North Atlantic Wonders: Iceland, Scotland and the Faroes Cruise

Description

Experience the rich tapestry of the North Atlantic’s most storied islands where ancient history, culture, and nature converge. Delve into the rich seafaring traditions of the rugged and verdant Faroe Islands with its Viking heritage and dramatic seaside cliffs. Uncover the ancient history woven into the fabric of the Orkney and Shetland Islands, from centuries-old cathedrals to windswept archipelagos. And in Iceland’s Westman Islands, witness nature’s raw power as you explore volcanic landscapes which tell tales of fiery eruptions and resilient communities.

Trip Name

North Atlantic Wonders: Iceland, Scotland and the Faroes Cruise

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Expedition Ship Passenger Capacity: 126 Length: 124 m Built: 2020 National Geographic Endurance is a state-of-the-art expedition vessel purpose-built for year-round polar navigation. Named in honour of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s legendary Endurance expedition, she is the first polar ship in Lindblad’s history designed from the keel up for exploration. With an ice-class rating of PC5 (Category A) and a fully stabilised hull, she grants access to remote and often uncharted corners of the Arctic and Antarctica in exceptional comfort and safety. Her revolutionary X-Bow®—a striking forward-leaning design—enables superior wave-cutting performance, ensuring a smoother, quieter ride and minimising spray on deck for better wildlife observation. On board, guests enjoy thoughtfully designed public spaces including a wraparound observation lounge, library, and an expedition base for gear and briefings. Dining is offered across three flexible venues, all serving sustainable, locally inspired cuisine. With a full suite of tools for exploration and a design deeply rooted in expedition heritage, Endurance is the ultimate platform for discovering Earth’s most remote regions.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1 Edinburgh, Scotland / Embark Ship

Arrive in Edinburgh and transfer to the city center. Known throughout time for its hill fort, the iconic Edinburgh Castle, this vibrant city offers a variety of experiences throughout its streets. Experience the city at your own pace before embarking the ship this afternoon.Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2 - Days 2-3 The Orkney Islands

Arrive in Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands. Take a guided stroll through the historic streets of the old town and pass through the walls of the Bishop's and Earl's palaces, as well as St. Magnus Cathedral before venturing off on your own to explore High Street. The next day, choose from several options that highlight the diverse history of these remote islands. Visit Scapa Flow, one of the greatest natural harbors of the world and chief naval base of the United Kingdom during World War I and II, or delve into ancient history preserved on Rousay, an island that’s home to only about 200 people along with at least 15 chambered prehistory tombs. Walk across the rolling hills to explore the ruins by foot. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 - Days 4-5 The Shetland Islands

The Shetlands are characterized by deep-seated cultural traditions and dramatic landscapes. Close enough to Norway to speak Scottish with a Scandinavian accent, this 100-island archipelago has never been fully tamed by those who live here. Discover some of these picturesque, rural islands with their mix of long-haired ponies, ancient ruins and windswept pastures.Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 - Days 6-8 The Faroe Islands, Denmark

This morning, arrive in the Faroe Islands, an autonomous archipelago within the Kingdom of Denmark. The legacy of the Vikings persists here, reflected in the language of the Faroese and their love of the sea. Hike out to Leitisvatn—or the "floating lake"—for pristine views of the North Atlantic and stunning photo opportunities. Visit Tórshavn, the colorful capital of the Faroe Islands, where homes and government buildings are capped with the region’s iconic turf roofs. Witness the 12th-century St. Olav’s Church, which is still in use today, alongside the ruins of Kirkjubøur Cathedral. Navigate to one of the local communities on Eysturoy, the second largest island in the Faroes, to enjoy the warm hospitality of its villagers and take in the stunning landscapes and trails of their beautiful fjord. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 - Days 9-10 Djúpivogur, Iceland / The Westman Islands

Arrive in Djúpivogur and explore the remote black-sand beaches and steep fjords of eastern Iceland. Alternatively, go by 4x4 vehicle to visit secluded valleys and remote waterfalls in the countryside, or join a hike to the black sand beaches of southern Iceland. Later on, voyage to the Westman Islands which were formed by undersea volcanoes between 5,000 and 10,000 years ago and are among the youngest of the world’s archipelagos. In 1963, the world witnessed on film the birth of its newest island, Surtsey—a UNESCO World Heritage site—which you’ll see as you cruise past its coast. In Heimaey, visit the crater, where the earth is still hot, for amazing views of areas that were once engulfed by lava in 1973. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 - Day 11 Reykjavík / Disembark Ship

Disembark in Reykjavík and transfer to the airport for flights home.Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Experience a deep dive into the cultural connections and striking landscapes of these North Atlantic islands—a photographer and history buff’s dream
In Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands, uncover layers of history amid its palaces, cathedrals, and tombs
Immerse yourself in the eclectic culture of the Shetland Islands as you discover dramatic coastlines, abundant wildlife, and Viking traditions
Witness the beauty of the Faroe Islands in picturesque villages with welcoming locals and on hikes overlooking spectacular fjords
In Iceland, encounter fascinating geology—from the black-sand beaches and fjords of the east coast to Heimaey in the Westman Islands, the site of a dramatic volcanic eruption in 1973