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Scotland’s Wild Isles: Shetlands, Orkneys and Inner Hebrides Cruise

Scotland’s Wild Isles: Shetlands, Orkneys and Inner Hebrides Cruise

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Description

Set out on an unforgettable expedition along Scotland’s rugged coasts aboard National Geographic Endurance. From the Isle of Skye and its picturesque villages to the dramatic landscapes of the remote Shetland and Orkney Islands, delve into vivid histories and stunning scenery aboard this intimate, 8-day voyage. Discover archaeological sites steeped in ancient mythology. Explore medieval castles, Viking ruins, and early Christian sites. Beyond Scotland, encounter significant seabird colonies on Northern Ireland’s Rathlin Island. Experience the thrill of true exploration as you spend days charting courses, by Zodiac and on foot, based on the expertise of your expedition leaders, naturalists, and local guides.

Trip Name
Scotland’s Wild Isles: Shetlands, Orkneys and Inner Hebrides Cruise
Days
8
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Length: 108 meters Passenger Capacity: 148 (single & twin cabins) Built / Refurbished: 1982 / 2008 Originally constructed for Norway’s renowned Hurtigruten Coastal Express, National Geographic Explorer was a natural fit for the Lindblad Expeditions fleet thanks to her exceptional manoeuvrability, ice-strengthened hull, and purpose-built expedition design. Now fully stabilised and refitted with over five decades of exploration expertise, she is ideally suited for navigating the most remote corners of the globe—from the rugged coasts of Europe to the icy passages of the polar regions. With vast windows throughout and a Scandinavian-inspired interior, the ship invites guests to stay connected with their environment at every turn. Aboard National Geographic Explorer, every feature is tailored to enhance discovery. From the open Bridge and observation deck to the Chart Room and mudroom for expedition gear, the ship is an authentic platform for adventure. Her recently updated suites offer comfort and understated elegance, while public spaces such as the library, Global Gallery, and multiple dining areas encourage camaraderie and relaxation. Carrying expert guides, state-of-the-art tools, and a fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks, this 148-guest ship brings guests closer to nature with all the style and substance expected of a flagship expedition vessel.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Dublin, Ireland / Embark Ship
Arrive in Dublin and transfer from the airport to the city center. More living museum than city, traces of Dublin’s past are on display at every turn with medieval castles, cathedrals and one of the oldest universities in Europe: Trinity College. Experience the city at your own pace before embarking the ship this afternoon.Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2 - Day 2 Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland
Start your expedition on Rathlin Island, home to Northern Ireland’s largest puffin colony, as well as thousands of seabirds including guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes and fulmars. Visit the Rathlin West Light, the “upside down lighthouse” built between 1912-1917. It is in a cave on Rathlin Island that Robert the Bruce, the famous Scottish King, is said to have taken refuge during a fight against the English in 1306, and where he was inspired to keep up the struggle for Scottish independence.Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 - Days 3-4 Isle of Skye, Scotland / Loch Ewe
Sail through the Sea of the Hebrides to the Isle of Skye, known for its rugged landscapes, picturesque fishing villages and medieval castles. Enjoy an expedition day along its coast, exploring inlets and villages that this region is known for—and possibly a wee dram of the local libations.The next day, move further up the coast to Loch Ewe, inhabited over the centuries by crofting villages and used as a gathering point for maritime trade and military convoys. Today, one of the best known highlights of the loch is Inverewe Gardens, initially curated by a private land owner and currently managed by the National Trust of Scotland. Enjoy a relaxed morning amongst the broad collection of flora while keeping an eye out for the Scottish Big Five of red squirrel, red deer, otter, seal and golden eagle. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 - Days 5-7 Shetland and Orkney Islands
Rounding the most northern region of the United Kingdom, spend the next three days winding your way south through the Shetland and Orkney Islands. The Shetland Islands are comprised of 16 individual islands and offer the chance to delve into their Viking and Norwegian roots, as well as their farming cultural on the edge of the ocean.The Orkney Islands offer their own highlights, including the capital of Kirkwall and the famed harbor of Scapa Flow. Your expedition team will make the most of these days by calling at remote piers and beaches by Zodiac. Explore ancient brochs overlooking the North Sea and hike across island trails.   Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 - Day 8 Edinburgh / Disembark Ship
Disembark in Edinburgh and transfer to the airport for flights home.Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 6 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
09-06-202716-06-2027Array Array11,986Category 01
09-06-202716-06-2027Array Array12,586Category 02
09-06-202716-06-2027Array Array14,471Category 03
09-06-202716-06-2027Array Array15,057Category 04
09-06-202716-06-2027Array Array18,829Category 05
09-06-202716-06-2027Array Array21,657Category 06
09-06-202716-06-2027Array Array24,900Category 07
09-06-202716-06-2027Array Array0Category SA
09-06-202716-06-2027Array Array0Category SB

Inclusions

    • Spend time on Rathlin Island, home to Northern Ireland's largest puffin colony and the unique "upside down lighthouse"
    • Embark on an expedition day on the western coast of the Isle of Skye to explore its rugged shoreline and dramatic landscapes
    • Uncover the Viking heritage and stunning scenery of the remote Shetland and Orkney Islands: delve into their unique cultures with local historians, explore ancient brochs, and hike across island trails
    • Stroll through the renowned and picturesque Inverewe Gardens in Loch Ewe while keeping an eye out for the "Scottish Big 5": red squirrel, red deer, otter, seal, and golden eagle

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