The Jewels of Scotland

The Jewels of Scotland - 9 Days

Prices From £5,931pp
May Only | 8 nights

Single Cabins Available

The Jewels of Scotland - 9 Days

Aboard: Ocean Albatros

Explore the stunning Scottish coastline aboard the Ocean Albatros, where emerald islands sparkle like a tiara against the sea. This voyage will take you to hidden communities, ancient historical sites, and natural wonders scattered across Scotland's mountains, lochs, and bays. From the ancient Stone Age sites and Viking heritage of the Orkney Islands to the Gaelic culture of Stornoway, you'll discover stories that span millions of years.

Evening lectures from your expert Expedition Team will enrich your understanding of these islands' rich geological and cultural histories. This spring cruise offers the ultimate Scottish adventure, blending wildlife, whisky, and breathtaking scenery for an unforgettable exploration of Scotland's storied waters.

Various departures available. Please enquire for full dates and rates.

Highlights

  • Enjoy incredibly scenic coastal exploration as you sail around Scotland's emerald coastline, dotted with picturesque islands and dramatic landscapes
  • Discover ancient Stone Age sites and Viking heritage on the Orkney Islands
  • Visit Stornoway, the heart of Scottish Gaelic culture and language
  • Spot wildlife such as puffins, dolphins, orcas, and maybe even the rare white-tailed eagle
  • Marvel at the rugged beauty of the Northwest Highlands and the towering mountains of Invergordon
  • Benefit from evening lectures by your knowledgeable Expedition Team on the region’s geology, history, and ecology
  • Special photo workshop

What's Included

  • Full board accommodation on board ship with all meals, tea, coffee and snacks
  • Dinner drink package, and welcome and farewell cocktails
  • Near-port nature walks and Zodiac cruises with the expedition team
  • Special photo workshop
  • Informative lecture and presentation programme

Single Cabins Available

This vessel offers single occupancy cabins, which is a perfect option for solo travellers. Travelling alone is often the best way to see the world. No responsibilities, no difficult choices and no trying to please anyone else…just you, your itinerary and your adventurous spirit!

Our popularitinerary Suggestions

All our itinerary holidays are fully customisable

Aberdeen - Embark
1Day

Aberdeen - Embark

Your exciting Scotland cruise begins in the “Granite City” of Aberdeen where, having made your way here independently, you will head to the docks for afternoon embarkation. Settle in to your very comfortable cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship. After the mandatory safety briefings, you can enjoy a welcome cocktail as we sail out along the coast of North East Scotland.

Scrabster, Caithness
2Day

Scrabster, Caithness

Our first stop will take us to Scrabster, the northernmost tip of mainland Great Britain. Located adjacent to the town of Thurso, Scrabster offers scenic, wild landscapes. We will make land here and the rest of the day will be at your leisure. A short distance from Scrabster lies John o' Groats, the traditional northernmost point of mainland Britain, known for its windswept promontory. It's a popular starting point for those embarking on the 1,410km journey to Land's End in Cornwall, often under the watchful eye of local police due to speed record attempts.

Close to John o’ Groats you can also find the Castle of Mey. This 16th-century castle was restored by Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in the 1960s. Now managed by a charity, it is open to visitors during the summer, except when King Charles III is in residence.

Stornoway, Isle of Lewis
3Day

Stornoway, Isle of Lewis

From Scrabster, we will journey through the Minch to the remote Outer Hebrides, arriving at the Isle of Lewis. This rugged island, known for its heather-clad moors and tranquil lochs, is home to Stornoway, a harbour town rich in Scottish Gaelic culture. Stornoway is the third largest town in Scotland’s islands, where life revolves around the bustling harbour, where modern energy vessels and traditional fishing boats coexist. Experience the local culture firsthand, from fishermen conversing in Gaelic to the aroma of peat-smoked kippers and salmon wafting through the air.

Beyond Stornoway, discover the stunning landscapes of Lewis, including the ancient Calanish Standing Stones, a remarkable Neolithic site. Closer to town, visit Lews Castle, a stately home with a storied past. The town centre also offers a range of boutique shops, perfect for picking up Harris Tweed, the iconic fabric of the Hebrides. Whether exploring historic sites or enjoying local cuisine, Stornoway provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

Sound of Mull, Oban, Argyll & Bute
4Day

Sound of Mull, Oban, Argyll & Bute

Begin your day by joining your expedition team on deck as the Ocean Albatros cruises through the breathtaking Sound of Mull. This stunning waterway, separating the Isle of Mull from the Scottish mainland, is framed by wild mountains, lush forests, and charming colorful villages. As you approach Oban, keep an eye out for the iconic Lismore Lighthouse and watch the waters for sightings of dolphins, otters, and even basking sharks, all of which thrive in the Sound's cold, calm waters.

Arriving in Oban, known as Scotland's "island gateway," you'll find a bustling town that swells with visitors during the summer. Oban is perfectly situated for exploring the surrounding areas: the Inner Hebrides to the west, Fort William and the Great Glen to the north, and the unspoiled Highland wilderness to the east. The town is renowned for its culinary offerings, especially its fresh seafood and world-famous smoked salmon, best enjoyed with a local whisky while overlooking the scenic waters of the Inner Hebrides.

Loch Torridon, Northwest Highlands
5Day

Loch Torridon, Northwest Highlands

Upon arriving at Loch Torridon, you might feel as though you've stepped into the fjords of Norway. This spectacular waterway, with its steep, glacier-carved sides, is a testament to the power of ancient natural forces. The rocks surrounding the loch tell a geological story that stretches back 3 billion years, revealing the history of oceans opening and closing, mountains rising and falling, and even a meteorite impact. Early geologists were intrigued by these rocks, which share more in common with those of Greenland than with the rest of Europe.

The landscape of Loch Torridon is as dramatic as its history. Snow-capped mountains rise above rolling hills, with wind-sculpted trees standing as silent witnesses to the relentless weather of the northwest Highlands. The loch's steely waters are home to a rich variety of wildlife, including otters, seals, and dolphins. Join your Expedition Team for a Zodiac cruise through this awe-inspiring landscape, where you can search for this wildlife and keep an eye out for white-tailed eagles, one of Britain’s largest and rarest birds.

Kirkwall, Orkney
6Day

Kirkwall, Orkney

Having navigated around Cape Wrath overnight, this morning you will arrive at Kirkwall, the main port of the Orkney Isles. Located off Scotland's northern coast, Orkney, known in Old Norse as the "Seal Islands," is steeped in wildlife and Viking history. These islands, which became part of Scotland in 1472 as part of a royal dowry from Norway, still proudly display their Nordic heritage in local customs, place names, and even the distinctive Nordic flag.

Orkney's history, however, stretches back much further, with a wealth of ancient sites dating to the Neolithic era. The islands are home to the UNESCO-listed Neolithic Heart of Orkney, featuring remarkable monuments like the 5,000-year-old Ring of Brodgar and the well-preserved village of Skara Brae. In Kirkwall, Orkney's vibrant hub, you can explore the historic St Magnus Cathedral, stroll through narrow streets filled with independent shops, and enjoy local Scottish fare at cozy cafes. The town is also known for its whisky distilleries and its leadership in renewable energy, producing 130% of its energy needs from sustainable sources.

Lerwick, Shetland
7Day

Lerwick, Shetland

As you approach Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, you'll arrive in the northernmost part of the United Kingdom, a group of over 100 islands, of which only 15 are inhabited year-round. Shetland’s rich history dates back to the Neolithic period and was part of the Kingdom of Norway until the late 1400s. The islands still retain strong Norse connections, evident in the local flag, place names, and the annual Up Helly Aa Fire Festival. Modern Lerwick is a bustling town that thrives on industries like oil, gas, green energy, and tourism. Take a stroll through the lively high street, visit the Shetland Museum and Archives, or enjoy the activity at the busy harbour.

Shetland's historical roots run deep, with numerous ancient sites to explore, much like Orkney. Many of these, including the well-preserved Broch of Clickimin, are within walking distance of downtown Lerwick. As you explore, you'll be treated to stunning coastal views and the opportunity to spot local wildlife, such as puffins, gannets, dolphins, and even orcas. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply soaking in the local culture, Lerwick and Shetland offer a unique and memorable experience.

Invergordon, Scottish Highlands
8Day

Invergordon, Scottish Highlands

As you sail through the calm waters of Cromarty Firth, the towering legs of oil platforms bound for the North Sea dominate the skyline, dwarfing the small town of Invergordon. Set against a dramatic backdrop of mountains, moors, and glens, Invergordon is one of the gateways to the North Scottish Highlands and a surprisingly busy cruise port that welcomes visitors from around the world.

Founded during the Victorian era due to its superior harbour compared to nearby Inverness, Invergordon expanded as a naval base during the First World War. After the Second World War, the town's deep-water port became a vital hub for the oil and gas industry, bringing prosperity visible in its bustling town centre. Invergordon is also known for its striking street art, with large murals depicting local history and culture. The town serves as a popular gateway to Inverness and the Great Glen of Scotland, but many visitors are drawn to the legendary Loch Ness and the abundant wildlife, including waterbirds and dolphins, that thrive in the surrounding waters of Cromarty Firth.

Aberdeen - Disembark
9Day

Aberdeen - Disembark

Arrival back into harbour in Aberdeen signals the end of our Scotland cruise and, after a hearty breakfast on board, it will be time to disembark and make your way onwards or homewards, filled with memories of an exceptional expedition.

A view from Above

All Aboard

Ocean Albatros
Luxury  first class vessel

Ocean Albatros

The brand-new (November 2022) Ocean Albatros has been built to the highest Polar code 6 and Ice class 1A and is the ideal vessel for small-ship cruising due to its sturdy construction and X-Bow®-Infinity class, which provides high stability in rough weather and allows for the smoothest movements on high waves. Designed to surpass environmentally friendly standards, the Ocean Albatros is part of the Green Initiative Program and is a low-energy vessel with 4 diesel engines and 2 electro engines, all controlled electronically to optimize speed and fuel consumption. The ship will have more than a 50% lower carbon footprint than traditional expedition vessels. The vessel also features a Solas 2012 classification which facilitates a safe return to port.

There are 95 very comfortable and stylishly furnished staterooms and suites, which are split into 9 different categories with varying features, with many offering unobstructed sea views and many which also offer a private balcony. 12 dedicated solo travel cabins are also available without a single supplement. The communal areas on board this high-end vessel include 2 restaurants, an Albatros Nordic Bar, a fantastic panorama sauna, open-air swimming pool with lounging deck and jacuzzis, an open deck dining area, wellness area with gym and Polar spa, an observation lounge, boutique giftshop and a modern lecture theatre.

Too much to choose from? This is where we come in

Take advantage of our vast experience, passion and expertise to help you hand craft the perfect British Isles adventure for you.

Sheena Ogley Senior Travel Expert

With countless travel experiences and an enduring hunger for adventure, Sheena knows exactly what’s needed to craft a holiday of a lifetime. Her experience and generosity of spirit are legendary and she’ll help you build an itinerary that will make all your dreams come true.

Michael Gardiner Senior Travel Expert

Mike has more than 15 years of experience in the travel industry and continues to be inspired by the people, places and wildlife he discovers. His in-depth personal knowledge of a diverse range of destinations ensures your adventure itinerary will be a holiday like no other.

Simon Rowland Senior Travel Expert

Simon’s deep passion for and first-hand knowledge of a vast range of destinations all over the world gives him the ideal skills to help you create a truly unforgettable wildlife inspired adventure to the most exciting places on the planet.

Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?

Call us
0800 195 3385
Outside the uk
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43

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Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?

Call us - 0800 195 3385
Outside the uk? + 44 1625 5811 43
+ 44 1625 5811 43 Call us - 0800 195 3385

Chat Now

Request a
callback

Fill in our
Enquiry form

Book Consultation

Book a
Consultation

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