Shetland Islands © Ralph Lee Hopkins

North Atlantic Wonders: Iceland, Scotland and the Faroes - Northbound - 11 Days

Onboard  National Geographic Endurance – 138 passengers

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.

Highlights

  • 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

Tour Dates

Itinerary

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

Days 2-3: 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

Days 4-5: 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

Days 6-8: 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 perfect 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

Days 9-10: Djúpivogur, Iceland / Westman Islands
Arrive in Djúpivogur and explore the remote black sand beaches and steep fjords of eastern Iceland. Alternatively, go by 4×4 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 11: Reykjavík / Disembark Ship
Disembark in Reykjavík and transfer to the airport for flights home. Meals Included: Breakfast

Route Map

North Atlantic Wonders route map showing route from Edinburgh to Orkney, Shetland & Faroe Islands before arriving into Iceland

Trips and Rates

Please note, rates are Per Person in USD
Category 1
$11,360
 
Category 2
$12,100
 
Category 3
$12,890
 
Category 4
$13,420
 
Category 5
$15,690
 
Category 6
$18,350
Limited
Category 7
$21,130
 
Category A Solo
$15,150
 
Category B Solo
$16,120
 

Charter flights are not included in the cabin pricing. See the neon green box in the pricing grid for the cost of the charter flights. 

Single Travelers

  • Can book a dedicated solo cabin in Category A Solo or Category B Solo at the prices listed above
  • Share cabins may be available in select cabin categories, please enquire for more details
  • If booking Cat 1 – 7 at solo occupancy, the rate is 2x the per person share price

Adventure Options

  • Paddling – included in the voyage cost. Guests may have the chance to paddle once, conditions permitting.

Charter flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia are not included in the cabin pricing. See the neon green box in the pricing grid for the cost of the charter flights. 

Single Travelers

  • Can book a dedicated solo cabin in Category A Solo or Category B Solo at the prices listed above
  • Share cabins may be available in select cabin categories, please enquire for more details
  • If booking Cat 1 – 7 at solo occupancy, the rate is 2x the per person share price

Adventure Options

  • Paddling – included in the voyage cost. Guests may have the chance to paddle once, conditions permitting.

Availability & prices are subject to change at anytime. Please contact us for the real time availability & prices.

Cabin Descriptions

Category 7

These large balcony suites feature two balcony chairs, hammock, and table; two single beds that can convert to a queen; pull-out sofa; coffee table; writing desk and chair; espresso maker; hammock; and a large walk-in closet with full length mirror. Expanded bathroom has a double vanity, bathtub, towel warmer, and rain shower. Guests receive a welcome amenity, complimentary laundry, priority access to one igloo reservation, and one spa appointment per departure.

Bridge Deck: #708-711, 716, 718, 719, 721

Category 6

Junior suite with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and table; two single beds that convert to a queen; pull-out sofa; writing desk with chair; two bedside tables; coffee table; espresso maker; and a closet. Guests receive a welcome amenity, complimentary laundry, and priority access to one igloo reservation, and one spa appointment per departure.

Bridge Deck: #714

Category 5

Cabin with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen; pull-out sofa; coffee table; writing desk with chair; two bedside tables; and a closet.

Bridge Deck: #700-707, 712, 713, 715, 717

Category 4

Cabin with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock and a table; two single beds that can convert to a queen; pull-out sofa; coffee table; writing desk with chair; two bedside tables; and a closet.

Lounge Deck: #608, 610, 612, 613-623

Category 3

Cabin with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; two single beds that convert to a queen; convertible sleeper sofa; writing desk with a chair; two bedside tables; coffee table; and a closet.

Main Deck: #512-524

Category 2

Cabin with two large windows, two single beds that can convert to a queen, window sofa, writing desk with an office chair, two bedside tables, coffee table, and a closet.

Fore Deck: #410, 412, 414, 416-419, 421-427

Category 1

Cabin with two large windows, two singles that can convert to a queen, writing desk and chair, two bedside tables, window sofa, coffee table, and a closet.

Fore Deck: #406, 408, 411, 413, 415

Category A Solo

Cabin with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; single bed; writing desk with an office chair; and a closet.

Main Deck: #504-510, 513

 

Category B Solo

Cabin with balcony that features two balcony chairs, hammock, and a table; single bed; writing desk with chair; hammock; and a closet.

Lounge Deck: #604-607, 609, 611

Deck Plan

Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions: 

  • All accommodations aboard ship or in hotels per itinerary
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore
  • Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits aboard the ship (except certain super premium brands which are available for purchase)
  • Hors d’oeuvres, 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
  • Excursions and airport transfers to and from recommended flights, as indicated in the itinerary
  • Crew gratuities
  • Exploration tools curated to destination, such as Zodiacs & kayaks
  • Guidance and company of our leading expedition staff
  • Assistance by the National Geographic Photography Expert and Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor
  • Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker
  • Presentations by expedition staff and expert guest speakers.
  • Complimentary parka or jacket
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle
  • Services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic
  • Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment
  • 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library, and other shared spaces
  • Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes. Unused services or items included in our programs are non-refundable
 

Exclusions: 

  • Airfare (except flights when indicated as included)
  • Pre- and post-expedition extensions
  • Additional hotel nights (except when indicated as included)
  • Private transfers
  • Laundry, spa treatments, Wi-Fi, and phone services (except when indicated as included)
  • Travel protection plans
  • Passport, visa, and immigration fees