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Iceland is a magical place filled with stunning landscapes and unique natural wonders. There are also some excellent experiences. As a family we thoroughly enjoyed a family friendly sea fishing trip from Reykjavik. TL;DR This was a family friendly fishing trip that we did a few years ago. We caught some fish, which were put on the BBQ and we ate as we returned back into port. All Dressed Up Putting on the orange jackets and trousers was fun, and helped get everyone into the right mood as well as providing some additional protection from the elements. The Fishing Experience It didn't take long for the boat to get out of the harbour and find some sheltered shallow water - where the boat was anchored, and the engines switched off. Then the fishing started with crew members sharing helpful tips for catching cod. The level of excitment rose quickly as the first of the bites started and soon fish were being landed in quick succession. For children, especially those who are fishing for the first time, the screams of excitement were electrifying. Food After a productive hour or so on the water, the crew began preparing the freshly caught cod for dinner. They filleted the fish onboard, scraps went overboard for the waiting seaagulls, and the smell from the BBQ filled the air with fishy aromas as it was well seasoned and cooked on the BBQ. It was rough and ready - we didn't realise that boiled potatoes, butter and freshly caught cod could taste so good. We got a nice view of Reykjavik as we returned slowly to port. It's certainly an adventure that we will all remember. Tips for a Successful Family Fishing Trip Choose the Right Tour : Look for family-friendly options that cater to beginners and provide guidance. Pack Smart : Bring layered clothing. Engage the Kids : Encourage involvement from everyone. Let children help with casting, reeling in fish, and even cleaning the catch. Capture the Moments : Take photos throughout the journey. Be Patient : Fishing requires patience. Whether you're an experienced angler or just starting, the thrill of fishing in Iceland is an opportunity not to be missed. Gather your family, pack your bags, and prepare for an unforgettable experience. Happy travels!

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 6 - Arrive @ 18:55, Depart @ 19:15 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 8 / Day 2 - Arrive @ 01:20, Depart @ 01:30 Climate Midnight Sun - 15 M ay to 31 July. Polar Night - 1 December to 10 January. Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-330164/Norway/Finnmark/Gamvik/Mehamn Observations - other than Excursions The 20min stop northbound, and 10min stop southbound doesn't provide a long enough opportunity to get off the ship and visit. Eats N/A Walk N/A Mehamn - in one line Mehamn is only applicable to Port to Port travellers.

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 4 - Arrive @ 04:35, Depart @ 04:50 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 10 / Day 4 - Arrive @ 11:45, Depart @ 12:15 Climate Midnight Sun - 12 June - 30 June Polar Night - Not applicable Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-255674/Norway/Nordland/Alstahaug/Sandnessjøen Observations - other than Excursions The 15min stop northbound, and 30min stop southbound doesn't provide a long enough opportunity to get off the ship and visit. Eats N/A Walk N/A Sandnessjøen - in one line Sandnessjøen is only applicable to Port to Port travellers.

This stunning waterfall not only presents an incredible visual show but also invites you to immerse yourself in the majesty of nature, by getting behind it - its wet and noisy! TL;DR How many waterfalls can you go around the back of? The Beauty of Seljalandsfoss Standing at 60 meters tall, Seljalandsfoss is a standout among Iceland’s magnificent waterfalls. What truly makes it distinctive is the pathway that allows visitors to walk behind the cascading water. This provides a rare angle to view the falls. In winter, the falls often freeze, resulting in mesmerising ice formations that attract photographers and nature lovers alike. Getting to Seljalandsfoss Located conveniently along the famous Ring Road (Route 1), Seljalandsfoss is easily accessible. It is situated roughly 120 kilometers from Reykjavik, making it an ideal destination for day travellers. The drive to Seljalandsfoss is filled with scenic views of mountains, valleys, and assorted natural wonders. Upon arriving, you’ll find a well-kept parking area where you can park for free. The short walk from the parking lot to the waterfall makes it easy for visitors of all ages to reach this breathtaking sight. Walking Behind the Waterfall One of the most thrilling aspects of Seljalandsfoss is the chance to walk behind the waterfall. A clearly marked path leads to the back of the cascade, where you can be surrounded by the thundering flow. The feeling of the cool mist on your face is refreshing and allows for some of the most unique photo opportunities imaginable. However, remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the path can become slippery due to the mist and spray. It is also wise to have waterproof clothing on hand, as you may get wet during your adventure. Optimal Times to Visit Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience at Seljalandsfoss. I personally don't think the season matters - but if you can avoid the crowds that helps with the flow of people going behind the waterfall - less waiting! Handy Tips for Visiting Seljalandsfoss Plan Your Visit : For a quieter experience, consider arriving early in the morning or later in the evening. Dress for Success : Wear sturdy shoes and bring waterproof clothing, especially if you intend to walk behind the waterfall. Stay Safe : Be cautious on the paths, as they can be slick. Always respect the natural environment and stick to designated trails. Capture the Moment : Bring your camera or phone. Respect Nature : Leave No Trace. Happy travels!

One of the most captivating views I've witnessed in Iceland is Glacier Lagoon, known locally as Jökulsárlón. Personally I had prepped for disappointment - icebergs up close?, but it really is a must-see for anyone visiting Iceland for more than a few days. It is though a significant drive from Reykjavik. TL;DR Glacier Lagoon is full of huge lumps of ice slowly and majestically making their way out to sea. The vivid blue icebergs, set against surrounding mountains and the black sand beaches of Vatnajökull, create a stunning backdrop that draws visitors from around the world. The Icebergs of Jökulsárlón One of the most awe-inspiring features of Glacier Lagoon is the icebergs drifting across its surface. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with colours ranging from pure white to deep sapphire blue. The blue hue arises from the compression of ice, which absorbs every colour of light except blue. Boat tours are available - though I didn't take one. Instead opting to take a seat and take in the natural beauty of the area. There are also good facilities at the Lagoon - with a cafe and toilets. Tips for Visiting Glacier Lagoon To make the most of your visit to Glacier Lagoon, keep these tips in mind: Best Time to Visit Not sure - I've only visited during summer time, and the colours were stunning as a result. In addition, I was able to stay later in the evening, and avoid the crowds. Dress Appropriately Iceland's weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and prepare for changing conditions. Respect Nature Stay on marked paths Great Experience Whether you choose to take a boat tour, kayak, or simply relish the breathtaking views, a visit to Jökulsárlón will leave you with lasting memories. Happy travels!

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 4 - Arrive @ 01:35, Depart @ 01:45 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 9 / Day 3 - Arrive @ 15:00, Depart @ 17:25 Climate Midnight Sun - Not applicable Polar Night - Not applicable Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-244819/Norway/Nordland/Brønnøy/Brønnøysund Observations - other than Excursions The port stop at Brønnøysund is a generous 2hrs and 25mins southbound, which is ample time for a good explore. On our first trip we got off the ship and turned right and took a long walk along the coast up to where the footpath runs out as the road takes a sharp turn to the right and up over a bridge. It was a pleasant walk through the housing - and allowed for us to get more of a feel for the large town. When we returned for our second trip we went further into the town before turning to head out toward the airport. I remember it as a quiet walk - but again plenty to look at. I think both visits may have been on winter Sundays - so the town was quiet. Eats We didn't stop to eat - but there were a few outlets open. Walk There are excellent footpaths around the city. Brønnøysund - in one line Brønnøysund - nice for a walk on a Sunday afternoon.

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 3 - Arrive @ 09:45, Depart @ 12:45 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 11 / Day 5 - Arrive @ 06:30, Depart @ 09:30 Climate Midnight Sun - Not applicable Polar Night - Not applicable Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-211102/Norway/Trøndelag/Trondheim/Trondheim

Iceland offers breathtaking scenery, and a buzzing food scene that mirrors it's rich culture. When you visit this stunning country, tasting locally produced dishes should be at the top of your list. TL;DR Fjorubordid Restaurant, Ingólfsskáli Viking Restaurant, and Ölverk Pizza & Brewery. Each place has its own specialties that set it apart. Fjorubordid Restaurant: Their website is here - https://www.fjorubordid.is/english/ Tucked away in the charming village of Stokkseyri, Fjorubordid Restaurant is famous for its soup. The menu says it all " People risk their lives in bad weather on route to the village of Stokkseyri for just a few spoonfuls of this soup – with cream, tomatoes, charm and passion" . Its made from langoustine, cream, tomatoes - yes, but there is something else in there which gives it's heavenly taste. Book before you go, so you are not disappointed. Ingólfsskáli Viking Restaurant Their website is here - https://ingolfsskali.is If you want to experience dining with a historical twist, Ingólfsskáli Viking Restaurant just outside the town of Hveragerði is a must. Designed to mimic a Viking longhouse, this restaurant boasts wooden beams and authentic décor that creates a historical vibe. On the menu, the lamb is a firm favourite. I don't know how they cook it - but I haven't tasted such cooking elsewhere - it is just so tender. Ingólfsskáli isn't just about the food; it’s about the experience. The venue frequently hosts live music and storytelling nights, making it the perfect spot for a memorable meal. Outside there are options for axe throwing. Book before you go, so you are not disappointed. Ölverk Pizza & Brewery: Craft Beer and Artisan Pizza Their website is here - https://www.olverk.is In the little town of Hveragerði, Ölverk Pizza & Brewery is a paradise for pizza lovers and craft beer fans. The casual and cozy atmosphere pairs perfectly with a menu featuring artisanal pizzas made from high-quality ingredients. Ölverk's unique pizza offerings include the “Viking” pizza, topped with smoked lamb, and the “Hveragerði” pizza, loaded with fresh local vegetables and herbs. Each pizza is expertly crafted in a wood-fired oven, giving it a delightful, crisp crust. The brewery on-site creates a rotating selection of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers, all brewed with local ingredients. Pairing a pizza with a refreshing beer is highly recommended during your visit. Book before you go, so you are not disappointed. Explore Iceland's Culinary Delights Iceland's food scene is as diverse as its breathtaking landscapes. These three restaurants—Fjorubordid, Ingólfsskáli, and Ölverk Pizza & Brewery—offer unique and memorable dining experiences that highlight Icelandic cuisine. Happy travels!

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 3 - Arrive @ 21:40, Depart @ 22:00 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 10 / Day 4 - Arrive @ 21:00, Depart @ 21:30 Climate Midnight Sun - Not applicable Polar Night - Not applicable Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-239229/Norway/Trøndelag/Nærøysund/Rørvik Observations - other than Excursions The 20min stop northbound, and 30min stop southbound doesn't provide a long enough opportunity to get off the ship and visit. Eats N/A Walk N/A Rørvik - in one line Rørvik is only applicable to Port to Port travellers.

Its pretty cool for a quick visit. Take a walk around the top and then walk down into the crater. TL;DR It's certainly worth stopping off and having a quick look around. The parking fee is minimal. The Geological Marvel of Kerid The stats are 55 meters deep, 170 meters wide, and 270 meters long, making it a formidable geological landmark. The vibrant colors of the water are due to its mineral content, reflecting the landscape in an extraordinary way. The crater formed during a volcanic eruption in the last Ice Age. As the magma chamber beneath emptied, the ground collapsed, resulting in the current crater. This geological history adds an educational aspect to your visit, making Kerid a site of both beauty and significant scientific interest. Getting to Kerid Reaching Kerid Crater Lake is straightforward, nestled along the famous Golden Circle route - a popular tourist path in Iceland. Located about 15 kilometers from Selfoss and roughly 70 kilometers from Reykjavik, the crater is accessible by car. Ample parking near the entrance ensures a relaxed arrival. Several tour companies offer day trips that include Kerid as part of a larger itinerary. This option is excellent for travelers wanting to explore multiple attractions conveniently. For instance, a full-day tour might also take you to Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir geothermal area. Ideal Visiting Times Any time - we've been both winter and summer and for differing reasons - both seasons are fantastic for a visit. It is nice to avoid crowds though so early or late in the day would be my suggestion, after the day trippers have returned to Reykjavik. Enjoyable Activities at Kerid The crater lake is the main draw, though there are some hiking trails near by. We tend to stick to walking around the top, and then maybe down into the crater before returning to the car. As you plan your trip, be sure to add a stop off at Kerid to your itinerary. This remarkable crater lake is not only a magnificent sight but also a reminder of the power of nature and the beauty awaiting you in the world. Happy travels!

Here's our draft itinerary for visiting Okinawa in late January 2026. We haven't been to Okinawa before but have heard its name as a consequence of Karate Kid. We expect it will be the warmest visit of our trip to Japan in January - pleasant but not overly warm. We only have the equivalent of 3 full days and 3 nights - and want to pack in as much as possible without packing in too much that we don't take time to use all our senses to soak up the experience to the full. Day 1: Arrival and Dotonbori Exploration Arrival in Okinawa Welcome to Okinawa! After a short flight from Osaka, we'll be landing at Naha (Okinawa) Airport, at 17:05, collecting the bags, we'll be heading for the hotel, to make the most of our first evening, as the sun will already be setting. We have booked a hire car. This will be my first time driving in Japan - they drive on the left, same as the UK, so that should make it a little easier. We have booked a tiny Japanese style car, a Toyota Passo which should be ideal for the short runs that we have planned. The hotel, the Hilton Naha Shuri Castle is only 20mins away by car from the airport. Remainder of Day 1 I'd prefer not to eat in the hotel - they never feel authentic, having to deal for a mass market, as opposed to being true to their own. That said, there is a lounge bar on the 20th floor with apparently great views that I'm eager to visit. So I hope to be able to go out for a short walk and find some authentic food and drinks - I'm sure we won't be the first hotel guests trying to escape hotel food and drinks - so local providers will be geared up to expect us. We'll do some reading on tripadvisor closer to the time. Day 2: Cultural Immersion & Experiences Road trip As mentioned we'll have a car for this portion of our trip, and it will be good to get out and see a little of the island. Where we are staying in the south of the island does look quite populated - so getting away from the crowds will be high up on our list. We are planning to drive to Kadena Port to take a go at the family fishing experience that I found on Viator. If the weather is pleasant then a couple of hours of sea fishing before lunch might be ideal. I understand from some of the feedback, that if you do catch something - getting it cooked at a local restaurant can be arranged! Later in the day and further up the coast - there is a Mangrove Kayaking option available at Kadena Port - depending on weather conditions this might be a little fun. If there is time in the day - the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium looks to be interesting. It's one of the worlds largest acquariums and just under 80mins from the hotel. If the weather isn't any good for fishing or kayaking this will be a good alternative. Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Beer Go-Karts My son won't consider doing the street go-karts in Tokyo insisting that they are a menace that the locals would rather ban. I'm hoping that he might consider doing a similar experience in Okinawa. Its a Sunday morning that I've scheduled for 2 hours - we aren't going to be in the way of anyone. I'm already looking forward to getting dressed up as Pikachu . I'd also like to visit the Former Navy HQ Headquarters which is in Naha, and perhaps hire bikes to tour around Naha for the afternoon. Shuri castle is right beside the hotel - and appears to be one of the must do's in Okinawa. For now - I'm leaving this free to either eat out or take part in another experience Day 4: Last-Minute Shopping and Departure Departure from Okinawa After a quick breakfast we won't have a lot of time to get organised. Checking out of the hotel, and returning the car to the airport in time for our flight at 13:45 to Tokyo. I'm sure we'll grab some snacks at the airport. That's it I can already feel that Okinawa will probably be the calm filling between the fast paced Osaka and an even more hectic Tokyo. The promise of better weather, and access to a car should allow for a more chilled experience. As I have already said - I'd rather have too many options and leave some out if it gets too busy to enjoy. We'll commit or change the plans as we go - booking experiences as we go - buying local when we can, which will leave our itinerary nice and flexible. Let me know what you think. Happy travels!

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 3 - Arrive @ 02:45, Depart @ 03:00 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 11 / Day 5 - Arrive @ 16:30, Depart @ 17:30 Climate Midnight Sun - Not applicable Polar Night - Not applicable Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-201405/Norway/Møre%20og%20Romsdal/Kristiansund/Kristiansund Observations - other than Excursions The port stop at Kristiansund is just 60mins, which doesn't give enough time to do much more than walk up along the sea front for 20mins, before turning around to make sure to be back on the ship in plenty of time for departure. Getting off the ship and stretching your legs will give you a better sense of the town. It is set on separate islands - and there are both road and ferries providing connectivity. Eats Lots of restaurants - too short a stop to visit. Walk There are good footpaths around the city. Kristiansund - in one line Kristiansund is a busy town - unfortunately the stop is not long enough to get a good look around.