Experience an unforgettable journey in a country that is still in the making! Iceland is a striking island
with diverse natural landscapes that have been shaped by the mighty forces of rumbling volcanoes,
gushing geysers, and massive glaciers grinding great pathways through the mountains and then
forming bodies of water where none existed as they retreat.
You'll participate in exciting excursions where you'll discover dramatic fjords, playful wildlife,
dynamic waterfalls, fertile plains, and lush greenery. Visiting 9 ports, you'll experience idyllic
seaside villages, where the lifestyle of the native Icelandic people is as intriguing as the
impressive variety of blooming native flowers, considering that the location is almost
on the Arctic Circle!
From the comfort of the super yacht, The Ocean Diamond, we'll watch with
eager eyes as Iceland reveals its wonders to us. You won’t want to
miss this incredible, unforge able journey that
holds a surprise around every corner!
DAY 1 FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 2016
DEPART FOR REYKJAVIK
We will depart from our designated locations and travel to Chicago for an overnight flight to Iceland, arriving the following morning.
DAY 2 SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 2016
REYKJAVIK
(D)
Welcome to Reykjavik! We'll gather our luggage and transfer to the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing soak in the soothing waters. Recognized as one of
the wonders of the world, the Blue Lagoon will fascinate you. Start with a guided tour and then grab a bite to eat on your own and enjoy the
water. Mid-afternoon we will depart for the pier and our home for the next 9 nights, the Ocean Diamond. Board the ship and enjoy a welcome
aboard snack as well as have time to relax before meeting for dinner this evening.
DAY 3 SUNDAY, JUNE 12, 2016
STYKKISHOLMUR
(BLD)
Stykkisholmur is the starting point for our explorations of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, which juts out from Iceland's west coast. Like a long arm
with a clenched fist at its tip, the peninsula is in many ways a microcosm of the whole island. Boarding our Zodiacs, passengers will explore
Breidafjördur Bay, known for its colorful bird life, unique basalt rock formations and stunning scenery. In addition to the Zodiac tour, we will
enjoy a bus excursion around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. This area is often called “Iceland in miniature” due to the diverse landscapes and
places of national interest. View the Snaefellsjokull Glacier, the dramatic rock formations of Svortuloft, the remnants of a large volcanic crater
called the Londranger Rocks, and stop in the small fishing village of Arnarstapi.
DAY 4 MONDAY, JUNE 13, 2016
ISAFJÖRDUR
(BLD)
Today's destination is the idyllic town of Isafjördur, capital of the Westfjords region. This secluded peninsula is connected to the rest of Iceland
by only a narrow strip of land. Even by Icelandic standards, the area can be described as unusually isolated. The landscape is characterized by
mesas and dramatic fjords that cut deep into the landscape. Our excursion today explores the Westfjords, two historic villages and a
magnificent waterfall. Thingeyri, with a population of about 260, is one of the oldest settlements in the Westfjords and the location of the
area's first trading post. Hrafnseyri boasts an old Viking farm and is also the birthplace of nationalist leader Jón Sigurðsson, who was
instrumental in helping Iceland gain its independence from Denmark. This tour also stops at the thunderous Dynjandi, the highest (and most
impressive) waterfall in the Westfjords.
DAY 5 TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016
SIGLUFJÖRDUR
(BLD)
The next morning we reach the city of Siglufjördur, once the center of the Icelandic herring industry. Learn all about the golden age of Icelandic
herring fishing at the award-winning Herring Museum. At lunchtime, we take a Zodiac excursion to Hedinsfjördur, an uninhabited inlet
surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Tröllaskagi Peninsula. In the early evening we arrive in Akureyri, capital of the north. Go for a stroll
through the beautiful town and visit the botanical garden. All native Icelandic flowers are represented here—an impressive variety, considering
the location is almost on the Arctic Circle.
DAY 6 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016
AKUREYRI
(BLD)
Today the Ocean Diamond remains in the port of Akureyri while we explore Iceland's north shore. Around 90 minutes by road to the east of the
city is the Lake Myvatn region, a schizophrenic landscape where it's said that “heaven and hell” clash. One side of the lake is characterized by
the rugged remnants of volcanic activity, while on the other you find fertile plains with lush greenery and a varied bird life. Our excursion today
is the “Diamond Circle” tour which includes a visit to the massive Dettisfoss waterfall. Reaching 144 feet high and 330 feet wide, this waterfall
crashes into Iceland's most impressive canyon, the colorful Myvatn area, along Jökulsargljfur Glacial Canyon to the “whispering cliffs” of
Hlyjodaklettar, and then continues to the lush horseshoe shaped Asbyrgi canyon, said to be the meeting place of Gods.
DAY 7 THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2016
FLATEY
(BLD)
Early in the morning we anchor off the island of Flatey, a bird paradise with over 30 different types of birds. We'll take the Zodiac over to the
island and enjoy a nice walk on the island and visit with the locals. This afternoon we set sail again around the Skajalfandi Bay, keeping our eyes
out for whales.
DAY 8 FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2016
SEYDISFJÖRDUR
(BLD)
For our exploration of the Eastfjords, the ship docks in the port of Seydisfjördur. Characteristic of the region are the picturesque fishing villages,
steep slopes and panoramic sea views. Today is a free day for you to relax on the ship or to take in an optional excursion that the ship offers such
as: Spot seals while horseback riding, paddle kayaks in the idyllic fjords, hike and look out for wild reindeer, or explore the town of Egilsstadir by
bike.
DAY 9 SATURDAY, JUNE 18, 2016
HÖFN
(BLD)
The former fishing village of Höfn is a good starting point to explore Vatnajökull glacier. En route to Skaftafell National Park, you’ll stop at the
magnificent Glacier Lagoon of Jökulsarlon and float past the magnificent icebergs in the lagoon in an especially equipped boat. Arriving at
Skaftafell you’ll go on a hike alongside the glacier and take a short walk to Svartifoss waterfall, surrounded by dark lava columns which give rise
to its name “Black Falls.”
DAY 10 SUNDAY, JUNE 19, 2016
VESTMANNAEYJAR (WESTMAN ISLANDS)
(BLD)
Located about five miles off the coast of southern Iceland, the island group Vestmannaeyjar were formed by submarine volcanic eruptions
10,000 years ago. The youngest of the islands only emerged from the sea in 1963. We go ashore in the harbor of Heimaey, the only inhabited
island of the group. Residents here live with the constant threat of another violent eruption. In 1973, the entire population had to be evacuated
after Helgafell volcano suddenly exploded. In many places in Heimaey one still sees the houses half buried by lava and ash. We'll enjoy a tour of
the island by motorcoach this morning. This afternoon we circumnavigate the island in our Zodiacs and stop at places of interest where you will
get to know the local bird life, visit caves and, if lucky, spot whales. We'll enjoy a nice farewell dinner on board the ship this evening.
DAY 11 MONDAY, JUNE 20, 2016
REYKJAVIK - FLIGHT HOME
(B)
Following breakfast we will depart the ship and enjoy a city tour of Reykjavik before departing for the airport and our flight home.
DAY/DATE
PORT
1 June 11
2 June 12
3 June 13
4 June 14
4 June 14
5 June 15
6 June 16
7 June 17
8 June18
9 June 19
10 June 20
Reykjavik
Stykkisholmur
Isafjördur
Siglufjördur
Akureyri
Akureyri
Flatey
Seydisfjördur
Höfn
Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands)
Reykjavik
• Round Trip Transfers from Hills to Chicago • Direct Non-Stop
Round Trip Air from Chicago to Reykjavik • Outside Cabin w/
Picture Window • All Taxes on Airfare and Cruise • 9-Night
Cruise Aboard the Ocean Diamond • Shore Excursions in All
Ports Except Seydisfjordur • English Speaking Crew
• Complimentary Beverages (including alcohol) throughout
Cruise • Suggested Cruise, Bus Driver, and Tour Manager
Gratuities • Travel Protection Insurance
Meals and/or beverages other than those listed on the itinerary, items of a
personal nature/sourvenirs and passport fees are not included in the price of this
tour. Airline baggage fees may apply.
$9,245 per person Double Occupancy
$12,750 Single Occupancy
A $500 deposit per person ($100 of which is non-refundable)
is required with your registration form.
FINAL PAYMENT IS DUE: MARCH 1, 2016
For further information or questions, please call:
Karissa Wikert
(866) 866-8901 or (319) 358-2230
or email: [email protected]
Custom designed tour by
STE R
D
estinations
DOCUMENTATION: A valid U.S. passport is required for this tour. Each U.S. citizen must have a valid passport. The expiration date of all passports should be at least 6 months after the return date of the tour. If you don’t have a
passport, call our office and we’ll tell you how to apply for one. Holders of non-U.S. passports have different entry requirements. Please NOTE: Due to airline security measures, your passport name must match your airline ticket
name and your tour reservation name or you may be denied aircraft boarding.
BASIC TRAVEL INSURANCE INCLUDED: Included insurance is being purchased on your behalf by Hills Bank. Travel Protection means passengers are covered when unforeseen medical circumstances arise which may force
you to cancel or interrupt your vacation. Coverage is as follows: Accidental Death and Dismemberment ($25,000), Emergency Medical Expense/Emergency Assistance (Emergency Accident and Sickness Medical Expense $50,000 / Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation - $250,000), Trip Cancellation (Trip Cost), Trip Interruption (150% of Trip Cost), Missed Connection ($1,000), Trip Delay $750 (up to $150 per day), Baggage and Personal Effects
($2,500), Baggage Delay ($250). A brochure with full details is available.
CANCELLATION: Full refund of all monies, less $100 non-refundable deposit, is made if cancellation is received in writing to Hills Bank prior to final payment. A 100% fee is charged if the cancellation occurs between final payment
and departure unless for a medical reason that is covered by Insurance.
TERMS & CONDITIONS: Star Destinations, Inc. (SDI) acts as an agent for and makes arrangements with airlines, hotels, railroads, bus lines, cruise lines, adventure companies and other independent parties to provide you with
the travel services and accommodations. Although great care is taken in choosing suppliers, we are unable to directly control them and therefore cannot be held responsible or liable for their acts or omissions. The travel services
are subject to the conditions imposed by these suppliers and their liability may be limited by their tariffs, conditions of carriage, and international conventions and agreements. Should for any reason beyond our control, the hotel or
establishment described in the attached itinerary may not be available, SDI. and its agents reserve the right to lodge travelers in another hotel of similar or superior category. SDI cannot assume responsibility for any claims,
losses, damages, costs or expenses arising out of injury, accident or death, damage, loss or delay of baggage or other property, or delay, inconvenience, loss of enjoyment, upset, disappointment, distress or frustration, whether
physical or mental, resulting from a) mechanical breakdowns, dangers inherent to the sea, fire, theft, civil disturbances, strikes, government actions, weather and other factors and causes beyond our control. b) passenger's
failure to follow instructions of SDI or its representatives. c) any other cause beyond the control of SDI. In addition, SDI reserves the right to vary the Tour Price advertised or printed to cover any increase in air fare, fuel price,
Government taxes and charges, exchange rate fluctuations, or other Tour related tariffs and costs subject to price guarantee. The price of this tour is based on the ISK/USD exchange rate of $0.01 as of 9/10/15. If you request a
variation or change to your booking, SDI may choose to accept or reject that request at its sole discretion. If SDI accepts your request, you must pay the variation fee and any costs associated with it.