Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage

Arrive in Glasgow, a dynamic city where the indelible mark of Viking conquest still permeates the culture. Embark the ship this afternoon and navigate north along the western coast of Scotland. (D)

Spend the day immersed in the beauty of the legendary Scottish Highlands. Take a wonderfully scenic drive though Scotland's Great Glen along the shores of Loch Lochy and Loch Oich. Your drive will pass by Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, and by the Commando Memorial, dedicated to the men of the British Commando Forces whose training depot the memorial overlooks. Follow the Caledonian Canal, built in the early 19th-century to connect Scotland's east and west coasts, and end your journey at the small town of Fort Augustus, situated on the southern tip of legendary Loch Ness. Here, board the Spirit of Loch Ness for a cruise on Scotland’s most famous loch. Back in Fort Augustus, enjoy time at leisure to wander through this lovely little hamlet. Alternatively, see the railway viaduct of the Jacobite steam train—famously featured as the Hogwarts Express in Harry Potter. Visit the Glenfinnian Monument, honoring the Jacobite clansmen who fought and died for Bonnie Prince Charlie. At Banavie, marvel at Neptune's Staircase, a series of eight locks that raise boats from sea level more than 60 feet to join the Caledonian Canal. Stop for a local whisky tasting. (B,L,D)

Spend the day on the Isle of Skye, discovering its ethereal landscapes on your choice of three excursions. From the charming fishing village of Portree, the capital of Skye, travel south along the coast and over the Skye Bridge to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, perched at the junction of three lochs. Or remain on the Isle of Skye and visit Armadale Castle, an important part of local life since the chiefs of Clan Donald made it their residence in the early 18th century. Take a stroll in the spectacular gardens, where the mild Gulf Stream temperatures nurture carpets of bluebells, orchids, and wildflowers. If you wish, visit the award-winning Museum of the Isles to learn about the history and culture of the area. Alternatively, enjoy a full-day exploration of the island: learn the myths associated with the wild landscapes of the Trotternish Peninsula; see traditional cottages at the Skye Museum of Island Life; and tour stunning Dunvegan Castle, continuously inhabited by the Clan MacLeod since the 13th century. End the day with free time in Portree. (B,L,D)

Set out to explore the archaeological treasures of the islands, including the Ring of Brodgar, the third largest stone circle in the British Isles, raised 5,000 years ago to chart the seasons. See the ceremonial Stones of Stenness and visit the settlement of Skara Brae, the best-preserved Neolithic village in Northern Europe. Among the fascinating relics found here are tools, beads, pottery, and whalebone artifacts, spanning a period of approximately 600 years of occupation. Then visit Skaill House, a historic manor built by Bishop George Graham in 1620. (B,L,D)

Dock in Lerwick, the capital of the majestic Shetland Islands, which were declared a Global Geopark by UNESCO for their geologically diverse, ice-carved landscapes. These remote islands have a unique 6000-year-old culture that lives on in their archaeological sites, dialect, and traditional music. Set out on the excursion of your choice: Journey to the archaeological site of Jarlshof, an extraordinary settlement that reveals 5000 years of human history, from late Neolithic stone houses and a Bronze Age village to Norse longhouses, a medieval farmstead, and a 16th-century laird’s house.

Alternatively, take a walking tour of Lerwick, once northern Europe’s herring capital, visiting its piers and its 19th-century town hall, and exploring its narrow lanes. End the tour learning about the islands’ heritage and culture at the award-winning Shetland Museum and Archives. Or ride the ferry to the Island of Mousa for a hike. The island is known for grey and common seals, black guillemots, Arctic terns, and especially storm petrels, whose nearly 7,000 breeding pairs on the island constitute 3% of the world population. Visit Mousa Broch, a 2,000-year-old tower that is the best-preserved Iron Age fortress in the British Isles. (B,L,D)

Early this morning, arrive in the picturesque village of Olden, perched at the end of a meandering fjord. Located near Jostedalsbreen National Park—home to Europe’s largest ice cap—this little village is perfect base for exploring the Briksdal glacier. Choose a walk along Stryn Lake, and then ride a cable car 3300 feet to the top of Mount Hoven. Here, have a coffee while taking in spectacular views of the fjord and villages below, as well as the surrounding mountains. While at Mount Hoven, you may go on a short walk to soak up the scenery around you. Or enjoy a scenic drive through Oldedalen Valley to Briksdal glacier, and approach the glacier by electric “troll car.” Take a walk to the blue-hued face of the glacier and learn about the geological forces that keep the ice in constant motion. (B,L,D)

In the heart of fjord country, board the Flåm Railway for a magnificent journey. This masterpiece of Norwegian engineering—the steepest standard‑gauge railway track in Europe—opened to the public in 1940. Only 12 miles long, the railway runs from Flåm, at sea level, to Myrdal Station, at an altitude of 2,850 feet, featuring tunnels and switchbacks and ever-changing views of waterfalls, mountain hamlets, and snowcapped mountains. Make a brief stop at Kjosfossen to photograph this spectacular 300-foot-high waterfall. (B,L,D)

Disembark in Bergen, a city founded on an old Viking settlement in 1070 that was an important part of the Hanseatic League’s trading empire from the 14th to mid-16th centuries. Transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)

Arrive in Bergen, a city founded on an old Viking settlement in 1070 that was an important part of the Hanseatic League’s trading empire from the 14th to mid-16th centuries. Embark the ship this afternoon and navigate the fjords and islands of Norway’s coast. (D)

In the heart of fjord country, board the Flåm Railway for a magnificent journey. This masterpiece of Norwegian engineering—the steepest standard‑gauge railway track in Europe—opened to the public in 1940. Only 12 miles long, the railway runs from Flåm, at sea level, to Myrdal Station, at an altitude of 2,850 feet, featuring tunnels and switchbacks and ever-changing views of waterfalls, mountain hamlets, and snowcapped mountains. Make a brief stop at Kjosfossen to photograph this spectacular 300-foot-high waterfall. (B,L,D)

Early this morning, arrive in the picturesque village of Olden, perched at the end of a meandering fjord. Located near Jostedalsbreen National Park—home to Europe’s largest ice cap—this little village is perfect base for exploring the Briksdal glacier. Choose a walk along Stryn Lake, and then ride a cable car 3300 feet to the top of Mount Hoven. Here, have a coffee while taking in spectacular views of the fjord and villages below, as well as the surrounding mountains. While at Mount Hoven, you may go on a short walk to soak up the scenery around you. Or enjoy a scenic drive through Oldedalen Valley to Briksdal glacier, and approach the glacier by electric “troll car.” Take a walk to the blue-hued face of the glacier and learn about the geological forces that keep the ice in constant motion. Enjoy views of Norway’s phenomenal coastal scenery as we make our way to the open sea this afternoon. (B,L,D)

Dock in Lerwick, the capital of the majestic Shetland Islands,which were declared a Global Geopark by UNESCO for their geologically diverse, ice-carved landscapes. These remote islands have a unique 6000-year-old culture that lives on in their archaeological sites, dialect, and traditional music. Set out on the excursion of your choice: Journey to the archaeological site of Jarlshof, an extraordinary settlement that reveals 5,000 years of human history, from late Neolithic stone houses and a Bronze Age village to Norse longhouses, a medieval farmstead, and a 16th-century laird’s house. Time permitting, continue to Sumburgh Head, site of Shetland's first lighthouse (1821) and home to a colony of puffins, guillemots, shags, and fulmars. Our voyage coincides with breeding season, when each species has its special nesting place in the grassy banks and cliffs leading up to the lighthouse. Off the coast, watch for harbor porpoises, white-beaked dolphins, orcas, or minke whales.

Alternatively, take a walking tour of Lerwick, once northern Europe’s herring capital, visiting its piers and its 19th-century town hall, and exploring its narrow lanes. End the tour learning about the islands’ heritage and culture at the award-winning Shetland Museum and Archives. Or ride the ferry to the Island of Mousa for a hike. The island is known for grey and common seals, black guillemots, Arctic terns, and especially storm petrels, whose nearly 7,000 breeding pairs on the island constitute 3% of the world population. Visit Mousa Broch, a 2,000-year-old tower that is the best-preserved Iron Age fortress in the British Isles. (B,L,D)

Sheltered in a wide bay, the lively town of Kirkwall welcomes us with its charming alleyways edged by old houses and craft shops. Set out to explore the Neolithic treasures of the Orkney Islands, including the Ring of Brodgar, the third largest stone circle in the British Isles, raised 5,000 years ago to chart the seasons. See the ceremonial Stones of Stenness and visit the settlement of Skara Brae, the best-preserved Neolithic village in Northern Europe. Among the fascinating relics found here are tools, beads, pottery, and whalebone artifacts that span a period of approximately 600 years of habitation. Then visit Skaill House, a historic manor built by Bishop George Graham in 1620. Trace the history of Kirkwall’s enduring symbol—the towering St. Magnus Cathedral, built by the Vikings and known as the “Light of the North. (B,L,D)

Spend the day on the Isle of Skye, discovering its ethereal landscapes on your choice of three excursions. From the charming fishing village of Portree, the capital of Skye, travel south along the coast and over the Skye Bridge to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, perched at the junction of three lochs. Or remain on the Isle of Skye and visit Armadale Castle, an important part of local life since the chiefs of Clan Donald made it their residence in the early 18th century. Take a stroll in the spectacular gardens, where the mild Gulf Stream temperatures nurture carpets of bluebells, orchids, and wildflowers. If you wish, visit the award-winning Museum of the Isles to learn about the history and culture of the area. Or enjoy a full-day exploration of the island: learn the myths associated with the wild landscapes of the Trotternish Peninsula; see traditional cottages at the Skye Museum of Island Life; and tour stunning Dunvegan Castle, continuously inhabited by the Clan MacLeod since the 13th century. End the day with free time in Portree. (B,L,D)

Spend the day immersed in the beauty of the legendary Scottish Highlands. Take a wonderfully scenic drive though Scotland's ;Great Glen along the shores of Loch Lochy and Loch Oich. Your drive will pass by Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, and by the Commando Memorial, dedicated to the men of the British Commando Forces whose training depot the memorial overlooks. Follow the Caledonian Canal, built in the early 19th-century to connect Scotland's east and west coasts, and end your journey at the small town of Fort Augustus, situated on the southern tip of legendary Loch Ness. Here, board the Spirit of Loch Ness for a cruise on Scotland’s most famous loch. Back in Fort Augustus, enjoy time at leisure to wander through this lovely little hamlet. Alternatively, see the railway viaduct of the Jacobite steam train—famously featured as the Hogwarts Express in Harry Potter. Visit the Glenfinnian Monument, honoring the Jacobite clansmen who fought and died for Bonnie Prince Charlie. At Banavie, marvel at Neptune's Staircase, a series of eight locks that raise boats from sea level more than 60 feet to join the Caledonian Canal. Stop in at the Ben Nevis Distillery, founded in 1825, for a tour and tasting of the local tipple. (B,L,D)

Disembark in Glasgow, a dynamic city where the indelible mark of Viking conquest still permeates the culture. Transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)

Arrive in Glasgow, a dynamic city where the indelible mark of Viking conquest still permeates the culture. Embark the ship this afternoon and navigate north along the western coast of Scotland. (D)

Arrive the Isle of Mull and the town of Tobermory, nestled between the hills and the picturesque harbor. Stroll along the waterfront lined with brightly painted rowhouses. Take in beautiful views of the Sound of Mull on a drive to Duart Castle; perched on a rocky promontory jutting into the sound, the castle is the ancestral home of Clan Maclean. Delve into the clan’s fascinating history as you visit dungeons where Spanish prisoners were held following the sinking of the Spanish Armada in 1588. You’ll have the opportunity to climb to the top of the 13th-century keep and the battlements to take in views as far as Ben Nevis. (B,L,D)

Spend the day on the Isle of Skye, discovering its ethereal landscapes on your choice of three excursions. From the charming fishing village of Portree, the capital of Skye, travel south along the coast and over the Skye Bridge to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, perched at the junction of three lochs. Or remain on the Isle of Skye and visit Armadale Castle, an important part of local life since the chiefs of Clan Donald made it their residence in the early 18th century. Take a stroll in the spectacular gardens, where the mild Gulf Stream temperatures nurture carpets of bluebells, orchids, and wildflowers. If you wish, visit the award-winning Museum of the Isles to learn about the history and culture of the area. Alternatively, enjoy a full-day exploration of the island: learn the myths associated with the wild landscapes of the Trotternish Peninsula, and tour stunning Dunvegan Castle, continuously inhabited by the Clan MacLeod since the 13th century. End the day with free time in Portree. (B,L,D)

Set out to explore the archaeological treasures of the islands, including the Ring of Brodgar, the third largest stone circle in the British Isles, raised 5,000 years ago to chart the seasons. See the ceremonial Stones of Stenness and visit the settlement of Skara Brae, the best-preserved Neolithic village in Northern Europe. Among the fascinating relics found here are tools, beads, pottery, and whalebone artifacts, spanning a period of approximately 600 years of occupation. Then visit Skaill House, a historic manor built by Bishop George Graham in 1620. (B,L,D)

Dock in Lerwick, the capital of the majestic Shetland Islands, which were declared a Global Geopark by UNESCO for their geologically diverse, ice-carved landscapes. These remote islands have a unique 6000-year-old culture that lives on in their archaeological sites, dialect, and traditional music. Set out on the excursion of your choice: Journey to the archaeological site of Jarlshof, an extraordinary settlement that reveals 5000 years of human history, from late Neolithic stone houses and a Bronze Age village to Norse longhouses, a medieval farmstead, and a 16th-century laird’s house.

Alternatively, take a walking tour of Lerwick, once northern Europe’s herring capital, visiting its piers and its 19th-century town hall, and exploring its narrow lanes. End the tour learning about the islands’ heritage and culture at the award-winning Shetland Museum and Archives. Or ride the ferry to the Island of Mousa for a hike. The island is known for grey and common seals, black guillemots, Arctic terns, and especially storm petrels, whose nearly 7,000 breeding pairs on the island constitute 3% of the world population. Visit Mousa Broch, a 2,000-year-old tower that is the best-preserved Iron Age fortress in the British Isles. (B,L,D)

Early this morning, arrive in the picturesque village of Olden, perched at the end of a meandering fjord. Located near Jostedalsbreen National Park—home to Europe’s largest ice cap—this little village is perfect base for exploring the Briksdal glacier. Choose a walk along Stryn Lake, and then ride a cable car 3300 feet to the top of Mount Hoven. Here, have a coffee while taking in spectacular views of the fjord and villages below, as well as the surrounding mountains. While at Mount Hoven, you may go on a short walk to soak up the scenery around you. Or enjoy a scenic drive through Oldedalen Valley to Briksdal glacier, and approach the glacier by electric “troll car.” Take a walk to the blue-hued face of the glacier and learn about the geological forces that keep the ice in constant motion. (B,L,D)

In the heart of fjord country, board the Flåm Railway for a magnificent journey. This masterpiece of Norwegian engineering—the steepest standard‑gauge railway track in Europe—opened to the public in 1940. Only 12 miles long, the railway runs from Flåm, at sea level, to Myrdal Station, at an altitude of 2,850 feet, featuring tunnels and switchbacks and ever-changing views of waterfalls, mountain hamlets, and snowcapped mountains. Make a brief stop at Kjosfossen to photograph this spectacular 300-foot-high waterfall. (B,L,D)

Disembark in Bergen, a city founded on an old Viking settlement in 1070 that was an important part of the Hanseatic League’s trading empire from the 14th to mid-16th centuries. Transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)

Arrive in Bergen, a city founded on an old Viking settlement in 1070 that was an important part of the Hanseatic League’s trading empire from the 14th to mid-16th centuries. Embark the ship this afternoon and navigate the fjords and islands of Norway’s coast. (D)

In the heart of fjord country, board the Flåm Railway for a magnificent journey. This masterpiece of Norwegian engineering—the steepest standard‑gauge railway track in Europe—opened to the public in 1940. Only 12 miles long, the railway runs from Flåm, at sea level, to Myrdal Station, at an altitude of 2,850 feet, featuring tunnels and switchbacks and ever-changing views of waterfalls, mountain hamlets, and snowcapped mountains. Make a brief stop at Kjosfossen to photograph this spectacular 300-foot-high waterfall. (B,L,D)

Early this morning, arrive in the picturesque village of Olden, perched at the end of a meandering fjord. Located near Jostedalsbreen National Park—home to Europe’s largest ice cap—this little village is perfect base for exploring the Briksdal glacier. Choose a walk along Stryn Lake, and then ride a cable car 3300 feet to the top of Mount Hoven. Here, have a coffee while taking in spectacular views of the fjord and villages below, as well as the surrounding mountains. While at Mount Hoven, you may go on a short walk to soak up the scenery around you. Or enjoy a scenic drive through Oldedalen Valley to Briksdal glacier, and approach the glacier by electric “troll car.” Take a walk to the blue-hued face of the glacier and learn about the geological forces that keep the ice in constant motion. Enjoy views of Norway’s phenomenal coastal scenery as we make our way to the open sea this afternoon. (B,L,D)

Dock in Lerwick, the capital of the majestic Shetland Islands,which were declared a Global Geopark by UNESCO for their geologically diverse, ice-carved landscapes. These remote islands have a unique 6000-year-old culture that lives on in their archaeological sites, dialect, and traditional music. Set out on the excursion of your choice: Journey to the archaeological site of Jarlshof, an extraordinary settlement that reveals 5,000 years of human history, from late Neolithic stone houses and a Bronze Age village to Norse longhouses, a medieval farmstead, and a 16th-century laird’s house. Time permitting, continue to Sumburgh Head, site of Shetland's first lighthouse (1821) and home to a colony of puffins, guillemots, shags, and fulmars. Our voyage coincides with breeding season, when each species has its special nesting place in the grassy banks and cliffs leading up to the lighthouse. Off the coast, watch for harbor porpoises, white-beaked dolphins, orcas, or minke whales.

Alternatively, take a walking tour of Lerwick, once northern Europe’s herring capital, visiting its piers and its 19th-century town hall, and exploring its narrow lanes. End the tour learning about the islands’ heritage and culture at the award-winning Shetland Museum and Archives. Or ride the ferry to the Island of Mousa for a hike. The island is known for grey and common seals, black guillemots, Arctic terns, and especially storm petrels, whose nearly 7,000 breeding pairs on the island constitute 3% of the world population. Visit Mousa Broch, a 2,000-year-old tower that is the best-preserved Iron Age fortress in the British Isles. (B,L,D)

Sheltered in a wide bay, the lively town of Kirkwall welcomes us with its charming alleyways edged by old houses and craft shops. Set out to explore the Neolithic treasures of the Orkney Islands, including the Ring of Brodgar, the third largest stone circle in the British Isles, raised 5,000 years ago to chart the seasons. See the ceremonial Stones of Stenness and visit the settlement of Skara Brae, the best-preserved Neolithic village in Northern Europe. Among the fascinating relics found here are tools, beads, pottery, and whalebone artifacts that span a period of approximately 600 years of habitation. Then visit Skaill House, a historic manor built by Bishop George Graham in 1620. Trace the history of Kirkwall’s enduring symbol—the towering St. Magnus Cathedral, built by the Vikings and known as the “Light of the North. (B,L,D)

Spend the day on the Isle of Skye, discovering its ethereal landscapes on your choice of three excursions. From the charming fishing village of Portree, the capital of Skye, travel south along the coast and over the Skye Bridge to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, perched at the junction of three lochs. Or remain on the Isle of Skye and visit Armadale Castle, an important part of local life since the chiefs of Clan Donald made it their residence in the early 18th century. Take a stroll in the spectacular gardens, where the mild Gulf Stream temperatures nurture carpets of bluebells, orchids, and wildflowers. If you wish, visit the award-winning Museum of the Isles to learn about the history and culture of the area. Or enjoy a full-day exploration of the island: learn the myths associated with the wild landscapes of the Trotternish Peninsula; see traditional cottages at the Skye Museum of Island Life; and tour stunning Dunvegan Castle, continuously inhabited by the Clan MacLeod since the 13th century. End the day with free time in Portree. (B,L,D)

Spend the day immersed in the beauty of the legendary Scottish Highlands. Take a wonderfully scenic drive though Scotland's ;Great Glen along the shores of Loch Lochy and Loch Oich. Your drive will pass by Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, and by the Commando Memorial, dedicated to the men of the British Commando Forces whose training depot the memorial overlooks. Follow the Caledonian Canal, built in the early 19th-century to connect Scotland's east and west coasts, and end your journey at the small town of Fort Augustus, situated on the southern tip of legendary Loch Ness. Here, board the Spirit of Loch Ness for a cruise on Scotland’s most famous loch. Back in Fort Augustus, enjoy time at leisure to wander through this lovely little hamlet. Alternatively, see the railway viaduct of the Jacobite steam train—famously featured as the Hogwarts Express in Harry Potter. Visit the Glenfinnian Monument, honoring the Jacobite clansmen who fought and died for Bonnie Prince Charlie. At Banavie, marvel at Neptune's Staircase, a series of eight locks that raise boats from sea level more than 60 feet to join the Caledonian Canal. Stop in at the Ben Nevis Distillery, founded in 1825, for a tour and tasting of the local tipple. (B,L,D)

Disembark in Glasgow, a dynamic city where the indelible mark of Viking conquest still permeates the culture. Transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)