From Liverpool To Iceland And Scottish Isles - Ancient Ties And Natural Wonders

Your expedition starts here in the fabled city of Liverpool. This historic maritime city has been a critical trade and migration port from the 18th to the early 20th centuries. Slaves, sugar, spice and tobacco are just some of the imports and exports that have passed through its port. It’s most famous export, however, is undoubtedly The Beatles.

If your time is limited, head to the scenic Royal Albert Dock, home to world-class art galleries and museums, and places of historical interest. The award-winning Beatles Museum is found here, hosting the largest permanent exhibition dedicated to charting the band’s rise to fame. Afterwards, you can soak up the atmosphere in a nearby pub with a local craft beer.

But there’s more. Liverpool has more museums and galleries than any other UK city outside London. For art lovers, the Walker Art Gallery houses one of England’s largest art collections. Liverpool’s legendary Anfield Stadium is a rite of passage hard to pass up for many football fans. A football-obsessed city, this hallowed ground is the beating heart of Liverpool.

At Liverpool’s port, MS Fridtjof Nansen awaits you. After you collect your complimentary expedition jacket and check-in, you’ll have time to settle in your cabin. There is a mandatory safety drill just before departure after which you can walk around to explore the ship. The welcome dinner in the evening ends with a toast by the Captain, wishing everyone an enjoyable expedition. After meeting your expedition team, you’ll be ready to start your grand Icelandic adventure.

Enjoy a day at sea as we sail towards our first call, the Outer Hebrides. Sea days can be as active or relaxing as you choose!  As our journey gets underway, why not spend some time getting to know the crew and your fellow explorers. Strike up a conversation at the bar and see what you have in common with your shipmates. Feel free to explore the ship’s facilities. The Science Center is a great place to start; it has scientific equipment and an extensive library to deepen your knowledge of the places you’ll visit.

You won’t want to miss the fascinating lectures given by members of the Expedition team as they share their knowledge of the region with you and prepare you for the adventures ahead. Lecture topics vary from local history and storytelling to biology and geology.

Stornoway is rightly known as the gateway to the Hebrides, a stunning archipelago of hundreds of islands off Scotland’s northwest coast. Considered Scotland’s crown jewel, this is a region of jagged mountain landscapes, superb sandy beaches and rugged coastlines.

Originally a Viking settlement, Stornoway is the main town of the Western Isles and the capital of the Isle of Lewis & Harris, which is the largest and most northerly of the Outer Hebrides. The bustling harbour is the life and soul of this town. It has a beautiful waterfront with museums, art galleries, charming shops and even a pair of resident seals.

The harbour is overlooked by the handsome Lews Castle which we invite you to explore with us. The castle grounds themselves are immense. Covering more than 200 hectares, a network of trails offers plenty of exploration, taking in historical buildings and fantastic harbour views. After a recent extensive restoration project, the Lews castle is a must-see.

Further afield are mills and cottages where hard-wearing Harris Tweed is woven. There are tiny folk museums, the world-famous Callanish Standing Stones, and the mysterious Carloway Broch - the best-preserved fort in Scotland dating back more than 2,000 years.

In recent times, the Hebrides have earnt a status as a seafood paradise, and Stornoway is no exception. You can sample langoustines, crabs, scallops, mussels and oysters fresh off the boat. For a true taste of the Western Isles, you can try Stornoway's famed black pudding. To wash it all down, you can enjoy one of the varieties of single-malt whiskey on hand. After all, they too haven’t had far to travel.

Days at sea are an opportunity to wind down. Recline in the panoramic Explorer Lounge, drink in hand and take in the view. Watch the waves for whales and dolphins and keep an eye on the sky for seabirds. For even deeper relaxation, soak in a hot tub on deck and prepare to be pampered in the wellness and spa area.

If you like to keep active, there are well-equipped gyms on board, both indoor and outdoor and each with great views. Swimmers aren’t left out either and the ship has a heated infinity pool for you to enjoy. Join the Expedition Team in the Science Center to learn about Icelandic culture and their belief in the Hidden People, aka. Icelandic Elves. There might even be a chance to improve your knitting skills in one of our workshops.

Our next stop is Heimaey, the only inhabited island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, off the south coast of Iceland.  Everything here has been touched in some way by the volcanic eruption that occurred unexpectedly one morning in January 1973. The narrow harbour, the tephra -made airport runway and the curl of cooled lava in the town center all point to the volcanic cone that casts a figure over the island.

Heimaey means “Home Island,” and you’ll certainly feel welcome here. It’s near 4000 inhabitants are friendly and the vegetated landscape is pleasing to the eye. You can learn all about the town’s history at the Museum of Eldheimar. Heimaey has got a fascinatingly dark past, complete with runaway slaves, murder, revenge and pirates. And that’s before you get to the volcano that almost destroyed the island. 

The Sea Life Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary is also one of the town’s highlights. Home to two resident belugas, the sanctuary also inhabits a local species aquarium and a Puffin rescue center. 

In keeping with the rest of the Westmann Islands, Heimaey provides a habitat for countless birds. Around 8 million Puffins nest here every summer. A hike to Stórhöfði, south of the island, will provide you with excellent opportunities to observe them nesting. Claimed to be the windiest spot in Europe, you’ll be grateful for viewing facilities that’ll allow you to quietly observe these delightful birds in their natural habitat.

A visit to Heimaey would not be complete without checking out its most prominent feature, Eldfell, or “Mt Fire.” By the end of its eruption, it stood at 220 metres. It’s worth the effort to hike to the top. You’ll have incredible views of the town below and the winning feeling of conquering the volcano that almost wiped out the island.

Welcome to Reykjavik, the northernmost capital in the world. Reykjavik is quaint and cosmopolitan at the same time. This small city is the perfect size for a walking tour, packed full of art, culture and history.

Take a stroll along Laugavegur, the main shopping street, with its boutiques and outdoor shops. Or head towards the architecturally striking Hallgrimskirkja Cathedral. Art lovers can visit the Reykjavik Art Museum, National Gallery and the many smaller galleries and museums dotting the city. From the comprehensive National Museum to the delightful Icelandic Punk Museum, you’re bound to find one or more to engage you.

The abundance of geothermal energy sources in Iceland has forged a strong tradition of public bathing in swimming pools and hot tubs known as “heittur pottur” in Icelandic. They’re what pubs are to the British - a perfect way of catching up with friends and unwinding after a long day. Bring your swimsuit if you fancy a dip in one of the city’s 18 swimming pools, many with saunas and heitur pottur.

The list of possibilities doesn’t end there. From Reykjavik, whose name actually means ‘Smokey Bay’ due to the rising steam from the surrounding geothermal features, you’ll be just hours away from geysers, glaciers, hot springs and waterfalls.

The Golden Circle offers a route to three of Iceland’s most beloved attractions. Þingvellir National Park’s unique geology and natural features give it an almost otherworldly beauty. Natures raw power is on show at Iceland’s treasured waterfall Gullfoss. The Geysir geothermal area with its multitude of hot springs completes the trio.

Another popular highlight nearby is the geothermal spa Blue Lagoon. Situated in a vast 800-year-old lava field, the waters blend of silica, algae and minerals have helped this magical location earn its place on National Geographic’s 25 wonders of the world.

Our first stop is Stykkisholmur, pronounced ‘Stikkish – holmur’, a small fishing town surrounded by views of innumerable islets in the picturesque Breiðafjörður Bay. With a population of roughly a thousand people, no traffic, and a laid-back, slow pace, it gives the impression of a place where time has stood still.

Perhaps Stykkisholmur’s most defining feature is the well-preserved houses found in its old city center. Bursting with colour, they stand out in contrast to the distant mountain ranges. Ingeniously repurposed, the former library is now an art installation, the old recreation center now harbours a volcano museum, and the fish processing plant is now a restaurant that serves a delicious fish soup.

Another highlight of the town is Norwegian House, named for the Norwegian imported wood used to build it in 1832. The Regional Museum of Snæfellsnes is based here, with rotating exhibitions and handicraft on sale. For a lovely view over the town, hike to the top of the cliff with the little orange lighthouse.

Most people, however, come here to see the fantastic Snæfellsnes Peninsula National Park. It’s nicknamed ‘Little Iceland’ as everything the country has to offer can be found here, including fjords, mountains, waterfalls, volcanoes, lava fields and more.

An optional excursion to Snæfellsnes will take you to some of its most iconic sights, such as the black-sand beach at Djúpalónssandur, where – if you’re feeling energetic – you can try your hand at lifting ‘strength testing’ rocks placed there by Vikings. A word of warning though: the heaviest rock weighs 154kg!

Another stop is at the Lóndrangar basalt cliffs where huge stacks of jagged rock jut photogenically out of the sea. Interesting fact: the massive Snæfellsjökull volcano, which looms over the landscape, is the setting of the classic sci-fi novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth, by Jules Verne.

When Orlygur Harppsson saw today’s destination for the first time in the 9th century, he gave it a straightforward name - Patreksfjördur, or ‘the fjord of St Patrick,’ after his spiritual guide. Its appeal today is just as uncomplicated – this settlement on the west coast of Iceland is utterly gorgeous.

Discover the peace and silence of a tranquil fishing village. Serving as a fishing port as far back as the 16th century, this is a town shaped by a rich maritime history. Patreksfjördur served as a base for English, French and German fishermen, merchants and naval mariners in olden times.

As you explore the lively harbour, you’ll learn about the towns local fishing tradition and the different kinds of fish found in its waters. You can also choose to take a dip in the outdoor pool, a new addition to the town with wonderful views over the fjord.

The sheer beauty of this region makes hiking through it such a rewarding activity if conditions allow. Nearby is Latrabjarg, Europe’s largest bird cliff and most western point. It’s home to millions of birds including Puffins, Northern Gannets, Guillemots and Razorbills. The bird watching here is spectacular. Safe from arctic foxes, the birds bravely cling to the high cliffs, and offer excellent photo opportunities.

The dream beach of Raudsandur is also close by. In contrast to other beaches in Iceland which are black with volcanic sands, the colors of Raudsandur are rose–coloured with golden hues. 

The Dynjandi series of waterfalls are also one of the big draws of this area, and it’s easy to see why. Six different waterfalls combine to make the largest waterfall in the Westfjords with a cumulative height of 100m. In a country famed for its waterfalls, this is one of the most impressive.

Akureyri is located near the base of the longest fjord in Iceland, Eyjafjörður. As we cruise along the fjord, you’ll have incredible views of snow-capped peaks and a lush coastline. The fertile waters here make it one of the best places in the country to spot whales. Species including humpback, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises are regular visitors, although orcas, blue and fin whales have been seen here too. 

Nicknamed ‘Iceland’s Northern Capital’, Akureyri is a lively university town. With a population of almost 20, 000 it’s the largest metropolitan area outside the populated southwest region, meaning there’s plenty to delve into here including some top-notch eateries and museums. Check out the Akureyri Museum, which gives you an insight into how Icelanders used to live here. The Nordurslod Museum of natural history also combines exhibitions about the local environment and the history of settlers

You’ll be astonished by the array of flowers and foliage at the Arctic Botanical Gardens. Its serene atmosphere is like an oasis of lush green in the most unlikely of settings. And while you’re exploring the town, check out the striking architecture of Akureyri Church, designed by the famous architect Gudjon Samuelsson.   

On an optional excursion outside town, you can explore natural treasures often considered some of the must-see sights in Iceland. At Goðafoss waterfall, nicknamed ‘waterfall of the gods,’ you’ll have the chance to see translucent turquoise water pounding against immense black rocks.

Located within a highly active volcanic area, Lake Mývatn has unique and beautiful geology, including shimmering waters and otherworldly colours. It’s also a great place for birds; Eider and Harlequinn Ducks in particular. Watchers of hit series Game of Thrones may recognise it.

When people imagine a windswept, remote Icelandic isle, they’re probably thinking about Grimsey. We will use our tender boats to reach this small, green and grassy island. With roughly 60 people, the only settlements are located on the southern and western parts - mostly around the little harbour.

Grimsey is serene, beautiful, and steeped in folklore and legend. The hardiness of the local fishermen is attributed to Grimsey’s first settler Grímur. Legend has it he slew the giants and trolls who inhabited the island and took one of their daughters as his bride.

Grimsey’s sheer cliffs are home to vast colonies of sea birds – outnumbering humans 17,000 to 1 – and in summer, the intrepid islanders will abseil down them to collect the eggs that are considered a local delicacy. The chance to see Atlantic Puffins, the iconic seabird species of Grimsey, is a major attraction for bird lovers.

Grimsey is probably best known for its proximity to the Arctic Circle, which cuts across the island - the only part of Iceland to do so. You’ll have the chance to step across that line, North to South.

You can explore the island on foot and hike to the ‘Orbis et Globus’ a nine-ton concrete sphere that marks the edge of the Arctic Circle. The walk to the monument will allow you to take in the windswept scenery and observe birds. The three-metre globe is moved a bit each year by the locals as the Arctic Circle creeps slowly northwards at a rate of about 48 feet a year.

By 2050, Grimsey Island will lie outside the Arctic – more reason to visit now. In the afternoon, we sail towards Husavik, where we will arrive in the evening and stay overnight.

Some places just know how to make an entrance. Our destination today sits at the end of a 17-kilometre fjord lined with picturesque mountains and waterfalls. Seyðisfjörður - pronounced ‘say-this-further,’ is a progressive and characterful village of about 700 people and certainly one of the most eclectic towns you’ll visit in Iceland.

Seyðisfjörður is famous for its characteristic colourful wooden houses, built by Norwegian settlers in the early 20th century. Set against a backdrop of mountains and waterfalls, the vibrant buildings pop-out, creating a genuinely unique settlement identity. 

The aptly named Rainbow Road only emphasis this delightfully quirky aesthetic. There are not many streets in the world painted top to bottom in the colours of the rainbow, with an eye-catching blue church at the end. You’ll definitely want to get your picture taken here.

Remote, peaceful and serene, Seyðisfjörður is ripe for outdoor adventures through activities including birdwatching, hiking and if available, kayaking. A short uphill trail from the town leads to an unusual sound sculpture, Tvisongur - a cluster of concrete domes with incredible acoustics. The hills above the town offer longer hikes. Waterfall Lane, is an enjoyable 6-10km hike that, true to its name, winds its way to several stunning waterfalls. 

Situated at the edge of the fjord, you’ll find Skalanes, a private nature reserve surrounded by cliffs and home to wildlife including reindeer, arctic fox and mink. Bird lovers can look forward to spotting various species that use the site each summer including Black-tailed Godwit, Golden Plover and if you’re lucky the Gyr Falcon, Europe’s largest falcon.

As we leave Iceland, we sail towards the Orkney Islands and Kirkwall. Take the day to rest, enjoy the ship’s facilities and take stock of what you’ve experienced so far. Perhaps you’ll take a dip in the infinity pool, relax in a meditation session or go for an invigorating jog on the outside running track.

Whether you’re an aspiring artist or an avid shutterbug, join a workshop to improve your skills. Whatever your age or skill level, you can learn from our experienced photographer or create art inspired by your journey. 

To better inform and build excitement for the next part of your adventure, spend some time in the library reading up on the places you have yet to visit, or attend lectures from the Expedition Team in the Science Centre.

Kirkwall is the capital and largest town of the Orkney archipelago. The first mention of a settlement here is in a saga as far back as 1046. Today, Kirkwall has a population of 8,500 and is one of the most attractive and well-preserved small towns in Scotland. 

Dominated by the famous St. Magnus Cathedral, the old part of Kirkwall is one of the best examples of an ancient Viking town. Underlining the cathedral’s significance, Kirkwall derives its name from the Norse `Kirkjuvagr´ meaning Church Bay. St Magnus is an atmospheric, beautiful building of red sandstone dating back to the 12th century. Taking 300 years to build, its craftsmanship is of the highest order. 

The cathedral also happens to be the last resting place for one of Orkney’s greatest native sons, explorer John Rae. While searching for the doomed Franklin expedition in 1854, John Rae discovered the final link to the Northwest Passage. You’ll find a poignant Portland Stone statue of him asleep in the Arctic, with his gun and book nearby. 

Just across the road from St Magnus are two other notable buildings. The Bishop’s Palace was built at the same time as the adjacent cathedral and housed its first bishop. Well restored and preserved, The Earls Palace dates back to the 1550s. These two excellent ruins of historic residences are certainly worth exploring.  

The Viking theme continues at the Highland Park Distillery, founded by a direct descendant of the Vikings. This traditional distillery is a great visit if you like whisky or just want to soak up some history. Sampling some excellent drams in the tasting room after a distillery tour is a perfect way to end any day. Booking ahead is required.

After an action-packed adventure, you’ll be ready for a leisurely day aboard the ship. Time to gaze at the view and reflect on all your new experiences, edit your photos, update your travel journal, rest weary legs and enjoy a few soothing treatments in the Wellness Spa.

By now you’ll likely have plenty of photographs and stories from the various excursions which you can swap with your fellow travelers in the Science Center as the Expedition Team recaps the voyage. You might’ve also collected some samples, which you can analyse under the microscope together with the Expedition Team’s Science Coordinator. 

Make the most of your last day aboard the ship, enjoy your last dinner and get ready to say goodbye to the crew and all your shipmates.

Your voyage of discovery and adventure ends where it started, in Liverpool. But before you head home, why not take advantage of a second chance to delve into the cultural highlights of this remarkable city?

If you didn’t the first-time round, you can relive Beatles mania at the Beatles Story Experience. On one National Trust tour, you can visit the stars’ childhood homes, complete with exclusive pictures and memorabilia such as school reports on display. You can complete your trip down memory lane at the British Music Experience, a museum devoted to pop music history in Britain. Nostalgia doesn’t get any better.

At Merseyside Maritime Museum, you can see original artefacts from the doomed ship Titanic and learn about Liverpool's nautical past. It’s also home to the International Slavery Museum, the only museum in the world dedicated to the history of the transatlantic slave trade.

If you want the city’s best view, then a trip to the tower of Liverpool Cathedral is highly recommended. After two lifts and 108 steps, you’ll be 110 metres high - and all of Liverpool will spread out before you. Whatever’s next for you, we wish you a safe onward journey and look forward to seeing you on your next adventure!