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

8 Days

Overview

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.

This itinerary also operates in reverse for select voyages.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Disembark in Edinburgh and transfer to the airport for flights home.