Island Hopping in the North Atlantic – Iceland, the Faroe Islands and British Isles (Southbound)

Depart from Reykjavik

Discover Iceland’s modern capital

Your island-hopping expedition cruise starts the center of Iceland’s art, culture, and packed with history: Reykjavik.

If you have time before boarding MS Maud, stroll along Laugavegur with its boutiques and galleries and head to the striking Hallgrimskirkja cathedral or the fascinating Reykjavik Art Museum.

With so much to explore, you may want to come early and join one of our Pre-Programs to the Golden Circle or Icelandic Highlands.

Once you board MS Maud, pick up your expedition jacket, check out your cabin, meet the Expedition Team, and enjoy your first delicious dinner as we set sail towards our first stop, Heimaey.

Heimaey's explosive past 

Whales, puffins, and a dramatic volcanic eruption

The first island on our island-hopping expedition cruise is Heimaey, off the south coast of Iceland. It’s the only inhabited island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago.  

Heimaey has a fascinating history involving runaway slaves, murder, revenge, magic, and Barbary pirates, and it still bears the scars of a powerful volcanic eruption in 1973 that nearly destroyed the island.

Visit the Sea Life Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary, and also hike to see puffins at Stórhöfði, where around 8 million nest every summer. Be sure to check out the volcano, Eldfell (‘Fire Mountain’). It’s well worth the effort to climb to its summit to see the incredible views of the town below.

Relax at sea

Get to know your new home away from home.

As we sail to the Faroe Islands, enjoy an idyllic day at sea with plenty to do. Admire views from MS Maud’s expansive Observation Deck, visit the Science Center for insight into the destinations ahead, or take advantage of the gym and hot tubs.

Photography enthusiasts can pick up some pointers from our onboard photographer on how to capture wildlife and landscapes. The comfortable Explorer Lounge is a great place to read, chat with other guests, or just watch the world glide by.

You can also enjoy a talk by the Expedition Team, experienced explorers who will share their extensive knowledge of the places ahead with you.

Remote Runavik

Explore wild and rugged Eysturoy island

Tiny Runavik is a flourishing town on the Faroe Island of Eysturoy. Hugging the eastern side of Skálafjørður fjord, it’s been a haven for ships for centuries. The Vikings used to dock here, too.

Join the Expedition Team on a kayaking tour of Skálafjørður. At nine miles long, it–s the longest fjord in the Faroe Islands or head off on one of the many hiking routes. You could follow the relatively easy path through the heather-rich moorland around Lake Toftavatn, known for its birdlife. Hike up the nearby hill for astounding views of the surrounding green peaks. Take the opportunity to stretch your legs before we cruise to Streymoy, the largest of the islands.

10th-century Tórshavn

A visit to Streymoy in the Faroe Islands 

Founded by Norsemen in the 10th century, Tórshavn (‘Thor’s Harbor’) is one of Northern Europe’s oldest capitals.

Wander along winding cobblestone alleyways and past colorful, turf-roofed houses. In the local museums, you’ll learn about the city’s origins and the flora, fauna, and geology of the Faroe Islands.

Just over a mile north of the town, Svartafoss waterfall tumbles over mossy rocks. And as you walk along the seafront, look out for the Eider Drake and the distinctive Faroese Starling with its beige-tipped wings.

The wild side of the Shetland Islands

Discover seabirds and Vikings in the northern Shetland Islands

The northern Shetland Islands represent the geographical extremity of the British Isles. In these remote areas, we’ll explore depending on the weather conditions and where we find the best opportunities.

We may visit charming Haroldswick on Unst, where the Vikings reputedly first made landfall in the British Isles. Home to a reconstruction of a Viking longhouse and ship, there’s also a burial mound that is thought to be the grave of King Harald Fairhair, the village’s namesake.

We may also set out in our small boats (RIBs) to explore hidden coves below towering cliffs. At the UK’s northernmost point, the cliffs of Hermaness National Nature Reserve shelter thousands of breeding seabirds, including fulmars, puffins, shags, and gannets, so be sure to bring your binoculars.

The capital of the Shetland Islands

Experience life in the capital of Scotland’s northernmost inhabited isles.

We’ll dock alongside Lerwick, the capital of the Shetland Islands, to explore this friendly, Victorian-influenced fishing town.

Navigate the narrow lanes on foot to discover little shops selling local whiskies, woolen sweaters, and fudge. By the old waterfront, you’ll find the Shetland Museum, exploring the area’s rich history. Nearby, see Fort Charlotte and the regal Town Hall.

The wider island is home to remarkable Iron Age villages and the Croft House Museum, where you’ll learn about the hard life of the local crofters.

Keep your binoculars handy as you may spot grey and common seals along Lerwick’s beaches, and local birdlife such as Red-throated Divers, redshanks and curlews.

Far-flung Fair Isle

A scenic stop for bird lovers 

Your last stop in the Shetland Islands is remote Fair Isle, known for its birds and knitwear. 

The island is home to 27 bird species and is a dream for birders and wildlife photographers. It's a vital stop for migrating seabirds, drawn to the red sandstone cliffs, green fields, and moors.

We’ll attempt to land for the Expedition Team to lead you on a clifftop hike to a lighthouse sitting in a spectacular location. Gain fascinating insights into the life and history of the 65-strong island community at the local museum. You can support Fair Islanders by buying genuine Fair Isle knitwear direct from local makers.

If landing isn’t possible, the scenic cruising is just as spectacular.

Highlights of Orkney

Discover the islands’ rich heritage, wildlife, and whisky.

The Orkney Islands' largest town, Kirkwall, is a vibrant place influenced by every era, from the Vikings to World War II.

In the center of this Norse town, visit the regal St. Magnus Cathedral and the adjacent Earl’s Palace to see the stone ruins of this once-grand Renaissance building. Whisky aficionados will enjoy Kirkwall's Highland Park and Scapa distilleries’ sublime single malts.

At the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you can delve into the past at the Scara Brae settlement, the mysterious standing stones of Ring of Brodgar, and the Stones of Stenness.

Sea birds such as puffins, gannets, guillemots, kittiwakes, and eagles thrive around the Orkneys. Look out for dolphins, whales, and orca, too.

Scotland’s crown jewel

Discover the many charms of the much-loved city of Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the most visited city in the United Kingdom after London and you’ll soon see why. With streets steeped in history and a thriving cultural scene, the Scottish capital offers the perfect balance between traditional and contemporary.

Explore mysterious winding alleys and elegant terraced rows, and check out some of the many shops, bars and restaurants. Get a great view of the city from majestic Edinburgh Castle, where you can see Scotland’s Crown Jewels and the famed Stone of Destiny.

A relaxing day at sea

Enjoy a relaxing day as we cruise towards London

It’s our final day at sea and your expedition cruise with us is fast drawing to a close. Make the most of the onboard facilities today before we arrive into Tilbury.

You’ll have time to sit back and swap stories of your adventures so far. Keep your eyes peeled while on deck for some wonderful marine life and seabirds – you can even relax in the hot tub up there at the same time. You can still spend time in the Science Center and with the Expedition Team who are available to answer all your questions.

London Calling

Discover the U.K.’s thriving capital 

Complete your voyage across the islands of the North Atlantic in Tilbury, the gateway to the U.K.’s cosmopolitan capital city, London. 

Before beginning your onward journey, why not visit some of London’s iconic sites, and absorb the atmosphere of this vibrant and cultural city. The city’s world-renowned restaurants rub shoulders with myriad markets, so take some time to discover this foodie’s paradise. Why not explore historic landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral and the Houses of Parliament, or experience culture at London’s many world-famous museums and galleries. A perfect way to end your adventure.