Iceland & Inner Hebrides

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.

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.

Vestmannaeyjar or Westman Islands are an archipelago of 15 islands and 30 rock stacks off the south coast of Iceland.

The largest of the islands, Heimaey, is the only inhabited island of the group and is known for its steep Edfell volcano, grey sand beaches and its green prairies.

Located in the chilly and wild North Atlantic, it is common to see whales and seals in the surrounding waters. Puffins are also a common sight in summer, as the islands are considered as the largest Atlantic puffin colony in the world. Ships will dock in the main harbour.

Heimaey, the largest island in Iceland's Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and rich history. The island is famous for the 1973 volcanic eruption of Eldfell, which reshaped its terrain and nearly buried the town. Visitors can explore the Eldheimar Museum to learn about this event and its impact on the local community.

Heimaey offers breathtaking natural beauty, with rugged cliffs that are home to thousands of puffins and other seabirds. The island's scenic hiking trails provide stunning views of the surrounding North Atlantic. The picturesque harbour, surrounded by volcanic peaks, is perfect for boat tours, offering close encounters with marine life like whales and seals.

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.

Your exploration of the Isle of Skye should start off with a visit to the Old Man of Storr, an iconic rock formation offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Fairy Pools are a series of crystal-clear blue and green pools and waterfalls, the perfect location  for a leisurely hike. For a taste of local culture, visit the Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, where you can learn about the Clan MacLeod.

Portree, the picturesque capital of the Isle of Skye, enchants visitors with its colorful harbour and stunning natural beauty. The town's name is derived from the Gaelic "Port Righ" (King's Harbour), and hints at its royal connections, including a visit by King James V in 1540. Lined with brightly painted buildings the quaint harbour provides a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls.

Portree offers several notable attractions including the Aros Centre which  showcases the island's culture and history through exhibitions and performances. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Old Man of Storr offers breathtaking views and a rewarding hike. Don't miss a visit to the local shops and eateries, where you can sample traditional Scottish fare and purchase unique island crafts.

The Isle of Mull, situated off Scotland's west coast, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and charming villages. Nature lovers will be captivated by the island's diverse wildlife, including eagles, otters, and whales. Explore the island’s rich history by viewing Duart Castle, the ancestral home of Clan Maclean, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Sound of Mull.

Located at the northernmost tip of the lovely Isle of Mull, Tobermory has to be one of the most beautiful natural seaports on Scotland’s West Coast. Founded in 1788, this ancient fishing village has been converted to a leisure port highly appreciated today for its surroundings and the quiet charm it exudes.

Visitors will be won over by the row of many-storied houses on the hillside, illuminating the harbour with their vibrant colours. The town offers a museum dedicated to the local history, an art gallery, a 9-hole golf course and a whiskey distillery.

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.

Northern Ireland's capital, Belfast, enjoys a wonderful setting of high hills, sea lough and river valley. Reborn as a cool, modern city, it has successfully left its troubles behind, emerging as a hotbed of culture and architecture, where the comfort of a cosy pub is never far away. Ships will dock in Belfast Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Belfast:

• visit the Titanic Belfast Museum
• see the basalt columns of Giant's Causeway
• explore the Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
• take a famous Black Taxi Tour
• travel along Ards Peninsula to Grey Abbey

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