Iceland Cruise from Reykjavík to Kobe — 69 Days

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavík is a capital with one foot in the wild. The Atlantic frames the city, volcanic mountains rise on the horizon, and geothermal water warms its pools. Start at Hallgrímskirkja, whose tower commands broad views, then walk down to the harbor and Harpa concert hall. Cafés, design shops, and museums make the compact center easy to explore on foot. Beyond town, geysers and waterfalls make a striking day trip; return for a soak in a neighborhood pool.

Flatey Island Iceland (Scenic Stop)

Vigur Island Iceland (Scenic Stop)

Isafjordur, Westfjords Iceland

Ísafjörður is the Westfjords’ principal town, set between a sheltered harbor and steep, often snow-streaked mountains. Walk its compact center to see colorful timber houses, then visit the Westfjords Heritage Museum in the historic harbor district. Its exhibits trace the fishing trade that shaped life along Iceland’s remote western coast. Beyond town, dramatic fjord scenery unfolds along winding roads. With a full day ashore, consider the drive to Dynjandi, one of the region’s most striking waterfalls.

Coastal Cruising (Coastal Cruising)

Prince Christian Sound Greenland (Scenic Area)

Fjord Cruising (Fjord Cruising)

Qaqortoq, Greenland

Qaqortoq is southern Greenland’s largest town, set around a sheltered harbor beneath steep, bare hills. Colorful houses climb the slopes, while fishing boats give the waterfront its working rhythm. Follow the town’s Stone and Man carvings, then visit the museum for insight into Greenlandic life and Norse history. Boat trips can take you to nearby Norse ruins or Uunartoq’s natural hot springs.

Hvalsey, Greenland

At Hvalsey, Greenland’s Norse past comes into focus among stone walls, open fields and a broad fjord. Here stands the country’s best-preserved Norse church, part of a farming settlement founded during the medieval period. The last known written record of Greenland’s Norse community describes a wedding here in 1408. Walk the quiet site and imagine a life shaped by weather, livestock and the sea.

Nuuk, Greenland

Nuuk is Greenland’s capital, where Arctic scale meets the pace of a working town. Set beside the vast Nuuk Fjord, it pairs brightly painted houses with modern architecture and a lively harbor. Visit the Greenland National Museum to see the 500-year-old Qilakitsoq mummies and objects tracing Inuit life. Then look toward Sermitsiaq, the landmark mountain rising beyond the water. Nuuk rewards travelers seeking Greenlandic culture alongside its dramatic landscapes.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Kangerlussuaq is Greenland’s unlikely gateway: a small settlement set 190 kilometres inland at the head of a long fjord. Once a U.S. air base, it offers access to the ice sheet and guided excursions onto its immense white surface. Beyond town, tundra supports musk oxen and reindeer; nearby Russell Glacier reveals Greenland’s moving ice. Weather and distance shape every outing, so plan for conditions.

Sisimiut, Greenland

Set just north of the Arctic Circle, Sisimiut is Greenland’s second-largest town and a working fishing port. Brightly painted homes rise above the harbor. Boats and fishing vessels keep the waterfront firmly connected to daily life. At Sisimiut Museum, historic buildings and collections reveal Inuit heritage and the town’s colonial past. From town, trails open onto Arctic landscapes of mountains, lakes and broad tundra.

Coastal Cruising (Coastal Cruising)

Uummannaq, Greenland

Uummannaq sits on an island in northwest Greenland, north of the Arctic Circle. Above its colorful houses rises Mount Uummannaq, a distinctive heart-shaped peak reaching 1,170 metres. From the harbor, look across the fjord to glaciers and drifting icebergs. The local museum offers insight into life in this remote community, where fishing remains central. Step ashore for a vivid encounter with Greenlandic island life and a landscape of uncommon scale.

• Coastal Cruising (Coastal Cruising)

Fjord Cruising (Fjord Cruising)

Nuuk, Greenland

Nuuk is Greenland’s capital, where Arctic scale meets the pace of a working town. Set beside the vast Nuuk Fjord, it pairs brightly painted houses with modern architecture and a lively harbor. Visit the Greenland National Museum to see the 500-year-old Qilakitsoq mummies and objects tracing Inuit life. Then look toward Sermitsiaq, the landmark mountain rising beyond the water. Nuuk rewards travelers seeking Greenlandic culture alongside its dramatic landscapes.

Sisimiut, Greenland

Set just north of the Arctic Circle, Sisimiut is Greenland’s second-largest town and a working fishing port. Brightly painted homes rise above the harbor. Boats and fishing vessels keep the waterfront firmly connected to daily life. At Sisimiut Museum, historic buildings and collections reveal Inuit heritage and the town’s colonial past. From town, trails open onto Arctic landscapes of mountains, lakes and broad tundra.

• Coastal Cruising (Coastal Cruising)

Coastal Cruising (Coastal Cruising)

Devon Island Canada (Scenic Stop)

Coastal Cruising (Coastal Cruising)

Northwest Passage, Canadian Arctic

The Northwest Passage is a network of channels through Canada’s Arctic Archipelago, not a single waterway. It crosses Inuit homelands, where small communities maintain enduring ties to land and sea. Voyages bring stark coastlines, immense skies and wildlife adapted to a demanding environment. The Franklin expedition vanished after entering the Arctic in 1845, adding a haunting chapter to the route’s history. Each voyage depends on season, ice and route; no two crossings unfold alike.

Herschel Island, Yukon Canada

Herschel Island lies in the Beaufort Sea, off Yukon’s Arctic coast, where tundra meets a wide, cold horizon. At Pauline Cove, historic buildings recall the late-19th-century whaling era, set against a much older Inuvialuit presence. Protected as Herschel Island–Qikiqtaruk Territorial Park, it offers stark landscapes, abundant birdlife and genuine remoteness. Reach the island by boat in summer, when weather and sea ice allow.

Nome, Alaska

Nome sits on the Bering Sea, where Alaska feels vast, windswept and unmistakably remote. Gold brought prospectors here in 1898; traces of the rush remain in weathered dredges and historic buildings. At the Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum, exhibits illuminate the region’s Indigenous cultures and mining past. Nome also marks the finish of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, celebrated each March. Beyond town, open tundra and gravel roads invite exploration, but distances and weather demand thoughtful planning.

St Paul Island Alaska (Scenic Stop)

Aleutian Islands, Alaska

The Aleutian Islands arc west from Alaska toward Asia, dividing the North Pacific from the Bering Sea. Volcanic peaks rise through fog, while seabirds wheel above waters shaped by powerful currents. Unalaska, the chain’s principal community, offers a window on the region’s Russian-era history and enduring fishing culture. Expect changeable weather, immense horizons, and a sense of distance rare in modern travel. On a clear day, the islands’ stark beauty needs no introduction.

Dutch Harbor Unalaska, Alaska

Dutch Harbor sits on Unalaska Island, where the Aleutian chain meets the Bering Sea. It is one of America’s busiest commercial fishing ports, yet its appeal reaches beyond the waterfront. Explore the Museum of the Aleutians to learn about the region’s Indigenous history. Visit the Russian Orthodox Cathedral, a landmark dating to the nineteenth century. World War II sites recall Unalaska’s strategic role in the Aleutian campaign. Expect steep green hills, working docks, and weather that can change quickly.

Aleutian Islands, Alaska

The Aleutian Islands arc west from Alaska toward Asia, dividing the North Pacific from the Bering Sea. Volcanic peaks rise through fog, while seabirds wheel above waters shaped by powerful currents. Unalaska, the chain’s principal community, offers a window on the region’s Russian-era history and enduring fishing culture. Expect changeable weather, immense horizons, and a sense of distance rare in modern travel. On a clear day, the islands’ stark beauty needs no introduction.

Kushiro City, Japan Kushiro

Kushiro is eastern Hokkaido’s working port city, known for the broad marshlands that begin just beyond its streets. At Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, boardwalks and viewpoints open onto Japan’s largest wetland, where red-crowned cranes may be seen. Back in town, browse Washo Market for crab and salmon, then cross the waterfront to Nusamai Bridge at dusk. This is a rewarding stop for wildlife, fresh seafood and a less-polished side of Japan.

Muroran, Japan Iburi

Muroran rewards travelers who look beyond the harbor cranes. On Hokkaido’s southern coast, this working port pairs striking industrial views with cliffs, sea caves and open Pacific horizons. At Cape Chikyu, a lighthouse and observatory command one of the island’s most celebrated ocean panoramas. The sweeping Hakucho Bridge frames the bay, while nearby Noboribetsu offers famed hot-spring bathing. Come ashore for a revealing contrast: Japan at work, and nature at full scale.

Aomori City, Japan Aomori

Aomori brings Japan’s northern frontier within easy reach, with the Tsugaru Strait beyond its harbor and mountains on the horizon. The city is known for crisp apples, fresh seafood and Nebuta, its dramatic summer festival of illuminated warrior floats. At Wa Rasse museum, the floats command attention year-round. Travelers can visit the Sannai-Maruyama archaeological site or journey to Hirosaki for its castle and celebrated cherry trees.

Sendai, Japan Miyagi

Sendai is Tohoku’s largest city, a welcoming gateway to northern Japan’s history, cuisine and Pacific coast. Explore Aoba Castle’s hilltop ruins and Zuihoden, the richly decorated mausoleum of the city’s founder, Date Masamune. Stroll leafy Jozenji-dori, then try gyutan, Sendai’s celebrated grilled beef tongue. Beyond the city, island-dotted Matsushima Bay offers an easy excursion and one of Japan’s most admired coastal panoramas.

Oarai, Japan Ibaraki

Oarai brings you to Ibaraki’s Pacific coast, where fishing-town life meets one of Japan’s most striking seaside shrines. At Oarai Isosaki Shrine, the Kamiiso torii stands offshore, framed by waves and changing light. Nearby, Aqua World Ibaraki offers a close look at marine life, while local restaurants serve fresh seafood. For a wider excursion, historic Mito and the landscaped gardens of Kairakuen lie inland.

Shimizu, Japan Shizuoka

Shimizu offers a memorable arrival: on clear days, Mount Fuji rises beyond the blue waters of Suruga Bay. Shimizu is a working harbor famed for tuna. Across the bay, Miho-no-Matsubara’s pines frame a celebrated view of Fuji. At Nihondaira, take in the panorama, then ride the ropeway to Kunozan Toshogu, a richly decorated shrine honoring Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Kobe-Osaka, Kyoto, Japan

Kobe sits between the forested Rokko Mountains and Osaka Bay, giving its harbor a dramatic setting. From the waterfront, ride the ropeway to Nunobiki Herb Gardens or explore Kitano’s former foreign residences. Nankinmachi serves up Chinese street food, while Nada’s sake breweries reveal a centuries-old craft. Efficient rail links to Osaka and Kyoto make Kobe an appealing gateway to the wider Kansai region.

Himeji, Japan Hyogo

Step ashore in Himeji, where Japan’s most celebrated castle rises above a compact, welcoming city. Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famed for its white-plastered walls, sweeping defenses and remarkably intact wooden interiors. Allow time for Koko-en, a group of nine gardens beside the castle, and sample local specialties near Himeji Station. Together, they make Himeji a rewarding stop for travelers who value history, thoughtful design and an easy day ashore.

Kobe-Osaka, Kyoto, Japan

Kobe sits between the forested Rokko Mountains and Osaka Bay, giving its harbor a dramatic setting. From the waterfront, ride the ropeway to Nunobiki Herb Gardens or explore Kitano’s former foreign residences. Nankinmachi serves up Chinese street food, while Nada’s sake breweries reveal a centuries-old craft. Efficient rail links to Osaka and Kyoto make Kobe an appealing gateway to the wider Kansai region.

Okayama City, Japan Okayama

Okayama offers a graceful blend of celebrated gardens, samurai-era history and easy access to the Seto Inland Sea. Korakuen, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, pairs elegant ponds and lawns with views of Okayama Castle. Explore the castle’s dark exterior and Momotaro legends, then seek out Okayama’s famed white peaches and muscat grapes. Nearby Kurashiki rewards visitors with a preserved canal quarter lined with white-walled storehouses and willow trees.

• Naoshima Island Japan (Scenic Stop)

Takamatsu, Shikoku, Japan Kagawa

Takamatsu is the gateway to Shikoku, Japan’s smallest main island, and a city with an unexpectedly graceful pace. From the harbour, reach Ritsurin Garden, a celebrated landscape garden shaped over more than a century. Its ponds, pine groves and teahouses reward an unhurried visit. The city is also known for sanuki udon, the region’s springy wheat noodles. Take the ferry to Naoshima for contemporary art, or stay to explore the waterfront and castle ruins.

Itsukushima Island Japan, Miyajima, Hiroshima

Step ashore on Itsukushima, better known as Miyajima, and the Seto Inland Sea sets the scene. Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands above tidal flats; its vermilion torii rises offshore at high tide. Explore the shrine’s corridors, browse local shops for maple-leaf cakes, or take the ropeway toward Mount Misen’s wooded summit. Ferries link the island with Miyajimaguchi for easy access; stay overnight to find quieter shores after day-trippers leave.

Hiroshima City, Japan Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a modern city with a history that reaches far beyond the events of 1945. At Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome and museum offer a moving, carefully documented account of the bombing. Across the city, local trams make it easy to reach Shukkeien Garden, lively Hondori and the riverside. A short train and ferry journey reaches Miyajima, famed for Itsukushima Shrine and its great torii gate.

Uwajima, Japan Ehime

Uwajima sits on Shikoku’s southwestern coast, where a compact castle town overlooks the sheltered bays of the Uwa Sea. Its castle, one of Japan’s 12 surviving original keeps, rewards the climb with views across town and water. At Tensha-en, ponds, stone bridges and seasonal flowers recall the world of the Date lords. At scheduled bullfighting tournaments, two bulls lock horns in a local tradition with no riders or blades.

Matsuyama, Japan Ehime

Matsuyama rewards visitors who look beyond the waterfront. Ride the city tram to Dōgo Onsen, a celebrated hot-spring district with a historic wooden bathhouse. Above the city, Matsuyama Castle crowns a hill, offering sweeping views across rooftops and the Seto Inland Sea. Between the two, cafés, gardens and literary landmarks make an easy day feel distinctly Japanese.

Uwajima, Japan Ehime

Uwajima sits on Shikoku’s southwestern coast, where a compact castle town overlooks the sheltered bays of the Uwa Sea. Its castle, one of Japan’s 12 surviving original keeps, rewards the climb with views across town and water. At Tensha-en, ponds, stone bridges and seasonal flowers recall the world of the Date lords. At scheduled bullfighting tournaments, two bulls lock horns in a local tradition with no riders or blades.

Yakushima Island Japan, Miyanoura-Anbo, Satsunan-Osumi Islands Kagoshima

Yakushima rises from the sea south of Kyushu, its forested peaks often wrapped in cloud. Parts of its ancient cedar forests gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1993. Trails cross moss-covered woodland to Jōmon Sugi, a celebrated cedar reached by a demanding hike. Waterfalls, coastal hot springs and quiet fishing villages offer gentler ways to discover this subtropical island.

Kagoshima City, Japan Kagoshima

Kagoshima sits at the southern end of Kyushu, with Sakurajima rising across its sheltered bay. Ferries cross to the active volcano, where lava fields and walking trails reveal a landscape still shaped by fire. Sengan-en, a former Shimazu estate, combines traditional gardens with striking views of Sakurajima. Kagoshima’s food is equally distinctive: tender kurobuta pork and local sweet-potato shochu give the region its own character.

Nagasaki City, Japan Nagasaki

Few Japanese cities combine harbor scenery and layered history as compellingly as Nagasaki. Its steep streets rise above a sheltered harbor that once linked Japan with Dutch and Chinese traders. At Dejima, the former Dutch trading post, exhibits trace the city’s unusual role during centuries of restricted foreign contact. The Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum offer a moving, carefully documented account of 1945. Come for the history; stay to see how a resilient port city lives beside its past.

Ulsan, Gyeongju, Korea

Ulsan is South Korea’s working coast at full scale: a major shipbuilding and automotive centre with a surprisingly green edge. Follow the Taehwagang River through its celebrated bamboo grove, or walk the coastal paths of Daewangam Park. At Jangsaengpo, a historic whaling port, the Whale Culture Village traces a complicated maritime past. Ulsan rewards travellers who look beyond the factory skyline for nature, history and a candid view of modern Korea.

Sakaiminato-Matsue, Japan Tottori

Your arrival at Sakaiminato opens a quieter side of Japan, where fishing-town character meets samurai history. Follow Mizuki Shigeru Road past bronze figures from the manga artist’s supernatural world, then sample fresh crab and seafood. Matsue lies about 40 kilometres away, its original castle among Japan’s National Treasures, with canals and Lake Shinji nearby. A day ashore can move from lively local flavour to the measured elegance of old Japan.

Kitakyushu, Japan Fukuoka

Kitakyushu sits at Kyushu’s northern tip, facing Honshu across the Kanmon Strait. Its waterfront tells two stories: Mojiko’s restored Meiji-era port buildings and the steelworks that helped shape modern Japan. Explore Kokura Castle, then browse Tanga Market, where local cooks and shoppers keep the city’s food culture in view. Come for a port city with substance: industrial history, waterside architecture and a lively gateway to western Japan.

Osaki-Shimojima Island Japan (Scenic Stop)

Kobe-Osaka, Kyoto, Japan

Kobe sits between the forested Rokko Mountains and Osaka Bay, giving its harbor a dramatic setting. From the waterfront, ride the ropeway to Nunobiki Herb Gardens or explore Kitano’s former foreign residences. Nankinmachi serves up Chinese street food, while Nada’s sake breweries reveal a centuries-old craft. Efficient rail links to Osaka and Kyoto make Kobe an appealing gateway to the wider Kansai region.