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Scotland's Orkney Islands

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US$2,570
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Twin Share (Per Person)
 Trip Length
5 Days
 Trip Starts
Inverness
 Trip Finishes
Inverness
5 Day Scotland's Orkney Islands Itinerary (Intrepid)
Countries Explored: Scotland
Trip Style
Original
Departures
Budget
Affordable
Max. Group Size
12
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
BWSO

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Intrepid's 5 Day Scotland's Orkney Islands. The Orkney Islands, off the northern tip of Scotland, are a captivating blend of history, mystery, and stunning landscapes, waiting to be explored by land and sea. Over the course of five days, you’ll experience the best of Orkney, departing from the Highland hub of Inverness and using the picturesque town of Kirkwall as your base.

Admire the breathtaking landscapes as you explore the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, which predates Stonehenge, visit the renowned Scapa Flow Museum on the Island of Hoy, and read more immerse yourself in local history. Along the way, you might even enjoy whisky tastings at local pubs. With a knowledgeable local guide and a group eager to learn, this journey through European history has never been more enticing.

Itinerary

Welcome to Scotland, and Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands. This vibrant city is known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and proximity to Loch Ness. Today, instead of searching for Nessie, you’ll meet your local leader and fellow travelers at Inverness Railway Station to begin your journey to the Orkney Isles. Catch a train to Thurso, where we transfer to the nearby port of Scrabster to board the ferry for Orkney. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your evening meal while taking in the stunning views of the Old Man of Hoy, the tallest sea stack in the UK. Upon arrival in Stromness, we take a private transfer to Kirkwall, the island’s principal town. After the long journey, settle into your accommodation. If you'd like to stretch your legs and get your bearings, take a stroll into the town centre for a walk or enjoy a drink.

This morning, we explore the vibrant town of Kirkwall, the heart of Orkney. Our guide will take us on a walking tour, delving into the town’s Viking heritage. Highlights include St Magnus Cathedral (founded in 1137), the ‘Peedie Sea,’ and the maze of narrow streets where the traditional ‘Ba’ game is played each year. The afternoon is free, offering a perfect opportunity to retrace your steps and visit any craft shops, museums, or historic sites you may have passed earlier. For those interested, our guide will lead a short hike up Wideford Hill, offering panoramic views of Kirkwall and the surrounding islands. Alternatively, you can visit a whisky distillery, explore the craft and jewellery shops, or simply relax in a local pub. After dinner, if the skies are clear, our guide will lead a short walk outside Kirkwall to stargaze and, if lucky, catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights! (B)

Today, we’ll embark on a private coach tour to explore some of Orkney’s most captivating historic sites. Our journey begins by heading south to the Italian Chapel, a remarkable structure crafted from two Nissen huts by Italian prisoners of war. Next, we’ll cross the striking Churchill Barriers, built during the war to protect Scapa Flow from U-boat attacks; several shipwrecks still rise above the water’s surface. We then continue west to one of Orkney’s most renowned landmarks: the prehistoric village of Skara Brae. By now, we’ll have worked up an appetite, so we’ll visit an old schoolhouse for a picnic lunch, showcasing the best of local Orkney produce. Our journey back to Kirkwall takes us to the iconic Ring of Brodgar Standing Stones, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back over 5,000 years. Once in Kirkwall, you’ll have the opportunity to join the rest of your group for dinner and reflect on the fascinating sights and experiences of the day. (B/L)

After breakfast, we’ll travel to Houton and catch a ferry to the island of Hoy, the second largest island in Orkney. Hoy was the main naval base for the British fleet during both World Wars, with Scapa Flow at Lyness being a key location. Today, we’ll visit the renowned Scapa Flow Museum, home to an impressive collection of artifacts from this historic site. Take time to explore the exhibits and, if you wish, enjoy an optional coastal walk with stunning views back towards the Orkney mainland. We’ll return by ferry to Kirkwall in the early afternoon, leaving you with the rest of the day free to relax or explore at your leisure. Later, immerse yourself in Orkney’s rich cultural heritage by enjoying the atmosphere, perhaps by joining your leader for a whisky tasting, featuring exceptional malts from Orkney and beyond. (B)

After breakfast, you’ll begin your journey back to Inverness with your group, arriving in the late afternoon. With no activities planned in Inverness, the trip concludes upon arrival at the railway station. However, your adventure doesn’t have to end here! If you'd like to extend your time in the north of Scotland, we can arrange additional accommodation (subject to availability). For those wishing to continue exploring, consider joining one of our other adventures on the mainland or the Shetland Islands. Just speak to your booking agent in advance to make arrangements. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • The Orkney Islands are a treasure trove of history, from the Neolithic village of Skara Brae to the iconic Ring of Brodgar and the stunning 12th-century St Magnus Cathedral. It’s like stepping back in time!
  • Join your group leader for a walking tour of Kirkwall, Orkney’s lively hub, where you’ll learn about the town’s unique traditions, including the fascinating game of ‘Ba’.
  • Spend the morning exploring the island of Hoy and the renowned Scapa Flow Museum, home to rare artifacts and captivating exhibits that tell the story of Scapa Flow, once the heart of the British naval fleet during both World Wars.
  • No trip to Scotland would be complete without a whisky tasting! Throughout the journey, join your local leader and fellow travellers at cozy pubs to sample some of the finest whiskies Orkney has to offer.
  • With plenty of free time to explore at your own pace, you can dive deep into the island’s rich history or unwind with a visit to a local distillery. The choice is yours!

  • Guesthouse (4 nights)

  • 4 Breakfasts included
  • 1 Lunches included

  • Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
  • Intrepid regularly update their itineraries throughout the year based on feedback and local conditions. Therefore the itinerary you see now may differ from when you booked. Global Journeys will provide you with detailed trip notes at the time of quoting, along with a finalised itinerary and trip notes before your trip departs.

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Intrepid Worldwide (2025-26) Brochure

Intrepid Worldwide (2025-26)

Since 1989, Intrepid has been taking travellers beyond the ordinary to discover the real and remarkable. With small groups, passionate local leaders, and a commitment to responsible travel, every journey is crafted to connect you deeply with the people and places you visit. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Intrepid combines comfort, culture, and more curiosity for adventures that truly matter, all backed by a global network and guaranteed departures for peace of mind.

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Definite Departures

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Tuesday 12 May 2026 12 May 26 Inverness
Saturday 16 May 2026 16 May 26 Inverness
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Definite Departure
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Was: $2,860
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Tuesday 02 Jun 2026 02 Jun 26 Inverness
Saturday 06 Jun 2026 06 Jun 26 Inverness
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Tuesday 30 Jun 2026 30 Jun 26 Inverness
Saturday 04 Jul 2026 04 Jul 26 Inverness
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Was: $2,790
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Save $84
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Tuesday 07 Jul 2026 07 Jul 26 Inverness
Saturday 11 Jul 2026 11 Jul 26 Inverness
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Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,790
US$2,706
Save $84
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Saturday 25 Jul 2026 25 Jul 26 Inverness
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Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,790
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Tuesday 28 Jul 2026 28 Jul 26 Inverness
Saturday 01 Aug 2026 01 Aug 26 Inverness
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Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,790
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Save $84
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Tuesday 04 Aug 2026 04 Aug 26 Inverness
Saturday 08 Aug 2026 08 Aug 26 Inverness
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Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,760
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Save $83
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Tuesday 18 Aug 2026 18 Aug 26 Inverness
Saturday 22 Aug 2026 22 Aug 26 Inverness
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Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,790
US$2,706
Save $84
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 25 Aug 2026 25 Aug 26 Inverness
Saturday 29 Aug 2026 29 Aug 26 Inverness
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Was: $2,895
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Tuesday 01 Sep 2026 01 Sep 26 Inverness
Saturday 05 Sep 2026 05 Sep 26 Inverness
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Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,760
US$2,677
Save $83
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Tuesday 08 Sep 2026 08 Sep 26 Inverness
Saturday 12 Sep 2026 12 Sep 26 Inverness
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Was: $2,870
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Tuesday 29 Sep 2026 29 Sep 26 Inverness
Saturday 03 Oct 2026 03 Oct 26 Inverness
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Was: $2,650
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Tuesday 06 Oct 2026 06 Oct 26 Inverness
Saturday 10 Oct 2026 10 Oct 26 Inverness
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Was: $2,650
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Tuesday 20 Oct 2026 20 Oct 26 Inverness
Saturday 24 Oct 2026 24 Oct 26 Inverness
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Was: $2,650
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Tuesday 20 Apr 2027 20 Apr 27 Inverness
Saturday 24 Apr 2027 24 Apr 27 Inverness
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Was: $2,900
US$2,813
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Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 04 May 2027 04 May 27 Inverness
Saturday 08 May 2027 08 May 27 Inverness
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Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,900
US$2,813
Save $87
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 18 May 2027 18 May 27 Inverness
Saturday 22 May 2027 22 May 27 Inverness
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Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,760
US$2,677
Save $83
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 01 Jun 2027 01 Jun 27 Inverness
Saturday 05 Jun 2027 05 Jun 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,900
US$2,813
Save $87
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 22 Jun 2027 22 Jun 27 Inverness
Saturday 26 Jun 2027 26 Jun 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,760
US$2,677
Save $83
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 06 Jul 2027 06 Jul 27 Inverness
Saturday 10 Jul 2027 10 Jul 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,900
US$2,813
Save $87
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 13 Jul 2027 13 Jul 27 Inverness
Saturday 17 Jul 2027 17 Jul 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,900
US$2,813
Save $87
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 27 Jul 2027 27 Jul 27 Inverness
Saturday 31 Jul 2027 31 Jul 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,900
US$2,813
Save $87
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 03 Aug 2027 03 Aug 27 Inverness
Saturday 07 Aug 2027 07 Aug 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,900
US$2,813
Save $87
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 17 Aug 2027 17 Aug 27 Inverness
Saturday 21 Aug 2027 21 Aug 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,900
US$2,813
Save $87
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 24 Aug 2027 24 Aug 27 Inverness
Saturday 28 Aug 2027 28 Aug 27 Inverness
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Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,015
US$2,925
Save $90
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 07 Sep 2027 07 Sep 27 Inverness
Saturday 11 Sep 2027 11 Sep 27 Inverness
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Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,015
US$2,925
Save $90
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 14 Sep 2027 14 Sep 27 Inverness
Saturday 18 Sep 2027 18 Sep 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,760
US$2,677
Save $83
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 21 Sep 2027 21 Sep 27 Inverness
Saturday 25 Sep 2027 25 Sep 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,760
US$2,677
Save $83
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 28 Sep 2027 28 Sep 27 Inverness
Saturday 02 Oct 2027 02 Oct 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,900
US$2,813
Save $87
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 05 Oct 2027 05 Oct 27 Inverness
Saturday 09 Oct 2027 09 Oct 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,900
US$2,813
Save $87
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 19 Oct 2027 19 Oct 27 Inverness
Saturday 23 Oct 2027 23 Oct 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $2,900
US$2,813
Save $87
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 12 May 2026 12 May 26 Inverness
Saturday 16 May 2026 16 May 26 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,290
US$3,204
Save $86
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 02 Jun 2026 02 Jun 26 Inverness
Saturday 06 Jun 2026 06 Jun 26 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,220
US$3,136
Save $84
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 30 Jun 2026 30 Jun 26 Inverness
Saturday 04 Jul 2026 04 Jul 26 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,220
US$3,136
Save $84
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 07 Jul 2026 07 Jul 26 Inverness
Saturday 11 Jul 2026 11 Jul 26 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,220
US$3,136
Save $84
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 21 Jul 2026 21 Jul 26 Inverness
Saturday 25 Jul 2026 25 Jul 26 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,220
US$3,136
Save $84
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 28 Jul 2026 28 Jul 26 Inverness
Saturday 01 Aug 2026 01 Aug 26 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,220
US$3,136
Save $84
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 04 Aug 2026 04 Aug 26 Inverness
Saturday 08 Aug 2026 08 Aug 26 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,190
US$3,107
Save $83
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 18 Aug 2026 18 Aug 26 Inverness
Saturday 22 Aug 2026 22 Aug 26 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,220
US$3,136
Save $84
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 25 Aug 2026 25 Aug 26 Inverness
Saturday 29 Aug 2026 29 Aug 26 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,325
US$3,238
Save $87
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 01 Sep 2026 01 Sep 26 Inverness
Saturday 05 Sep 2026 05 Sep 26 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,190
US$3,107
Save $83
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 08 Sep 2026 08 Sep 26 Inverness
Saturday 12 Sep 2026 12 Sep 26 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,300
US$3,214
Save $86
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 29 Sep 2026 29 Sep 26 Inverness
Saturday 03 Oct 2026 03 Oct 26 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,080
US$3,000
Save $80
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 06 Oct 2026 06 Oct 26 Inverness
Saturday 10 Oct 2026 10 Oct 26 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,080
US$3,000
Save $80
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 20 Oct 2026 20 Oct 26 Inverness
Saturday 24 Oct 2026 24 Oct 26 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,080
US$3,000
Save $80
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 20 Apr 2027 20 Apr 27 Inverness
Saturday 24 Apr 2027 24 Apr 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,330
US$3,243
Save $87
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 04 May 2027 04 May 27 Inverness
Saturday 08 May 2027 08 May 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,330
US$3,243
Save $87
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 18 May 2027 18 May 27 Inverness
Saturday 22 May 2027 22 May 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,190
US$3,107
Save $83
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 01 Jun 2027 01 Jun 27 Inverness
Saturday 05 Jun 2027 05 Jun 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,330
US$3,243
Save $87
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 22 Jun 2027 22 Jun 27 Inverness
Saturday 26 Jun 2027 26 Jun 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,190
US$3,107
Save $83
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 06 Jul 2027 06 Jul 27 Inverness
Saturday 10 Jul 2027 10 Jul 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,330
US$3,243
Save $87
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 13 Jul 2027 13 Jul 27 Inverness
Saturday 17 Jul 2027 17 Jul 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,330
US$3,243
Save $87
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 27 Jul 2027 27 Jul 27 Inverness
Saturday 31 Jul 2027 31 Jul 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,330
US$3,243
Save $87
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 03 Aug 2027 03 Aug 27 Inverness
Saturday 07 Aug 2027 07 Aug 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,330
US$3,243
Save $87
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 17 Aug 2027 17 Aug 27 Inverness
Saturday 21 Aug 2027 21 Aug 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,330
US$3,243
Save $87
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 24 Aug 2027 24 Aug 27 Inverness
Saturday 28 Aug 2027 28 Aug 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,445
US$3,355
Save $90
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 07 Sep 2027 07 Sep 27 Inverness
Saturday 11 Sep 2027 11 Sep 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,445
US$3,355
Save $90
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 14 Sep 2027 14 Sep 27 Inverness
Saturday 18 Sep 2027 18 Sep 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,190
US$3,107
Save $83
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 21 Sep 2027 21 Sep 27 Inverness
Saturday 25 Sep 2027 25 Sep 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,190
US$3,107
Save $83
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 28 Sep 2027 28 Sep 27 Inverness
Saturday 02 Oct 2027 02 Oct 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,330
US$3,243
Save $87
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 05 Oct 2027 05 Oct 27 Inverness
Saturday 09 Oct 2027 09 Oct 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,330
US$3,243
Save $87
Solo (Own Room)
Tuesday 19 Oct 2027 19 Oct 27 Inverness
Saturday 23 Oct 2027 23 Oct 27 Inverness
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $3,330
US$3,243
Save $87
Solo (Own Room)
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Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
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. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Intrepid. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and 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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