Wild Scottish Isles, Faroe Islands & Icelandic Isles

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

The Calf of Man, a small island off the southwest coast of the Isle of Man, is a nature lover's paradise. This uninhabited islet is a bird sanctuary home to puffins, Manx shearwaters, and other seabirds, making it a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. The rugged landscape, with its dramatic cliffs and secluded coves, invites exploration and photography. Visitors can also witness the iconic Calf Sound, a narrow waterway with strong tidal currents and playful seals. The island's rich maritime history is visible in its lighthouses and remnants of ancient buildings.

The Isle of Man, nestled in the Irish Sea, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and folklore. This island captivates with its rugged coastline, medieval castles, and quaint villages. Although famed for the TT motorcycle race, there’s much more to explore here, from the ancient Celtic and Viking heritage at sites like Peel Castle to the tranquil beauty of the Manx countryside.

The island's extensive network of heritage railways provides a unique perspective on its scenic landscapes, while the Manx Museum in Douglas offers insights into the island's 10,000-year history. With its commitment to preserving its natural and historical sites, the Isle of Man offers a blend of adventure and tranquility that will charm and delight.

Cruise ships dock at the Victoria Pier in Douglas, the capital of the Isle of Man. The terminal is located right in the heart of the town, making it convenient to explore on foot. The picturesque promenade and various shops, restaurants, and cafes are just a short walk away. For a unique experience, take the Manx Electric Railway from Douglas to the historic village of Laxey, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) away, which takes approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, visit the Manx Museum, a 10-minute walk from the port, to learn about the island's rich heritage.

Rothesay, the principal town on the Isle of Bute in Scotland, is known for its historic charm and scenic beauty. The town's centrepiece is Rothesay Castle, a 13th-century fortress surrounded by a moat, offering fascinating insights into the island's medieval past. The castle’s well-preserved ruins and picturesque setting make it a must-visit.

Stroll along the Victorian seafront promenade to enjoy the stunning views of Rothesay Bay, with its beautifully maintained gardens and period architecture. The nearby Mount Stuart House, a magnificent Gothic Revival mansion, boasts beautiful gardens, an impressive art collection, and intriguing guided tours. The Bute Museum offers further insights into local history and culture.

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.

St Kilda, Scotland, is an archipelago renowned for its dramatic landscapes and as a testament to human resilience in one of the UK's most isolated locations. The islands, now uninhabited and protected as a World Heritage Site, once supported a small but hardy community, which managed to thrive despite the harsh living conditions. The remnants of this community, including stone houses and unique storage structures called cleitean, are open for exploration.

Cruise ships anchor offshore, with visitors transported by tender to explore this hauntingly beautiful landscape. The rugged cliffs and seabird colonies make Am Baile not only a site of historical interest but also a place of spectacular natural beauty, offering a truly unique and reflective experience for visitors.

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

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

Klaksvik is located on Borðoy, one of the Faroe Islands, and this scenic fishing capital is set amongst a dramatic valley, overlooking the magnificent pyramid mountain of Kunoy Island. In every direction, behold massive mountains carpeted in vividly hued grass speckled with wildflowers.

Top Things to Do in Klaksvik:

• visit the Christianskirkjan Church
• enjoy the views from Klaksvík viewpoint
• drive through the subsea tunnel to Eysturoy Island
• visit Kunoy Village and viewpoint

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.

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.

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.