Iceland and Greenland have become increasingly popular cruise destinations for UK travellers seeking dramatic Arctic scenery, volcanic landscapes, and the chance to spot the Northern Lights or midnight sun. Sailings typically depart from or pass through UK ports, making them a convenient choice without the need for long-haul flights. With 31 live sailings currently listed, there is a growing range of itineraries and cruise lines to consider.
Which Cruise Lines Sail to Iceland and Greenland
A broad mix of cruise lines operate in this region, from large mainstream operators such as P&O Cruises, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, and Cunard — all of which have strong UK followings — through to expedition-focused lines such as Hurtigruten, Silversea Expeditions, and Quark Expeditions. Mainstream lines tend to call at Iceland's more accessible ports as part of a wider Northern Europe itinerary, while expedition operators offer deeper immersion into remote Greenlandic fjords and smaller Icelandic communities. Choosing between them largely comes down to how much comfort versus adventure you want, and how far off the beaten track you wish to go.
Typical Itinerary Lengths and Routes
Iceland-only cruises tend to run from around seven to fourteen nights, circling the island and calling at ports such as Reykjavik, Akureyri, Isafjordur, and the Westman Islands. Combined Iceland and Greenland itineraries are generally longer, often running from fourteen to twenty-one nights or more, to allow time to navigate Greenland's remote west coast and fjords such as Disko Bay and Prins Christian Sund. Many sailings depart from or return to UK ports including Southampton or Edinburgh, which can reduce the need for additional flights and associated costs. Some itineraries also incorporate the Faroe Islands or Norway, giving excellent value for those wanting to cover multiple Arctic destinations in a single voyage.
When to Sail: Seasons and Conditions
The practical sailing season for Iceland and Greenland runs broadly from late spring through to early autumn, with the summer months offering the most daylight, the calmest seas, and the best access to Greenland's ice-filled waters as sea ice retreats. Travelling in June, July, or August gives the best chance of experiencing the midnight sun, wildlife such as puffins and humpback whales, and navigable conditions around Greenland's more remote anchorages. Those hoping to see the Northern Lights should consider sailings at either end of the season — May or September — when nights are dark enough for aurora activity while conditions remain manageable. Winter cruises to Iceland do exist but are far less common and come with rougher seas and limited daylight.
Key Ports and What to Expect
Reykjavik is the most common embarkation or port of call in Iceland, offering easy access to the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon, and a lively food and culture scene. Smaller Icelandic ports such as Isafjordur in the Westfjords and Akureyri in the north give access to more rugged, less-visited landscapes and are particularly popular on expedition-style sailings. In Greenland, Ilulissat is a highlight for many travellers, sitting beside the Ilulissat Icefjord — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — where enormous icebergs calve from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier. Greenlandic ports are generally small and remote, so shore excursions are often the best way to make the most of limited time ashore.
Finding Good Value for UK Cruisers
Booking early tends to secure the best cabin categories and pricing, particularly on expedition sailings where ship capacities are small and demand is high. Sailing from a UK departure port such as Southampton can represent a meaningful saving compared with flying to join a ship in Reykjavik, especially when factoring in the cost of flights and transfers for a family or couple. Shoulder-season sailings in May or early September can also offer lower fares than peak July and August departures, while still delivering excellent scenery and wildlife. Comparing the 31 live sailings currently listed is a practical starting point for understanding the range of prices, lines, and itinerary options available to UK travellers.