Dates

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through some of the most captivating landscapes on Earth. Travel from the historic coasts of the British Isles to the green valleys of the Faroe Islands and Iceland.

Sail to the British Isles, where history and myth intertwine — from prehistoric stone circles and medieval cathedrals to charming coastal towns steeped in maritime heritage. Each destination tells its own story, inviting you to experience the wild beauty, timeless culture, and enduring legends of the North.

Continue to the Faroe Islands, a secluded archipelago of dramatic cliffs, lush meadows, and picturesque villages with turf-roofed houses. Here, ancient Viking traditions blend harmoniously with a tranquil way of life surrounded by the sea. In Iceland, explore a realm shaped by fire and ice, where mighty waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and steaming geothermal fields reveal the island’s untamed spirit.

Expedition Highlights

• The British Isles

The British Isles offer a captivating blend of wild birding destinations and historical sites. Visit the sandstone St. Magnus Cathedral, the Ring of Brodgar, a huge ceremonial circle of stones dating back almost 5,000 years, and the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae.

• The Faroes
  Step into a fairytale as you arrive on the remote Faroe Islands. With their charming turf-roofed houses and lush green fields, these islands will leave you spellbound at every turn. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this picturesque archipelago, where Viking heritage is deeply rooted and landscapes feel out of this world.

• Iceland
  Our expedition will take us to the Westfjords of Iceland, a region known for its dramatic landscapes and serene beauty. Here you will find stunning waterfalls that will leave even the most seasoned travelers in awe, revealing the raw beauty and power of nature in every cascading drop.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Edinburgh, Scotland – Overnight

Welcome to Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland and starting point of our expedition. To provide you with more time to enjoy this metropolis rich in history and culture, we’ve arranged pre-cruise hotel accommodation. Relax and take a stroll through town, enjoying both medieval and classic 18th-century architecture. The famous Edinburgh Castle rises majestically above it all.

NOTE: We recommend arriving at least one day prior in order to avoid complications associated with flight delays. We have Pre- and Post-cruise programs de-signed to complement the cruise.

Day 2: Embarkation in Edinburgh, Scotland

Enjoy the morning and early afternoon at leisure. Each corner of Edinburgh’s old streets opens beautiful, unexpected vistas of green hills or a blue flash of the distant sea. In the afternoon, you will be transferred from the hotel to the ship in the nearby Port of Leith. Before dinner, there’s time to explore the Sea Spirit, your home-away-from home for the next days.

Day 3: Bass Rock and Isle of May

Our adventures begin with the exploration of two uninhabited islands teeming with wildlife. The Isle of May is a national nature reserve, home to puffins, guillemots, razorbills, cormorants, terns, and seals basking on the shore. You’ll also spot historic landmarks like St. Ardin’s Chapel and the island lighthouse. Just across the water rises Bass Rock—home to the world’s largest colony of northern gannets. Over 150,000 birds fill the cliffs and skies in one of nature’s greatest spectacles.

Day 4: Kirkwall, Orkney Islands

Step ashore in Kirkwall, the charming capital of the Orkney Islands, where Viking and medieval history still shape the town. Highlights include the magnificent St. Magnus Cathedral, the Bishop’s Palace, and the Earl’s Palace. Our included tour takes you west across Orkney’s rolling landscape into the UNESCO World Heritage “Heart of Neolithic Orkney.” Pass the Standing Stones of Stenness and visit the Ring of Brodgar, a vast ceremonial stone circle over 5,000 years old. Explore Skara Brae, a prehistoric village revealed from the sand only 150 years ago.

Day 5: Fair Isle, Shetland Islands

On Fair Isle—an isolated island of rolling moorlands and rugged coastlines—one is easily enchanted by historic crofts, picturesque lighthouses, and friendly locals. The island is famous among birders for its abundance of British birds and for its numerous records of eastern rarities and migrants. Fair Isle is also one of Europe’s best places to watch seabirds, especially puffins, at close range. Additionally, the island is notable for the abundance and diversity of its wild-flowers. Seals are also commonly seen in its bays. Finally, during our visit it will be possible to see and purchase articles hand-knitted in the intricate and distinctive style for which Fair Isle has been celebrated for hundreds of years.

Day 6-9: Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands are wild, colorful, and absolutely unique. Green hills, blue seas, colonies of adorable puffins with bright beaks, and turf-roofed houses create a landscape straight out of a fairy tale. This hard-to-reach destination is a dream for photographers, with unforgettable scenery at every turn. Experience the unique blend of Viking heritage and modern charm in the capital city of Tórshavn. Visit the National Museum, taste traditional wind-dried mutton, explore ancient wooden houses and cathedral ruins, and end the day with free time to discover the picturesque harbor before we sail north. In Funningur, we’ll experience the local culture firsthand: sampling traditional Faroese dishes, strolling through the narrow streets with local guides, and learning about the region’s customs. Every moment here offers a vivid glimpse into the life and traditions of the Faroe Islands.

Day 10: Seyðisfjörður, Iceland

We then continue to Iceland, a land of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Sailing along Iceland’s rugged eastern coast, we arrive in Seyðisfjörður — a secret gem nestled among waterfalls and misty mountains. The town’s colorful 19th-century wooden houses, built by Norwegian traders, line the peaceful harbor, their reflections shimmering in the still fjord waters. Later, we visit Lake Urriðavatn to soak in a geothermal pool with sweeping views of the lake and surrounding peaks. As warm thermal waters meet the crisp mountain air, you’ll feel a deep connection with Iceland’s raw, untouched beauty.

Day 11: Djúpivogur, Iceland

We anchor near the peaceful fishing village of Djúpivogur, surrounded by rugged cliffs and calm fjords. A guided walk takes us along black-sand beaches and quiet lagoons, where puffins, Arctic terns, and other seabirds can be spotted. We explore small islands linked by natural sandbars, visit a traditional birdwatching hut, and enjoy the gentle rhythm of village life —a perfect way to experience Iceland’s serene coastal beauty.

Day 12: Vestmannaeyjar Archipelago

The volcanic Westman Islands are among Earth’s youngest landscapes, shaped by recent eruptions, dramatic cliffs, and thriving seabird colonies. On Heimaey, we see the impact of the 1973 Eldfell eruption, which buried part of the town in ash, and explore the Eldheimar Museum, where interactive exhibits bring this event to life.

Day 13: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Often called “Iceland in Miniature,” the Snæfellsnes Peninsula captures all the island’s magic in one place — dramatic cliffs, black-sand beaches, lava fields, glaciers, and volcanic craters. We’ll pass waterfalls and the famous Kirkjufell Mountain, known to Game of Thrones fans as the “Arrowhead Mountain,” with every view revealing a touch of Iceland’s mystical soul.

Day 14: Reykjavik – Disembarkation

Spend time exploring Reykjavík’s galleries and cafés, or relax in a geothermal spa, as the vivid colors and dramatic landscapes of this extraordinary journey linger on long after you depart.