Edinburgh (Leith) to Reykjavik

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 parks. Here you'll find the best of central eastern Scotland: spectacular views, rolling hills and castles. Ships will dock at the Port of Leith Cruise Liner Terminal.

Top Things to Do in Edinburgh:

• explore the Edinburgh Castle
• visit the Holyroodhouse
• wander down the Royal Mile
• play a round at the worlds oldest golf course

Located off the east coast of Scotland, the Isle of May is a wildlife haven renowned for its bustling seabird colonies and rich marine life. A short ferry ride from Anstruther, this small island offers visitors a unique glimpse into the lives of puffins, razorbills, and seals. The island’s rugged landscape is dotted with historic sites, including the remains of a medieval monastery and the Isle of May Lighthouse, Scotland’s oldest operational lighthouse.

Lying midway between Shetland and the Orkney islands, Fair Isle is a tiny jewel in the sea, known for its birds, knitwear, and historic shipwrecks. With a population of around 70, the island offers a warm and friendly welcome to visitors. Turquoise waters surround the breathtaking Sheep Rock, which rises over 100 metres - almost an isle of its own.

Fair Isle's oceanic climate brings stormy yet mild winters, while summer sees rapid weather changes from sparkling sunshine to thick mist and fog. Named the island of peace by Norse settlers, it has been a landmark for shipping, but the storms and fog have contributed to over 100 shipwrecks, including the Spanish Armada flagship "El Gran Grifon."

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

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

Seydisfjodur, located in eastern Iceland, is a picturesque town renowned for its stunning fjord views and vibrant arts scene. The town's charming wooden houses and rainbow-painted street create a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Visitors can explore the Skaftfell Center for Visual Art, showcasing contemporary Icelandic art, or hike to the nearby Skálanes Nature Reserve, home to diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. The nearby Gufufoss waterfall is another natural wonder worth visiting. Seydisfjodur's unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and artistic flair makes it a captivating destination for travellers seeking a serene yet stimulating experience.

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

Djupavik, nestled in the remote Westfjords of Iceland, is a tiny village with a compelling blend of stark natural beauty and poignant history. Once a thriving herring fishing hub, it is now known for its striking abandoned herring factory, which stands as a silent testament to the boom and bust of the early 20th century fishing industry in Iceland. This haunting structure, against the backdrop of dramatic cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean, invites exploration and photography.

Visitors to Djupavik can also hike the rugged trails around the village, offering panoramic views of the fjord and the chance to spot diverse birdlife. The village exudes a quiet charm, with its few inhabitants providing a warm welcome to travelers seeking solitude and a touch of Icelandic history.

Discover northern Iceland's fantastic, outlying beauty as you cruise the majestic Veidileysufjörður. Nestled away in the scenic Westfjords, relatively few visitors reach this secluded area. Enjoy privileged access as we sail into the waters of the fjord, with its steep, bowl-like valley sides. Veidileysufjörður's serene isolation makes it an ideal locale for revelling in Iceland's grandiose natural glory, and you can admire views of snow-capped peaks contrasting sharply against the deep navy-blue hues of the North Atlantic.

The pristine fjord is also a place to look out for Iceland's incredible marine life; during summer, humpback whales and playful seals often frequent its inky waters. Soak in the silence and serenity, punctuated only by the calls of seabirds like Black-legged Kittiwakes and Common Guillemots, which swoop above the water's surface, their calls echoing across the still waters.

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.

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.