Q: Will I need a passport or a visa?

When travelling to Iceland by cruise , it is essential that you bring a passport, as this is the only valid travel document in Iceland. This also applies to citizens of Nordic and Schengen countries. If your country of residence is neither Nordic nor a part of Schengen, you might also need a visa to enter Iceland.

Question 1

How should I dress for a cruise to Iceland?

Accepted Answer

There is a lot to consider when packing for a cruise to Iceland. Warm and waterproof clothing are essential in Iceland. If you are on a cruise, this is even more important as the winds of the open seas can be very cold. If you plan on staying on deck for more than a few minutes at a time, you should consider bringing warm, wind and waterproof clothing. Hats, mittens and sturdy shoes should also be a part of your luggage.

Question 2

Can I use credit cards when I'm on board or on land?

Accepted Answer

When on land, you will be able to use credit cards for all your basic needs. Icelanders, in general, do not carry cash but prefer electronic transactions. Your ability to use credit cards on board depends on the specific cruise you book. Some cruise ships issue special on board cards that work similarly to a cabin account during your stay.

Question 3

Is there a dress code on board the cruisers?

Accepted Answer

Most ships maintain a casual dress code on board. Some cruisers, however, might demand a higher standard of dress. We recommend asking the crew or your travel operator for more information.

Question 4

What languages are spoken on board?

Accepted Answer

English is the primary language spoken on board most cruise ships that port at Icelandic harbours, with German as a close second. Some ships offer services in English and German simultaneously.

Question 5

Will I need a passport or a visa?

Accepted Answer

When travelling to Iceland by cruise, it is essential that you bring a passport, as this is the only valid travel document in Iceland. This also applies to citizens of Nordic and Schengen countries. If your country of residence is neither Nordic nor a part of Schengen, you might also need a visa to enter Iceland.

Question 6

How do I get to land from the ship?

Accepted Answer

This both depends on the size of the port and the vessel. There are eighteen harbours in Iceland, meaning that the means of getting to land from the ship may vary depending on which harbour you dock at.Very small harbours cannot receive very large ships, and very small ships cannot dock at very large harbours. On rare instances, therefore, cruisers will use zodiac boats to transfer their passengers to land.

Question 7

If I miss my on-land-tour because my ship was delayed, will I get a refund?

Accepted Answer

If the tour in question is explicitly listed as a 'shore excursion', you will be refunded should you miss it due to the ship being delayed. Refunds cannot be guaranteed if the tour is not listed as a shore excursion.

Question 8

Will I be able to see the Northern Lights?

Accepted Answer

In winter, it is very likely that you will see the Northern Lights. They are, however, a naturally occurring phenomenon and seeing them, therefore, can never be guaranteed. In summer, the Northern Lights are not visible because the sky does not get dark enough for them to appear.

Question 9

Can I get picked up at the port for my Shore Excursion?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in most cases you will be picked up from the port for your shore excursion. In Reykjavík City, however, you will have to walk a short distance to reach your tour operator because your ship will be docked in an area which is not open to the public.

Question 10

Can I book a customised Shore Excursion?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can. Many operators offer private excursions tailored to your interests. If you need assistance finding one, please do not hesitate to contact us on info@guidetoiceland.is.

Cruises & Shore Excursions

3 Cruises & Shore Excursions available

10 Day Cruise Around Iceland by Sea

Svalvogar Circle | Westfjords Sightseeing Tour

Shore Excursion for Cruise Ship Passengers | Golden Circle and the South Coast | Small Group Day Tou

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