NORTHERN LEGENDS

ITINERARY

Sep 15    Reykjavik, Iceland    Depart: 12:00AM
Sep 16    Reykjavik, Iceland    Depart: 2:00PM
Sep 17    At Sea   
Sep 18    Torshavn (Faroe Islands), Denmark   Arrive: 9:00AM Depart: 6:00PM
Sep 19    Stornoway, (Isles of Lewis), UK   Arrive: 2:00PM Depart: 8:00PM
Sep 20    Fort WIlliam, (Loch Ness), Scotland   Arrive: 11:00AM Depart: 7:00PM
Sep 21    Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland   Arrive: 10:00AM Depart: 7:00PM
Sep 22    Belfast, Northen Ireland   Arrive: 8:00AM Depart: 8:00PM
Sep 23    Dublin, Ireland   Arrive: 8:00AM

Day 1  Reykjavik, Iceland    Depart: 12:00AM

In the southwest of Iceland near Faxaflói Bay lies the capital of the country, Reykjavík, simultaneously cosmopolitan and charming. The colorful houses on the horizon create a quaint scene that will make you want to stay forever. Kaleidoscopic views await you at the Harpa Concert Hall, a glittering, glass structure that perfectly exemplifies Iceland’s modern design and will fascinate your inner architect. One of Iceland’s most prominent landmarks is Perlan, originally a group of hot water tanks that was converted to a building that now hosts an exhibition, planetarium, restaurant and observation deck, located atop Öskjuhlíð hill.


Day 2  Reykjavik, Iceland    Depart: 2:00PM

In the southwest of Iceland near Faxaflói Bay lies the capital of the country, Reykjavík, simultaneously cosmopolitan and charming. The colorful houses on the horizon create a quaint scene that will make you want to stay forever. Kaleidoscopic views await you at the Harpa Concert Hall, a glittering, glass structure that perfectly exemplifies Iceland’s modern design and will fascinate your inner architect. One of Iceland’s most prominent landmarks is Perlan, originally a group of hot water tanks that was converted to a building that now hosts an exhibition, planetarium, restaurant and observation deck, located atop Öskjuhlíð hill.

Day 3  At Sea

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

Day 4  Torshavn (Faroe Islands), Denmark   Arrive: 9:00AM Depart: 6:00PM

The 18 major islands making up the archipelago of the Faroe Islands lie between the Norwegian Sea and North Atlantic Ocean, about halfway between Iceland and Norway. Here, a mix of Nordic and Danish architecture amid lush, grass scenery creates a quaint image of a picturesque destination. Tórshavn, the Faroe Islands capital city, holds a competitive tradition and spirit of sporting events, including housing the largest football stadium in the district. But the city also contains an artsy energy with the annual Tórshavn Jazz Festival that takes place every August. Among the many natural treasures of the Faroe Islands is the Bøsdalafossur waterfall, a cascade that flows from the Sørvágsvatn/Leitissvatn lake into the Atlantic Ocean, creating a glassy surface amid the rugged cliffs of the falls

Day 5  Stornoway, (Isles of Lewis), UK   Arrive: 2:00PM Depart: 8:00PM

The harbor town of Stornoway is your gateway for an unforgettable adventure. Steeped in history and culture, ranging back thousands of years, you’ll find that Gaelic is spoken alongside English, and eagles and otters are as much residents as the locals. For a complete account of the social, cultural, archaeological, geological, and economic history of Stornoway, head to Museum nan Eilean. A drive along the west coast of the Isle of Lewis reveals the Neolithic standing stones at Callanish that are older and more impressive than Stonehenge. Comprising 19 monoliths, ending in a circle of 13 stones with rows of other stones radiating out in the shape of a cross, this site is fascinating.

Day 6  Fort WIlliam, (Loch Ness), Scotland   Arrive: 11:00AM Depart: 7:00PM

The Fort William area boasts the widest choices of active explorers with a penchant for the outdoors. Take in a bucolic landscape, where hills and glens, rivers and lochs, and the sea coastline all offer something to do while enjoying peace and tranquility. Enjoy an outing to Loch Ness for your chance to spot the famous Nessie in Scotland’s lake. For stunning views of one of Scotland’s most iconic lochs, get away from the crowd and head to the more scenic and wild south side. You can also find a moment of respite with a round of golf on one of the spectacular Lochaber golf courses.

Day 7  Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland   Arrive: 10:00AM Depart: 7:00PM

The historic west end of Greenock boasts impressive Victorian buildings, in particular the 245-foot Victoria Tower which remains incomplete. From there, journey to Glasgow to view the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum for a glimpse of its world-class art collection. Toast to the world’s friendliest city with a Tennent’s lager at the historic Wellpark Brewery, where you can learn about the brand’s 450-year history and its passion for Scottish football. From Glasgow, discover the beauty of the Scottish countryside on a journey toward magnificent Stirling Castle, the home of the Stuart kings and birthplace of James II.

Day 8  Belfast, Northen Ireland   Arrive: 8:00AM Depart: 8:00PM

Anticipate a vibrant restaurant scene, award-winning architecture, and friendly locals as you make your way through the historic city of Belfast. Traipsing the city center calls for a stroll through Belfast’s Botanic Gardens, 28 acres of green lawns and trees near Queens University. Emerge from the gardens at the Ulster Museum, a well-designed space with exhibits on Northern Irish history, art, and natural history. It’s also the gateway to the Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s most famous landmark deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Causeway was formed between 50 and 60 million years ago by an ancient volcanic eruption attracting visitors from far and wide to this corner of north Antrim to come marvel at its majesty and mystery.

Day 9  Dublin, Ireland   Arrive: 8:00AM

Ireland’s capital, Dublin, is bustling, cosmopolitan, ancient, and young at heart all at once. It is one of Europe’s liveliest cities, where medieval and 17th-century buildings stand comfortably amid all the trappings of a 21st-century community. Marvels like the incredible Book of Kells, one of the most beautifully illuminated manuscripts in the world, call out to the curious. A gentle and relaxing cruise along the River Liffey immerses you in the capital’s colorful history, from the first arrival of the Vikings to the rapid development of the city during the 18th and 19th centuries. When in Dublin, the Guinness Storehouse, located in the heart of St. James’ Gate Brewery, invites you to raise a glass at the Gravity Bar with a 360-degree view of the city skyline.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

ALWAYS INCLUDED

• FREE cultural immersion
• FREE dining venues with ever-changing menus
• FREE unlimited beverages, including fine wines, spirits and craft beers
• FREE open bars and lounges, including 24-hour bar service with specialty canapés
• FREE stocked in-room minibar
• FREE specialty coffees, teas and fresh-pressed juices
• FREE afternoon and high tea
• FREE champagne and gourmet canapés during meet and greet
• FREE 24-hour room service, including spirits, wine and beer
• FREE L'OCCITANE bath amenities
• FREE pre-paid gratuities
• FREE use of walking sticks and binoculars
• FREE reusable water bottle
• FREE butler service and expanded room service menu in suites

EXCLUSIVELY ON CULTURAL EXPEDITIONS

• FREE cultural immersion
• FREE enrichment programs and workshops on select expeditions
• FREE authentic, local experiences and on board events on select expeditions
• FREE Josper Grill Dining Experience at 7AFT Grill
• FREE Atlas Ocean Voyages backpack

Shore Excursions selected by AFAR as exceptional experiences to connect with local culture