The Footsteps of the Vikings

• Day 1 - Bergen, Norway; Embarkation Day

  Welcome to Bergen where a world of wonder awaits with a warm greeting by the crew as you step on board. Tonight toast to the start of your luxurious cruise.

• Day 2 - Hardanger Fjord

  Hardanger Fjord, the fourth longest fjord in the world, is the second longest in Norway. A spectacular day of discovery awaits as we cruise through the magnificent scenery.

• Day 3 - Lerwick

  Closer to Norway than Scotland, the Shetland Islands boast astounding archaeological sites, ancient ruins and Viking and Norse influences.

  There will be time at leisure this evening to discover the local nightlife.

  Freechoice
  Explore Jarlshof Prehistoric site or discover the Norse history on your tour of the town and Shetlands Museum. Or you can choose to discover Scalloway and visit the Museum, or play a round of golf.

  Enrich
  Immerse yourself in Scottish traditions with a Highland fling and concert of Shetland fiddlers and Celtic singers.

• Day 4 - Fair Isle

  Halfway between the isles of Orkney and Shetlands with a resident population of just 60, Fair Isle is a place rich in wildlife, cultural heritage and community spirit. Be welcomed by the locals to their island paradise and share stories of their life and history as you tour the Museum and enjoy their home made cakes and biscuits.

  Freechoice
  Choose from a range of discovery excursions to explore the island by Zodiac or kayak. Take a short birdlife walking tour or the more active can choose a hike to the more remote areas of the island in search of wildlife. Helicopter excursions are available^.
  ^ At additional expense and availability subject to regulatory approval

• Day 5 - Kirkwall

  Kirkwall, the ancient capital of Orkney, has an intriguing ancient history, Viking heritage and Scottish traditions.

  Freechoice
  Uncover the Neolithic history and visit the World Heritage-listed Ring of Brodar or taste local brews at Highland Park Distillery and Orkney Brewery. You can also choose to witness local artisans at a demonstration or take a walking tour and visit St Magnus Cathedral. The more active can take a guided kayak or Zodiac adventure. Helicopter and submarine excursions are available^.
  ^ At additional expense and availability subject to regulatory approval

• Day 6 - Stornoway to Portree

  Stornoway, originally a Viking settlement, is now a bustling hub for the arts and Gaelic heritage.

  Arrive in the afternoon to Portree, the thriving capital of the Isle of Skye and the perfect location to moor overnight.

  Enjoy time at leisure this evening to explore this charming Scottish cultural centre.

  Freechoice
  Uncover the intriguing Viking and Iron Age history or at Harris Distillery sample the local malt. Alternatively play a round of golf, or take a discovery excursion by Zodiac or kayak in search of bird and marine life.

  Freechoice
  Visit Dunvegan Castle, traditional home of Clan Macleod or take a tour of Portree and its surrounds.

• Day 7 - Loch Ewe

  One of the most beautiful places in Scotland, Inverewe Estate and gardens date back to 1860. Carefully sculpted since its inception, this outstanding garden is an oasis of exotic plants and vibrant colour fuelled by the warm currents of the North Atlantic Gulf Stream. Discover the diversity of species and its history on your tour. Helicopter and submarine excursions are available^.
  ^ At additional expense and availability subject to regulatory approval

• Day 8 - St Kilda

  This isolated archipelago of volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean is a nature reserve boasting the largest colony of guillemots in the world, the oldest and largest colony of fulmars, the biggest colony of puffins in Britain and over one million birds in total.

  Freechoice
  Choose a discovery excursion by Zodiac and kayak to search for some of the fascinating bird species or take a guided walk across the islands. Helicopter excursions are available^.
  ^ At additional expense and availability subject to regulatory approval

• Day 9 - At sea

  Relax on board and perhaps try a course in Scenic Epicure.

• Day 10 - Reykjavik, Iceland; Disembarkation

  Reykjavik signals the end of your cruise as you disembark after breakfast taking with you a lifetime of wonderful memories.

Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your captain and expedition leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.