Silversea Luxury Cruises To Grimsey

The northernmost inhabited Icelandic territory, Grimsey represents a unique destination for guests who wish to experience the Arctic Circle. This tiny, charming island stands alone far out on the horizon, surrounded by the expansive Arctic Ocean. Steep cliffs can be found everywhere, except along the southern shoreline. Despite its northerly latitude, Grimsey is generally mild due to the North Atlantic current, which brings warm water from the Gulf of Mexico. View more

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Though treeless, the island's vegetation cover is rich, consisting of marshland, grass and moss, and the island is home to a dense population of diverse bird species, especially auks. The birds nest in the high cliffs surrounding the island, except by the harbour. The chorus of seabirds never stops during the summer months, as there is no night in Grimsey at this time. During winter, the daylight is very short, and most of the seabirds stay far away on the open sea. The principal industry on Grimsey is commercial fishing, although agriculture and collection seabird eggs are also common practices. The fishermen harvest the rich fishing banks all around the island, but often venture much further north on the Arctic Ocean. The islanders live a relatively modern life in the small village by the harbour; a prosperous and fertile community. The Grimsey Church was built from driftwood in 1867, and the island also features a community centre and school. A ferry serves the island three times a week, and an airport has been built for regular flights. In spite of its small size, opportunities to explore Grimsey by land and sea abound. Guided sightseeing tours, including walking, biking, hiking, bird-watching, golfing, and local home visits, offer wonderful memories of this lovely island and its people. Coastal boat tours, sea angling, shore fishing, sea swimming, and diving bestow guests with an unforgettable introduction to the teeming, crystal-clear Arctic waters surrounding this lovely island.
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Excursions

An Introduction to Silversea Cruises

The romance of the seas, small ship sizes and intimate atmosphere, Silversea has long been a leader in the ultra-luxury market. Travelling to both iconic and secluded ports, Silversea’s award-winning itineraries inspire wanderlust and exploration. With over 900 destinations, longer port stays and more late-night departures than ever before, even the savviest traveler will find something new. A butler for every suite, a complimentary in-suite bar stocked with your preferences, all-inclusive exquisite dining, award-winning onboard entertainment and an unparalleled space to guest ratio all contribute to the Silversea experience. Not forgetting our famed Italian hospitality, where new faces become old friends. Bienvenuti a bordo.

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Excursions in Grimsey

Boat tour of Grimsey
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Set off from the harbor in Grimsey for an unforgettable boat tour around the island.


Board the uncovered boat and receive a safety briefing before sailing between Scylla and Charybdis, the island is girded by bird cliffs where a multitude of sea birds nest. About sixty species of birds nest on this fascinating island. Along the way, marvel at the charming beauty and splendid bird-life on the island. Grimsey Island is about 1.3 miles (2 kilometres) wide and 3.7 miles (5.9 kilometres) long with an area of 1.93 square miles (4.9 square kilometres), the second largest of the islands around Iceland.


Learn about the history of the island and make a toast when going over the Arctic Circle. Travelers will get a certificate from the local authorities to show that they have crossed the Circle.


Please note: This tour involves minimal walking however, stepping on and off the boat might be challenging and is recommended for guests with limited mobility are able to embark and disembark the boat with minimal assistance. It is not recommended for those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests should dress according to the local weather conditions and wear comfortable clothing and bring their camera.

Walking Tour beyond the Arctic
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Grimsey island is about 1.3 miles wide and 3.7 miles long with an area of 1.93 sq miles, the second largest of the islands around Iceland. The island is girded by bird cliffs where a multitude of sea birds nest. All in all about sixty species of birds nest on this fascinating island.


The walking tour beyond the artic is a 1.5 hour guided tour that covers the history of the island, some of the birdlife and way of living in Grímsey.


Close to Basar farm on the island's northern half, a signpost at 66 degrees and 33 minutes north marks the Arctic Circle. Travelers will get a certificate from the local authorities to show that they have crossed the Circle.


Please note: This tour involves extensive walking 2.4 miles (3.8 kilometres) and many steps, and guests should be in good physical condition to participate It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests should dress according to the local weather conditions and wear comfortable walking shoes as the ground may be uneven at the photo stops.

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Related Destinations

An Introduction to Silversea Cruises

The romance of the seas, small ship sizes and intimate atmosphere, Silversea has long been a leader in the ultra-luxury market. Travelling to both iconic and secluded ports, Silversea’s award-winning itineraries inspire wanderlust and exploration. With over 900 destinations, longer port stays and more late-night departures than ever before, even the savviest traveler will find something new. A butler for every suite, a complimentary in-suite bar stocked with your preferences, all-inclusive exquisite dining, award-winning onboard entertainment and an unparalleled space to guest ratio all contribute to the Silversea experience. Not forgetting our famed Italian hospitality, where new faces become old friends. Bienvenuti a bordo.

View our Brochures