Scotland, the Faroe Islands & Iceland: North Atlantic Saga (11 days)
Beginning at the ancient Neolithic standing stones at Brodgar in Scotland, where the whispers of a bygone era beckon explorers to wander through a mystical landscape steeped in history; you will then transition to the serene embrace of Fair Isle, where tranquil island culture harmonizes with the exhilarating experience of bird spotting. Look to the skies across the Orkneys, Shetlands, and Faroes, as fulmars, puffins, gannets, skuas, and other North Atlantic seabirds gracefully carve their paths through the heavens.
Immerse yourself in the living heritage of these remote regions, indulging in the age-old tradition of craftsmanship as you shop for locally made woollens and other distinctive handicrafts. The Faroe Islands unfold a spectacle of dramatic, otherworldly landscapes'a mesmerizing testament to the raw beauty shaped by the relentless forces of wind and sea. Journey to Heimaey in the Westman Islands, where the haunting history of a town nearly obliterated by a volcanic eruption adds a poignant layer to the narrative.
Conclude your expedition in Reykjav'k, a city that seamlessly blends the ancient with the contemporary. Here, amidst the clean and green urban expanse, the pulse of Icelandic culture beats vibrantly, offering a dynamic finale to your exploration of this extraordinary corner of the world.
Dates
Highlights
Aberdeen, Scotland
Kirkwall, Orkney
Fair Isle
V'gur, Su'uroy Island, Faroe Islands
T'rshavn
Western Faroe Islands
Heimaey, Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands), Iceland
Reykjav'k, Iceland
Passage aboard the Ocean Endeavour
Applicable taxes and credit card fees
Complimentary expedition jacket
Contribution to Adventure Canada's Discovery Fund
Special access permits, entry, and park fees
Expert expedition team, Guided activities, Sightseeing and community visits, Educational program, Interactive workshops, and All Zodiac excursions
Port fees
Pre-departure materials
Photo Equipment Trial Program
Evening entertainment
All shipboard meals
Optional Ocean Kayaking Addons:
Explore at sea level in small groups with our experienced kayak guides. We offer excursions on double kayaks, as well as the essential gear for safety and comfort.
Itinerary
DAY 1: Aberdeen, Scotland
Begin Your Adventure
After a day of independent exploration in Aberdeen, you'll embark for an evening departure. Many of the historic stone buildings here are made of locally quarried granite; high in mica, they can sparkle like silver. The city is also famed for its forty-five parks, gardens, and floral displays. Though it is now a modern city, Aberdeen retains its old-world charm.
DAY 2: Kirkwall, Orkney
Visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site
Wander through the 4,000-year-old standing stone circle, the Ring of Brodgar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour the Hall of Clestrain, childhood home of Arctic explorer John Rae. In Kirkwall, let yourself be captivated by the city's sights, dominated by the massive St. Magnus Cathedral dating back to 1137.
Experience its lively pubs, vibrant music scene, fabulous shopping opportunities, and thriving artisan community. Step back 5,000 years to the Neolithic village of Skara Brae. Considered one of the most important Neolithic ruins in Europe today, wander the well-preserved stone houses and learn what daily life was like here.
DAY 3: Fair Isle
Enjoy Birdwatching at a Serene Island Community
Journey to charming Fair Isle, once a Viking hub and now an idyllic island colony of artists and shepherds. Keep your binoculars handy to spot some of the 350 bird species that the island boasts, including puffins and great skuas in substantial numbers. Take a tour of the local museum, dedicated to preserving the island's heritage.
DAY 4: V'gur, Su'uroy Island, Faroe Islands
Immerse Yourself in Faroese Culture
Visit V'gur, where the warm hospitality of its 1,300 residents awaits you. Relish in the opportunity to witness Faroese chain dancing and share in stories of V'gur's captivating past. Enjoy the abundance of birdlife that the island boasts. Let your senses feast on the view of Su'uroy's towering west side. Admire majestic cliffs, stunning mountains, sea stacks, and the magnificent Beinisv'r' mountain as it stands tall from afar.
See for yourself why the island is famed for its dramatic cliffs towering over the North Atlantic and enjoy this paradise for birds, including European storm petrels and Atlantic puffins.
DAY 5: T'rshavn
Visit Galleries, Shops, and Restaurants
Explore the splendid little city of T'rshavn ('Thor's harbour'), the Faroe Islands' capital and a former Viking trading centre. Stroll through the enchanting streets of the old town, where you'll discover a treasure trove of galleries, charming shops, and restaurants. Admire the buildings with their grass roofs and black timber fa'ades, offering a glimpse into traditional Faroese architecture and culture.
DAYS 6'8: Western Faroe Islands
Soak in Dramatic Mountains and Waterfalls
Eysturoy and Streymoy islands are perfect for hiking, birding, and photography. Charming villages connected by high-tech tunnels through mountains and beneath the ocean floor are a unique and startling feature of Faroese life.
Explore remote Faroese villages Elduvik and Funningur via Zodiac. With a population of only 12 and 70 respectively, these villages offer a glimpse into Faroese island life. As you meander through the dramatic landscape surrounded by beautiful mountains, get to know the locals and enjoy exploring the picturesque bays these villages call home.
The spectacular waterfall at G'sadalur is reached through one such tunnel'but look for the old switchback trail over the mountain, once used by the local postman!
DAY 9: At Sea
Learn On Board
Deepen your understanding of the environment, cultures, and history of the region as we sail across the North Atlantic towards Iceland. Enjoy workshops and presentations, watch a documentary, and get out on deck!
DAY 10: Heimaey, Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands), Iceland
Marvel at Volcanic Landscapes
Vestmannaeyjar lies off the south coast of Iceland and comprises fourteen islands, numerous rocks, and skerries. Only the largest island, Heimaey, is inhabited. Numerous species of seabirds, including the famous puffin, nest in the steep rock faces along the ocean cliffs. The volcanically active area has seen two major eruptions in recent times: the formation of the island of Surtsey in 1963, and the Eldfell eruption ten years later that destroyed much of Heimaey.
DAY 11: Reykjav'k, Iceland
Wave a Fond Farewell
Complete your journey in Reykjav'k, Iceland's cosmopolitan capital that was established in the year 874 CE. Food, culture, and nightlife abound, while the National Culture House preserves treasures like the Poetic Edda and the Norse Sagas in their original manuscripts. Disembark in the morning and say your farewells in what is widely considered one of the cleanest, greenest cities in the world.
Rates (USD)
Rates
Category 3 - Interior Twin, private bath (125 sq ft) | $7695 |
Category 4 - Exterior Twin with a porthole window, private bath (100 sq ft twin, 90 sq ft single) | $8995 |
Category 5 - Main Twin with a picture window, private bath (115 sq ft) | $9995 |
Category 6 - Comfort Twin with two porthole windows, optional large bed, and private bath (Deck four 175 sq ft, deck seven 135 sq ft, deck eight 160 sq ft) | $10,995 |
Category 7 - Select Twin with picture windows, with large bed and private bath (deck five 190 sq ft, deck eight 145 sq ft) | $11,995 |
Category 8 - Superior Twin with two picture windows, large bed, and private bath (deck five 210 sq ft, deck seven forward 180 sq ft, deck seven midship 190 sq ft) | $12,995 |
Category 9 - Junior Suite with picture windows and large bed, private bath and refrigerator (deck five 270 sq ft, deck seven 290 sq ft) | $13,995 |
Category 10 - Suite with front facing picture windows and large bed, private bath, and refrigerator (310 sq ft) | $14,995 |
Rates in USD
Rates include HST/GST
EXPEDITION COSTS DO NOT INCLUDE:
Commercial and charter flights
Program enhancements/optional excursions
Gratuities
Personal expenses
Mandatory medical evacuation insurance
Additional expenses in the event of delays or itinerary changes
Possible fuel surcharges and administrative fees
Pre- and post-trip hotel accommodation
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