Northern Isles: Iceland, Scotland & Ireland - Cruise & Land Journey

Welcome to Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital city, where a world?of wonder awaits as you step on board and raise your glass to toast the start of your luxurious cruise. Please book your flight to arrive into Reykjavik prior to 02:00 PM. (D)

The perfect example of nature’s ability to both create and destroy, Heimaey and the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) are filled with awe-inspiring natural beauty. When the volcano Eldfell, meaning “Hill of Fire”, erupted in 1973, parts of this small town were locked in time, and the harbour was nearly sealed off. Guests can wander around this island and witness where the ashes enveloped the town. Keep your eyes open for our black and white friends, with more Atlantic Puffins nesting here than anywhere else in the world, and the best place in Iceland to spot orcas.

Today, choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities or join a more active Scenic Discovery. Freechoice: Tour the island and visit the Eldheimar Museum built around one of the destroyed houses, or cruise around the island with a local captain in search of birdlife, including the puffin colonies. Discovery: Take a Scenic Discovery excursion hiking over the lava fields to the top of the new volcanic cone. (B/L/D)

Seyðisfjörður is at the mouth of a beautiful fjord, and is the heart of culture, heritage and hospitality in East Iceland. The centre of town is known for 19th century timber houses perched on the side of the lagoon, a “pearl enclosed in a shell”. Surrounded by cascading waterfalls and snow-capped mountains, wandering reindeer and porpoises frequenting the shores, a flourishing art scene and small-town charm, you will soon discover why this unique location is a must see in Iceland.

Today, choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities or join a more active Scenic Discovery. Freechoice: Your local guide will share stories of the town on a walking tour including a short concert in the Blue Church or visit the Wilderness Centre and learn of the Icelandic wilderness history, nature and the life of the original inhabitants. Discovery: Choose a Scenic Discovery excursion such as hiking in the Skálanes Nature Reserve. (B/L/D)

A charming port named after the Norse god of weather, strength, and growth, Thor. One of the world’s smallest capital cities, Tórshavn remains one of Europe’s least travelled destinations. Towering cliffs, craggy fjords and powerful waterfalls make up the wild landscape. Wander the cobbled alleyways admiring the coloured buildings and grassy roofs. Be taken back to the time that the Vikings ruled. Today, choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities or join a more active Scenic Discovery. Freechoice: Explore the town of Tórshavn and the surrounding villages leaning the Viking history, or enjoy another perspective of the Faroe Islands on a local boat trip to the Vestmanna Cliffs, keeping watch for puffins and guillemots. Discovery: Join a local expert for a hike to the geological formation Streymoy Sill. (B/L/D)

Our morning arrival is to the Island known as the "Garden of Shetland" due to it being by far the greenest of all the islands. Fetlar Island is rumoured to be the first Norse landing the Shetland, attracting many due to its fertile soils and ability to grow crops. Discovery: Discovery: Explore with the Discovery Teams ornithologist for the red-necked phalarope, a rare and endangered species, along with great and arctic skuas, red-throated diver, curlew and snipe. With the on board geologist learn the history of Funzie, an unusual conglomerate found on Fetlar Island. After a morning of discovery, we set sail for the capital of the Shetland Islands, Lerwick. (B/L/D)

The most northerly point of the British Isles, Lerwick’s waterfront is lined with sandstone buildings dating back to the 18th century. The sound of traditional Shetland music can often be heard as you walk through the twisting lanes of this charming harbour town. Freechoice: Visit the remarkable prehistoric archaeological site of Jarlshof, or take a ferry to the Island of Mousa and admire the Iron Age fortress, incredible scenery and abundant wildlife. Alternatively, explore the Shetland Museum. (B/L/D)

Stromness is full of character, with winding streets stretching from the shoreline up the hillside, quaint alleyways waiting to be explored, and a landscape shaped by the sea. Stroll through the township to find the hidden gems, such as the finest crafts, textiles and jewellery in the small local shops. This long established seaport has attracted sailors for centuries, from Vikings to Captain Cook. Discovery: Predating Stonehenge and the pyramids of Giza, Skara Brae is one of the world’s most evocative prehistoric sites. Walk around the stone structures of this old village. (B/L/D)

Set neatly between the mountains and the sea, Aberdeen's harbour is said to be ‘one of the most architecturally distinctive in Europe.’ Docking in the heart of the city, witness Aberdeen's famous stunning, sparkling, granite buildings and monuments shimmering in the sunlight and listen for the warming tones of Scottish dialect 'Doric' as you roam. Today, choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities or join a more active Scenic Discovery. Freechoice: Learn the history of Aberdeen on a city tour or choose to explore some of the fairy tale castles. Alternatively, enjoy a whiskey and pale ale tasting tour. Discovery: Explore the dramatic cliffs at the Bullers of Buchan, observing the diversity of wildlife, from Aberdeenshire’s puffins, porpoises, minke whales and sunbathing seals. (B/L/D)

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 vedant green parks. Disembark after breakfast and say farewell to your new friends. Check into your hotel for a two night stay. (B)

The city of Edinburgh is one of the most architecturally beautiful cities in the world, with monuments, cathedrals and buildings all perfectly preserved. During a city tour, board the Royal Yacht Britannia then explore Edinburgh Castle, the iconic symbol of this beautiful 1,000 year old city. (B/D)

Continue to Inverness for a two night stay. (B/D)

Today discover Cawdor Castle. The castle dates back to the 14th century and is still inhabited by the Cawdor family. Then visit the Battle of Culloden Visitors Centre where you will learn about the 1745 Jacobite rising and hear tales of the battle that is often described as one of the most brutal in Scottish history. Our last stop for today is the Glenfiddich distillery to sample one of the most celebrated whiskies in Scotland. (B)

Enrich: Enjoy morning tea and a display of the ancient art of falconry, known as the ‘sport of kings’ which dates back almost 4,000 years. Travel to Loch Lomond, one of Scotland’s best known lakes. This evening, check into your historic accommodation for a two night Special Stay. (B/D)

Today visit Stirling Castle, one of the regions most iconic castles. Today you will discover its vast history including as the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots. (B)

This morning, journey to Belfast, Ireland via ferry for your two night stay. (B/D)

Belfast is a port city with a fascinating history. Learn about its troubled past during your guided tour. Freechoice: Discover the story of the Titanic, from its design and build to its fateful ending. Alternatively, take a ride in one of Belfast’s historic black cabs and learn about the city’s past and present. (B)

En route to Galway visit the Monastery of Clonmacnoise. Arrive in the vibrant city of Galway for your overnight stay. (B)

Drive along the spectacular coastline to the stunning Cliffs of Moher. On your way to Killarney explore Bunratty Folk Park Museum. Enjoy a two night stay. (B/D)

Experience the beautiful scenery of the Ring of Kerry. See where the Iveragh Mountains dramatically drop into the Atlantic Ocean, and watch as tiny fishing villages and off-shore islands come in and out of view around each twisting bend. It is often said that the landscapes vary a hundred times in 100 kilometres. (B)

Discover Blarney Castle where legend has it, if you kiss the famous stone you will receive the ‘gift of the gab’. Continue to the heart of Dublin with a two night stay. (B)

This morning your local guide will help you discover the history and charm of Ireland’s capital city. Set along the banks of the River Liffey, Dublin is awash with Georgian architecture, grand squares and historic monuments. Freechoice: Explore the interactive Guinness Storehouse where you will learn how to ‘pull the perfect pint’, or gain an understanding of what it means to be Irish at the EPIC Museum of Irish Emigration. Enjoy dinner tonight at a traditional Irish pub (B/D)

Bid a fond farewell to Dublin taking many wonderful memories with you. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the tour will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions. (B)