HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore
the stunning coast lines of some of the most remote islands in Europe
- Visit
some of the world’s rarest bird colonies alongside expert
ornithologists
- Immerse
yourself in the ancient Nordic culture and Gaelic history
- Enjoy
long hours of daylight, perfect for wildlife and landscape photography
DATES / RATES
Rates are listed per person in USD
Rates are listed per person in USD
ITINERARY
Day
1: Edinburgh (Leith) - Scotland
Your
voyage begins in Edinburgh, Scotland’s picturesque capital
city. We recommend spending a few days prior to voyage departure
exploring this historic city, enjoying a stroll along the
‘royal mile’, visiting Edinburgh’s famous
castle or taking in views of the city with a hike up to
‘Arthur’s Seat’. This afternoon, we board
our home for the next 11-nights – RCGS Resolute. Once onboard
you will meet the expedition team and set sail. Following welcome
drinks and dinner, we depart north, skirting the Scottish coastline.
Day
2: Dunnottar Castle, Scotland
We
wake up cruising the stunning east coast of Scotland ready for our
first historical destination; Dunnottar Castle - a medieval fortress
located upon a rocky headland. Steeped in history, the castle was
besieged by Vikings, and captured by William Wallace. For those wanting
to stretch their legs, a stunning and undulating coastal path will take
you 3km north to the town of Stonehaven. Here you will see a working
harbor, busy with sailing yachts, home to the Stonehaven Tolbooth
museum, a notable building on the quayside with a fascinating history.
Also in the area, keen birders will have the opportunity to visit the
spectacular cliffs which are packed with 130,000 breeding seabirds in
the spring and summer.
Day
3: Kirkwall, Orkeny Islands, Scotland
Today
we reach the Orkney Islands. Many are uninhabited, allowing us to truly
enjoy the local wildlife, including seals, and prolific birdlife.
Orkney is considered to be the best place in the UK for viewing
seabirds. It is a land of breathtaking beauty and famous for its unique
archaeological sites, such as the well-preserved Neolithic settlement
of Skara Brae and Maeshowe, a Neolithic tomb with Viking graffiti.
Interestingly, the Arctic explorer John Rae hailed from the Orkney
Islands and they were also the last stop in Britain for the Franklin
expedition. Dating back to Norse times, Kirkwell is the islands'
largest town. Spend the day experiencing the Orkney's unique culture,
heritage and traditions by visiting one of its many museums, galleries,
craft workshops, and independent retailers.
Day
4: Stornoway, Hebrides, Scotland
The
Scottish Western Isles of the Outer Hebrides are a diverse chain of
inter-connected islands with their own unique way of life. The dramatic
cliffs and large windy beaches are ideal to stroll along, breathing in
the fresh Atlantic air. A highlight of our visit will be a trip to the
5000-year old Standing Stones at Callanish. Afterwards treat yourself
to a dram of single malt at Abhainn Dearg Distillery sampling its
famous scotch whiskey! History buffs will enjoy the Gearrannan
Blackhouse Village. Others may choose to spend the day strolling along
the quay at Stornoway Harbor and listen to the shouts of the fishermen,
as the traditional fleet land the catch of the day.
Day
5: Unst, Shetland Islands
A
unique place of peace, pure air and wide-open spaces, visitors to Unst
in the Shetlands savor the wildlife, the birdlife and the warm
community spirit. Known as ‘the ultimate destination for
those with adventure in their soul’, Unst is the northernmost
of the inhabited British Isles and boasts scenic beauty, rich history,
heritage and traditions. Rugged coast line and golden, empty beaches
will give us the perfect playground to explore by zodiac, kayak or
foot. Keen birders will rejoice with close-up views of tens of
thousands of breeding gannets, guillemots, puffins, razorbills,
kittiwakes and fulmars. Hikers of all levels will have plenty of routes
to choose from, with the combination of spectacular coastal scenery,
quiet inland lochs and gentle heathery hills.
Day
6: Torshavn, Faroe Islands
By
morning we have arrived in the Faroe Islands - a group of 18 rocky,
volcanic islands situated between Iceland and Norway. Visitors are
drawn to the islands’ mountains, valleys, grassy heathland
and steep coastal cliffs. We begin our time exploring in
Tórshavn, on Streymoy Island, the tiny capital of the Faroe
Islands.
Nearby Tinganes, home of the famous wooden turf-roofed houses also
features a bustling harbor and plenty of local boutiques. Our
small-group zodiac cruises will allow you to explore the narrow sounds
and deep grottoes in the shadow of the 1500 feet high cliffs where
thousands of seabirds nest.
Day
7: Miovagur/Mykines, Faroe Islands
Our
second day of exploration in the Faroe Islands will take us to two of
the Islands’ most stunning waterfalls. First stop -
Sørvágsvatn, the largest lake on the islands.
Dubbed “the lake over the ocean” due to an optical
illusion, the lake appears to hover in mid-air. At the end of the lake
is the impressive
Bøsdalafossur
waterfall – which provides a great hiking excursion. Next we
cruise towards the tiny village of Gasadular. Surrounded by high
mountains, this photogenic village is home to the second waterfall of
the day; Mulafossur Waterfall. This stunning natural wonder is best
viewed by sea. We visit Mykines island which provides some of the best
bird watching in the Faroe Islands. Here we find colonies of
cormorants, while the cliffs make perfect nesting ledges for guillemots
and razorbills. On the grassy slopes above the bird cliffs, thousands
of colorful puffins can be observed at close proximity.
Day
8: Seydisfjordur, Iceland
Defined
by its dramatic landscape of glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, geysers,
hot springs and lava fields, Iceland will give us plenty to explore
over the next 5 days! We start our Icelandic saga in Seydisfjordur. A
place of singing waterfalls and interesting characters, Seydisfjordur
is a welcoming town with a rich history. Experience the flourishing art
scene, enjoy local cuisine or experience the delightful hiking trails.
One of the highlights to be sure will be a pleasant hike down
‘Waterfall lane’, winding through forests to many
waterfalls rich in Icelandic vegetation. A slightly longer hike brings
us to a lookout with glorious views. The Skaftfell Centre for Visual
Arts provides us with a great alternative to the outdoors, allowing
visitors to immerse themselves in Icelandic culture.
Day
9: Hofn, Iceland
Have
you ever wanted to unleash your inner Viking? Well, today you get your
chance. Twisting away from the main route between Höfn and
Djúpivogur, curious visitors will arrive at what appears to
be a remote Viking village in pristine condition. In reality, it is a
film set for an Icelandic movie that was never filmed, but
you’d definitely be forgiven for mistaking it for the real
thing. The Viking village is located close to the town of
Höfn, a traditional Icelandic fishing town near Horanfjordur
fjord, one of the many spectacular fjords on the island. Hofn also
offers scenic views of Vatnajokull, the largest glacier in Europe
covering 8% of the island’s land mass, and the perfect place
to spend the day exploring the national park.
Day
10: Reynisdrangar, Iceland
We
continue our journey around Iceland’s stunning south coast
heading towards Vik. Just east of the outskirts of the village lies one
of Europe's biggest Artic tern breeding grounds. A short hike within
the close vicinity of Vik is sure to satisfy all serious nature lovers
and bird watchers. To the south of Reynisfjall mountain a spectacular
set of rock columns, called Reynisdrangar rise majestically out of the
Atlantic Ocean. These towering, spiky rock formations jut out from the
ocean 66 meters (217 ft) into the air. Teeming with nesting Arctic
terns, fulmars and puffins, folk legend says there were two trolls
pulling a three-mast ship to the shore unsuccessfully, but were caught
by the sunlight at dawn and turned into stone (as happens to trolls
when they stay out until dawn). Our approach by sea will give a unique
perspective and the chance to view this spectacular landmark in small
groups, perfect for bird viewing and exploring through your lens. With
close to 20 hours of daylight, opportunities are endless to learn hints
and tips from our photographer-in-residence.
Day
11: Heimaey, Westmann Islands
Leaving
the shores of the mainland, we journey into the North Atlantic to the
tiny, but beautiful, Westman Islands. Rich in volcanic history and
known as a ‘modern Nordic Pompeii’,
Heimaey’s once-solitary volcano, Helgafell (or
“Holy Mountain”) created the island in an eruption
7,000 years ago. In 1973 it erupted again and fortunately,
Heimaey’s entire fishing fleet was moored in the harbor for
the night and carried everyone to safety. The force of
Helgafell’s eruption added a new volcano to
Heimaey’s skyline - Eldfell, (or the “mountain of
fire”.) Learn more about this unique destination with a visit
to one of the town’s fascinating museums. The seabird life in
the Westman Islands is abundant and we are on the lookout for whales
and seals. One major highlight remains - a visit to Storhofoi, the
largest Atlantic puffin colony in the world. This evening we celebrate
this exceptional journey at a special dinner attended by the Captain of
the ship.
Day
12: Reykjavik, Iceland
Our
expedition concludes in the world’s most northerly capital -
the colorful and quirky city of Reykjavik. Why not stay a few days to
explore the city and surroundings? A transfer is provided to a downtown
location or to the airport for your onward journey.
(Click image to view Ship details)
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Comprehensive
pre-voyage information package including details to help you prepare
for your voyage
- Transfers
to the ship on embarkation day and from the ship to the airport or
local hotel on disembarkation
- Shipboard
accommodation in your selected cabin category with daily housekeeping.
Cabins feature outside views with windows or portholes that open on
each deck
- High
quality, eco-friendly, Canadian made natural amenities in every cabin
- All
breakfasts, lunches and dinners on board throughout your voyage with
daily afternoon tea
- 24-hour
tea, coffee, hot chocolate in bar lounge plus in-cabin tea, coffee, hot
chocolate replenished daily
- Experienced
Expedition Leader and professional expedition team of marine
biologists, naturalists, historians, adventure guides and photographers
- Daily
off-ship excursions by zodiac boat breaking into small groups for shore
landings
- Guided
hikes and walks on shore of various durations for guests of all
abilities
- Visits
to wildlife colonies, historic sites, places of outstanding natural
beauty and community visits
- Educational
presentations and talks by experts in their field (ie. marine
biologists, naturalists, historians etc). Onboard or on shore
- Resident
photography guide available to assist all guests
- Access
to computers in the multimedia lab for image downloads, file back up
and management
- An
emergency trained medical physician onboard every voyage
- Dedicated
hospitality team including Hotel Manager, four chefs, professional bar
staff and Adventure
- Concierge
staff
- Onboard
sauna, plunge pool, jacuzzi and fitness center including personal
trainer and massage options (charge applies for massage and spa
treatments)
- Access
to well-stocked library full of reference books
- End
of voyage video, photos and take home USB
- Port
fees and all permits to access visited areas
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
ADVENTURE
OPTIONS
