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Coastal Scotland Expedition Cruise – Whiskies And Wildlife

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 Cruise Length
7 Days
 Cruise Starts
Glasgow
 Cruise Finishes
Glasgow
7 Day Coastal Scotland Expedition Cruise – Whiskies And Wildlife Itinerary (Hurtigruten)
Countries Explored: Scotland
Ship
Ship Class
Expedition
Passengers
335
Crew
65
Launched
2009
Refurbished
2016
Cruise Code
CSECW

Overview

Experience Scotland’s rugged beauty and try some of its famed whiskies on an expedition cruise to the picturesque west coast and islands. We’ll take you to the Isle of Islay, boasting no fewer than eight distilleries all set in a gorgeously wild landscape. You’ll explore picturesque towns like Oban, with its small but impressive distillery, and unleash your inner explorer as you witness Scotland’s dramatic landscapes and wonderful wildlife.

Itinerary

Set sail from Scotland’s stylish city of culture and get to know your expedition ship and crew.

Glasgow is an elegant city filled with splendid architecture in the Victorian and Art Nouveau styles. If you have any time prior to embarkation you’ll discover its museums, galleries, and lively spots to eat, drink and shop.

When you’re done, your comfortable expedition ship MS Spitsbergen will be waiting for you. You’ll be greeted by your friendly Expedition Team and after attending a safety briefing and settling in, you’ll sit down to a welcome dinner to mark the start of the cruise.

Pre-Programme
Want to really explore Glasgow and Edinburgh? Then we recommend extending your stay by booking our optional Pre-Programme that includes an overnight in Edinburgh. You’ll be able to see the main sights of Glasgow as well as the beautiful Edinburgh Castle.

See dramatic mountains and wild landscapes on beautiful Arran.

Warmed by the North Atlantic Drift, the sheltered isle of Arran is a haven for wildlife. As you travel around the island, see if you can spot Scotland’s ‘Big Five’ wildlife draws: the Golden Eagle, red deer, red squirrel, otter and seal.

Fancy some walking? Try the popular Goat Fell hiking trail, and visit Brodick Castle to get a sense of the aristocratic life of yesteryear. Discover Neolithic treasures across Machrie Moor, and sample the distinctive malt whisky of the local distillery.

Explore colourful Tobermory and discover its many modest delights.

Tobermory is the main town on the Isle of Mull. As you get close to the waterfront, you'll be greeted by a row of distinctive brightly-coloured Georgian houses. Explore this small town, packed with cafés, restaurants and craft stores – it even has its own whisky distillery.

If conditions allow, we’ll go to Loch Sunart, a beautiful seawater loch that few others visit. As a Marine Protected Area, the clear waters shelter a rich ecosystem and are a stronghold for otters. It’s also a great place for spotting dolphins and porpoises.

Visit Scotland’s outdoor adventure hub and take in the surrounding beauty.

After sailing into Loch Linnhe we arrive at Fort William. The town is known as ‘Britain’s Outdoor Capital’ and is a magnet for hikers, bikers, climbers and skiers. As you’ll see, it’s set amidst some spectacular Highland scenery.

The town’s whisky distillery offers its take on the national tipple, and a scenic short walk awaits at Glen Nevis. You can also visit Glen Coe, a valley formed from volcanic activity, sculpted by glaciers and designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Set foot on Scotland’s west coast in this small and charming town.

The ‘Gateway to the Isles’, the little town of Oban reached its heyday when the railway arrived, adding to its life as a busy fishing port. Victorian buildings cluster round the port while ferries come and go, heading out to the distant Hebrides.

A 20-minute walk from town goes past beaches and through woodland to the castle Dunollie, ancient seat of the Clan Chiefs. Fancy a wee dram? The tiny Oban Distillery is one of the smallest and one of the oldest in Scotland.

Idyllic Islay is an island paradise of wildlife, whisky and woollen garments.

Islay (pronounced eye-la) isn’t called ‘Whisky Island’ for nothing. There are nine working distilleries here, and you’ll find their peaty single malts sold around the world. One of the larger isles, there’s 130 miles of coastline, and numerous quiet sandy beaches.

Islay is also an island of wildlife, with over 200 species of birds including Golden Eagles, oystercatchers, gannets and Hen Harriers. What’s more, the mystical past is present here, with ancient monoliths, Celtic crosses and a stone circle all visible.

Finish off where you started – but why not stay a bit longer?

Our island-hopping expedition ends where we started out, in Glasgow. We know you’ll have had some wonderful experiences on your expedition, but why not linger a while and see some of the things you may have missed before you set sail.

Post-Programme
If you want to fully explore Glasgow and Edinburgh, we recommend extending your stay by booking our optional Post-Programme. With an overnight in Edinburgh, you’ll be able to see the main sights of Glasgow as well as the majestic Edinburgh Castle.

Life Onboard MS Spitsbergen

MS Spitsbergen
MS Spitsbergen

Intimately scaled and perfectly designed to take the scenic route; enjoy open viewing spaces and Scandinavian touches. Read more

Knowledgeable Guides
Knowledgeable Guides

Destinations come to life with a Guide Team on classic coastal voyages and an Expedition Team on expedition sailings. Read more

Comfortable Cabins
Comfortable Cabins

From cosy inside cabins to luxurious suites, the perfect home away from home awaits for every cruiser. Read more

Delicious Dining
Delicious Dining

Enjoy a delightful menu crafted from fresh ingredients and locally sourced produce served up in the main restaurant. Read more

Relaxed Atmosphere
Relaxed Atmosphere

Enjoy Hurtigruten's famously relaxed atmosphere and cruise comfortably day and night, with no need to change for dinner. Read more

Wellness at Sea
Wellness at Sea

Make use of the wellness and recreation facilities on board, including a gym, sauna, and outdoor hot tubs. Read more

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Availability Click on prices below to view cabin upgrades and details

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Hurtigruten. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Hurtigruten. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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