Cruise Overview
14-day expedition cruise from Reykjavík to Edinburgh discovering Iceland, the Faroe Islands and the Shetland Islands.
Embark on the ultimate adventure in the North Atlantic as we explore Iceland, the Faroe Islands and the Shetland Islands en route to Edinburgh.
Discover Viking heritage and distinct cultures as we half-circumnavigate Iceland and island-hop our way south aboard expedition ship MS Maud.
Visit bustling cities and tiny villages, marvel at wild scenery, and spot the seabirds and marine life that thrive in this diverse part of the world.
14-day expedition cruise from Reykjavík to Edinburgh discovering Iceland, the Faroe Islands and the Shetland Islands.
Ancient sites and modern life
Sailing from the Icelandic capital to Edinburgh in Scotland, you’ll discover the incredible natural wonders of the ‘Land of Ice and Fire’, before exploring the remote and wild islands of the North Atlantic. Experience enchanting capital cities, Iron Age sites, thriving island towns, and tiny villages where the influence of the Vikings can still be felt.
Wildlife and expansive skies
Seabirds and marine life thrive under the huge skies of the North Atlantic. Whether you’re on our small expedition boats, on MS Maud’s decks or on foot, look out for towering cliffs where seabirds nest in summer, seals lounging around the shores, and whales and dolphins splashing in the seas around us.
Know before you go
Practical information you need to know
Departures
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Adults
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Itinerary
We'll help you plan where to go, when to visit and how long to stay
Depart from Reykavik
Day 1
Depart from Reykavik
Discover Iceland's modern capital
Your North Atlantic expedition cruise starts in Iceland's art, culture and history-packed capital, Reykjavík.
If you have time before boarding MS Maud, stroll along Laugavegur with its boutiques and galleries, head to the striking Hallgrimskirkja cathedral or the fascinating Reykjavík Art Museum.
With so much to explore, you may want to come early and join one of our Pre-Programmes.
On 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
Day 2
Heimaey's explosive past
Whales, puffins and a dramatic volcanic eruption
Heimaey is the only inhabited island in the Westman Islands, found off the south coast of Iceland. It 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 Puffin Rescue Centre, and meet some of these iconic animals. And be sure to check out the volcano, Eldfell, the ‘Fire Mountain’. It's well worth the effort to climb to its summit, offering incredible views of the town below
Snæfellsnes peninsula
Day 3
Snæfellsnes peninsula
Gateway to spectacular Snæfellsnes
It's as though time has stood still at Stykkishólmur, the small fishing town in Breiðafjörður bay, where colourful houses stand out in contrast to distant mountains.
Nearby, you’ll find Snæfellsnes Peninsula National Park, with the striking, ice-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano at the peninsula’s western tip. It’s nicknamed 'Little Iceland' for its array of landscapes.
At the national park you can visit Djúpalónssandur's black sand beach and the Lóndrangar basalt cliffs. Or why not ride a snowcat to the top of the Snæfellsjökull glacier or take a guided coastal hike with a glacial cave tour.
Beautiful Patreksfjörður
Day 4
Beautiful Patreksfjörður
A stunning beach, waterfalls and a towering bird cliff
Patreksfjörður is unforgettably beautiful. Here, you’ll learn all about the fishing traditions in Europe's most westerly village.
Explore the surrounding area on a hike through the fjords or visit Rauðasandur beach and see seals. You can also join a tour to Dynjandi waterfalls – six falls combined that together make the largest and most spectacular in the Westfjords.
Although we’re outside of the nesting season, Látrabjarg is still a must-see for bird enthusiasts. Towering at around 1,400 feet and over eight miles long, the bird cliff is one of Europe’s largest, and it’s an important nesting site for puffins, Northern Gannets, guillemots and razorbills during summer.
The Northwestern Region
Day 5
The Northwestern Region
Exploring Northwest Iceland, expedition-style
One of the best things about expedition cruising is the feeling of freedom. We plan to spend the day in Iceland’s Northwestern Region, but as conditions can vary, there's no preset plan. Rest assured, your Captain and Expedition Team will find the best opportunities for adventure.
We may take you ashore in our small expedition boats for a hike or a beach clean-up. Or perhaps we’ll launch our kayaks. If we spot a pod of whales as we sail, we may stop to enjoy the sight. Be ready for anything!
Don’t forget, you can also join onboard lectures, visit the Science Center, get tips from our professional photographer, or soak in a hot tub.!
Akureyri and Goðafoss
Day 6
Akureyri and Goðafoss
See dramatic moonscapes and waterfalls
Gaze at snowcapped peaks as we cruise along Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord. It's one of the best places in Europe to spot humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises. Look out for orcas, blue and fin whales here, too.
Iceland’s 'Northern Capital’, Akureyri, sits at the fjord head. Here, you can enjoy the oasis of a botanical garden, and visit top-notch eateries and museums.
Farther afield you can visit iconic Goðafoss waterfall, where turquoise waters pound against black rocks. You can also keep an eye out for Eider and Harlequin Ducks at Lake Mývatn, one of Iceland's more active volcanic areas.
Windswept Grímsey
Day 7
Windswept Grímsey
Be immersed in breathtaking vistas and cross the Arctic Circle
A remote, windswept and breathtakingly beautiful island, Grímsey is home to a wealth of wildlife, including Atlantic Puffins in summer, and is steeped in myth and legend.
Grímsey is probably best known for its proximity to the Arctic Circle, which cuts across the island – the only part of Iceland where it does so. You’ll have the opportunity to step across that line, hopping over to the Arctic and back!
By 2050, Grímsey will lie outside the Arctic as the Arctic Circle creeps northwards at a rate of about 48 ft. a year.
Seyðisfjörður's Rainbow
Day 8
Seyðisfjörður's Rainbow
Waterfalls and wildlife in special Seyðisfjörður
At the end of a deep fjord with picturesque mountains and waterfalls lies the quirky village of Seyðisfjörður. Colourful wooden houses line the streets, while the aptly-named Rainbow Road offers a vibrant photo opportunity.
Walk to an unusual sound sculpture, Tvisongur, or take a longer hike in the hills above the town. You can also visit Skalanes, a private nature reserve home to reindeer, Arctic fox and mink. Here, scan the skies for Black-tailed Godwits, Golden-Plovers and Gyrfalcons, Europe’s largest falcon.
Remote Runavik
Day 9
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 many 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
Day 10
10th-century Tórshavn
A visit to Streymoy in the Faroe Islands
Tórshavn is located on Streymoy, the largest of the Faroe Islands. Founded by Norsemen in the 10th century, Tórshavn – Thor’s Harbour – is one of Northern Europe’s oldest capitals.
Wander along winding cobbled alleyways and past colourful, 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 capital of the Shetland Islands
Day 11
The capital of the Shetland Islands
Experience life in the capital of Scotland's most northerly 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, woollen 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
Day 12
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.
A magnet for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers, the island is home to 27 bird species. It's a vital stop for migrating seabirds, drawn to the red sandstone cliffs, green fields and moors.
Why not join a hike along breathtaking clifftop trails with the Expedition Team. 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.
A relaxing day at sea
Day 13
A relaxing day at sea
Enjoy a relaxing day as we cruise towards Edinburgh
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 Edinburgh.
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.
Scotland's crowning jewel
Day 14
Scotland's crowning jewel
Discover the many charms of the much-loved city of Edinburgh
Your expedition cruise comes to an end as we arrive in Edinburgh. After London, the Scottish capital is the most visited city in the United Kingdom, and you’ll soon see why. With streets steeped in history and a thriving cultural scene, Edinburgh offers the perfect balance between the traditional and contemporary.
If you have time, don’t hesitate to dedicate to Edinburgh the time this fascinating city deserves. 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.
What's included
expedition cruise
- A stay in a cabin of your choice
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages* in restaurants Aune and Fredheim
- À la carte Restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
- Complimentary tea and coffee
- Complimentary Wi-Fi on board†
- Complimentary reusable water bottle
- 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 tubs, panoramic sauna, and indoor 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 conditions
- Excursions and activities are subject to change
- Please make sure you meet your 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