Cruise: From The Highlands To The High Arctic
Tailor Made Itinerary
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12 Days From €4,379
Overview
Hop aboard the Sea Spirit for a unique 12-day adventure visiting some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the Arctic.
Setting off from Edinburgh, Scotland, you’ll explore the picturesque Shetland and Faroe Islands, a beautiful area with interesting Viking heritage and British birdlife. You’ll then head further north to the unspoiled islands of Jan Mayen for some more wildlife and distinctive landscapes.
The third part of the adventure will be in the iconic western ...
Hop aboard the Sea Spirit for a unique 12-day adventure visiting some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the Arctic.
Setting off from Edinburgh, Scotland, you’ll explore the picturesque Shetland and Faroe Islands, a beautiful area with interesting Viking heritage and British birdlife. You’ll then head further north to the unspoiled islands of Jan Mayen for some more wildlife and distinctive landscapes.
The third part of the adventure will be in the iconic western island of Svalbard, Spitsbergen, in search of polar bears, other exciting wildlife, and fascinating historical polar camps and settlements.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Visit the remote arctic circle
- Visit the picturesque Shetland and Faroe Islands
- Learn about the interesting Viking heritage
- See the unspoiled islands of Jan Mayen
ITINERARY
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
DAY 1: EDINBURGH
DAY 1: EDINBURGH
Spend the morning exploring Edinburgh at your own pace. Embark the cruise ship in the afternoon and depart Edinburgh in the evening.
DAY 2: EDINBURGH - ORKNEY
DAY 2: EDINBURGH - ORKNEY
The Orkney Islands are well known for their abundant marine birdlife and dramatic coastal scenery. Today you will explore the historic and mystical sights of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney archipelago. See the Viking-built St Magnus Cathedral, the ancient ceremonial Ring of Brodgar and the 5000-year-old village of Skara Brae. Return to the ship and continue north.
DAY 3: ORKNEY - SHETLAND ISLANDS
DAY 3: ORKNEY - SHETLAND ISLANDS
Hop off the ship at Fair Isle, part of the Shetland Islands. Over 345 species have been recorded here - more than anywhere else in Britain. During a walk across the island, you will hope to see northern fulmars, kittiwakes, northern gannets, puffins, and great arctic skuas.
DAY 4: SHETLAND ISLANDS - FAROE ISLANDS
DAY 4: SHETLAND ISLANDS - FAROE ISLANDS
The Faroe Islands are unspoiled and are known for their green hills and colourful houses and boats. The ship will stop at the Torshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands. Start an interesting tour of Kirkjubøur with its imposing ruin of Saint Magnus Cathedral and traditional farming house.
DAY 5: AT SEA
DAY 5: AT SEA
Today will be spent cruising north but there will be plenty of on-board activities including seabird viewing and whale watching.
DAY 6: JAN MAYAN ISLAND
DAY 6: JAN MAYAN ISLAND
Norway's mountainous island of Jan Mayen has the world's northernmost subaerial active volcano, the Beerenberg, and is partly covered in glaciers. Uninhabited except for employees at the remote weather station, this is a great chance for some bird spotting, where you can find northern fulmars, kittiwakes, Brünich's guillemots.
DAY 7: JAN MAYAN - SPITSBERGEN
DAY 7: JAN MAYAN - SPITSBERGEN
Enjoy the wilds of the sea, as you also learn about the wildlife and landscapes of the next spot, Spitsbergen, in a lecture by an expert invited speaker.
DAY 8: SPITSBERGEN
DAY 8: SPITSBERGEN
Further north still, in the heart of the Arctic, you'll arrive in the iconic western island of Spitsbergen. The route and itinerary this far into the Arctic will be dependent on weather and sea ice conditions, at the discretion of the experienced captain and expedition leader. The route will probably take in the beautiful fjords, islands and coasts in the western part of Spitsbergen. Incredibly dramatic scenery, as well as amazing wildlife opportunities abound in this region. Polar bears and other quintessential Arctic wildlife such as reindeer and Arctic fox can be spotted anytime and anywhere. Bountiful inshore and offshore waters are home to walrus, seals and a wide variety of whales, while the islands are alive with migratory birds. You will also potentially explore interesting historical spots, such as old whaling camps, coal mining operations and trappers' cabins.
DAY 9: SPITSBERGEN
DAY 9: SPITSBERGEN
A further day to explore this pristine Arctic wilderness.
DAY 10: SPITSBERGEN
DAY 10: SPITSBERGEN
A further day to explore this pristine Arctic wilderness.
DAY 11: SPITSBERGEN
DAY 11: SPITSBERGEN
A further day to explore this pristine Arctic wilderness.
DAY 12: LONGYEARBYEN
DAY 12: LONGYEARBYEN
After breakfast, disembark the ship in Longyearbyen. Transport to the airport will be provided but Wild Frontiers can also arrange more time in Longyearbyen, the administrative centre of Svalbard.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Sea Spirit - Longyearbyen, Longyearbyen
M/V Sea Spirit is a comfortable expedition ship with capacity for 114 passengers, featuring stylish suites spread across the five decks. The suites are equipped with king-sized beds, flat-screen TVs and DVD players; some also have their own balconies. There is a strong emphasis on hotel-style service on board, although this does not detract from the expedition focus in any way. Optional kayaking, camping, climbing and cross-country skiing are available on some departures. Communal areas include an open-seating restaurant, outdoor bistro, bar, presentation lounge, club lounge, library and gym. This ship is perfect for those who would like a little more luxury on their polar adventure. Please enquire for more information such as the ship's deckplan.
Premium
Excellent standards without the big price tag
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
GUIDELINE PRICE & WHAT’S INCLUDED
CRUISE: FROM THE HIGHLANDS TO THE HIGH ARCTIC (12 DAYS) €4,379
MEALS
As specified in the itinerary, sampling some of the country's finest cuisine.
TRANSPORT
Private air-conditioned vehicles with experienced, dedicated drivers.
ENTRANCE FEES
Tours and admission fees, including tickets specified in the itinerary.
EXPERT TEAM
Licensed English-speaking guides and a support team available 24/7.
ACCOMMODATION
As specified in the itinerary, using some of our favourite local properties.
ACCOMMODATION
Ultra - The best of the best, the ultimate indulgence
Luxury - Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium - Excellent standards offering a higher-end experience
Superior - Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple - No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places
CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS
If you book international flights through Wild Frontiers.
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP
Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.
WHEN TO GO
WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
Expert travel consultants
Up-to-date knowledge and advice from our experienced consultants on the best places to stay, things to do and regions to visit to make your holiday the trip of a lifetime.
EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES
We use experienced local guides to help bring the sights to life, introduce you to local characters and ensure you get under the skin of your destination.
HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the expert, Jamie
Jamie is our Scandinavia and Arctic expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Jamie by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258