Coastal Kayaking Adventure

This expedition really is a journey into the wilds of Iceland

This expedition really is a journey into the wilds of Iceland. The Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, Jökulfirðir glacial fjords and Ísafjarðardjúp bay really are the perfect setting for a remote kayak adventure. We discover secluded spots which are inaccessible by any other means and escape to places where others simply do not go. Moving from camp to camp we discover the wildlife which flocks to these regions during the summer time. Sea birds come from far and wide to breed along these shores. Marine mammals such as whales, dolphins and seals are a common sight and the Arctic Fox is an ever-present beauty. We paddle under towering cliffs, negotiating the waves and rocks which demonstrate nature’s raw power. We will take time to explore rocky coves and inlets and try our hand at surfing small waves should we encounter any. The camp to camp aspect of this trip along with the exposure to the open ocean and long open water crossings make to journey more suited to kayakers with substantial experience under their belt. If your experience is limited we suggest exploring other trips such as Wild Camp Discovery or Glacier Fjords Kayaking.

Included:

All food
Tents
Ferry and car transfer on the first and last day
Kayaking gear (kayak, paddle, neoprene pants, dry top, spray skirt, life vest, paddling boots, paddling gloves and additional dry bags)
Professional guide

Not included:

Travel to and from Ísafjörður prior to and after the trip
Food on the first day until the trip departs
Personal medical insurance
Personal equipment and clothing

Remember the less you bring, the easier it is. There’s plenty of space in the kayaks if you pack wisely.

Thermal base layers, at least two sets of tops.
Wool or fleece thermal mid layer.
Hiking pants. We don’t recommend cotton as it is cold and takes a long time to dry.
Waterproof and breathable pants and jacket for hiking onshore. The lighter – the better.
Wool/fleece hat.
One pair of warm gloves for camp.
2 to 3 pairs thick wool/synthetic socks.
Light hiking shoes for strolls in and around camp.
Sleeping bag rated to at least 0°C. Down is best since it packs smaller than synthetic.
Sleeping mattress. A thin inflatable one is best as it easily fits inside the boat.
Sun glasses.
Sunscreen and after sun cream.
1 litre water bottle.
Personal medical kit i.e. band aids, throat lozenges, lip salves, sea-sickness tablets etc. Don't forget your personal medication which you may need (e.g. Asthma inhaler, even if you don’t always need it).
2 x Dry bags*
Binoculars are nice to have for watching wildlife. (optional)
Don't forget your camera!
*We use dry bags to keep our personal gear dry, especially sleeping bags. We have a small selection of dry bags which you may use but you should bring at least two of your own. Test it to make sure that all of your gear fits inside!

We supply all paddling gear and clothing. However, feel free to bring your own if you have it available. Your personal gear is guaranteed to fit perfectly and it is comfortable. We recommend good dry pants and top with rubber cuffs or at least a 3mm neoprene wetsuit with a windproof top. A full dry suit is definitely best but can be pretty warm and cumbersome on sunny days but great to have if things get rough. Footwear should preferably be neoprene boots with ankle support and thick soles to safely negotiate the rocky shoreline. Neoprene gloves, mittens or pogies are great at keeping your hands warm.

We use neoprene wetsuits on our trips. However, you can upgrade to a dry suit if you would prefer. Please select this option and select your size during the booking process. You can see the size chart here.

We also have sleeping bags and sleeping pads available to rent. Please select this option during the booking process.