Day 1 — Glasgow, Scotland

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.

Day 2 —Tobermory, Isle of Mull, and Iona

Begin your day in the town of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, nestled between the hills and the picturesque waterfront. 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. Enjoy lunch before boarding the ferry to the mystical isle of Iona, where St. Columba founded a monastery In A.D. 563, establishing Christianity in Scotland. Here, scribes would painstakingly copy and illuminate religious tracts and transcribe ancient Celtic sagas, preserving a record of oral bardic tradition. Iona later became the burial place of Scotland’s kings, including Duncan and Macbeth. On a guided tour of Iona Abbey, stroll through the serene, restored monastery and see the churchyard’s intricate Celtic crosses. (B,L,D)

Day 3 — Isle of Skye

Spend the day on the Isle of Skye, discovering its ethereal landscapes on your choice of two excursions. From the village of Kyle of Lochalsh, travel across the rolling green moors of the Scottish mainland to Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most iconic castles in the world. Continue to the Isle of Skye and Armadale Castle, an important part of local life since the early 18th century, when the chiefs of Clan Donald made it their residence.  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 the charming fishing port of Portree. (B,L,D)

Day 4 — Kirkwall, Orkney Islands

Sheltered in a wide bay, the lively town of Kirkwall welcomes us with its charming alleyways edged by old houses and craft shops. The Vikings established this port town and built its enduring symbol—the towering 12th-century St. Magnus Cathedral, known as the “Light of the North.” 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)

Day 5 — Lerwick, Shetland Islands, Scotland

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. 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) 

Day 6 — Olden, Norway

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 or Kjenndalen glaciers. Choose an easy hike to a viewpoint over Kjenndalen glacier, 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)

Day 7 — Flåm

In the heart of fjord country, board the Flåm Railway for a magnificent morning 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. We will make a brief stop at Kjosfossen waterfall to photograph this spectacular 300-foot-high waterfall. (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Bergen / Depart for Home

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)

Day 1 — Bergen, Norway

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.

Day 2 — Flåm / Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

In the heart of fjord country, board the Flåm Railway for a magnificent morning 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. We will make a brief stop at  Kjosfossen waterfall to photograph this spectacular 300-foot-high waterfall. (B,L,D)

Day 3 — Olden

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 or Kjenndalen glaciers. Choose an easy hike to a viewpoint over Kjenndalen glacier, 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)

Day 4 — Lerwick, Shetland Islands, Scotland

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. 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)

Day 5 — Kirkwall, Orkney Islands

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, spanning a period of approximately 600 years of occupation. 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)

Day 6 — Isle of Skye

Spend the day on the Isle of Skye, discovering its ethereal landscapes on your choice of two excursions. From the village of Kyle of Lochalsh, travel across rolling green moors of the Scottish mainland to Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most iconic castles in the world. Continue to the Isle of Skye and Armadale Castle, an important part of local life since the early 18th century, when the chiefs of Clan Donald made it their residence.  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 the charming fishing port of Portree. (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Fort William and Scottish Highlands

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. End the tour at the Commando Memorial enjoying breathtaking views of Ben Nevis. (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Glasgow / Return

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) 

Day 1 — Glasgow, Scotland

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.

Day 2 —Fort William and Scottish Highlands

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. End the tour at the Commando Memorial enjoying breathtaking views of Ben Nevis. (B,L,D)

Day 3 — Isle of Skye

Spend the day on the Isle of Skye, discovering its ethereal landscapes on your choice of two excursions. From the village of Kyle of Lochalsh, travel across the rolling green moors of the Scottish mainland to Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most iconic castles in the world. Continue to the Isle of Skye and Armadale Castle, an important part of local life since the early 18th century, when the chiefs of Clan Donald made it their residence.  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 the charming fishing port of Portree. (B,L,D)

Day 4 — Kirkwall, Orkney Islands

Sheltered in a wide bay, the lively town of Kirkwall welcomes us with its charming alleyways edged by old houses and craft shops. The Vikings established this port town and built its enduring symbol—the towering 12th-century St. Magnus Cathedral, known as the “Light of the North.” 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)

Day 5 — Lerwick, Shetland Islands, Scotland

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. 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) 

Day 6 — Alesund, Norway

Alesund enjoys a beautiful setting, straddling three islands with a backdrop of impressive peaks. Largely destroyed by a fire in 1904, the town was rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style and is now a showcase of this early 20th-century architectural movement. Explore the town and its lovely environs on one of three possible excursions today. Take a walking tour that includes the Art Nouveau Centre and houses that exemplify the style as well as Norway's biggest fish-export harbor. Or travel to the Atlantic Ocean Park, a unique aquarium featuring the region’s marine life in tanks that resemble coastal environments. Learn about efforts to sustainably manage ocean resources; see penguins at the aquarium’s outdoor water feature; and enjoy the lovely setting on Breisundet, a wide sound where seals can often be spotted. Alternatively, set off on an electric bike, following a guide through the colorful heart of Alesund and into the surrounding hills. All excursions end on the slopes of Mount Aksla, with superb views of the town and its remarkable surroundings. (B,L,D)

Day 7 —Geiranger and Hellesylt

Follow serpentine waterways deep into the fjord lands, arriving at magnificent Geirangerfjord, a World Heritage site. Here, the village of Geiranger nestles at the end of the blue fjord, surrounded by sky-high cliffs and tumbling waterfalls. Set off on an extraordinary drive through a landscape of snowcapped mountains and emerald-blue lakes, ascending to lookouts to take in the stunning panorama of peaks. Learn about continental Europe’s largest glacier at the Jostedal Glacier National Park Centre and then get a closer look at the glacier itself. Visit the village of Stryn and marvel at Hornindalsvatnet, one of the deepest lakes in Europe. Alternatively, follow Eagle’s Road through incredible mountain scenery to the summer farm of Herdalssetra. Explore this picturesque 300-year-old farm, where turf-roofed wooden houses and goats dot the hillside beneath the mighty peak of Heregga. The farm is also home to cows, sheep, and fjord horses – including the blond pony native to the west coast. Meet the farmers and learn about their cheese-making process before sampling their goat’s milk cheeses and homemade caramels. Later, visit the Geiranger Fjord Center to learn more about local life. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the traditional village of Hellesylt. (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Olden

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 or Kjenndalen glaciers. Choose an easy hike to a viewpoint over Kjenndalen glacier, 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)

Day 9 - Flåm

In the heart of fjord country, board the Flåm Railway for a magnificent morning 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. We will make a brief stop at Kjosfossen waterfall to photograph this spectacular 300-foot-high waterfall. (B,L,D)

Day 10 - Bergen / Depart for Home

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)

Day 1 — Bergen, Norway

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.

Day 2 — Flåm / Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

In the heart of fjord country, board the Flåm Railway for a magnificent morning 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. We will make a brief stop at Kjosfossen waterfall to photograph this spectacular 300-foot-high waterfall. (B,L,D)

Day 3 — Olden

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 or Kjenndalen glaciers. Choose an easy hike to a viewpoint over Kjenndalen glacier, 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)

Day 4 — Lerwick, Shetland Islands, Scotland

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. 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)

Day 5 — Kirkwall, Orkney Islands

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, spanning a period of approximately 600 years of occupation. 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)

Day 6 — Isle of Skye

Spend the day on the Isle of Skye, discovering its ethereal landscapes on your choice of two excursions. From the village of Kyle of Lochalsh, travel across rolling green moors of the Scottish mainland to Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most iconic castles in the world. Continue to the Isle of Skye and Armadale Castle, an important part of local life since the early 18th century, when the chiefs of Clan Donald made it their residence.  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 the charming fishing port of Portree. (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Fort William and Scottish Highlands

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. End the tour at the Commando Memorial enjoying breathtaking views of Ben Nevis. (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Glasgow / Return

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) 

Day 1 — Glasgow, Scotland

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.

Day 2 —Fort William and Scottish Highlands

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. End the tour at the Commando Memorial enjoying breathtaking views of Ben Nevis. (B,L,D)

Day 3 — Isle of Skye

Spend the day on the Isle of Skye, discovering its ethereal landscapes on your choice of two excursions. From the village of Kyle of Lochalsh, travel across the rolling green moors of the Scottish mainland to Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most iconic castles in the world. Continue to the Isle of Skye and Armadale Castle, an important part of local life since the early 18th century, when the chiefs of Clan Donald made it their residence.  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 the charming fishing port of Portree. (B,L,D)

Day 4 — Stromness, Orkney Islands

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)

Day 5 — Lerwick, Shetland Islands, Scotland

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. 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) 

Day 6 — Olden

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 or Kjenndalen glaciers. Choose an easy hike to a viewpoint over Kjenndalen glacier, 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)

Day 7 - Flåm

In the heart of fjord country, board the Flåm Railway for a magnificent morning 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. We will make a brief stop at Kjosfossen waterfall to photograph this spectacular 300-foot-high waterfall. (B,L,D)

Day 8 - Bergen / Depart for Home

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)