From Scotland to Spitsbergen

Glasgow was Scotland's great industrial centre during the 19th century and today, the city remains the commercial and cultural capital of the Lowlands. Lying on the banks of the River Clyde, Glasgow boasts some of the finest Victorian architecture in the entire United Kingdom. Ships will dock in Greenock which is a 45 minute drive from Glasgow.

Top Things to Do in Glasgow:

• admire the famed Glasgow Cathedral
• stroll through the Glasgow Botanic Garden
• cruise Loch Lomond
• visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Known as the 'cradle of Christianity', Iona has an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity, enhanced by green fields and sandy beaches fringed with intense blue-green seas that look more Mediterranean than Scottish. 

The island's main attraction is its medieval abbey, established by Saint Columba when he arrived from Ireland in 563. The abbey is a fine example of ecclesiastical architecture dating from the Middle Ages and it also serves as an important site of spiritual pilgrimage. Many kings of Scotland, including the legendary Macbeth, are buried in the nearby cemetery.

Callanish, located on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland's Outer Hebrides, is famed for its ancient stone circle, Callanish Stones. These prehistoric standing stones, dating back over 5,000 years, are steeped in mystery and provide a captivating glimpse into the island’s Neolithic past. The site offers breathtaking views, especially at sunrise and sunset, creating a magical atmosphere.

The nearby Callanish Visitor Centre provides insights into the history and significance of the stones. The Isle of Lewis also features stunning landscapes, including rugged coastlines and sandy beaches, and rich cultural heritage seen in its traditional Gaelic communities. Callanish is a must-visit for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.

This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Way beyond the Arctic Circle, Lofoten Islands are truly considered to be in 'another world'. A jewel of nature in its most pristine state, this archipelago with its jagged coastline offers you majestic settings of high alpine summits, sandy beaches, green prairies and fjords of a deep blue, where countless bird colonies make their nests.

Top Things to Do on the Lofoten Islands:

• visit the Svolvaer Magic Ice Bar and Gallery
• explore the preserved Nusfjord fishing village
• take a boat tour among the Lofoten Skerries
• visit the Gallery Lofoten House

Way beyond the Arctic Circle, Lofoten Islands are truly considered to be in 'another world'. A jewel of nature in its most pristine state, this archipelago with its jagged coastline offers you majestic settings of high alpine summits, sandy beaches, green prairies and fjords of a deep blue, where countless bird colonies make their nests.

Top Things to Do on the Lofoten Islands:

• visit the Svolvaer Magic Ice Bar and Gallery
• explore the preserved Nusfjord fishing village
• take a boat tour among the Lofoten Skerries
• visit the Gallery Lofoten House

Svolvær boasts a rich fishing heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Nestled between dramatic mountains and the pristine Vestfjord, this charming town offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and cultural experiences. Start your exploration at the Svolvær Goat, a striking twin-peaked mountain, where adventurous travelers can climb or simply enjoy the breathtaking views.

For a taste of local culture, visit the Magic Ice Bar, an extraordinary gallery made entirely of ice, showcasing art and offering chilled drinks. Don’t miss the Lofoten War Museum, which provides a unique glimpse into World War II history with its extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits. Svolvær's picturesque harbor, bustling with fishing boats and seagulls, is ideal for a leisurely stroll, capturing the essence of this Arctic gem.

In the north of the Arctic circle you’ll discover Tromsø, a secluded town located in the county of Troms. Norwegians call it the “Paris of the north”. You’ll soon see why when you discover its extensive neoclassical architectural heritage. A stunning example is the Arctic cathedral, a major monument whose stylistic purity echoes the outline of the mountains surrounding the town.

Halfway between Norway and Spitsbergen lies Bear Island or Bjørnøya, the southernmost island of Svalbard. Observe this isolated piece of land discovered in 1596 by Dutch navigator, Willem Barents. Following a tough fight between a polar bear and the members of the expedition, he dubbed the place Bear Island.

Regularly covered by a thick layer of fog, Bjørnøya shelters a meteorological station built in 1923. The island was declared a nature reserve in 2002 and is home to an enormous colony of sea birds - skuas, guillemots, puffins, gulls, petrels and little auks all coexist here.

Longyearbyen is the capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, located on Svalbard’s main island, and is the northernmost territorial capital on the planet. With winter temperatures dropping to below 40°C, the landscapes of this mining town are simply breathtaking. The glaciers, the mountains stretching as far as the eye can see and the untouched nature, make you feel like you’re in completely unexplored territory.