Quanti container ci stanno su una nave? Dalle navi feeder alle mega-navi
By Steve Joury / 23 ottobre 2026
Quanti container ci stanno su una nave? Dalle navi feeder da 1.000 TEU alle mega-navi da oltre 24.000 TEU, cos’è un TEU, come...
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Ultimo aggiornamento: 22 ottobre 2026
You can reach Iceland without flying by taking the Smyril Line ferry Norröna from Hirtshals in northern Denmark, via Tórshavn in the Faroe Islands, to Seyðisfjörður in east Iceland. In summer the crossing takes about two days, and you can bring your own car. From the UK you reach Denmark by train or ferry, making the whole journey flight-free.
The ferry route to Iceland
| Leg | Approximate time | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Hirtshals (Denmark) to Tórshavn (Faroe Islands) | About 30 hours, longer outside summer | Year-round service to the Faroes |
| Hirtshals to Seyðisfjörður (Iceland) | About 2 days in summer | Summer sailings leave Hirtshals on Tuesday mornings and arrive on Thursday mornings |
The ship, M/S Norröna, carries passengers and up to 800 vehicles, with cabins, restaurants and lounges. Winter schedules differ, so always check the current Smyril Line timetable before planning.
Getting from the UK to Hirtshals without flying
- London to Brussels or Amsterdam by Eurostar, or cross by ferry to the continent.
- Train north through Germany to Hamburg.
- Continue to Denmark by train towards Aalborg and Hjørring.
- Local train to Hirtshals, the ferry port on the northern tip of Jutland.
Allow at least two days for the overland journey, with an overnight stop in Hamburg or Copenhagen.
Taking your car to Iceland
The Norröna is a car ferry, so you can drive from the UK to Hirtshals and take your car to Iceland. This is popular with travellers planning a long Ring Road trip. Book vehicle space early for summer, and check insurance cover for driving in Iceland and the Faroe Islands.
What is the crossing like?
- Cabins range from couchettes to private cabins with sea views
- Stops in the Faroe Islands let you see Tórshavn, and some travellers break the journey there for a few days
- Seas can be rough on the North Atlantic, especially outside summer
- Wildlife includes seabirds and sometimes whales
Can you reach Iceland by cargo ship?
Container and cargo services link Iceland with northern European ports, and passenger berths are occasionally possible on some routes. Availability is limited and changes often, so the Smyril Line ferry is the most reliable option for most travellers. Ask us if you would like us to check cargo sailings for your dates.
Tips for a flight-free trip to Iceland
- Book summer sailings well ahead, especially with a car
- Pack layers and waterproofs, even in July
- Bring seasickness tablets
- Consider a few days in the Faroe Islands on the way
Domande frequenti
Can you get to Iceland without flying?
Yes. The Smyril Line ferry Norröna sails from Hirtshals in Denmark to Seyðisfjörður in east Iceland via the Faroe Islands.
How long is the ferry to Iceland?
About two days from Hirtshals to Seyðisfjörður in summer.
Is there a ferry from the UK to Iceland?
Not directly. Travel overland or by ferry to Denmark and take the ferry from Hirtshals.
Can I take my car to Iceland by ferry?
Yes. The Norröna carries up to 800 vehicles, but book early in summer.
Can you travel to Iceland by cargo ship?
Occasionally on some cargo routes, but availability is limited, so the ferry is the most reliable option.
Looking for flight-free travel by sea?
Tell us where you want to go and we will look for ferry and cargo ship options.
Ask about flight-free routes →
Steve Joury
Consulente di viaggio Cargo at Cargoholidays
Appassionato di viaggi lenti e di mare. Steve conosce la maggior parte delle rotte di navigazione e le procedure per scoprire il nostro bellissimo mondo dal mare su una nave container. Ha partecipato a molti viaggi, da 7 giorni di viaggio in cargo a 140 giorni a bordo.
