Cruising Iceland, the Faroes, Scotland & Ireland

Arrive in Iceland’s vibrant capital, a small city big on character. Reykjavik’s manageable size makes it easy to explore its unique architecture, modern design vibe and bespoke, seaside-chic atmosphere. Upon arrival, you are transferred to your luxury hotel. Tonight, gather for a welcome reception and dinner.

Today, choose your own adventure with included excursion options exploring near or far. Stay close with a walk down the wharf for a whale-watching cruise of Faxafloi Bay, or head into the city and its surrounds for a cultural and culinary tour visiting local museums with time to sample regional delicacies along the way. Venturing farther afield, you might opt for a rejuvenating soak in the scenic Sky Lagoon. Alternatively, embark on an epic exploration of Iceland’s Golden Circle, taking in the historic sites of Thingvellir, the geothermal greenhouses of Fridheimar, the Strokkur geyser and the majestic falls of Gullfoss. Afterward, reconvene in Reykjavik for an evening at leisure.

This morning, enjoy some time at leisure or opt for a walking tour of Reykjavik’s iconic Hallgrimskirkja Cathedral, parliament building and harbor. After lunch, pass by the Hofdi house, site of the 1986 summit between Presidents Gorbachev and Reagan, followed by a viewing of the city’s acclaimed Lava Show. End your day of exploration at the frigid wonders of Iceland’s glaciers at the renowned Perlan Museum. Afterward, board your expedition vessel and embark for your first night aboard.

Cruise amid the Icelandic Westman Islands and embark on an excursion to Heimaey, home to a former farming enclave forever changed by a volcanic eruption in 1973. Once ashore, you might to opt to explore the lava fields and farmhouse ruins with your choice of an easy or more strenuous hike, followed by a visit to a local museum chronicling the site’s legacy. Cruise onward for a Zodiac tour of Surtsey , a relatively new and starkly beautiful landmass formed by volcanic activity in the 1960s.

Unwind as you cruise eastward, enjoying the ship’s amenities along the way. En route, the Expedition Team prepares you for tomorrow’s exploration of the Faroe Islands with a series of enriching presentations.

Today, make landfall in Torshavn, the diminutive capital of the Faroe Islands. Though part of the Kingdom of Denmark, the Faroes are a fiercely independent, self-governing archipelago of 18 rocky, volcanic islands. Here, you might opt for a walking tour of the city, its National Museum and a local brewery. Alternatively, explore the coastal and hillside villages of Hvalvik, Saksun and Gjogv, rugged island enclaves boasting thatched dwellings, rich histories and postcard vistas visiting a local farm. Or, head to the village of Vestmanna and board a boat for a birding tour of towering coastal cliffs harboring thousands of puffins, fulmars and guillemots. Cap this excursion off with a scenic hike revealing hidden lakes, pristine waterfalls and stunning views of the islands beyond.

Cruise to Scotland’s most northerly outpost, the Shetlands, and come ashore in the islands’ only town, Lerwick. Wild and remote, the Shetland Islands harbor liberal doses of both Norse and Gaelic influences in their distinctive local culture. You might choose to explore this enchanting island enclave with a tour of its port town and a local brewery; a panoramic drive through the countryside and a stop at the Shetland Museum and Archives; or a coastal walk to the Broch of Clickimin, an imposing fortification dating to the Iron Age.

Continue to Noss, a remote Shetland Island enclave renowned for its spectacular seabird colonies, striking coastal cliffs, diverse marine mammals and sprawling wildflowers. Explore this wild island paradise with Zodiac excursions revealing towering cliffs abundant with nesting guillemots, gannets, fulmars and puffins, as well as shorelines and waters frequented by harbor seals, grey seals, otters and porpoises.

Today, explore the mountain- and castle-crowned Isle of Skye. The second largest of Scotland’s islands, Skye spans some 50 miles of misty moors, rugged mountains, pristine lochs and towering coastal cliffs. Come ashore in Portree, Skye’s main port and the perfect staging point for the day’s excursions. Opt for a walk amid Skye’s Fairy Pools, atmospheric rock pools fed by mountain springs; a scenic drive to Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland; or a tour and tasting at Talisker Distillery, a producer of whiskies renowned the world over.

Relish a day of relaxation aboard, perhaps enjoying some time in the spa or conversing with newfound friends. Your Expedition Team shares photos and memories from your journey, culminating in a gala farewell dinner.

Disembark in Dublin and continue on your post-tour extension, or transfer to the airport for your flight.