The Scottish Isles

Whisky and Wildlife from the Hebrides to the Shetlands (Northbound)

Price from $7,731
$7,231

Departure Dates
Duration
13 days
Ship

Cruise Overview

Discover Scotland’s rugged and magnificent isles as we sail from Glasgow to Bergen, sampling unique malts and spotting amazing wildlife along the way.

  • 13-day expedition cruise from Scotland to Norway, sampling unique local malts from the barrel and spotting amazing wildlife and birds along the way.

  • Sail from Glasgow to Belfast, then discover Scotland's magnificent isles – the Hebrides, Orkney and Shetlands – before ending your cruise in Bergen, Norway.

  • Visit whisky distilleries on Islay, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and be enchanted by the wild scenery and historical treasures all around.

Island adventures 

Join MS Spitsbergen on a glorious expedition cruise as we sail first from Scotland to Belfast and the Isle of Man. Follow the whisky trail in Islay, which is just as intoxicating as its peaty drams. From here, you'll explore the beautiful Outer Hebrides, Viking-influenced Orkneys and remote Shetland Islands before sailing to Bergen. 

Wonderful wildlife 

You'll be transfixed by the rugged natural beauty of the Treshnish Isles, Iona, Skye, Fair Isle and UNESCO-listed St Kilda. Look  out for bird colonies, eagles, seals, and perhaps even whales along the way.

Itinerary

We'll help you plan where to go, when to visit and how long to stay

Embarking in Glasgow

Day 1

Elegant Belfast

Day 2

Enigmatic Isle of Man

Day 3

Islay's whisky and nature

Day 4

West coast exploration

Day 5

The spirit of Iona

Day 6

Isles of Skye and Canna

Day 7

Wild St Kilda

Day 8

Stalwart Stornoway

Day 9

Highlights of Orkney

Day 10

Far-flung Fair Isle

Day 11

Lerwick’s past and present

Day 12

Arrival in Bergen, Norway

Day 13

What's included

Take a look at what you can look forward to on this 12-day expedition cruise.

Expedition Cruise

  • At stay in a cabin of your choice 
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner including in restaurant Aune*  
  • Complimentary tea and coffee 
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi on board†  
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle to use at water refill stations on board 
  • English-speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore 
  • Range of included activities 

Onboard Activities

  • In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team 
  • Full use of our Science Center, extensive library and advanced biological and geological equipment 
  • Citizen Science Programme where you can assist with ongoing scientific research 
  • Photography tips and techniques for capturing landscape and wildlife from our onboard professional photographer 
  • Use of ship's hot tubspanoramic sauna and gym 
  • Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings 

Landing Activities

  • Escorted landings with small expedition boats 
  • Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities 
  • Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket 
  • Expedition photographers on hand to assist you 

Notes

  • All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions 
  • Excursions and activities are subject to change 
  • Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements  
  • No gratuities expected 

What's not included

  • International flights 

  • Travel insurance 

  • Luggage handling 

  • Optional shore excursions with our local partners 

  • Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team

Included Programmes

It's a mixture of adventure activities for individuals of all ages