Northern Isles: Iceland, Faroe Islands & Scotland

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

Flatey, a small island located in the Breidafjördur Bay of Iceland, epitomises tranquility and traditional Icelandic culture. The island is home to beautifully preserved old houses and the historic Flatey Library, established in 1864. Known as the smallest library in Iceland, this quaint wooden structure once served as a cultural hub for the island's summer residents and visiting scholars. The library houses a collection of books in several languages, reflecting the island's historical status as a centre of learning.

During summer, Flatey becomes a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to a diverse array of seabirds including puffins and black guillemots. Access to Flatey is typically by Zodiac, with the island's car-free policy enhancing its peaceful atmosphere and allowing visitors to leisurely explore its flat terrain on foot.

Iceland is well known for its spectacular waterfalls. The iconic Dynjandi waterfall, located in the Westfjords region, is regarded as one of Iceland’s most impressive and majestic waterfalls.

At the top, the cascading water is roughly 100 feet wide and tumbles down about 330 feet into the fjord.

Its name Dynjandi means, 'the thundering one' and its vast size, enormous sound, and sheer force is overwhelming. It has also been nicknamed, ‘The Bridal Veil’ because of the way the water sprays and spreads over the rocks.

The tiny town of Siglufjordur is located in the scenic north of Iceland, tucked away by a jagged wall of mountain peaks. Only a single-lane road tunnel, bored through the snow-capped mountains, provides a land link with the rest of the country.

Siglufjordur is an area of spectacular natural beauty. The mountains and the fjords are awe-inspiring and there are numerous opportunities for outdoor activities and recreation. The closeness to nature is always within reach, whether you wish to go on a hike, play golf or take a boat out around the scenic fjord.

The green and grassy island of Grímsey stands alone in the Arctic ocean and is best known for its proximity to the Arctic Circle, which cuts across the island. Grímseyjarhreppur, on the west coast, is the island’s only town and has a backdrop of beautiful hillsides lushly carpeted with moss and grass.

The coastline is made up of imposing basalt cliffs that are inhabited by sea birds. The Atlantic Puffins are the most famous, but there are a wide range of other species, including Black-Legged Kittiwakes, Auks, Razorbills, Thick-Billed Murre and Northern Fulmar.

Tucked away on the northern coast of Iceland along the picturesque shores of Skjálfandi Bay is Husavik, a small fishing community that has garnered a well-deserved reputation as one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Top Things to Do in Husavik:

• visit the Whale Museum
• see the Húsavíkurkirkja church
• go on a whale watching boat tour
• visit Godafoss waterfall
• explore Jokulsargljúfur National Park

Papey, Celtic for ‘Friar’s’ Island, is situated 5 kilometres (3 miles) off of the eastern coast of Iceland. Although the largest island in Eastern Iceland, it is only 2 square kilometres (0.77 sq mi) in area. Its windswept, grassy slopes rise to 58 metres (190’) culminating in a rock formation called the Castle. Rocky sea cliffs surround much of the island, providing excellent habitat for nesting sea birds. Guillemots occupy Papey until mid-summer while Atlantic puffins abound until mid-September. Seals and eider ducks can be found here during breeding season.

Although there is evidence of early Norse settlement, the island takes its name from Irish monks known as ‘papar’ who presumably occupied the island. The medieval Icelandic ‘Book of Settlements’ mentions this as a place inhabited by these ‘Vestmen’ (men of the west).

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

Kirkwall is the capital of the Orkney Islands, it is considered one of the most charming and well preserved small towns in Scotland. The islands offer dramatic landscapes with cliffs rearing 1,000 feet above the waves to sweeping white sand beaches. Small ships will dock at this port, while larger ships will anchor offshore.

Top Things to Do in Kirkwall:

• explore Skara Brae, a Neolithic village
• admire the St. Magnus Cathedral
• visit the Ring of Brodgar
• ponder the Standing Stones of Stenness
• stroll the Viking Capital Walking Trail

Copinsay Island is one of the Scottish Orkney Islands, situated off the east coast of the Orkney Mainland. After the last residents left Copinsay Island in 1958, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds purchased the island in 1972, as a reserve in memory of the renowned naturalist James Fisher. The island reserve consists of the main island of Copinsay and the four smaller islets of Corn Holm, Ward Holm, Black Holm and the Horse of Copinsay. The historic Copinsay Lighthouse sits atop 250’ (76 m) high cliffs that extend for a mile along the coast.

Make yourself at home with delightful daily diversions that add to our fleet’s private yacht-like atmosphere. Embrace this moment and indulge – spending the day pampering yourself in the spa or soaking in a Pure Pampering ℠ bath drawn by your attentive suite host. Meditate upon the vast views that surround you from a yoga mat, the ship’s bow, or your private veranda.

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.

Greenwich is renowned for its maritime history and it's prime attraction is the Royal Observatory, the home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Prime Meridian Line. Visitors can explore the National Maritime Museum, showcasing Britain's seafaring past, and the historic ship, the Cutty Sark, a preserved 19th-century tea clipper.

Transport options from Greenwich to central London are diverse with the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) offering efficient service to the city, with connections to the London Underground. Riverboat services provide a scenic route along the Thames, connecting Greenwich with various London landmarks. Additionally, regular bus services and taxis are available.