Today we arrived at Isafjordur after an easy transit from our last evening at Vigur Island. Here we had a plethora of shore-based options presented to our adventure-hungry eyes. Isafjordur, the largest town in Westfjords, is nestled among the breathtaking landscapes of the fjord. Surrounded by majestic mountains and crystal-clear water, Isafjordur offered us a truly unforgettable experience. We found lots of charm in this town's remote location, as well as in the tranquility that is typical in this region of Iceland. As we biked, walked, and drove through the streets of Isafjordur, we appreciated the colorful wooden houses that add to the town’s picturesque appeal. The nature enthusiasts among us were drawn to this area for its remarkable hiking trails.

After our time in Isafjordur, we reboarded the ship for our next adventure. In the afternoon, we had planned on kayaking near the island of Aedey, but a sharp uptick in wind negated those plans. Instead, we went Zodiac cruising, observing the puffins and other seabirds that call the walls of the island home. We also saw some of the iconic Icelandic horses that live on the island and are world-famous for their sturdy gait and hardiness.

The wind dropped as the afternoon progressed, and while we still couldn’t kayak, we could do something a bit colder in these Icelandic waters — it was time for us to take the plunge! Those who polar-plunged are surely the hardiest among us, as the waters of Iceland are renowned for their bone-chilling coldness. The bravery of the plunging guests was commendable, as they confronted intense cold that would make most shiver at the mere thought. The polar plunge in Iceland is a badge of honor; it’s a courageous act and a test of one's commitment. There was a sense of camaraderie and shared achievement amongst the plungers. Those who chose not to plunge also found a sense of camaraderie in their logical and sane decision-making as they watched this icy event from the warm comfort of the ship.

After a day of discovery in Iceland by land and sea, we look forward to our next adventure here.

Photo caption and photographer: Visiting Isafjordur, Iceland. Photo by Kayvon Malek