Dublin to Reykjavik

Start your exploration of Dublin with a visit to Trinity College, home to the ancient Book of Kells. A stroll through the cobbled streets of Temple Bar reveals an array of lively pubs, quirky shops, and the fascinating Irish Film Institute.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the solemn beauty of Dublin Castle and the poignant exhibits at Kilmainham Gaol. For a taste of local flavor, visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's famous stout. End your day with a leisurely walk along the River Liffey, enjoying views of the Ha'penny Bridge and the city's charming Georgian architecture.

The Isle of Canna, the westernmost of the Small Isles in Scotland, is a serene and compact haven known for its rich history and natural beauty. Owned by the National Trust for Scotland, this peaceful island offers an array of archaeological sites, from ancient Celtic crosses to the remnants of Viking settlements.

Birdwatchers are particularly drawn to Canna for its significant populations of seabirds.

With just a few hours to explore, visitors can easily traverse the island’s gentle hills and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding seas. The tranquil beaches and clear waters also invite leisurely strolls and picnics, making Canna a delightful retreat from the hustle of modern life.

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.

Dunvegan is a village steeped in history and natural beauty. It's renowned for the Dunvegan Castle, the ancestral home of the Clan MacLeod, which has stood for over 800 years. This historic castle is surrounded by lush gardens, offering a glimpse into Scotland's past and the endurance of its heritage.

The nearby Coral Beaches, with their striking white sands made from crushed coral-like seaweed, offer a unique coastal experience distinct from the typical rugged Isle of Skye landscape.

From the enchanting Fairy Pools to the majestic Cuillin mountains, Dunvegan provides a rich tapestry of natural splendour and Scottish history, making it a captivating destination for those exploring the Isle of Skye.

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

Gloriously remote, the archipelago of St. Kilda towers out of the storm tossed waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The islands are the UK's only dual UNESCO World Heritage Site. They have some of the highest cliffs in Europe, which have large colonies of rare and endangered species of birds, especially puffins and gannets.

Uninhabited since 1930, the islands bear the evidence of more than 2,000 years of human occupation in the extreme conditions prevalent to the area. Human vestiges include built structures and field systems, the cleits and the traditional Highland stone houses.

Boreray Island, part of Scotland's remote St Kilda archipelago, stands as a sentinel in the Atlantic, its sheer cliffs rising dramatically from the sea.

This uninhabited island, known for its rugged landscapes and significant bird populations, is a sanctuary for myriad seabird species, including the northern gannet and puffins, which nest on its steep cliffs.

Boreray's archaeological importance is highlighted by ancient stone structures and cleitean, small stone storage huts used by St Kilda's former inhabitants.

Journey back in time and encounter the overwhelming power of the natural elements as you cruise by one of the most isolated parts of the British Isles.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Located on the Búlandsnes peninsula, Djupivogur is a small Icelandic fishing village with a slow and easy-going approach to life. Nestled by the picturesque fjord of Hamarsfjörður, the scenery moves from gently sweeping beaches to jagged cliffs. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Top Things to Do in Djupivogur:

• cruise the Jökulsárlón Lagoon
• enjoy a scenic drive to Höfn
• view the Vatnajökull Ice Cap
• take a 4x4 tour to Hvannagil canyon

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.

Surtsey, the southernmost point of Iceland, is an island formed by volcanic eruptions which began 130 metres below sea level and took place from 1963 to 1967. Once formed the new island was 492 feet above sea level and covered an area of almost 2 square miles.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and free from human interference, Surtsey has been producing unique long-term information on the colonisation process of new land by plant and animal life.

Due to the restrictions in place, your ship will cruise by this fascinating island.

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.