Island Hopping In The North Atlantic - Reykjavík To Edinburgh

Discover Iceland's modern capital 

Your island-hopping expedition cruise starts in Iceland's art, culture and history-packed capital, Reykjavík.  

If you have time before boarding MS Maud, stroll along Laugavegur with its boutiques and galleries, head to the striking Hallgrimskirkja cathedral or the fascinating Reykjavík Art Museum.  

With so much to explore, you may want to come early and join one of our Pre-Programmes to the Golden Circle or Icelandic Highlands. 

On board MS Maud, pick up your expedition jacket, check out your cabin, meet the Expedition Team, and enjoy your first delicious dinner as we set sail towards our first stop, Heimaey.  

Whales, puffins, and a dramatic volcanic eruption 

The first island on our isle-hopping expedition cruise is Heimaey, off the south coast of Iceland. It's the only inhabited island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago.   

Heimaey has a fascinating history involving runaway slaves, murder, revenge, magic, and Barbary pirates, and it still bears the scars of a powerful volcanic eruption in 1973 that nearly destroyed the island.  

Visit the Sea Life Trust beluga whale sanctuary, and hike to see puffins at Stórhöfði, where around eight million nest every summer. Be sure to check out the volcano, Eldfell (‘Fire Mountain'). It's well worth the effort to climb to its summit, offering incredible views of the town below.  

Get to know your new home from home 

As we sail to the Faroe Islands, enjoy an idyllic day at sea with plenty to do. Admire the views from MS Maud's expansive Observation Deck, visit the Science Center for insights into the destinations ahead, or take advantage of the gym and hot tubs.   

Photography enthusiasts can pick up some pointers from our onboard photographer on how to capture wildlife and landscapes. You'll find the comfort of the Explorer Lounge a great place to read or watch the world glide by.  

You can also enjoy a talk by the Expedition Team – experienced explorers who will share their extensive knowledge of the places ahead with you. 

Explore wild and rugged Eysturoy island  

Tiny Runavik is a flourishing town on the Faroe Island of Eysturoy. Hugging the eastern side of Skálafjørður fjord, it's been a haven for ships for many centuries. The Vikings used to dock here too.  

Join the Expedition Team on a kayaking tour of Skálafjørður – at nine miles long, it's the longest fjord in the Faroe Islands – or head off on one of the many hiking routes. You could follow the relatively easy path through the heather-rich moorland around Lake Toftavatn, known for its birdlife. Hike up the nearby hill for astounding views of the surrounding green peaks. Take the opportunity to stretch your legs before we cruise to Streymoy, the largest of the islands. 

A visit to Streymoy in the Faroe Islands  

Founded by Norsemen in the 10th century, Tórshavn – ‘Thor's Harbour' – is one of Northern Europe's oldest capitals. 

Wander along winding cobbled alleyways and past colourful, turf-roofed houses. In the local museums, you'll learn about the city's origins and the flora, fauna and geology of the Faroe Islands.  

Just over a mile north of the town, Svartafoss waterfall tumbles over mossy rocks. And as you walk along the seafront, look out for the Eider Drake and the distinctive Faroese Starling with its beige-tipped wings.  

Discover sea birds and Vikings in the Northern Shetlands 

The northern Shetland Islands represent the geographical extremity of the British Isles. In these remote areas, we'll explore according to the conditions and where we find the best opportunities. 

We may visit charming Haroldswick on Unst, where the Vikings reputedly first made landfall in the British Isles. Home to a reconstruction of a Viking longhouse and ship, there's also a burial mound thought to be the grave of King Harald Fairhair, the village's namesake.  

We may also take to our small expedition boats, exploring hidden coves below towering cliffs. At the UK's most northerly point, the cliffs of Hermaness National Nature Reserve shelter thousands of breeding seabirds including fulmars, puffins, shags and gannets, so be sure to bring your binoculars.  

Experience life in the capital of Scotland's most northerly inhabited isles  

We'll dock alongside Lerwick, the capital of the Shetland Islands, to explore this friendly, Victorian-influenced fishing town.  

Navigate the narrow lanes on foot to discover little shops selling local whiskies, woollen sweaters and fudge. By the old waterfront, you'll find the Shetland Museum, exploring the area's rich history. Nearby, see Fort Charlotte and the regal Town Hall.  

The wider island is home to remarkable Iron Age villages and the Croft House Museum, where you'll learn about the hard life of the local crofters.  

Keep your binoculars handy as you may spot grey and common seals along Lerwick's beaches, and local birdlife such as Red-throated Divers, redshanks and curlews.  

A scenic stop for bird lovers  

Your last stop in the Shetland Islands is remote Fair Isle, known for its birds and knitwear.  

A magnet for birders and wildlife photographers, the island is home to 27 bird species. It's a vital stop for migrating seabirds, drawn to the red sandstone cliffs, green fields and moors.  

We'll attempt to land so you can join a clifftop hike to a spectacularly sited lighthouse with the Expedition Team. Gain fascinating insights into the life and history of the 65-strong island community at the local museum. You can support Fair Islanders by buying genuine Fair Isle knitwear direct from local makers.  

If landing isn't possible, the scenic cruising is just as spectacular.  

Discover the islands' rich heritage, wildlife and whisky  

The Orkney Islands' largest town, Kirkwall, is a vibrant place influenced by every era from the Vikings to World War II.  

In the Norse town centre, visit the regal St Magnus Cathedral and the adjacent Earl's Palace to see the stone ruins of this once-grand Renaissance building. Whisky aficionados will enjoy Kirkwall's Highland Park and Scapa distilleries' sublime single malts.  

Delve into the past at Scara Brae settlement and the mysterious standing stones of Ring of Brodgar and Stones of Stenness – all part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage site.  

Sea birds such as Puffins, Gannets, Guillemots, Kittiwakes and Eagles thrive around the Orkneys. Look out for Dolphins, Whales and Orca, too.  

Discover the many charms of the much-loved city of Edinburgh 

After London, Edinburgh is the most visited city in the United Kingdom, and a fitting place to conclude your voyage you'll soon see why. With streets steeped in history and a thriving cultural scene, the Scottish capital offers the perfect balance between the traditional and contemporary.    

Explore mysterious winding alleys and elegant terraced rows, and check out some of the many shops, bars and restaurants. Get a great view of the city from majestic Edinburgh Castle, where you can see Scotland's Crown Jewels and the famed Stone of Destiny.