British Isles - FAQs

Do I need a passport to travel on a Scottish Isles expedition?

Yes. All guests must bring a valid passport, regardless of nationality. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the end of your voyage. We also recommend bringing a photocopy of your passport in case it’s needed during travel or check-in.

Do I need a visa or Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for the UK?

All non-British and non-Irish travellers must hold a valid UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling. It is your responsibility to check entry requirements and obtain any required visas or travel documents for every country visited during your trip.

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is not mandatory, but comprehensive travel and health insurance is strongly recommended for all guests travelling on a Scottish Isles expedition.

Where does the Scottish Isles expedition start and end?

Your voyage begins and ends in the Glasgow area. Embarkation and disembarkation take place at Fairlie Quay, a small port on the Firth of Clyde just outside the city.

What time should I arrive for embarkation?

Please arrive at Fairlie Quay between 3 and 5pm on embarkation day. If you arrive before 3pm, early luggage drop is available, but early check-in or boarding is not possible. The ship is scheduled to depart at 8pm.

Address: Fairlie Quay Marina, Main Rd, Fairlie, Largs KA29 0AS

Are transfers available from Glasgow Airport?

Yes. If you have booked an HX transfer, a local representative will meet you at Glasgow Airport and take you to Fairlie Quay. Transfers, shuttle buses, and taxis are also available from Glasgow city centre and Largs.

What happens if my luggage is delayed or lost?

If your luggage is delayed or missing:

Is car parking available?

Yes. Parking is available at Kelburn Estate, close to Fairlie Quay. Parking passes can be purchased for the duration of your voyage. Booking link: Buy Parking Pass – HX Expeditions - Kelburn Parking – Kelburn Castle and Estate (2027 parking will be available to book later in 2026.) Before heading to the parking area, please check in your luggage at Fairlie Quay Marina. Ensure all bags are clearly labelled with your full name and cabin number (if known). A shuttle bus will operate between Kelburn Estate and the pier. On disembarkation, the shuttle will run from the pier to Kelburn Castle from approximately 08:30. Final timings will be confirmed on board. I’m making my own arrangements. What public transport do you recommend? The most convenient option is the train from Glasgow Central Station to Largs. A complimentary shuttle bus will run from Largs Train Station to Fairlie Quay, departing every hour between 2 and 4pm. No prebooking is required, and the service aligns with the train timetable. Taxis are also available at Largs station (subject to availability). To prebook, you may contact:

What are the disembarkation arrangements?

The ship is scheduled to arrive at Fairlie at 7am. Disembarkation will take place from approximately 8-9:15am. Full details will be provided on board before the end of your voyage.

Is there a transfer from Fairlie Quay to Glasgow Airport?

Yes, but only for guests who have:

This transfer can also be purchased on board MS Spitsbergen. Your Expedition Team will confirm timings and arrangements near the end of your journey.

Is there a transfer between Fairlie Quay and Largs Station?

A complimentary shuttle will operate from Fairlie Quay to Largs Railway Station at approximately 8:15 and 9:15am, connecting with the train timetable. Final timings will be confirmed on board.

Note: On Sunday 17 May, the shuttle will depart at 9:15am in line with the published train schedule.

What should I pack for a Scottish Isles expedition?

We recommend warm, waterproof and layered clothing, including:

Conditions can be changeable, even during the summer.

Is any gear provided on board?

Yes. Each guest receives:

Do I need special footwear?

You’ll need:

Decks can be slippery, so shoes with good grip are recommended.

Will I receive an expedition jacket?

Yes. Each guest receives one complimentary wind- and water-resistant HX expedition jacket, which is yours to keep after the voyage. This jacket is designed for the variable weather conditions of the Scottish Isles. A range of additional activity equipment is also available to borrow on board as needed.

How does HX know what clothing size I need?

Before departure, you’ll receive a link to complete your Ship Manifest Information Form, which includes a section for your clothing size. This helps our onboard team prepare suitable gear for you.  Please note that sizes are a guideline only - a full range of sizes is available on board, and exchanges can easily be made once you’re on the ship if required.

Are hairdryers provided in the cabins?

Yes. All cabins are equipped with a hairdryer, so there’s no need to pack one.

Is laundry service available on board? Yes.

What is the dress code on board?

The dress code is casual and informal throughout the voyage, including evenings and dinners.

Is Wi-Fi available on the ship?

Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship. However, connectivity may be limited in remote areas. We recommend downloading apps, updates, and media before boarding.

Do I need to bring cash?

No. The ship operates a cash-free system. Any onboard purchases are charged to your cruise account and settled by credit card at the end of the voyage.

Can I bring alcohol on board?

Guests are asked not to bring their own alcohol for consumption on board. If you do bring alcohol, it will be held by the crew and returned at the end of the voyage.

What meals are included?

All meals are included:

Wine, beer, cocktails and spirits are included (excluding premium drinks).

Are shore excursions included in my Scottish Isles expedition?

Yes. A selection of shore excursions and bespoke experiences is included with your expedition. These are carefully arranged with trusted local partners and are designed to bring the history, culture, and landscapes of the Scottish Isles to life. What activities are included in the expedition? Your expedition includes the following and full details are available on board:

Some optional activities, such as sea kayaking, are available at an additional cost and bookable on board.

What shore excursions are included?

Included excursions may vary by itinerary, but typically include experiences such as:

These experiences are included in your expedition fare and are guided by knowledgeable local experts or the HX Expedition Team.

Are there optional excursions available at an extra cost?

Yes. A range of optional excursions and add-on experiences is available at an additional cost. These excursions offer deeper exploration and more specialised activities. Optional excursions:

What optional excursions might be available?

Optional excursions (prices indicative and subject to change) may include:

Availability depends on local conditions, group size, and operational considerations.

Do I need to book excursions in advance?

Included excursions are automatically part of your expedition. For optional add-on excursions, some can be pre-booked before departure, while others can be reserved on board, subject to availability. Full details will be shared closer to departure and during your voyage.

What happens if an excursion can’t operate?

As this is an expedition-style journey, all excursions are subject to weather, sea conditions, and local circumstances. If an excursion cannot go ahead, the Expedition Team will offer the best possible alternative experience whenever feasible.

What is the Science & Education Programme?

HX offers an industry-leading Science & Education Programme, allowing guests to:

No prior scientific experience is required.

How does HX support sustainability and local communities?

HX expeditions support conservation and community projects through the HX Foundation. Guests can also participate in the Green Stay programme, helping reduce water and energy use on board while supporting environmental initiatives.

Will I receive photos or memories from my trip?

Yes. After your voyage, you’ll receive a digital HX Logbook featuring photos, video highlights, wildlife sightings, and a science report from your expedition.

Is tipping expected on board?

Tipping is not expected. Exceptional service is included. Guests who wish to leave a tip may do so at Reception, where contributions are shared equally among crew members.

Should I bring my own medication?

Yes. Please ensure you bring enough prescribed medication to cover the entire length of your trip. While there is a medical facility on board, prescribed medications are not supplied.

Where should I keep important documents and medication while travelling?

We strongly recommend keeping your passport, medication, and other important items in your hand luggage while travelling to the ship, rather than in checked baggage.