Arctic Ice & Scottish Gems

Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Begin your day exploring the striking Hallgrímskirkja church, with its panoramic city views from the tower. Wander through the colorful streets of the Old Harbor, where you can find quirky shops, cozy cafes, and stunning views of Mount Esja.

Don't miss the Harpa Concert Hall, an architectural marvel on the waterfront, or a visit to the National Museum for a deep dive into Icelandic history. Recharge at one of Reykjavik's many geothermal pools, like the Blue Lagoon, just a short drive from the city. Wrap up your visit with a stroll along the scenic Sun Voyager sculpture, capturing the spirit of adventure and discovery.

Grundarfjordur is a picturesque town situated on the fjord of Beidafjordur on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. This charming fishing village is located right next to Kirkjufell mountain, the most photographed mountain in Iceland. Ships will dock at the Port of Grundarfjordur.

Top Things to Do in Grundarfjordur:

• take a scenic drive along the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
• enjoy a cruise in Breidafjordur Bay
• visit the Bjarnarhofn Shark Farm
• explore the town of Stykkisholmur
• visit Helgafell, the holy mountain

Although remotely located in northwest Iceland and surrounded by ruggedly beautiful fjords, Isafjordur is surprisingly cosmopolitan. Surrounded on three sides by remarkable mountains jutting upwards around a gorgeous bay, this is one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever visit. Smaller ships will dock at this port, while larger ships will anchor offshore.

Top Things to Do in Isafjordur:

• visit the Osvor and Maritime Museums
• look for Puffins on Vigur Island
• journey to the Dynjandi waterfall
• cruise through the Glacier Fjords
  

Iceland’s Capital of the North is the gateway to a thrilling land of roaring waterfalls, soaring volcanoes and glorious wildlife. Situated at the head of Eyjafjordur, Iceland's longest fjord and with a backdrop of dramatic snow-covered mountains, Akureyri is Iceland's second largest city. Ships will dock at the pier.

Top Things to Do in Akureyri:

• visit Lystigardurinn botanical garden
• admire Godafoss waterfall
• visit the Akureyri Folk Museum
• take a mud bath at Lake Myvatn
• go whale watching

Seydisfjodur, located in eastern Iceland, is a picturesque town renowned for its stunning fjord views and vibrant arts scene. The town's charming wooden houses and rainbow-painted street create a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Visitors can explore the Skaftfell Center for Visual Art, showcasing contemporary Icelandic art, or hike to the nearby Skálanes Nature Reserve, home to diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. The nearby Gufufoss waterfall is another natural wonder worth visiting. Seydisfjodur's unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and artistic flair makes it a captivating destination for travellers seeking a serene yet stimulating experience.

Surrounded to the north and southwest by towering mountains with dramatic landscapes, Tórshavn is a picturesque port steeped in Viking history. Enjoy the colourfully painted wooden houses of the old town, some with turfed roofs, alongside modern counterparts such as the Norse House, built with gleaming glass.

Top Things to Do in Tórshavn:

• enjoy a boat tour of the Tórshavn fjords
• join a tour to see the Vestmanna Sea Cliffs
• hike up Streymoy mountain
• visit the nearby town of Saksun
• explore the island of Vagar

Lerwick, the capital of the Shetland Island Archipelago, offers stone age ruins, heather-covered moors and rugged Scottish highlands. With its dramatic cliffs, Grand Victorian houses, charming Shetland ponies, and Nordic heritage Lerwick allows for hours of entertainment. Smaller ships will dock at the Port of Lerwick, while larger ships will anchor offshore.

Top Things to Do in Lerwick:

• explore the ruins of Scalloway Castle
• hike on Mousa Island
• visit the Shetland Museum
• admire Fort Charlotte

Where the rivers Dee and Don meet the North Sea, you’ll find the harbour city of Aberdeen. The city is famous for its stunning, sparkling, granite buildings and monuments which shimmer in the sunlight and the warming tones of 'Doric', the local Scots dialect you'll hear in the streets.

Top Things to Do in Aberdeen:

• walk through the Winter Gardens
• visit the Aberdeen Art Gallery
• explore Craigievar Castle or Drum Castle
• play a round at the Royal Aberdeen Golf Club

Located on the northern shore of the Firth of Tay, Dundee is Scotland's sunniest city. It has evolved from an industrial city into a thriving cultural and arts centre and it is the UK’s first designated UNESCO City of Design. Small ships will dock in the Port of Dundee, while large ships will anchor in the river.

Top Things to Do in Dundee:

• climb aboard the RRS Discovery
  
• visit St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf
• enjoy a scenic drive to Balmoral Castle
  
• visit the Dundee Contemporary Arts centre
• tour Glamis Castle

Nestled between the Highlands and the Border Hills, Edinburgh is a gracious city noted for its superb skyline, its impressive collection of architecture and its beautiful parks. Here you'll find the best of central eastern Scotland: spectacular views, rolling hills and castles. Ships will dock at the Port of Leith Cruise Liner Terminal.

Top Things to Do in Edinburgh:

• explore the Edinburgh Castle
• visit the Holyroodhouse
• wander down the Royal Mile
• play a round at the worlds oldest golf course

London, a vibrant metropolis brimming with history and culture, is a must-visit destination for cruise travellers. Explore the historic Tower of London, witness the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, and stroll across the majestic Tower Bridge. Art enthusiasts will relish the treasures housed in the British Museum and Tate Modern.

Explore London's culinary diversity at Borough Market, where a variety of international flavors await. Be sure to visit the lively Covent Garden, renowned for its street performers and charming boutiques. From the tranquil Royal Parks to the vibrant West End theatres, London provides a captivating blend of British heritage and modern vitality.

To reach London from Southampton, you can take a train from Southampton Central (the station is within a short taxi ride from the cruise terminals) to London Waterloo, with the journey taking around 1.5 hours - that's approximately 128 km's (80 miles). Alternatively if you're travelling by coach or have arranged a private transfer, please allow around 2 hours for the journey.