Iceland and Greenland cruises are drawing growing interest from UK travellers seeking dramatic Arctic scenery, volcanic landscapes, and wildlife encounters well off the beaten track. Right now, there are 20 live sailings available for this region, with five of those currently showing discounted fares averaging 18% off. If you have been considering this type of voyage, this is a practical look at what is on offer, what to expect, and how to make the most of the current pricing.
What the current deals actually look like
Of the 20 live sailings available for Iceland and Greenland, five are currently discounted, with an average saving of 18% off their original fares. The average price across all sailings sits at £2,315 per person, which reflects the typically expedition-style or premium nature of Arctic itineraries. However, the cheapest available sailing starts from just £620 per person, which suggests there are entry-level options worth investigating if your budget is tighter. It is worth checking whether that lower fare covers a shorter itinerary, an inside cabin, or a repositioning leg rather than a full round-trip expedition.
Who these cruises suit
Iceland and Greenland itineraries tend to appeal to travellers who prioritise landscapes, wildlife, and cultural discovery over poolside relaxation or large-ship entertainment. Expect geysers, glaciers, fjords, puffin colonies, and the possibility of the Northern Lights on late-season departures. These routes are well suited to couples, solo travellers, and small groups who are reasonably active and comfortable with changeable weather. Families with older teenagers may also find the dramatic scenery and educational element a strong draw.
What the average price includes — and what it might not
At an average of £2,315 per person, Iceland and Greenland cruises are a mid-to-premium investment, and what is included varies considerably by cruise line. Some expedition-style operators bundle shore excursions, specialist guides, and waterproof gear into the fare, while mainstream lines may charge separately for these. Before booking, confirm whether flights, transfers, port taxes, and gratuities are included, as these can add meaningfully to the headline price. Always read the full fare breakdown rather than comparing headline figures alone.
How to approach booking a discounted sailing
With five sailings currently showing discounts averaging 18%, it is sensible to move relatively promptly if a specific departure catches your eye, as Arctic itineraries often have limited cabin inventory. Use a specialist cruise agent or a well-established online cruise retailer to compare the discounted fares against the full-price options, and ask explicitly what has changed — sometimes a discounted cabin is a lower category or a solo supplement has been reduced. Check the cancellation and amendment terms carefully, particularly if you are booking more than 12 months ahead, as flexibility policies differ widely between operators.
Practical things to know before you go
UK travellers do not currently need a visa for Iceland or Greenland, though it is always worth confirming entry requirements closer to your travel date. Packing layers is essential — even summer departures can bring cold winds and rain, and many shore excursions involve walking on uneven terrain. Travel insurance that covers cruise-specific risks, including missed port departures and medical evacuation in remote areas, is strongly advisable for any Arctic itinerary. Currency in Iceland is the Icelandic króna, while Greenland uses the Danish krone, though many tourist-facing businesses accept cards.