, the possibilities for finding and securing a financially worthwhile transfer are more abundant than ever.

Top Cruises & Shore Excursions

Cruise excursion | lake myvatn minibus tour from akureyri port, cruise excursion | golden circle small group from reykjavik port, cruise excursion | small-group 5-hour north iceland tour from akureyri harbour.

By the end of 2018, Keflavík International Airport saw almost ten million people passing through, with predictions of 2019 expected to exceed that. 

On the contrary, Iceland saw roughly 147,000 cruise liner passengers, from 167 cruise ships, frequent its shores in the same year, proving that the interest in ocean travel in Iceland is not just alive and well, but steadily proving to be an essential contributor to the country's tourism economy.

• See also:    What To Pack For Travel in Iceland 

The body responsible for cruise liners in Iceland, the Reykjavík Harbour Authority, have already detailed the schedule for 2019, which will see 178 cruise ships and 191,000 passengers. You can find all the arrivals to the capital here . By these numbers alone, Icelanders can expect to see a steady increase in this traffic as long as tourism continues to act as this country's economic engine. 

Why Travel by Cruise Ship to Iceland?            

Some people are simply terrified of flying.

Regardless of the statistics, the assurances, the rarity of accidents, these prospective travellers are unable to make the mental leap necessary to sit comfortably at 40,000 FT. Ocean travel, whilst no doubt prolonged, makes more logical sense for those with aviophobia; arguably, it enriches the travel experience entirely, allowing one to spend more time luxuriating in the wealth of amenities found on modern day cruise ships. 

• See also:    Weather in Iceland & Best Time to Visit 

Consider the differences between travelling by plane or boat; air travel sees guests hauling heavy luggage, dealing with parking fees, endless airport queues—though, not at KEF, I might add—cramped, cattle-class seats, sub-par meals and expensive snacks and drinks. 

Cruise ship passengers have room to stretch their legs, walk the deck, breathe in that fresh ocean air, bounce with waves. They have the chance to take a dip in the pool, sample bars and restaurants, shop, mini-golf and even take in a live show. 

In short, there can be no arguing air travel’s efficiency, but it does, in many ways, come up wanting when it comes to that old idiom of travel, “The journey is the destination”. 

Cruise ship holidays are an institution unto themselves, however, often drawing back passengers again and again for the sheer thrill, relaxation and experience that comes with ocean travel. A quick look online will tell you just how advanced cruise ship travel has come; high-action water slides, multiple swimming facilities, spas, cinemas, bowling alleys. They are nothing short of giant, floating cities—no wonder there is so much passion for cruise ships holidays! 

• See also:   International Relations of Iceland

Some cruise ship passengers tend to disassociate the experience with the boat’s fanciest technological attractions, instead choosing to embrace that tangible connection to nature that ocean travel so illuminates.

Whether this is standing on deck, keeping one’s eyes peeled for cetacean life, or spending the evenings huddled on a deck chair, in awe of the incredible sites around you, there is no escaping this wealth of natural splendor.

Iceland is no doubt one of the best places in the world to do this. If taking a cruise to just one of its ports, you’ll see its breathtaking nature; if you are lucky enough to encircle part or all of the country, you’ll see just how incredibly diverse it can be.

The south , for example, is a land of windswept beaches of jet black sand, lying in the shadow of enormous glaciers such as Eyjafjallajökull and Vatnajökull , the largest in Europe. The East Fjords boast some of the tallest mountains in the country, with deep bays leading to tiny, beautiful settlements. The peaks of the north are geologically younger and more jagged, and the waters here, and throughout the majestic Westfjords , are alive with bird and sea life.

Even around Reykjavík, you’ll be exposed to magnificent landscapes, such as the barren, volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula , contrasting dramatically with the nearby verdant fjord of Hvalfjörður .

Iceland is a spectacularly beautiful country, no matter how you witness it; the chance to enjoy it from the ocean, however, is particularly unique and rewarding. Of course, as cruise ships only take customers throughout summer, all of these breathtaking vistas can be marveled over throughout the night, beneath the midnight sun.

Ports & Harbours in Iceland           

One of the most popular means of discovering Iceland through cruise ship travel is to take a circumnavigational trip around the island, making stops at a number of country’s ports. This way, guests will have the opportunity to see each of Iceland’s unparalleled regions, as well as soak in the Icelandic coastline in all of its glory.

There are eighteen ports in Iceland which will be listed in alphabetical order below. Reykjavík, however, is by far the busiest, and a city with two major harbours, so to avoid any confusion, it will be discussed first.

The Harbours of Reykjavik        

Iceland’s capital city is the heart of the country, central to the tour industry and a cultural, historical hub with a wealth of activities on offer. It has two main harbours, the Old Harbour, or Miðbakki, and the New Harbour, or Skarfabakki, which in turn have several quays that your cruise ship may dock at.

Most cruise ship passengers arrive at Skarfabakki, due to its much greater size, which allows it to accommodate enormous vessels. Though slightly out of town, the centre can still be easily reached by a forty-minute walk along the beautiful coastline, or via a short and convenient bus ride. The port is also close to popular attractions such as the Laugardalslaug swimming pool and the Family Park and Zoo.

Tour operators that tailor to cruise ships will pick you up from the meeting point here. Sundabakki and Korngarður are examples of quays at Skarfabakki.

• See also: Reykjavik Guide

Miðbakki is less frequently stopped at by cruise ships, but some do still arrive here. The area is primarily a private marina and the departure point for many tours such as whale and puffin watching . It is located right by the city centre.

Many tour operators do not offer direct pick-up from this harbour but will do from the nearby hotels, just a short walk away. Grófarbakki and Faxagarður are examples of quays at the Old Harbour.

Top Reykjavik Tours

Other ports and harbours around iceland           .

Akranes : Akranes , home to roughly 7000 people, can be located on the west coast of Iceland, approximately forty minutes drive from the Icelandic capital, Reykjavík. The town boasts some of the best outdoor recreation facilities and opportunities in Iceland, and its harbour is perhaps the best example of a traditional Icelandic fishing port. It is a popular passing stop for visitors making their way to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. 

Akureyri : Iceland’s ‘Capital of the North’ boasts one of the most beautiful harbours in the country, with the town and its surroundings fjords, mountains and trees making it, possibly, one of the most charming places to arrive in the whole of Iceland. Famed for its botanical gardens, whale watching tours and fascinating Nordic architecture, Akureyri is often recommended as a must-see destination for anyone in Iceland for an extended period of time. 

Djúpivogur : One of the prettiest fishing villages in the Eastfjords, the municipality of Djúpivogur is home to approximately 470 people, with employment spread across a number of industries, including fisheries. Visitors to this area might take a boat trip to the beautiful island of Papey or, alternatively, visit the villages sports centre and swimming pools or even take some time appreciating the art-piece, Gleðivík Eggs! Eskifjörður:  Eskifjörður , located just to the north of Djúpivogur , in the Eastfjords, has a proud connection to the sea, as demonstrated by the Maritime Museum, old fisherman’s hut (left untouched since the 1940s) and numerous piers and boat rentals’ that dot its coastline. Nestled within these gorgeous fjords, guests can take a dip in the town’s geothermal swimming pool, spend some time in the Culture Centre or partake in a number of the region’s fantastic hikes and bike trails. Grundarfjörður : The fishing town of  Grundarfjörður , located on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, is most famous for its nearby landmark, Mount Kirkjufell; this mountain, whilst also holding the title as 'most photographed mountain in Iceland', also took a starring role in the HBO fantasy series, Games of Thrones, as the "mountain like an arrowhead". 

Höfn : Sporting a rough population of 1800 people, the colourful fishing town of Höfn is widely considered to be the official gateway community to Vatnajökull National Park, making it a popular passing stop for those travelling the South Coast. 

Húsavík: Known as Europe’s number one spot for whale and dolphin watching, Húsavík was also once the proud location of the Icelandic Phallological Museum, until its relocation to the capital in 2011. This town of approximately 4000 is in close to proximity to both Lake Mývatn and Vatnajökull National Park , which itself contains the likes of Dettifoss Waterfall and ‘the Crown Jewel of Iceland’, Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon.

Raufarhöfn:  As one of the northernmost destinations in Iceland, Raufarhöfn balances its economy between the fisheries and tourism, the latter of which is picking up surprisingly well given its population of little more than 200 inhabitants. Whilst beloved for its tranquillity and untouched surrounding nature, guests to Raufarhöfn may choose to spend the day exploring the lakes of Melrakkaslétta, the horseshoe shaped canyon, Ásbyrgi , or Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss . 

Seyðisfjörður: Seyðisfjörður has been East Iceland’s primary connection for cruise ships and ferries for a great many years. This is, among other factors, because its approach (10 nautical miles) is ideally safe, lacking shallow areas or skerries. Cruise ship passengers arriving in Seyðisfjörður will find a traditionally Nordic village of approximately 700 residents, their colourful wooden homes overlooked by a crown of snow-capped mountains. 

Siglufjörður:  Siglufjörður , the northernmost settlement in Iceland, was once a small sharking village before the Herring boom transformed it into one of the biggest towns in the country. Throughout its history, the town’s harbour has been favoured by trading Danish and English vessels for its sheltered and convenient conditions, even going right back to the Medieval Ages. Despite there being no significant Herring stock left at Siglufjörður, the town continues to draw crowds of visitors each year thanks to its charming local culture and fantastic scenery. 

Stykkishólmur:  Stykkishólmur, a town of charming, traditionally Nordic homes, golf courses and swimming pools, can be located on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, a region often described as “Iceland in miniature” due to the sheer wealth of attractions found there. Roughly three hours driving from the Icelandic capital, Reykjavík. 

Vesturbyggð:  Two ports, Patreksfjörður and Bíldudalur, can be found in the municipality of Vesturbyggð and make for excellent starting points for a day tour in the isolated Westfjords.

Þorlákshöfn: This quaint fishing village boasts one of the two harbours located on Iceland’s picturesque South Coast, the other of which can be found in Höfn. 

Taking Tours From Cruise Ships 

What seems like a major disadvantage of taking a cruise ship to travel around Iceland is the limited amount of time you get at each stop; if you make port in Akureyri on morning, for example, you may only have until evening before your departure. This restraint makes many guests fear booking tours, worrying they may not get back to the ship in time.

Thankfully, all around the country, there are tour operators who organise excursions specifically tailored to those travelling by cruise ship. Most of these pick you up from the port soon after your arrival, to minimise your time waiting around and prevent any confusion finding a departure spot in an unfamiliar town, and drop you back off at the same location in good time.

An advantage of such tours is that all the guests are picked up and dropped off in the same location, meaning your time isn’t cut into by your guide travelling to multiple hotels and hostels.

These excursions are incredibly diverse. If you are fascinated by history and culture, and want to learn in-depth about the regions you travel to, this tour from Akureyri’s port will immerse you deep into the stories of North Iceland. Those who would rather spend their time docked in Akureyri making the most of the country’s adventure opportunities could instead book this rafting tour .

If your cruise ship stops in one of Iceland’s more remote regions, such as Seyðisfjörður , you can find excursions such as this one that will take you to some beautiful hidden gems in east Iceland, far from the major tourist crowds.

Of course, as it is the country’s centre for tourism, Reykjavík has the widest range of options for travellers by cruise ship, often selling similar excursions tailored to different tastes. Those on a budget who don’t mind meeting new people could opt for this standard South Coast tour that will reveal a wealth of beautiful natural sites. Those who would rather spend more to have more privacy can book a similar trip with a private driver .

Many operators from Reykjavík and other towns will pick you up from the harbour even if they are not tailored to cruise ships, particularly for short tours such as lava caving in Leiðarendi , snorkelling in Silfra and travelling around the Golden Circle , although the onus is on you in such cases to make sure you’ll be back in time for departure.

Top Adventure Tours in Iceland

Cruise liners and the environment            .

As the number of cruise liners visiting Iceland has continued to increase year by year, there has been a growing focus on the environmental impact that such large vessels have. Whilst this has also been true of airlines and increasing flight numbers, it would appear that cruise liners visiting the country are subject to far fewer requirements, often leading to environmental disregard on their part.

• See also:   Sustainable Tourism in Iceland. 

One of the major issues is when a cruise liner docks at the harbour. During this period, the ship will leave its generators running near continuously, burning through as much raw fossil fuel as 10,000 cars over a single day .

To combat this issue, many of the larger harbours found elsewhere on the planet have implemented a system that connects the docking ship to the city’s electrical mainframe, thus saving the need to burn fuel. Currently, however, there are no harbours in Iceland that boast this facility for ships of a cruise liners’ size, with the main concern being its financial expense. 

Another point that has been reiterated again and again is the ‘back-door entry’ that cruise line passengers seemingly have to some of this island’s most isolated, fragile and stunning nature reserves. 

Þorsteinn Sæmundsson, an MP for the Icelandic Progressive Party , has long fought to tie up this loophole, writing in 2015, “I emphasise that it is not really justifiable for a large group of tourist to sneak into Hornvík, almost every week, and trample the sensitive ecosystem there We have barely been able to direct traffic around that protected area, and we have to use every means at our disposal to prevent people from getting into areas that cannot be repaired.”

In truth, there is a good chance that most cruise ship passengers are not fully aware of the environmental issues associated with ocean travel, especially if tours are led out into the environment under an operator that speaks of authority, but in fact has little. However, a crucial aspect of sustainable tourism is the readiness to research beforehand on what and what not to do regarding the nature of your destination. 

While, as a cruise ship passenger, you can do little about the amount of energy used on your vessel or the policies of their operator (which are largely no better amongst many airlines) you can of course do your bit to ensure you are working to protect Iceland and the larger environment for generations to come.

Many of these are obvious such as not throwing any waste overboard while travelling. Others are more specific this country, such as not walking over delicate moss, not touching brittle lava formations, sticking to marked paths and never engaging in any form of off-road driving.

By reading up on travel etiquette in Iceland and the vulnerabilities of the island’s environment , it is easy to enjoy this country at its best with minimal impact, no matter how you arrive in the country.

Did you enjoy our article? Have you ever been on a cruise to Iceland and, if so, what did you like and dislike about the experience? Would you recommend the cruise ship experience in Iceland to anyone else? Make sure to leave your thoughts and queries in the Facebook comments box below.   

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The 8 Roughest Seas For Cruise Ships (RANKED!)

Going on a cruise is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation, a chance to explore the world from the decks of luxury.

However, traveling by sea comes with unpredictable moods and the possibility of rough seas. Modern cruise ships are engineered to withstand rough conditions, but knowing which seas are notoriously turbulent can help in planning your journey.

For those that are prone to seasickness or nervous about a rough voyage, there are certain seas they may want to avoid.

From the swirling currents of the North Atlantic to the icy gusts of the Southern Ocean, we’ll guide you through the roughest seas that even experienced cruise ships respect…

Table of Contents

Roughest Seas For Cruise Ships

The Drake Passage

If you’re looking to cross off all seven continents, you’ll have to board an expedition ship to step foot on Antarctica, as mainstream cruise lines only traverse through the Drake Passage.

The Drake Passage is one of the roughest seas in the world, and it’s located between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands.

It’s the shortest crossing between Antarctica and the rest of the world, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

The area has no large landmasses, so there is a large, unimpeded flow of current that carries a huge volume of water through the passage.

When these strong currents meet high wind speeds, the result is a sea state that is notoriously rough. This combination of factors contributes to conditions where it is quite likely for passengers to encounter rough seas in this area.

These challenging conditions are a defining characteristic of Cape Horn, making it one of the most hostile waters for sea travel.

The Bay of Biscay

If you plan to take a European cruise, you should approach the Bay of Biscay with caution.

The Bay of Biscay is located off the west coast of France and the north of Spain.

The Bay of Biscay is home to parts of the continental shelf that extend far into the bay, resulting in some shallow waters.

This is an area that experiences the fiercest Atlantic weather, and the combination of powerful winds and a shallow seabed can produce large waves.

Traveling during the summer months can significantly enhance your chances of encountering smoother seas.

On the other hand, opting for a late spring journey may bring you face-to-face with the unique “June Gloom” phenomenon. This is characterized by a vast fog triangle that often envelops the southern part of the bay.

This seasonal atmospheric condition, most prevalent in June, results in a dense fog that adds a mystical ambiance to the area, though it doesn’t typically affect sea conditions significantly.

Cruises that often sail through the Bay of Biscay include those sailing from Southampton to Portugal and Spain. Transatlantic voyages that begin in the UK and Northern Europe will often sail south and visit the Azores before beginning to cross the ocean, too.

When cruising through the Bay of Biscay, be prepared for rough seas and pack accordingly. It is recommended to bring motion sickness medication and warm clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable.

The Gulf of Alaska

If you’re heading on a cruise around Alaska, you will be pleased to hear that most of the cruise will be spent on the beautiful calm waters of the Inside Passage, where a string of islands will provide shelter and a high chance of smooth sailing.

But, if you are heading for ports at Seward, Whittier, or Anchorage, you will have to cross the Gulf of Alaska.

These waters are much rougher than the protected waters of the Inside Passage due to strong surface currents and cold air.

This is a much rougher area where strong surface currents and cold arctic air meet to generate powerful storms that affect British Columbia and the western U.S. Storms can happen at any time, but the worst time is between October and February.

Note: the vast majority of Alaska cruises take place within the sheltered waters of the Inside Passage. If you want to avoid cruising through the Gulf of Alaska, consider a round-trip cruise from Seattle.

However, cruises that do traverse through the Gulf of Alaska tend to visit more remote parts of Alaska, providing a unique and adventurous experience.

The Atlantic Ocean

Whenever you cross a large body of water, you’re more likely to encounter some rough waves since there’s no land nearby to provide any protection.

The Atlantic Ocean is no exception. Transatlantic cruises tend to see their roughest waters in November, December, and February.

If you’re going to embark on a transatlantic cruise in the winter, it’ll most likely be on either a luxury cruise line like Oceania or Cunard from New York to Southampton and vice versa.

While the winter months are the most intense, it’s important to note that other times of the year can also be impacted, particularly during hurricane season.

It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the weather forecast and prepare accordingly.

If you’re concerned about rough waters, it’s best to stick to more protected areas of the Atlantic, such as the Caribbean or Mediterranean, where the waters are generally calmer.

The Mediterranean

If you’re looking to stay in the Mediterranean and visit culturally rich ports of call like Barcelona, Rome, Naples, then you’re in luck.

While the sea itself is relatively sheltered, It can be surprisingly rough, subject to rough waters in the fall and winter, as this is when the winds are the strongest.

Rough seas can happen at any time, though, and spring and summer cruise passengers might experience some rough seas.

Cruises in the Western Mediterranean, often embarking from ports like Barcelona or Rome, might encounter a unique weather phenomenon known as a “medicane.” This term, a blend of “Mediterranean” and “hurricane,” describes a rare but intense storm that shares characteristics with hurricanes and can impact this region.

These medicanes, though not as common as typical hurricanes, can still significantly influence sea conditions and cruise experiences in the Western Mediterranean.

This is a tropical storm that usually hits the region about once a year, most commonly in the autumn.

The Caribbean

The allure of the Caribbean as a cruising hotspot is undeniable, with its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and inviting tropical cocktails. It’s a destination that appeals all year round, offering a blend of relaxation and scenic beauty.

Yet, it’s important to note that the region does experience its share of stormy weather, particularly during the hurricane season, which spans from June to November.

The likelihood of encountering hurricanes and tropical storms is highest from August to September.

If the idea of navigating through larger waves or facing potential changes in your cruise itinerary is less appealing, it might be wise to plan your trip outside these months.

Additionally, in the Caribbean, where different bodies of water converge, such as the meeting point of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, there’s an increased likelihood of encountering rough seas, especially during the storm-prone months.

The South China Sea

If you’re planning on taking an Asian cruise, you may be curious about the South China Sea.

This region is becoming increasingly popular for mainstream cruise lines, with Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean both increasing their presence in Asia.

This area, part of the northwest Pacific Ocean, is known for its susceptibility to storms throughout the year, potentially leading to rough sea conditions.

Tropical typhoons and cyclones, most prevalent during the tropical storm season from July to November, are the primary causes of the biggest waves in this region. Storm activity tends to peak around late August and early September.

Key departure ports for cruises traversing this area include Singapore, along with other popular ports like Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, and Bangkok. Routes connecting China to destinations such as Vietnam, Cambodia, or the Philippines are particularly prone to typhoons, which can result in a turbulent journey and possible changes to port stops.

On top of this, the South China Sea encompasses a region known as “The Dangerous Ground.” This area is infamous for its hidden dangers, including low-lying islands and submerged reefs that can emerge unexpectedly from the depths.

Due to its complex geography and historical territorial disputes, this zone is typically avoided in Asian cruise itineraries, regardless of the starting port. This precaution is taken to ensure a safer and smoother cruising experience in the often unpredictable waters of the South China Sea.

The North Sea

If you’re planning a cruise to North Europe, the British Isles, or even Iceland, you’ll likely have to pass through the North Sea.

Sailing through the North Sea can be quite challenging due to its susceptibility to high winds and waves, which often result in rough waters and thick fogs.

Traveling through the North Sea, especially from ports like Southampton to destinations such as Edinburgh, cruisers may encounter rough conditions.

The waters here can get particularly choppy, causing ships to experience significant rocking, akin to the sensations of a roller coaster.

While modern cruise ships are designed to handle these rough seas, passengers should be prepared for potential changes in their itineraries.

What Is Considered Rough Seas For A Cruise Ship?

Rough seas for a cruise ship are typically characterized by high winds and significant wave heights, which can lead to noticeable ship movement and discomfort for passengers.

Generally, waves exceeding 7-8 feet (about 2-2.5 meters) are considered rough, but modern cruise ships are designed to handle much higher waves safely.

The Beaufort Wind Scale, which categorizes wind speed, is often used to gauge sea conditions; rough seas are usually indicated by wind speeds over 17 knots (about 20 mph or 31 km/h).

These conditions can cause a cruise ship to pitch (move up and down) or roll (tilt side to side), leading to a more turbulent experience on board.

The perception of roughness can can vary among passengers, depending on their susceptibility to seasickness and the design and size of the ship. Larger, more modern cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers that significantly reduce the rolling motion, making them more resilient to rough seas.

Despite this, in extremely high seas with waves reaching over 15 feet (4.5 meters) or in the case of severe storms, even large ships might experience noticeable movement.

Cruise lines closely monitor weather conditions and may alter itineraries to avoid rough seas for passenger comfort and safety.

What Time Of Year Are Seas The Roughest?

The roughest seas typically occur during the transition between seasons, particularly in regions prone to cyclones or hurricanes.

In the Atlantic and Caribbean, for instance, the hurricane season peaks from August to October, bringing turbulent seas with higher risks of storms and rough conditions.

Similarly, in the Pacific, typhoon season, which typically lasts from May to October, can lead to rough seas, especially around Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific.

In contrast, the Southern Hemisphere experiences its roughest seas during its winter months, from June to August. This is especially true in areas like the Southern Ocean, where cruises to destinations like Antarctica are affected.

The Drake Passage, known for some of the world’s most challenging sailing conditions, sees its roughest waters during this period.

On top of this, areas like the North Sea and the Mediterranean can also experience rougher conditions during the winter months.

Are Cruise Ships Safe in Rough Seas?

Yes, cruise ships are safe in rough seas. They are designed to withstand waves up to 15 feet high, and they have stabilizers to reduce the amount of rocking felt onboard. However, you may still feel the motion of the waves, especially if they are particularly large.

If the captain deems it necessary, they may order passengers to stay indoors. It is also a good idea to stay seated and take medication for motion sickness if necessary.

In extreme weather conditions, such as encountering 30-foot waves, cruise ships like the Anthem of the Seas have successfully navigated through with no major issues or injuries to passengers or crew.

Are Seas Rough in the Caribbean?

The Caribbean, renowned for its typically calm cruising conditions, does encounter rougher seas under certain circumstances.

The Atlantic hurricane season, spanning from June to November, presents the highest likelihood of experiencing turbulent waters in the Caribbean, particularly in zones where the Caribbean Sea converges with the Atlantic Ocean.

Despite these seasonal challenges, major cruise lines continue to operate numerous voyages to the Caribbean throughout the hurricane season.

They often modify their sailing routes to circumvent the most severe storms, which means that cruise itineraries may be more prone to alterations during these months.

Are Seas Rough On A Transatlantic Cruise?

Seas on a transatlantic cruise can indeed be rough at times, primarily due to the vast and open nature of the Atlantic Ocean. The experience of rough seas on such a cruise largely depends on the time of year and the specific route taken.

For example, during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November, there’s a higher chance of encountering rougher seas, particularly in the North Atlantic. This is due to the increased likelihood of storms and turbulent weather patterns.

Are Seas Rough Around Japan?

The seas around Japan can be rough at certain times of the year, influenced by the region’s specific climatic conditions. The most significant factor is the typhoon season, which typically runs from May to October.

During this period, the waters around Japan can become particularly turbulent due to the increased likelihood of typhoons and storms.

These weather events can lead to high waves and strong winds, creating challenging conditions for sea travel.

Are The Seas Rough Around Cape Horn?

The seas around Cape Horn, located at the southern tip of South America, are notorious for being some of the roughest in the world.

This reputation is largely due to the confluence of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in this region, combined with strong winds, large waves, and unpredictable weather patterns.

The area is known for its challenging sailing conditions, characterized by what sailors call the “Roaring Forties” and “Furious Fifties” — strong westerly winds found in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly between the latitudes of 40 and 50 degrees.

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• Disney Cruise Line
• Disney Cruise Line Forum

Norway/Iceland rough seas?

• Thread starter Jess_S
• Start date Mar 28, 2017

DIS Veteran

• Mar 28, 2017

I am considering booking the 10 day Norway/Iceland cruise for 2018. Many of the trip reports for Northern Europe cruises mention rough seas. For those who have been, I curious about how rough those "rough seas" were. (I know that totally smooth seas are possible, but I am curious about what we would be likely to experience if we don't get lucky).  

MinnesotaMouseketeers

When it comes to havoc, nobody wreaks like me!

MinnesotaMouseketeers said: My wife, son and I along with another couple and their daughter do have staterooms booked for this cruise Will be paying attention to this post; because I too am interested in what the seas are typically like this part of the world. Click to expand...

ElizabethG said: I'm no help to the OP, but I am booked on this cruise too. (I'm also from Minnesota ) Click to expand...

I don't recall at what point of the cruise it occurred, but yes, the seas were pretty rough for a short time. It wasn't scary or anything like that, but it was the most rolling we had ever experienced. I remember one night I had difficulty sleeping because of the motion. No-one in our family gets seasick and it really didn't bother us other than making it a little hard to sleep. My son thought it was fun! (he was 17 at the time) I wouldn't worry about it too much, other than to just be aware that it could happen and plan accordingly if you are sensitive to motion. I certainly wouldn't want to deter anyone from taking this cruise. It was our favorite to date and while we did encounter some rougher seas than our other cruises, it didn't take anything away from what was an amazing vacation.  

Snyders22000

Mouseketeer.

We did this cruise last year. The seas were extremely smooth for us (even smoother than our Caribbean sailings) except for one evening when we were leaving Norway and starting for Iceland. I'd say the dining room was only about half full and we ended up leaving midway through dinner. We took some bonine and watched movies in our room that night and by the next morning things had smoothed out. It was probably only about 6 hours total of rough seas. I wouldn't hesitate to go again (and I am very sensitive to motion).  

IBelieveInTheMagic

Royal Consort

• Mar 29, 2017

Seas are mostly calm. We sailed to Norway and Iceland in 2015 and one afternoon and night were exceptionally choppy. I was rolling in bed. Part of the experience really. Most cruisers were curious and we all attempted to walk in a straight line down the corridors. Like feeling drunk without touching a drop!  

Everyone's comments are really helpful. This would be a birthday cruise for my husband, so I am going to show him this thread and make sure he's okay with some rocking. (I'm glad that I asked a question that was on other people's minds too). On a somewhat related note, I just now realized that DCL isn't going to Gerainger in 2018. I'm kind of disappointed because the photos in trip reports here were amazing. I wonder why they changed the itinerary up this year.  

Jess_S said: I am considering booking the 10 day Norway/Iceland cruise for 2018. Many of the trip reports for Northern Europe cruises mention rough seas. For those who have been, I curious about how rough those "rough seas" were. (I know that totally smooth seas are possible, but I am curious about what we would be likely to experience if we don't get lucky). Click to expand...

Jess_S said: Everyone's comments are really helpful. This would be a birthday cruise for my husband, so I am going to show him this thread and make sure he's okay with some rocking. (I'm glad that I asked a question that was on other people's minds too). On a somewhat related note, I just now realized that DCL isn't going to Gerainger in 2018. I'm kind of disappointed because the photos in trip reports here were amazing. I wonder why they changed the itinerary up this year. Click to expand...

• May 26, 2017

We did the 7-day Norway Fjords cruise last June and the seas were calm the entire cruise. Probably can expect rougher seas heading from Norway to Iceland though.  

We had rough seas crossing the North Sea.  

angelinaxox

• May 27, 2017

I did the Norway/Iceland/Scotland cruise last summer out of Copenhagen. We did hit rough seas one day as we made our way from Norway to Iceland. I was in a chat group with others from my roll call, and many of them or their family members were experiencing seasickness. When my husband and I went to dinner that night, the waiters were all clapping for those of us who showed up as we entered the dining room. There were a lot of people who didn't make it to dinner that night. As someone else mentioned, they did provide green apple slices. My husband started to feel a little woozy but managed. I was fine though. I have experienced many cruises with a wide variety of itineraries, and that day's rough seas definitely ranks up there as one of the roughest I experienced. However, it was a great cruise and it was worth it persevering through one rough day of seas to do this itinerary. You might also not even have rough seas. But like you, I had read about it beforehand and I was mentally prepared for it as a possibility. Hope you enjoy that cruise as much as we did.  

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8 Rough Cruising Regions To Know About Before You Go

Jan 16, 2022 | 4

8 Rough Cruising Regions

By Ted Scull .

🎧Would you rather listen to this article about the roughest cruising regions? Below Ted shares his rough sailing stories and tips. (15.35 mins)

Now let’s begin with the good news.

Advance weather forecasts give ship captains ample warning to steer clear of a hurricane’s track by altering course.

A diversion may result in skipping a port or two and substituting others, and while you might still feel the swell from the storm, it is unlikely that the ship’s movement will be more than a gentle rise and fall.

Some major white water in the Atlantic, off Patagonia. * Photo: Ted Scull

Stabilizers help reduce side-to-side rolling, but not the up and down pitching motions into oncoming swells. The smaller the small ship, the less likely it will have the stabilizing fins.

Large cruise ships’ massive blunt bows tend to slam into head seas, and to lessen the unpleasant sensation, the captain may drastically reduce his speed to lessen the impact.

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The bodies of water below have the potential for the being the choppiest in world. In no particular order, here are eight rough cruising regions:

1)  Caribbean Ocean Believe It Or Not

The Caribbean’s hurricane season (around June to October) tops the list in terms of the number of passengers potentially affected because of the large number of ships cruising here. However, with so many alternative routes and ports of call, in most instances, ships can avoid the storm’s fury and still provide a satisfying cruise.

Learn more about the best small ship cruises in the Caribbean .

2)  North Atlantic Has A Reputation As A Tough Cruising Region

The North Atlantic is notorious for its storms at almost any time of the year, and the further north the track the more likely it is to encounter some rough seas along the multi-islands’ passage between the North of Scotland, Shetland/Orkney, Faroes, Iceland, Greenland, Newfoundland and the Canadian maritime provinces and/or the U.S. East Coast.

It is positive thinking to note that all islands have a lee side.

The ships that reposition seasonally via the Atlantic between the Mediterranean/Iberia and the Caribbean/Florida are much less likely to encounter storms.

However, ships that sail between Northern European ports, Iberia and the Mediterranean pass through the Bay of Biscay . This body of water, west of France and north of Spain, has a long anecdotal history especially with Brits, of being a very rough cruising region:.

In my experience — 16 passages — only one (Santander to Portsmouth) was truly tempestuous and that was quite enough for everybody on board, including me who likes a bit of chop.

Get the latest small ship cruise reviews in the North Atlantic .

3)  The Mediterranean Can Get Heavy At Times

Speaking of the Mediterranean, the Mistral that roars down the Rhone Valley in France and then across the Western Med can stir up heavy seas in winter and spring as does the Meltemi in summer in the Greek Islands.

I was aboard the Royal Clipper during a powerful Mistral and the sail-laden ship reached its maximum hull speed. It was exhilarating and more than a bit dramatic.

Check out the best Mediterranean small ship cruise reviews .

4)  Drake Passage Is A Notoriously Rough Cruising Region

The dreaded Drake Passage between Ushuaia, Argentina and the Antarctic Peninsula has a well-deserved reputation, and happily any storm that does occur rarely lasts more than 12 to 24 hours.

If you are susceptible to mal de mer , be prepared to deal with any eventuality because the expedition is well worth it.

Longer itineraries that include the Falklands and South Georgia expand the chances for stormy weather, qualifying the area as potentially a very rough cruising region.

Read small ship cruise reviews in Argentina .

Cowabunga dude!! That’s some wave action on the Drake Passage. * Photo: Ted Scull

VIDEO: QuirkyCruise Contributing Writer John Roberts shows us more about rough Drake Passage crossings in his video:

5)  Gulf of Alaska Indeed

The Inside Passage to and from Alaska may be well protected apart from a few short-open sea stretches, while small cruise ships traversing the Gulf of Alaska to Seward, on the other hand, may encounter North Pacific storms or swells from a more distant storm.

6)  Southeast & East Asia Can Be Affected By Monson Activity

Typhoons are an occasional worry in Southeast and East Asia from the South China Sea north to Hong Kong, South Korea and Japan, but course alterations can minimize discomfort unless the ship must call at a disembarkation port, then arrivals may be delayed until the waters calm.

7)  Trans-Tasman Passage Can Be One Of  The Roughest Cruising Regions

The Trans-Tasman passage between Australia and New Zealand and the Bass Strait between Southeast Australia and the island of Tasmania can kick up a mighty storm (Heidi experienced this first-hand on a cruise some years ago and the banging of the waves on the hull was epic!); rest assured, few small ships venture into these southern waters.

8)  Point Judith Is A Rough Cruising Region

The only time I ever felt I might be seasick was standing at the bow of a small ship rounding Point Judith where Narragansett Bay meets Long Island Sound. The sea becomes confused here due to colliding waters, and by simply moving amidships, the unpleasant sensation eased.

Charles Darwin was seasick more than not during his three-year voyage on the Beagle, but back then there were few remedies, and today they are many.

A truism is that everyone reacts differently, so there is no easy answer. Still, for the small percentage that do experience mal de mer, it is no picnic. Get professional advice before you go.

Hope you enjoyed our deep dive into eight of the world’s rough cruising regions.

Don’t miss a post about small-ship cruising,  subscribe to QuirkyCruise.com  for monthly updates & special offers!  

© This article is protected by copyright, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission from the author. All Rights Reserved. QuirkyCruise.com.

About The Author

Theodore Scull

I am happiest near water, over water or better still on a conveyance moving through water. When my brother Sandy and I were deemed old enough, mother took us to Europe by ship.

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Planning a cruise from NY to New England to Canada to Greenland to New foundland.How rough is the sea? Any comments are appreciated

Thank you for your question about rough seas. I have cruised the waters between Greenland and Newfoudland twice, both in the summer time on small ship, and encounted minimal rough seas, and between Newfoundland, New England and New York numerous other times, in many different months, and have experienced everthing from pea soup fog, dead calm, some moderate swells and both gale and hurricane force winds. Happily, I am a good sailor.

There is no set answer as North Atlantic weather is highly unpredictable with the calmest months usually being June, July and early August. But nothing is as usual as it used to be.

If you are prone to sea sickness, make sure you are well prepared with recommended remedies and where to be on the ship depending on the movements – pitching up and down or rolling. If the ship has stabilizers thaat is a big help with minimizig rolling.

I wish you well and with calm seas.

Hello I am cruising with a group in January Mauritius to Singapore via Maldives, Seychelles, Reunion, Madagascar, SriLanka. I have been trying to find what sea conditions to expect but having trouble locating anything.

The Indian Ocean as a whole is generally a smooth-sailing region, though the annual monsoon season can cause large swells in the Arabian Sea and along the western Indian coast.

I have sailed these Indian Ocean waters four times, and only once has it been rough (see above) Otherwise., the swells have been gentle, along the East African coast and amongst the Seychelles.

I hope that helps

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FIND YOUR NORTH STAR

Iceland cruises.

Discover a northern paradise where ice meets mountains and nature abounds.

Cruise to Iceland, where you can visit the enchanting cities of Reykjavik and Akureyri and marvel at the country's rough and unusual natural wonders. With a population of only 123,300 people, Iceland's capital and largest city, Reykjavik, is home to colorful houses, a bustling arts scene and centuries of history. For a glimpse into the northern past, check out the Settlement Exhibition, a combination of an archaeological ruin and museum based around a 10th-century house. Then, commune with nature at the world-famous Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa built on a lava field and heated with geothermal energy. Pamper yourself with mud masks and massages while wading in the soothing waters. Even though Akureyri has only 18,000 residents, it's called the Capital of the North for a reason. Head there to warm up in the steaming thermal pool at the head of Iceland's longest fjord, Eyjafjordur.

Magnificent Natural Wonders

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ADMIRE THE ARCTIC

In Iceland, you'll see rare and stunning nature, from dramatic black rocks to cascading waterfalls and glittering glaciers. Whether you bathe in the natural hot springs of Blue Lagoon or sample the delicious and surprising specialties of Reykjavik, you'll be enamored by Icelandic culture.

BECOME A LAMB STEWARD

Most Icelandic cuisine is based on fish, lamb, dairy and root vegetables. Stop by Icelandic Fish and Chips in Reykjavik to find the best Icelandic meat stew, made with lamb, potatoes, carrots and herbs. If you're brave enough, try hakarl (fermented shark) — but be sure to wash it down with a local craft beer from Lady Brewery.

FEEL THE FLORA

Because the terrain tends to be barren and rocky, Iceland isn't particularly known for its plants and trees. At Akureyri's Lystigardurinn, the northernmost botanical garden in the world, however, you'll be able to spot 430 native species of colorful, wild arctic flowers in one spot.

VOLCANIC VIEWS

Hop on a free shuttle in Reykjavik to make your way from Harpa Music Hall to Perlan Dome. At this world-class museum, watch volcanoes, glaciers and geothermal marvels come alive through cutting-edge technology and groundbreaking science. You'll be able to experience Iceland's many natural wonders and attractions all at once at this rotating glass museum.

GET TO KNOW THE NORTH

While you might come to Iceland to glimpse the gorgeous natural wonders the country offers, you'll also find that the cultural highlights are unforgettable as well. Explore the country's past in one of the museums, or check out the works of contemporary designers, who prove Iceland is the definition of cool.

DESIGNING ICELAND

If you're searching for the best shopping spots in Iceland, head to Laugavegur, also known as "The Wash Road." Reykjavik's hippest shopping street offers designer clothes, artisan wools and design-driven home goods. You can also go to the excellent Kolaportio Flea Market in Akureyri, where you'll find many shops with trendy local designer brands, fun souvenirs and high-fashion labels.

ARCHITECTURAL MARVELS

Located just southeast of Reykjavik's city center, the Expressionist-style church known as Hallgrimskirkja looms over the streets, mirroring the mountains and glaciers beyond. Enjoy panoramic views from the 75-meter-high spire. Or head to Akureyri's basalt church, Akureyrarkirkja, which also dominates the skyline with its striking futuristic facade. You'll marvel at the shiparagraphCopy that hangs from the ceiling, reflecting the Nordic tradition of giving offerings to protect loved ones at sea.

HOBBIT HIDEAWAYS

When in Akureyri, make sure you visit the nearby village of Laufas, where you'll find beautiful, picturesque turf-roofed farmhouses built in the 1860s. They're a window into how Icelanders once lived and may remind you of the hobbit houses in "The Lord of the Rings."

THIS LAND OF ICE WILL TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY

Step aboard a cruise to Iceland and discover the enchanting cities of Reykjavik and Akureyri with their colorful houses and relaxing thermal pools. Climb glacial mountains, watch the Northern Lights, or dine on fermented shark. You'll be swept away in Iceland.

ATLANTIC ARRIVAL

Arrive in Iceland via a transatlantic getaway , but don't forget to make some tropical stops as well. Try local delicacies, go snorkeling or see the natural marvels of the great European cities and Caribbean ports . Iceland is just one magnificent stop along this gorgeous route.

CITY CRUISIN'

Cruise straight to Iceland and watch the cities of Akureyri and Reykjavik come alive. Stroll around the city streets, or go hiking in the surrounding mountains. Sample the regional cuisine, have a drink with the locals and relax in one of many hot volcanic spas.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Northern Light, Midnight Sun

From its natural wonders to its storied history, Iceland offers something for everyone.

You'll be able to see the aurora borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, from early September to the end of April, but visiting in the summer offers you the benefits of the Midnight Sun, the 24-hour sunlight that shines over the country. Be prepared for crowds, though, in the summer months.

While nearly everyone in Iceland speaks English, you'll pleasantly surprise the locals by speaking a few words in their language. Say "takk" to thank a local, or ask someone if they speak English by saying, "talarðu ensku?" (pronounced "ta-lar-thu en-sku"). Don't be afraid to immerse yourself in the Icelandic culture.

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Be sure to enjoy the view from the observation deck at the Perlan museum in Reykjavik. It's a great spot to watch the Northern Lights.

Keep your eye out for a festival if you are visiting during the summer, as they pop up quite frequently.

Several cafes and museums offer free Wi-Fi, so feel free to post photos of your trip.

CUISINE TEMPTING TREATS

Both the capital Reykjavik and the Akureyri have a large variety of restaurants, where you can eat local or international dishes. Icelandic cuisine is largely based on dairy products, fish, lamb, root vegetables and herbs, so get ready for a hearty meal.

LADLE IT ON

Iceland's cold waters produce top-quality seafood, and one of the country's signature ways to enjoy the fruits of the sea is fiskisupa, or fish stew. Made with cod or haddock, potatoes, butter, milk and herbs, it's a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs way to enjoy the local bounty.

NOT YOUR AVERAGE HOT DOG

Made from mostly lamb, hot dogs are the national street food of Iceland — you won't have to look far to find one! They're typically made with a mix of local, Iceland-raised pork, beef and lamb. Slather yours with pylsusinnep, a sweet brown mustard, or remoulade, a tangy combination of mayo, mustard, capers and herbs.

FERMENTED FAVORITES

Since not a lot grows in Iceland during much of the year, the local cuisine has developed a strong traditional of preserving foods through fermentation. If you're brave enough, try hakarl, the national dish of fermented shark. If you're not feeling uparagraphCopy for the challenge, try herring pickled in vinegar and served a top a slice of dense rye bread.

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16 mistakes cruisers make on cruise ship sea days

If you're new to cruising and notice sea days on your itinerary, you might wonder what you could possibly do on a day when your ship doesn't stop in a port of call and, instead, stays out in the middle of the ocean with no land in sight.

Rest assured, sea days are anything but boring. In fact, experienced cruisers often seek itineraries that have several sea days. On these special days, you can participate in a myriad of activities on your ship, or do nothing at all.

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On sea days, you have nowhere you have to be, and that's part of the fun. Sleep late, do brunch, spend the day in the spa, learn a new skill, read a book, compete in contests, or whiz down a waterslide. It's your choice.

Just don't make these mistakes.

Not taking advantage of activities

When in port, cruise lines keep planned daylight activities to a minimum because most people will be exploring on shore, but on sea days, they spend a lot of time creating exciting options to appeal to every taste. As many as 50 activities might be listed on the roster. Included will be poolside games, trivia contests, special entertainment, sports tournaments, movie showings and more.

Related: Cruise activities you don't want to miss on sea days

You might decide your perfect sea day is sitting on deck and reading a book, and you're welcome to do that. But you don't want to hear later that you missed some great activity that has the whole ship talking, which leads to our next point....

Not reading the cruise planner

Whether you peruse the printed sheet delivered to your cabin each night, highlighting the next day's activities, or check the ship's app for the schedule, it pays to see what's scheduled and what appeals to you.

Take out a pen, and circle activities of interest, or highlight activities on the app on your smartphone. You might be able to set up an alert when it's time for an activity of interest.

Forgetting to make advance reservations for activities

Some popular activities, such as wine tastings and beer crawls, will be teased before the sea day and require advance reservations. You will also want to make reservations if you plan to enjoy the ship's go-kart racetrack, roller coaster, escape room, laser tag, simulated surf machines or other activities that require timed slots to participate. Lots of other people will also reserve these activities for a sea day.

Related: Which cruise ship activities should you book ahead of time?

Missing the jogging/walking track

A sea day is perfect for burning calories while surrounded by ocean views and sea breezes. If you're an early riser, you could have the track all to yourself; many other passengers, knowing they don't have to get up early on a sea day, will have partied heartily the night before and will be sleeping in. Breathe deep, and enjoy the solitude.

Not signing up for classes

Sometimes you don't know you want to learn a skill until you try it. Look for sea day classes to get your toes wet in new activities like napkin folding, towel animal creating, watercolor painting, jewelry making, cooking and more.

Skipping the lectures

See who's lecturing, especially if you're on a small or luxury ship. You might learn about the politics of the region you are cruising through from a former ambassador, hear about marine life from a naturalist or marine biologist, or gather tips on local cuisine from a culinary expert. If there's a famous author, actor or other celebrity onboard, they'll likely make an appearance during a sea day.

Forgetting to book fitness classes

You might imagine spending some of your sea day doing a spinning, cardio kickboxing, TRX training or other specialty for-a-fee class in the fitness center. But you could be left out in the cold if you don't book these sea day classes early in your cruise. (Booking as soon as you get on board your ship is recommended.)

Related: Do cruise ships have gyms? Here's how to stay fit on a cruise

Forgoing spa appointments

Sea days are the most popular days for the spa, beauty shop and thermal suite, which is outfitted with a sauna, steam room and other soothing treatments. Many people will be looking to get a massage, manicure or facial since they have time on a sea day to do it. Make reservations for treatments when you first get on the ship.

Pro tip: If you want to save money, book your spa treatment on a quieter port day when prices are likely to be discounted.

Ignoring shopping opportunities

On a sea day, you have time to browse. Knowing this, the ship's shops offer sales to lure in customers. An all-time favorite is the $10 pop-up sale, which includes watches and costume jewelry. You could also find pop-up sales with T-shirts and other goods near the pool.

Missing the culinary treats

When you're on board for the entire day, you have time to linger over meals. Consider partaking in the served breakfast and lunch in the main dining room, rather than quickly grabbing food at the buffet.

Fee-based specialty restaurants are sometimes open for breakfast and lunch, offering an opportunity to sample elevated cuisine — such as Asian, French, Italian or steakhouse — at a lower price than is charged at dinner. Your ship might also offer special sea day culinary events, such as a brunch buffet or an outdoor barbecue. The chefs like to show off their talents at these not-to-miss occasions.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Forgetting about afternoon tea

If your ship does it, formal afternoon tea on sea days with live music, scones, tiny sandwiches and pastries is another don't-miss event. Order an accompanying glass of bubbly to elevate your elegant experience even further.

Not hitting the pool early

Many people are on your cruise for fun in the sun, making the pool deck and other sunning areas the popular places to be on sea days. Unless you've reserved a private cabana for the day, be ready early to claim your choice of lounge chair — whether you want to sit near the main pool with its live music, movie showings and fun games led by the cruise staff or you're looking for a secluded spot away from the hubbub.

Note: Trying to save lounge chairs by piling them with your towels and other stuff is considered bad etiquette on cruise ships. If you break for lunch or another activity, you should give up your chair for others.

Related: The one thing you should never do on a cruise ship pool deck

Not planning family time

On the first day of your cruise, you should register the kids at the age-appropriate children's and teen clubs, where they will be wowed by activities and well-entertained by the youth staff — leaving you time to lounge by the pool and do adult activities. On a sea day, consider a little family competition. Challenge the kids to a game of shuffleboard, minigolf or Ping-Pong; see who can slide fastest down the racing waterslides; or otherwise indulge in some family bonding time.

Avoiding the casino and bingo

Your ship's casino will be closed on days when the ship is in port, but it will become action-central when you're at sea. Look for special sea day tournaments; poker and Texas Hold 'Em are popular. Bingo is another popular sea day activity; get there early to ensure you'll have a seat.

Forgetting to take your seasickness meds

For your sea day, the captain will seek to spend at least a few hours in a sunny and calm spot in the ocean, but the reality is your ship is also making its way to your next destination. Avoiding some rough patches might not be possible. If you suffer from seasickness, it's best to take your meds.

Related: How to avoid seasickness on your next cruise

Overlooking marine life sightings

On a sea day, have your binoculars ready because you might spot whales and other marine life, given that you're in their territory. This is especially true off the coast of places like Alaska, Iceland, Hawaii, New England and California. Listen to announcements from the bridge that will clue you in to sightings.

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