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Is There a Ferry from the UK to Iceland?

Travel & Explore·
Things to do
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Currently, there is no direct ferry service between the United Kingdom and Iceland. However, travelers can still reach Iceland by ferry with a connecting route via Denmark.

Contents hide
1 The Alternative Route: UK to Iceland via Denmark
1.1 Route Overview:
2 Getting to Hirtshals from the UK
2.1 Option 1: Ferry & Drive
2.2 Option 2: Train & Public Transport
3 Onboard the Ferry to Iceland
4 Is Taking the Ferry Worth It?
5 Final Thoughts

The Alternative Route: UK to Iceland via Denmark

While you cannot sail directly from the UK to Iceland, the Smyril Line ferry service operates a weekly route between Hirtshals, Denmark, and Seyðisfjörður, Iceland, with a stopover in the Faroe Islands. This is the only regular passenger and vehicle ferry to Iceland.

Route Overview:

🚢 Departure Point: Hirtshals, Denmark
⏳ Stopover: Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
🎯 Destination: Seyðisfjörður, Iceland
🕒 Duration: Approximately 66 hours (2.5 days)

Getting to Hirtshals from the UK

Since the ferry departs from Hirtshals, Denmark, you’ll need to travel there from the UK first. Here’s how:

Option 1: Ferry & Drive

  1. Take a ferry from the UK to mainland Europe:
    • Newcastle to Amsterdam (DFDS Seaways)
    • Dover to Calais (P&O Ferries)
    • Harwich to Hook of Holland (Stena Line)
  2. Drive to Hirtshals, Denmark (~600–800 miles depending on your entry point).

Option 2: Train & Public Transport

  1. Train from London to Denmark via the Eurostar and German railways.
  2. From Copenhagen, take a train or domestic flight to Aalborg or Aarhus.
  3. Bus or drive to Hirtshals to board the Smyril Line ferry.

Onboard the Ferry to Iceland

The ferry, M/S Norröna, is well-equipped for the long journey and offers:
✅ Cabins & lounges for comfortable travel.
✅ Restaurants, bars, and cafés serving Nordic cuisine.
✅ Entertainment facilities, including a cinema, swimming pool, and sauna.
✅ Space for vehicles, allowing you to bring your car, motorcycle, or camper van.

Is Taking the Ferry Worth It?

✅ Best for:

  • Travelers bringing their own vehicle to Iceland.
  • Those who enjoy slow travel and scenic ocean views.
  • Anyone wanting to explore the Faroe Islands on the way.

❌ Not ideal for:

  • Travelers looking for a quick and direct route (flying is much faster).
  • Those prone to seasickness—the North Atlantic can be rough.

Final Thoughts

While there is no direct ferry from the UK to Iceland, the Smyril Line from Denmark is a great alternative if you prefer overland and sea travel. For a faster option, flights from the UK to Reykjavík are widely available.

🚢 Best for road trip adventurers—if you don’t mind the extra time, this ferry journey offers a unique and scenic way to reach Iceland!