Voyage Overview
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 Details
Duration: 11 Days
Ship: National Geographic Endurance, Premium Ship, 138 Guests
Start: Edinburgh, Scotland
End: Reykjavik, Iceland
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
Trip Itinerary Overview:
Day 1: Edinburgh Embarkation
Days 2-3: Orkney Islands
Days 4-5: Shetland Islands
Days 6-8: Faroe Islands, Denmark
Days 9-10: Djúpivogur, Iceland / Westman Islands
Day 11: Reykjavík Disembarkation
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
Trips & Rates
Please note, rates are Per Person in USD
Availability & prices are subject to change at anytime
Voyage Ship
National Geographic Endurance
The National Geographic Endurance is named to honor explorer Ernest Shackleton and his legendary Transantarctic Expedition. A fully-stabilized vessel of the highest ice class (PC5 Category A), she will enable adventurous guests to go where few have or can. National Geographic Endurance’s most striking exterior feature is her distinctive profile, the patented X-Bow®, a game-changing design that guarantees the smoothest, most comfortable ride in all kinds of conditions; and since it eliminates bow impact, a quieter ride, as well.
Cabins & Deck Plan
Category 7
BRIDGE DECK (Deck 7)
The largest suites on National Geographic Endurance featuring a balcony, pull-out sofa, coffee table, writing desk and chair, espresso maker, hammock and a large walk-in closet with full length mirror. The expanded bathroom has a double vanity, bathtub, towel warmer, and rain shower. Guests receive complimentary laundry and priority access to one igloo reservation and one spa treatment per departure.
430 sq. ft. (39.9 m2)
1-2
1 queen or 2 single
Category 6
BRIDGE DECK (Deck 7)
The singular Category 6 cabin is a junior suite with balcony, pull-out sofa, writing desk with chair, two bedside tables, coffee table, espresso maker, closet and private bathroom. Guests receive complimentary laundry and priority access to one igloo reservation and one spa appointment per departure.
344 sq. ft. (32 m2)
1-2
1 queen or 2 single
Category 5
BRIDGE DECK (Deck 7)
Category 5 cabins are located close to the Bridge and Observation Deck. Cabins feature a balcony, pull-out sofa, coffee table, writing desk with chair, two bedside tables, closet and private bathroom.
205 sq. ft. (19 m2)
1-2
1 queen or 2 single
Category 4
LOUNGE DECK (Deck 6)
With a central location on the Lounge Deck, Category 4 cabin are equipped with balcony, pull-out sofa, coffee table, writing desk with chair, two bedside tables, closet and private bathroom.
205 sq. ft. (19 m2)
1-2
1 queen or 2 single
Category 3
MAIN DECK (Deck 5)
The lowest priced double occupancy cabin with a balcony. Cabins feature a sitting area with pull-out sofa, writing desk with a chair, two bedside tables, coffee table, closet and private bathroom.
205 sq. ft. (19 m2)
1-2
1 queen or 2 single
Category 2
FORE DECK (Deck 4)
Category 2 cabins have a low ship location and feature two large windows, window sofa, two seat sofa, coffee table, writing desk with an office chair, two bedside tables, closet and private bathroom.
205 sq. ft. (19 m2)
1-2
1 queen or 2 single
Category 1
FORE DECK (Deck 4)
The six Category 1 cabins have a low, forward location and are the lowest priced double occupancy cabin. Cabins are equipped with two large windows, window sofa, writing desk and chair, two bedside tables, coffee table, closet and private bathroom.
183 sq. ft. (17 m2)
1-2
1 queen or 2 single
Category A Solo
MAIN DECK (Deck 5)
Solo occupancy cabin with a balcony, writing desk with office chair, closet and private bathroom.
140 sq. ft. (13 m2)
1
1 single
Category B Solo
LOUNGE DECK (Deck 6)
Solo occupancy cabin with a balcony, writing desk with office chair, closet and private bathroom.
140 sq. ft. (13 m2)
1
1 single
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
Solo Travelers
An expedition cruise to the Polar regions is a fantastic trip for solo travelers. On most ships, there is the option to share a cabin with another guest of the same gender to keep the pricing down. Solo occupancy cabins are also an option for guests who prefer to have their own space. Please reach out for more information and pricing for solo travelers.
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