Ultimate Cruising is excited to offer a new Scotland and Iceland cruise package, suggested by one of our cruise experts, Heather. Having lived in Scotland for many years and being married to a Scottish man, she specialises in this region and has a deep knowledge of its culture, landscapes, and local life. Her passion and expertise helped inspire this package and her guidance ensures a confident journey through these regions.

Between Scotland and Iceland lies one of the most captivating regions of the North Atlantic. Windswept islands, sea cliffs, Viking ruins and volcanic landscapes create a journey unlike anywhere else in Europe. Over 10 nights aboard Ponant’s expedition ships, Le Bellot or L’Austral, the voyage begins in Glasgow and finishes in Reykjavík. Along the way, visit the Hebrides, the Faroe Islands, and Iceland’s breathtaking fjords.

This expedition offers the chance to experience wild beauty, rich history, and striking scenery. Follow in the footsteps of the Vikings, admire Scotland’s sweeping panoramas, explore the Hebrides, and discover remote islands where nature reigns supreme. With invigorating natural and historical sites alongside abundant wildlife, this journey promises an extraordinary adventure.

 From Glasgow to the Scottish Highlands

The voyage starts in Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, situated on the River Clyde and known for its mix of Victorian and modern architecture. Key landmarks include Glasgow Cathedral, the medieval Necropolis, and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, which houses extensive art and historical collections. The Riverside Museum highlights Scotland’s transport and industrial heritage, while the Merchant City area offers shops, cafés, and a lively cultural scene. Glasgow also serves as the gateway to the Highlands, making it an ideal starting point for your expedition north.

Once aboard, the expedition sails west toward the Highlands, with the first stop at Fort William on the eastern shore of Loch Linnhe. Known as the “Outdoor Capital of the UK,” the town sits at the base of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the British Isles at 1,345 meters. Fort William provides access to Glencoe, a valley shaped by volcanic activity and glaciers, with steep mountains, deep valleys, and waterfalls. Visitors can explore historic sites such as Old Inverlochy Castle, built in the 13th century or tour the Ben Nevis Distillery, producing single malt whisky from local spring water.

The surrounding geography, including sea lochs, mountain and peat bogs has shaped settlement and industry for centuries. Marine life in Loch Linnhe includes harbor seals and various fish species, while the surrounding mountains support wildlife such as red deer and golden eagles. Fort William and Glencoe provide access to hiking trails, guided tours and boat excursions, allowing to experience both the natural and historical highlights of the Scottish Highlands in detail.

 The Hebrides: Viking Legends and Ancient Stones

The expedition continues to Stornoway, the main town of the Hebrides. Founded by Vikings in the 9th century, the town reflects both Gaelic and Norse heritage in its streets and architecture. The surrounding islands feature rolling hills, lochs and small villages, representing some of the most significant and well-preserved landscapes in Scotland.

Nearby, the Callanish Standing Stones date back over 3,000 years. Arranged in a cruciform pattern that aligns with the moon and stars, these prehistoric monuments provide insight into early settlement and ceremonial practices in the Hebrides. Other historical sites include Iron Age brochs and remnants of early settlements that illustrate the islands long history of human habitation.

The islands are also home to abundant wildlife. Seabirds, including puffins and guillemots and grey seals can often be seen along the coastline. Local traditions continue to thrive, from Harris Tweed weaving to traditional folk music performed in village pubs. Guests can explore sandy beaches, walk along coastal paths and experience the islands’ self-sufficient communities and centuries-old culture.

 The Faroe Islands: Nature & Nordic Heritage

The ship then sails north to the Faroe Islands, an isolated archipelago located between Scotland and Iceland. Comprising 18 islands, the Faroes are known for their dramatic cliffs, steep mountains, and green, rolling plains, with sheep outnumbering the human population.

On Suduroy Island, the southernmost island, visitors can explore rugged coastal cliffs and traditional villages, as well as hiking trails that pass peat fields and stone sheepfolds. The island serves as an important breeding ground for seabirds, including puffins, kittiwakes, guillemots and northern fulmars.

Streymoy, the largest and most populated island, features basalt cliffs, fjords, and verdant hills. Small villages such as Saksun and Vestmanna offer examples of Faroese culture, including turf-roofed houses, black-tarred wooden churches, and centuries-old fishing traditions. The islands’ geography and climate reflect Nordic cosmogony and Viking heritage, with a landscape shaped by ocean winds and volcanic activity.

The Faroe Islands provide both natural and cultural exploration, from birdwatching and hiking to visiting historical villages, offering an authentic experience of one of Europe’s most remote and unspoiled archipelagos.

Iceland: Fire, Ice and Legendary Fjords

The expedition then reaches Iceland, a land of volcanoes, glaciers, fjords, and geothermal activity. The journey begins in the East Fjords, a region characterized by jagged coastlines, alpine valleys, and small fishing villages where daily life remains closely tied to the sea. The coastline is dotted with rocky outcrops, quiet harbors, and rich birdlife, providing opportunities to observe puffins, Arctic terns, and other seabirds.

On Heimaey, the only inhabited island of the Westman Islands, the landscape is dominated by the Eldfell volcano, which erupted in 1973 and reshaped the island. Guests can explore steep volcanic slopes, black sand beaches, cliffs and sea caves, as well as the interactive Eldheimar Museum, which details the eruption’s impact on the local community. The island is also home to large gannet colonies, offering a spectacular display of marine wildlife.

The voyage concludes in Reykjavík, the northernmost capital in the world. The city features Hallgrímskirkja Church, the Perlan museum, and a lively historical center with shops, cafés, and galleries. Beyond the city, you can explore the Golden Circle, including the Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area and Thingvellir National Park, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. Iceland’s combination of geothermal activity, volcanic landscapes and fjords provides a breathtaking finale to this North Atlantic expedition.

Two Ways to Complete This Beautiful Cruise Itinerary

For those looking to further enrich this voyage through Northern Europe, Ultimate Cruising offers a selection of curated options to extend your experience beyond the initial journey. Our experts can arrange your international airfares along with pre- and post-cruise accommodation, including complimentary chauffeur-driven luxury car transfers between your home and the airport (within 35km)/Strata Passes at Auckland Airport.

Learn more about Scotland to Iceland - Cruise Plus with Ultimate Cruising. This itinerary is available as a 11-night fly-stay-cruise Package.

Alternatively, this itinerary can be combined with a second, consecutive expedition beginning in Reykjavík and allowing you to continue your journey with an in-depth discovery of Iceland. Departing from Reykjavík, this additional voyage explores the Westman Islands, including Heimaey with its volcanic landscapes and seabird colonies, before sailing along Iceland’s scenic coastlines, including the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The expedition concludes back in Reykjavík, showcasing the country’s diverse scenery, wildlife and coastal communities.

The Ultimate Scotland & Iceland package combines both voyages into a single, extended itinerary, offering the opportunity to travel from the Scottish Highlands and Faroe Islands to a full exploration of Iceland’s coastline in one continuous expedition.

Explore the Ultimate Scotland to Iceland Package with an extended 7-night cruise to Iceland, offering deeper exploration along with carefully arranged pre- and post-cruise arrangements.

For full details, availability, or personalised guidance, contact Heather and our cruise experts. They can guide you through the itinerary, highlight must-see destinations and help you plan this inspiring adventure.