Traveling abroad is always an adventure, but it’s even more so now that cruising is back. When my Viking Ocean Cruises’ “Welcome Back” voyage in Iceland was interrupted due to a case of COVID-19, I had the opportunity to repeat the sailing for a second week. This experience proved two things to me: One, like the cruise line’s motto touts, sailing with Viking means “exploring the world in comfort,” and two, Iceland is a destination filled with cruise ports worth repeating.
As I learned on my trip, Viking is pulling out all the stops when it comes to placing passengers’ health and safety at the forefront. Currently, the line requires all ships to be limited in capacity. In addition, passengers must be fully vaccinated; wear masks indoors while moving about the ship, in elevators and on tour buses; physically distance when possible; carry a device that allows for contact tracing; and undergo daily COVID-19 tests and temperature readings.
Midway through our first cruise, when the positive case was detected, the passenger was instantly isolated, and the virus did not spread to any other passengers or crew. Clients concerned about such experiences should know that Viking handled the challenges well and made the entire experience as effortless as possible for guests.
For instance, COVID-19 testing simply involved spitting into a tube that is provided in the cabins nightly and carried to the lab in the morning on each passenger’s behalf. Temperatures were taken at convenient restaurant stations. My wife and I never had to go out of our way.
A variety of COVID-19 protocols put passengers' health and safety at the forefront onboard Viking Sky.
Credit: 2021 Jason LeppertWhen our fellow guest tested positive for COVID-19, we missed several days of land tours (due to rules from Icelandic authorities to keep everyone onboard). Fortunately, we were able to visit most of the bypassed ports on the second leg of the journey and repeat several others.
The turnaround port of Reykjavik — where our ship, Viking Sky, overnighted to permit a full day of touring — was a perfect one to revisit to traverse the famed Golden Circle, which encompasses the stunning Gullfoss waterfall and the beautifully rugged landscape between the North American and European tectonic plates. Also high on our list was a private tour of the currently erupting Fagradalsfjall volcano, the world-famous Blue Lagoon and the Sky Lagoon, where we had the opportunity to take a therapeutic dip in geothermal waters.
From Isafjordur, the dramatic Dynjandi waterfall was the tallest to hike, and Vigur Island was the best spot to view adorable puffins. Probably the single greatest excursion we took, though, was aptly named “Northern Iceland’s Natural Treasures,” and took place from Akureyri to see the breathtaking Dimmuborgir lava labyrinth, the expansive Godafoss waterfall and the otherworldly Namaskard sulfur cauldrons. Fans of the Netflix comedy, “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga,” may also wish to visit the cinematic fishing village of Husavik, where the movie was filmed.
Later, we walked in the town of Seydisfjordur, an ideal place to explore on our own and check out the sleepy village’s vibrant rainbow road, grab a quick snack and relax with the backdrop of the Viking Sky.
Clients can get an up-close look at Fagradalsfjall volcano.
Credit: 2021 Laura/stock.adobe.comAlthough I enjoyed my onshore excursions, I suggest clients set aside enough time onboard to take advantage of the ship’s many offerings. The spa and its complimentary thermal suite remain a favorite, and the double-decker Explorers’ Lounge is one of the best observation venues at sea. Passengers also enjoy free specialty dining options, such as Manfredi’s for delicious Italian cuisine.
Heimaey of the Westman Islands was the only port to elude us twice; the second time, the delay was due to unfavorable weather and unsafe tendering conditions. But that was okay; now, we have good reason to return to incredible Iceland yet again.
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