NORWEGIAN FJORDS & SCOTTISH ISLES

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National Geographic Endurance

Launching in 2020, the National Geographic Endurance is a next-generation expedition ship, purpose built for polar navigation. The Category A vessel is a fully stabilized, highly strengthened ship designed to navigate polar-passages and uncharted waters all year round. Designed to provide an extremely smooth ride in even the most adverse of conditions, reduced spray on deck and wave-splicing action making for superior observation.

Day 1 Embark Edinburgh, Scotland

Overview:

Begin your epic journey in Edinburgh, Scotland. Explore this bustling city before embarking on the National Geographic Endurance for your rich, history filled adventure.

Days 2-3 Orkney Islands

The Vikings held a strategic foothold in the Orkney Islands for centuries, and their Norse heritage is still evident. Explore fascinating Stone Age sites, including the megaliths of the Ring of Brodgar and the 5,000-year-old stone-slab village of Skara Brae. Visit the medieval St. Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, which was founded in 1137 by the Viking Earl Rognvald.

Day 4 Unst

Arrive at Unst, the northernmost island of the Shetlands which harbors sheltered inlets, golden beaches, and a large nature reserve. Take to the trails onshore to skirt towering cliffs and heathercovered hills. Weather permitting, paddle the scenic coastline by kayak or cruise in a Zodiac to the farthest northern lighthouse in the U.K. Or visit the Unst Heritage Centre, which features local artifacts including handspun knit and lace, fishing tools, and wooden boats. There is an abundance of wildlife on Unst including but not limited too; otters, seals, whales, puffins, Kittiwakes, Shetland sheep and ponies with many more.

Day 5 Shetland Islands, Scotland/Isle of Noss/Lerwick

The voyage takes you across the North Sea to the Shetland Islands, where Norse and Gaelic culture intermingle in fascinating ways. Cruise below the towering cliffs of Noss, a nature reserve which harbors thousands of seabirds including puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes. Later, in the bustling seaport of Lerwick, choose from several different options. Explore the town, strolling amid 18th-century sandstone warehouses; delve into local culture and history at the Shetland Museum & Archives; or embark on a birdwatching or a geology-focused excursion. Alternatively, discover the prehistoric settlement of Jarlshof—which reveals 4,000 years of near-continuous settlement—and examine Bronze Age ruins and Viking longhouses.

Day 6 Hidra/At Sea

Drop anchor at the island of Hidra, which boasts a rich history dating from the Viking era through World War II. Explore the picturesque village of Kirkehamn by Zodiac or kayak, gliding along shores dotted with quaint, red-roofed buildings. Or venture to the town of Flekkefjord, located at the head of a vast fjord. Stroll amid the white wooden houses of the Dutch Quarter, a trading hub during the 16th and 17th centuries. Then visit the local museum which dates from around 1720 and houses a variety of exhibitions featuring traditional Norwegian interiors and textiles.

Day 7 Hardangerfjorden

Norway’s glacier-carved western coast boasts some of the most dramatic landscapes in the world. Launch kayaks and Zodiacs to explore the sublime Hardangerfjorden, the second longest fjord in the country and the fourth longest in the world. Cruise beneath staggering cliffs and rushing waterfalls. Then venture ashore to hike or bike against a backdrop of snow-dusted mountains, emerald valleys, and fruit orchards.

Day 8 Disembark Bergen, Norway

Your journey comes to an end in the charming city of Bergen. Discover the towns maritime history on a tour of Bryggen—the colorful old wharf and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Decide between spending some time staying in the city or take a transfer to the airport for your onward flight.