Historic Trails & Wilderness: Scotland, Faroes & Iceland

Having made your way to Aberdeen airport, you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions andtransferred to our group hotel. Upon arrival at your included hotel, please visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitalitydesk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with our ground operations team, who may have information toshare with you about pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine, withdraw cash orpurchase last minute items from a local pharmacy or supermarket.Should you already be in Aberdeen, make your way to our pre-voyage hotel, Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel, StAndrew St, Aberdeen. Check-in is from 3:00pm. Today there’s free time to enjoy Aberdeen at your leisure (Dinnernot included).Accommodation: Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel

With close to 220,000 inhabitants, Aberdeen is Scotland's third most populous city. Locally quarried grey granite was used during the mid-18th to mid-20th centuries for many of Aberdeen's buildings, and hence the nicknames it has earned as the Granite City, or the Grey City. Aberdeen granite was also used to build the terraces of the Houses of Parliament and Waterloo Bridge in London. Since the discovery of North Sea oil in the 1970s, Aberdeen has also been called the Oil Capital of Europe or the Energy Capital of Europe. It is no wonder that because of the oil fields in the North Sea, Aberdeen's seaport is very important. The Heliport with its flights to the oil fields is one of the busiest commercial heliports in the world.

Midway between Orkney and Shetland, Fair Isle houses a major European ornithological research station, and is alsofamous for knitwear and historic shipwrecks. About five kilometres by three kilometres / three miles by two miles inarea, it is surrounded by impressive cliffs. The 70 or so islanders mainly live in traditional crofts on the more fertilelow-lying southern part of the island.A bird watchers’ paradise, Fair Isle lies on the intersection of major flight paths from Scandinavia, Iceland and Faroe.In summer, the cliffs teem with breeding fulmars, kittiwakes, guillemots, gannets, shags and puffins. The Isle is anexcellent place to view seabirds, especially puffins at close range. Fair Isle also has over 250 species of floweringplants, including wetland flowers, rare orchids, alpine species and common wildflowers. We’ll be welcomed by thehospitable villagers and may take a hike or visit the museum. Grey and common seals inhabit these waters aroundFair Isle, while sharp eyes may spot harbour porpoises, white-beaked dolphins, Atlantic white-sided dolphins, killerwhales (orcas) and minke whales.

Lying mid-way between Shetland and the Orkney islands, Fair Isle is a tiny jewel in the sea. Famous for birds, knitwear and historic shipwrecks, the island offers a warm and friendly welcome to visitors. With a population of only around 70 people this island is truly a beautiful setting and is one of Britain’s most successful communities. View the cloudy light turquoise water as it drifts out to sea beneath the breathtaking Sheep Rock, rising over 100 meters, which is almost an isle of its own. Fair Isle’s oceanic climate brings stormy but mild winters, in summer, you can expect rapid changes in the weather, sparkling sunshine can be followed by a thick blanket of mist and fog, and this makes the isle a truly inspiring area. Over the centuries the island has changed hands many times and was named the island of peace by Norse settlers. The isle has been a useful landmark for shipping but in storms and fog it is highly dangerous creating over 100 known shipwrecks such as the Spanish armada flag ship “El Gran Grifon”.

Jarlshof is one of Shetland's best preserved and most complex archaeological sites. It was exposed by storms in thelate 19th century. The Old House of Sumburgh, built here in the 17th century, was named 'Jarlshof' by Sir WalterScott in his novel 'The Pirate'. The record of human occupation dates from around 3,200 BCE. Jarlshof’s main BronzeAge site is the house of a bronzesmith working around 800 BC. Clay moulds into which molten bronze was pouredrevealed that he was casting axe heads and short swords. It seems that Shetland suited early Norse settlers, for theyquickly settled here and left their mark on Shetland's history for ages to come.With its mile-long seabird cliffs, the Island of Noss is a National Nature Reserve. In breeding season, the sound ofaround 150,000 birds and chicks fills the air. Millions of years of wind and ice have honeycombed thousands ofnesting ledges in sandstone cliffs almost 200-metres / 656-feet high. Resident seals and visiting otters feed in densekelp around the shores.

Exploring the sandstone cliff faces of the Isle of Noss will reveal ledges loaded with gannets, puffins, guillemots, shags, kittiwakes, Razorbills, fulmars and Great Skuas. The island was recognized as a National Nature Reserve in 1955, and has one of Europe’s largest and most diverse seabird colonies. Sheep have grazed the inland hillsides of Noss since the late 1800s and early 1900s when around twenty people lived on the island to manage the sheep farm. Along with the sheep, shaggy Shetland ponies graze the windblown slopes of Noss.

Britain’s most northerly islands lie almost 160 kilometres (100 miles) north of the Scottish mainland, at a similarlatitude to the southern tip of Greenland, or Bergen in Norway. Kept relatively warm by the Gulf Stream, Shetland’s100 islands experience almost 24 hours of daylight in summer. They abound with nature reserves and archaeologicalsites and offer a taste of traditional island life.Hermaness National Nature Reserve, is close to Britain’s most northerly point. The reserve is a place of bird cries andsea smells, of myth and mist. The cliffs rise 170 metres (558 feet) above the Atlantic. During summer they are alivewith the cacophony, and raw guano smell of over 100,000 breeding seabirds: kittiwakes, shags, snipe, dunlin, goldenplover and Arctic skua, making this one of Europe’s most diverse colonies. The grasslands, moors and cliff tops are atapestry of colourful wildflowers – gentians, heather, orchids and thrift are a few of the species here.

Lerwick is Shetland's only official town with a little more than 7,000 inhabitants. Spend the morning delving into your choice of interests, from the ruins of Jarlshof, the Lighthouse and bird cliffs of Sumburgh Head, or by heading to the quieter western villages to hike, birdwatch and meet local fisherman. After dinner, the ship will attempt a landing at Foula, part of the Shetland Archipelago. Conditions permitting, enjoy an evening exploration on this remote island.

The last day in Shetland is spent anchored in a secluded fjord, just below the Hermness Nature Reserve. For nature lovers, there is no limit to the number of discoveries waiting along its paths, notably its extensive moorland and dramatic bird cliffs. For those looking to understand the cultural heritage of Shetland and the island of Unst, visit their cultural center and Viking project with reconstructed longhouse.

Nestled in the heart of the North Atlantic, the Faroe Islands are a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This remotearchipelago, composed of 18 volcanic islands, boasts a population of just 50,000, offering an unparalleled escape from the ordinary. Steeped in Viking history and characterised by dramatic landscapes of towering cliffs, verdantmountains, and deep fjords, the Faroes are a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.Over the next three days we hope to explore the islands of Sandoy, Streymoy and Eysturoy, beginning in Tórshavn, acaptivating blend of old and new. Wander through the town’s quaint, colourful houses, many adorned withtraditional grass roofs, and imagine life as a Viking settler. Encounter the iconic Faroese sheep, their woolly coats astark contrast against the rugged terrain, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the elusive Faroese ponies. No visit to theFaroe Islands is complete without a boat trip to the mesmerising Vestmanna bird cliffs. Soar above the ocean asthousands of seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots, fill the air with their enchanting calls. For thoseseeking adventure, the island of Suduroy offers unparalleled hiking opportunities. Explore pristine coastal paths,surrounded by dramatic mountain backdrops, and revel in the solitude of this unspoiled natural wonderland. TheFaroe Islands will cast their spell on you as you discover a world of breathtaking beauty, warm hospitality, andauthentic experiences.

A ship is said to be at sea when it is sailing on the ocean away from land. Life at sea can be exciting as sailors travel across vast waters. They may experience calm days, strong winds, and large waves. Ships at sea carry passengers and goods between countries. Being at sea requires skill, teamwork, and careful navigation.

Explore Seyðisfjörður, a picturesque fishing village that is renowned for its charming collection of colourful woodenbuildings located around the lagoon. Take a stroll around town and discover the timber houses that are remnantsfrom when the Norwegians settled here and established the herring fishing facilities from 1870-1900. From thevalley above the town, the river Fjarðará tumbles down in beautiful cascades to the lagoon. There are a number ofdelightful hiking trails to explore, or alternatively, you can discover a flourishing cultural scene with an arts centre,the famous blue church that stages music concerts and the only two cinemas in the east of Iceland. Back in town,browse the stores where you will discover handicrafts by local artists and artisans – perfect as a souvenir or gift.

Seyðisfjörður, a beautiful 19th-century Norwegian village on the east coast of Iceland, is regarded by many as one of Iceland's most picturesque towns, not only due to its impressive environment, but also because nowhere in Iceland has a community of old wooden buildings been preserved so well as here. Poet Matthías Johannessen called Seyðisfjörður a 'pearl enclosed in a shell'. The community owes its origins to foreign merchants, mainly Danes, who started trading in the fjord in the mid-19th century. But the crucial factor in the evolution of the village was the establishment of the Icelandic herring fishery by Norwegians in 1870-1900. The Norwegians built up a number of herring-fishing facilities, and in a matter of years the little community grew into a boom town. Today, about 800 people live in Seyðisfjörður. The local economy has long been based on the fisheries, while light industry also flourishes. Tourism is playing a growing role, as the picturesque town in its spectacular surroundings attracts more and more visitors. The car/passenger ferry Norrøna, which plies between continental Europe and Iceland every summer, docks at Seyðisfjörður every Thursday. Seyðisfjörður has been a cosmopolitan community from its foundation, and the ferry service has contributed to ensuring that it remains so.

In Iceland’s east, we disembark in Djúpivogur, our gateway to Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largestglacier.Personalise your expedition with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences that best suits your interests and level offitness.Option 1 - Waterfalls, Glacial Lagoons & Hot TubsDuration: 10 hours including driving to/from DjúpivogurLevel of difficulty: EasyMaximum numbers: 60 (2 x 30)Your first stop is at Fossárfoss, a waterfall surrounded by majestic mountains with spectacular views. The layeredbasalt flow formations that surround the area offer a striking contrasting vista making this a favourite locationamong photographers. From here we depart for Vatnajökull National Park, one of the most famous naturalattractions in the world. Explore the astonishing and exotic natural beauty of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon by four-wheeled Amphibian boat. Here we observe giant icebergs float slowly towards the ocean from the glacier.Following lunch, re-join the coach and head for Diamond beach, a black sand beach where the icebergs are washedashore, and Fjallsárlón lagoon, renowned for the shimmering icebergs that float in its waters. Concluding our day, wecontinue to the geothermal hot tubs in Hoffell, perfect for a nice, relaxing soak with an otherworldly view.Option 2 - Wonders of Vatnajökull National Park & Canyon HikeDuration: 9 hours including driving to/from DjúpivogurLevel of difficulty: ModerateMaximum numbers: 40Your first stop is at Fossárfoss, a waterfall surrounded by majestic mountains with spectacular views. The layeredbasalt flow formations that surround the area offer a striking contrasting vista making this a favourite locationamong photographers. From here we depart for the dramatic Múlagljúfur Canyon, a true hidden gem ideal forhiking. Here we navigate through overgrown bushes, small river streams, and different trails along the rim of thecanyon. Find yourself marvelling at the panoramic views of Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon, picturesque mountains, vibranttextures, and intriguing rock formations. Following lunch, re-join the coach and head for Vatnajökull National Park,one of the most famous natural attractions in the world. Explore the astonishing and exotic natural beauty ofJökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon by foot. Here we observe giant icebergs float slowly towards the ocean from the glacier.Re-join the coach for Diamond beach, a black sand beach where the icebergs are washed ashore.Note: Múlagljúfur Canyon Hike is 3.8km (2.35 miles) one way and approximately 3 hours duration. Terrain – 315metre elevation with a narrow unpaved trail with two small river crossings, very easy to cross.Option 3 - Falljökull Glacier HikeDuration: 9 hours (4 hours on the glacier)Level of difficulty: Moderate-DifficultMaximum numbers: 45Your first and only stop today is at Falljökull, one of the most impressive outlet glaciers of the Vatnajökull ice cap anda once in a lifetime experience. We will take an inspiring walk along a winding path through the glacier's dramaticallychanging landscape. Arriving at the tongue of the glacier, we will have your crampons ready and waiting for you.With your knowledgeable guide leading the way, you will soon be exploring impressive terrain, walking through awonderland of ice formations and brilliant blue colours. Following a hard-earned late lunch, re-join the coach anddepart for the ship in Djúpivogur.Note: Falljökull Glacier Hike equipment provided - ice axe, crampons, harness and helmet. The minimum shoe size toattach crampons is EU 35 (boots can be hired at additional cost if necessary). Requires a higher level of fitness andagility as you will be on your feet for a long period of time (4 hours) and the terrain is challenging. Please note thetransfer to and from the ship and Falljökull Glacier is 3 hours each way, so come prepared with a book or enjoy themagnificent scenery and a nice nap enroute.

It may be surrounded by pulse-raising volcanic scenery, boast extraordinary wildlife, and sit on a dramatic, jutting fjord - but it's fair to say Djúpivogur likes to take things slow. In fact, Djúpivogur relishes its peace and quiet so much that it's won recognition as a 'Cittaslow' - a Slow City. So prepare to take a new, leisurely look around, as you relax into the breathtaking natural glory of Iceland, and explore this unique location - filled with folklore, fabulous food and fantastic fjords.

Enjoy a morning and lunch onboard, searching for whales and seabirds. Our team of experts entertains us withinformative talks.Located off Iceland’s south coast, the Westman Islands were formed by volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago.Westman Islands are surrounded by 15 other uninhabited islands and around 30 rocks and skerries offering refugefor rich array of seabirds. Westman Islands are considered to have the largest Atlantic puffin colony in the world, andwhen sailing around the islands it is not uncommon to see puffins but also whales and seals.Personalise your expedition with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences that best suits your interests and level offitness.Option 1 - Eldheimar Volcano Museum & Puffin ViewingDuration: 3 hoursLevel of difficulty: EasyLocated off Iceland’s south coast, the Westman Islands were formed by volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago.Heimaey is the main island in the archipelago, with a population of around 4,200. Various catastrophes have befallenthe island of Heimaey and its inhabitants throughout history. Probably the most tragic incident was the volcaniceruption in 1973. Visit a unique volcano museum that tells the story of the Heimaey volcanic eruption, theemergence of Surtsey Island in 1963, and the geology of the Westman Islands.We'll continue our drive to Stórhöfði cape for some puffin watching, offering ample photo opportunities to captureshots of the charming little birds. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore the island if time permits.Option 2 - Eldheimar Volcano Climb & MuseumDuration: 3 hoursLevel of difficulty: DifficultLearn more about the geology and volcanology of Iceland during a two-hour hike up a volcano. Reaching the summit,you can still feel the warmth emanating from its subterranean activity. At the end of the hike, you visit a uniquevolcano museum that tells the story of the Heimaey volcanic eruption, the emergence of Surtsey Island in 1963, andthe geology of the Westman Islands. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore the island if time permits.Sail past Surtsey Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site that emerged from the sea in 1963 and is one the youngestland masses on earth.

The name Vestmannaeyjar refers to both a town and an archipelago off the south coast of Iceland. The largest Vestmannaeyjar island is called Heimaey. It is the only inhabited island in the group and is home to over 4000 people. The eruption of the Eldfell Volcano put Vestmannaeyjar into the international lime light in 1973. The volcano’s eruption destroyed many buildings and forced an evacuation of the residents to mainland Iceland. The lava flow was stopped in its tracks by the application of billions of liters of cold sea water. Since the eruption, life on the small island outpost has returned to the natural ebb and flow of a small coastal fishing community on the edge of the chilly and wild North Atlantic.

During the early morning, we cruise into Reykjavik and disembark at approximately 8.00 am. Farewell yourExpedition Team and fellow passengers as we all continue our onward journeys. Transfer to Keflavik airport.Note: At the conclusion of the voyage, we recommend booking flights departing after 12.00 pm on the day ofdisembarkation in case there are delays.

Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve center and government seat, is home to half the island's population. On a bay overlooked by proud Mt. Esja (pronounced eh-shyuh), with its ever-changing hues, Reykjavík presents a colorful sight, its concrete houses painted in light colors and topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. In contrast to the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík has many tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, as well as imported aspen, pines, and spruces.Reykjavík's name comes from the Icelandic words for smoke, reykur, and bay, vík. In AD 874, Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson saw Iceland rising out of the misty sea and came ashore at a bay eerily shrouded with plumes of steam from nearby hot springs. Today most of the houses in Reykjavík are heated by near-boiling water from the hot springs. Natural heating avoids air pollution; there's no smoke around. You may notice, however, that the hot water brings a slight sulfur smell to the bathroom.Prices are easily on a par with other major European cities. A practical option is to purchase a Reykjavík City Card at the Tourist Information Center or at the Reykjavík Youth Hostel. This card permits unlimited bus usage and admission to any of the city's seven pools, the Family Park and Zoo, and city museums. The cards are valid for one (ISK 3,300), two (ISK 4,400), or three days (ISK 4,900), and they pay for themselves after three or four uses a day. Even lacking the City Card, paying admission (ISK 500, or ISK 250 for seniors and people with disabilities) to one of the city art museums (Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, or Ásmundarsafn) gets you free same-day admission to the other two.