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Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage – with Smithsonian Journeys

Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage – with Smithsonian Journeys

From AUD $10,180

Description

In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.
This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.
Join PONANT aboard Le Bellot for an 8-day cruise  on an exceptional itinerary to discover the beauty of the Norwegian fjords and the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Isles. 
Begin your voyage in Bergen, famous for its Hanseatic wharf, Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site which still carries traces of the rich historic past of the city founded by the Vikings.
Your ship will first sail to Flåm where you will board the Flåm Railway to take a beautiful train journey high into the mountains of western Norway. View stunning rivers, waterfalls, and cultural landscapes around every corner.
Continue to Olden. From this small and charming village, located a few miles from Jostedalsbreen National Park, home to one of the last ice caps in Europe, you are able to admire the magnificent Briksdal Glacier.
Le Bellot then sails for Lerwick, the main port in the Shetland Islands. Nearby is the Jarlshof prehistoric and Norse settlement, where Neolithic people first settled more than 4,000 years ago – it is one of the most spectacular excavated sites in the British Isles.
Your ship sails next towards Kirkwall, capital of Orkney, where numerous seabirds, such as gannets and European shags, take residence. The Standing Stones of Stenness, built around 5,400 years ago, are a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. 
From Portree, spend a day on the unparalleled Isle of Skye. Or, not to be missed on the mainland is Eilean Donan, one of the most recognizable castles in the world and an iconic symbol of Scotland.
End your voyage in Fort William, from where you are able to immerse yourself in local lore during a cruise of fabled Loch Ness or take a tour and enjoy a dram of scotch whisky at a local distillery.
You will disembark in Glasgow, Scotland’s warm cultural capital with a rich artistic and architectural heritage.

Trip Name
Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage – with Smithsonian Journeys
Days
7
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Length: 127 metres Passenger Capacity: 92 cabins Built: 2017/2018 Le Champlain, part of the prestigious PONANT EXPLORERS series, masterfully blends the spirit of adventure with refined comfort. Designed to navigate some of the world’s most remote destinations, she offers guests the intimacy of a private yacht alongside discreet luxury and elegant French styling. Her 92 staterooms and suites, all with private balconies, are bathed in natural light, providing a serene retreat after a day of Zodiac® expeditions or fine dining. Every element, from the stylish interiors to the attentive service, reflects PONANT’s dedication to creating a truly authentic voyage. Built with a strong focus on eco-friendly innovation, Le Champlain incorporates the latest environmental technologies to minimise her impact on the oceans she explores. At 430 feet long with a guest capacity of up to 184, she maintains a sense of exclusivity while offering spacious public areas, exceptional cuisine, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether gliding through polar waters or sailing to tropical shores, she delivers an unforgettable combination of exploration, sophistication, and respect for the natural world.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 BERGEN
Located at the end of Byfjord, Bergen was the capital of Norway in the 12th and 13th Centuries and has preserved some very beautiful monuments from the time when it was home to royalty. Wandering through Bergen’s streets means going back in time, in search of the hidden treasures that have been listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. A veritable openair museum, Bergen is home to a thriving artistic community of painters, potters, jewellers. The Bergen cable car offers you a splendid panorama over the port and the surrounding fjords. Do not miss the visit to the old quarter with its narrow streets, a testimony of the power of the hanseatic League that controlled trade in Northern Europe at the end of the Middle Ages.
Day 2 - Day 2 FLAM
Nestled in the heart of the fjord country, less than 200 kilometres from Bergen, the picturesque village of Flåm – pronounced Flôm – offers you an experience of authentic Norway. You can mosey around the brightly coloured streets and admire the majestic contours of the surrounding mountains. The town is also the departure point for the mythical train route Flamsbana, 20 kilometres long, whose journey offers a superb view of the scenery, as sublime as it is pristine. This attraction makes Flåm one of the country’s main tourist destinations.
Day 3 - Day 3 OLDEN
With its two wooden churches, one red and the other white, plus its breathtaking view of the mouth of the river Oldeelva, Olden looks just like a picture post card. Located a few kilometres from the Jostedalsbreen park, home to one of the last glacier polar icecaps, this little village is a definite must for exploring the blue languages of the Briksdal or Kjennalen glaciers. Make sure you find some time to visit the Norwegian Glacier Museum. Absolutely amazing. Another gem is lake Lovatn and its turquoise waters inviting you to quiet contemplation.
Day 4 - Day 4 LERWICK, SHETLAND ISLANDS
The small and charming capital of the Shetland Islands, with its sea front of old houses and narrow streets, offering travellers its old districts and a warm port atmosphere. Geopark Shetland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located to the north. Incredibly well-preserved archaeological sites and ruins prove that the islands’ occupation dates back to the first Neolithic colonies. The Shetland Museum and Archives recounts the Shetlands’ history of heritage and culture: Lerwick’s abundant waters were even fished by the Dutch in the past.
Day 5 - Day 5 KIRKWALL, ORKNEY
Capital of the Orkney archipelago, Kirkwall, which means “church bay”, is an ideal stopover before continuing on to the Northern Isles. Sheltered in a wide bay, the lively town welcomes the visitor with its charming paved alleyways edged by old houses and craft shops. Tankerness House, the oldest homestead in the town, is a must-see landmark. But the true architectural treasure of the aptly named Kirkwall is none other than its remarkable red and gold stone cathedral. And because whisky is inseparable from Scotland’s identity, stop at the Highland Park Distillery for a highly instructive visit.
Day 6 - Day 6 PORTREE, ISLE OF SKYE
Nestling in the crux of a gorgeous bay, Portree reflects the magnificence of the grandiose Isle of Skye as well as being its main town. Apart from the charm of its colourful houses, the town’s outstanding location on the banks of a loch makes it a very pleasant place to be. From its colourful harbour bustling with local craftsmen’s shops, you can take in a stunning view of the surrounding hills. Before trekking through the wilderness and drinking in the natural beauty of the Isle of Skye, check out some of the beautiful images in the Aros Centre.
Day 7 - Day 7 FORT WILLIAM
A port town on the eastern shore of Loch Linnhe, Fort William is sometimes described as the "Outdoor Capital of the UK." Because it sits at the base of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the British Isles, and is in close proximity to the dramatic landscape of Glencoe, it is a popular destination for hikers and rock climbers. For those looking for a less adventurous experience, the nearby Ben Nevis Distillery offers tours and tastings, and Old Fort and Old Inverlochy Castle are interesting historical sites.
Day 8 - Day 8 GLASGOW, SCOTLAND
In the heart of the Clyde Valley, the bustling city of Glasgow contrasts starkly with the wild beauty of the surrounding countryside. Scotland's biggest city overflows with landmarks from its extensive artistic heritage and outstanding architectural tradition. The city's chequerboard layout makes walking through the major pedestrian thoroughfares easy: go with the flow and let the lively street atmosphere take you past the many Victorian monuments. Don't miss the collections on display in the numerous museums and art galleries. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is an outstanding example.
Day 9 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $11,630Deluxe Stateroom
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $12,870Prestige Deck 4
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $29,120Privilege Suite Deck 6
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $29,120Privilege Suite Deck 5
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $31,950Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $31,950Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 5
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $37,170Owner's Suite
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $13,490Prestige Deck 5
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $14,220Prestige Deck 6
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $19,640Deluxe Suite Deck 3
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $19,640Deluxe Suite Deck 6
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $19,640Deluxe Suite Deck 5
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $19,640Deluxe Suite Deck 4
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $26,410Prestige Deck 5 Suite
28-05-202604-06-2026AUD $27,760Prestige Deck 6 Suite
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $12,810Deluxe Stateroom
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $14,190Prestige Deck 4
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $14,880Prestige Deck 5
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $15,690Prestige Deck 6
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $21,710Deluxe Suite Deck 3
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $21,710Deluxe Suite Deck 4
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $21,710Deluxe Suite Deck 6
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $21,710Deluxe Suite Deck 5
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $29,230Prestige Deck 5 Suite
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $30,730Prestige Deck 6 Suite
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $32,240Privilege Suite Deck 6
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $32,240Privilege Suite Deck 5
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $35,390Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 5
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $35,390Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
21-06-202628-06-2026AUD $37,170Owner's Suite
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $10,520Deluxe Stateroom
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $11,630Prestige Deck 4
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $12,200Prestige Deck 5
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $12,860Prestige Deck 6
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $17,770Deluxe Suite Deck 5
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $17,770Deluxe Suite Deck 3
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $17,770Deluxe Suite Deck 4
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $17,770Deluxe Suite Deck 6
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $23,910Prestige Deck 5 Suite
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $25,130Prestige Deck 6 Suite
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $25,430Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 5
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $26,360Privilege Suite Deck 6
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $26,360Privilege Suite Deck 5
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $28,930Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
24-05-202731-05-2027AUD $37,750Owner's Suite
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $10,180Deluxe Stateroom
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $11,260Prestige Deck 4
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $11,800Prestige Deck 5
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $12,460Prestige Deck 6
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $17,220Deluxe Suite Deck 5
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $17,220Deluxe Suite Deck 4
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $17,220Deluxe Suite Deck 3
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $17,220Deluxe Suite Deck 6
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $23,190Prestige Deck 5 Suite
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $24,380Prestige Deck 6 Suite
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $24,650Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 5
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $25,560Privilege Suite Deck 5
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $25,560Privilege Suite Deck 6
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $28,050Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6
27-08-202703-09-2027AUD $36,610Owner's Suite

Inclusions

    • A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call.
    • Engaging discussions onboard with two Smithsonian Journeys Experts.
    • An exceptional itinerary to discover the beauty of the Norwegian fjords and the rugged landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Scottish Isles.
    • UNESCO World Heritage sites en route: Bryggen, Heart of Neolithic Orkney
    • A sailing through the spectacular fjords of Norway, with two stops to visit a glacier and embark on a train journey on the famed Flåm Railway.
    • A discovery of two archipelagos in the north of Scotland – Shetland and Orkney – to delve into the Neolithic and Viking history that abounds there.
    • An opportunity to visit Eilean Donan castle on the Scottish mainland and to sail the waters of storied Loch Ness.
    • A chance to tour a distillery and sample the region’s famous scotch whisky.

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