Scottish Highlights and Norwegian Fjords – Expedition

Over View

From Tromso we set sail along the norwegian coastline, making our way South to Britain’s northern most archipelagos of Orkney and Shetland, before docking into the Port of Leith. Go deeper into the otherworldly fjords of Norway on this unique journey through the Norwegian Sea. Discover UNESCO-protected wonders like the Standing Stones of Stennes, the mystical Ring of Brodgar and archaeological sites, witness the curious clash of cultures in the Shetland Islands and marvel at the stunning forests and waterfalls that line the fjords.

Discover the ancient Orkneys – enjoy the birdlife on the Shetland Islands
Sail into Norway’s dramatic fjords – beneath glaciers and mountains
Explore medieval villages – enjoy mystical historical sites

Itinerary

Day 1 Tromso

Arrive in Tromso, the capital of northern Norway, known as the Gateway to the Arctic as it was the embarkation point for many Arctic expeditions. Please make your own way to the start hotel, ensuring that you arrive at the Clarion Hotel the Edge before 1 pm, as luggage will be transferred at that time. After you have dropped off your luggage, you will have time to explore the city before meeting back at the hotel at 4 pm for the group transfer to the ship. Perhaps you might choose to explore the Arctic Cathedral, which is probably the most famous landmark of the city. You can also enjoy wandering amongst the traditional wooden houses found here, some of which date back to the 1780’s.

Day 2 Nordkapp

Explore one of the most northern points in Europe. A popular spot to watch the midnight sun during the summer months, as the sun never sets between the middle of May to late August, this cape is the location where the Atlantic and Arctic oceans meet. Explore the barren landscape, quaint fishing villages and stop by the Northern Cape Plateau, standing 307 m above the sea.

Day 3 At Sea

Enjoy a day at sea, taking in the stunning scenery of the Arctic. Keep a sharp eye while on deck to try and spot marine wildlife and enjoy the on-board lectures by the Expedition crew.

Day 4 Trollfjord to Lofoten Islands

The Lofoten archipelago is an enchanting area of picturesque villages, backed with jagged peaks and perched by the sea. Go ashore via coach on the island of , where cod fishing is still a major part of the economy. In the evening, stay on deck as you cruise into one of Norway’s most famous fjords, the short yet dramatic Trollfjord. Search the cliffs on your continuing quest to spot trolls, the mythical creatures of Norwegian legend.

Day 5 Svartisen, Vikingen and Lovund

Today we visit Svartisen, Lovund and Vikingen. Svartisen is Norway’s second largest glacier and is the lowest accessible glacier in mainland Europe, at only 20m above sea level. We will visit Vikingen, a point directly on the Arctic Circle, which is marked with a Globe-shaped monument.

Day 6 Vega to Torghatten

The rugged coastline of central Norway features some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. The captain will liaise with local Norwegian pilots to determine our best Zodiac landing options. At Torghatten, you can hike up the famous landmark, the mountain with a hole right through it. It is an easy walk and offers rewarding, panoramic views from the top. In the afternoon, we head to the quaint and picturesque Vega Island, another listed UNESCO site. You will have time to wander through the fishing villages and appreciate the slow pace of life found here.

Day 7 Trondheim

Today, we will continue on to Trondheim. You will have the choice of either taking an afternoon hike to the Sverresborg Folk Museum, or you can enjoy a city tour which will include the Folk Museum and the elaborate Nidaros Cathedral, built between 1070 and 1300.

Day 8 Eresfjord to Andalsnes

Spend the morning exploring the town of Eresfjord or join an optional hike for amazing views. In the afternoon, board the Rauma Railway taking you into the dramatic scenes of the Romsdalen mountains.

Day 9 Geirangerfjord

We sail deep into one of Norway’s most beautiful and frequently visited fjords. The Geraingerfjord was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2005. It is a 15km branch of the Sunnylvsford and it’s tiny village of Gerainger, sits at the very tip. We will have plenty of time to explore the beautiful surroundings and waterfalls found within this magnificent fjord.

Day 10 Alesund

Spend the morning exploring the beautiful Art Nouveau district of Alesund, or take the 418 steps up to Fjellstua for the views of the city, islands and bay. Opt to visit the Alesund Museum and learn about the culture and history of the town, including the fire which destroyed the city in 1904. If you are feeling more active, try one of the local hikes for unbeatable views.

Day 11 Shetland Islands

We continue southwards to the remote Shetland Islands. The islands were under Norse rule until 1469, when they were given to Scotland as part of a Danish princess’s dowry. The Shetlands are an engaging mix of Scotland and Scandinavia, with spectacular coastlines, varied and abundant bird life and a number of archaeological sites that date back thousands of years.

Day 12 Orkney Islands

There are few places in the world that offer as much variety as the Orkneys. Only 10km off the coast of Scotland the islands are famous for their abundant marine bird life and dramatic coastal scenery. Our excursions for today will focus not only on this, but also on the many mystical and historical sites of the area. These excursions will include coach visits to the Ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stennes and the 4500 year old village of Skara Brae.

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Day 13 Edinburgh

Cruise overnight to Edinburgh’s Port of Leith then disembark the Expedition in the morning after breakfast on board. After disembarkation, you will be transferred to either the airport or the end hotel, depending on the time of your flight. Please ensure that flights are booked after 11.30 am on this day. Those transferred to the hotel will have an opportunity to explore the town centre on their own, and then be transferred to the airport later in the day, as per onward flight schedules. Transfer times will be confirmed, and communicated onboard prior to departure. Luggage storage at the end hotel will be available until the time of departure.

It is recommended to extend your stay in Edinburgh to explore the city further. Perhaps you might choose to explore the castle and the many tourist shops located nearby. Edinburgh is a small city and easy to explore on foot and is home to an extraordinary range of medieval and classical Georgian architecture.