Iceland Arrivals & Departures on Virgin Voyages: Tips & More
This guide covers key tips and travel details for Iceland departures & arrivals, including Reykjavík docking times, early luggage drop, and transfers.
Virgin Voyages has now confirmed key details for Scarlet Lady’s first Iceland visit this summer, and has begun notifying both Sailors and First Mates about what to expect. The ship will be docked in Reykjavík for two nights, overlapping two voyages, which offers a rare chance for extended time ashore in Iceland’s capital.
Whether you’re ending your journey, just beginning, or enjoying a night on board while docked, here’s what to know.
Arriving in Reykjavík – August 5, 2025
If you’re sailing on the England to Iceland & Norway voyage departing July 27, the ship arrives in Reykjavík on August 5 and will remain docked. This means you’ll have an overnight to explore Reykjavík.
While your itinerary may show a 12:00 AM disembarkation time on August 6, that’s only a placeholder. Disembarkation will begin around 7:00 AM as normal, with all Sailors asked to leave the ship by 11:00 AM local time. Checkout our disembarkation guide here.
Prefer to Disembark on August 5?
If you’d rather leave the ship on August 5, you’ll need to contact Sailor Services in advance. They can help arrange an earlier departure and assist with luggage handling.
Embarking in Reykjavík – August 6, 2025
If you’re joining the Reykjavík to Amsterdam & Portsmouth sailing, your check-in window is 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM on August 6 at the Reykjavík Cruise Terminal (Skarfabakki Pier 312, Skarfagarðar, 104 Reykjavík).
Scarlet Lady will remain docked overnight, so there’s no sail away or all aboard time on the 6th. You’re free to come and go until departure the following evening on August 7.
Early Luggage Drop – Harpa Concert Hall
If you’re arriving early, luggage drop-off is available starting at 9:00 AM outside Harpa Concert Hall (Faxagarður, 101 Reykjavík). Be sure to keep your passport and essentials with you.
Free shuttles will run from Harpa to the port starting at 1:30 PM. Sailors should return to Harpa 15 minutes before their Terminal Arrival Time to board. Ride time is around 7–10 minutes.
Cruise Terminal Luggage Drop
You can also drop bags directly at the terminal from 9:00 AM, but note that amenities are limited and there’s no waiting area. If you arrive early, taking the free shuttle into town may be a better option until your check-in time. Read our guide to embarkation.
Transport in Reykjavík
There’s no Uber or Lyft in Reykjavík, and taxis can be limited, especially near the port. Booking transportation in advance is recommended.
Getting to and from Keflavík International Airport (KEF)
Keflavík Airport is around an hour from Reykjavík. For transfers:
- FlyBus: Runs between KEF and the BSÍ Bus Terminal. Booking ahead is a good idea.
- Virgin Voyages transfers (bookable via the app or under Shore Things):
- August 5: Departures at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM
- August 6: Departures every hour from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Recommended Private Transfer: Welcome Pickups
For peace of mind, especially if you’re carrying luggage or coming directly from the airport, at VV Insider we recommend Welcome Pickups. They offer reliable door-to-door service and strong coverage in Iceland.
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