This 7-night northern isles cruise sails from Dundee, tracing a beautifully varied route through the Faroe Islands, Scotland’s island communities and Northern Ireland aboard Ambition. Rich in maritime heritage and island culture, the itinerary explores landscapes shaped by centuries of seafaring and life lived close to the elements.
Begin in Runavík in the Faroe Islands, where colourful houses, quiet harbours and sweeping hills reflect a strong connection to the sea. Lerwick, in the Shetland Isles, reveals a proud Nordic legacy through stone-built streets, working harbours and expansive coastal scenery. In Kirkwall, the heart of the Orkney Isles, Viking history and ancient Neolithic sites sit alongside living island traditions. Stornoway, on the Isle of Lewis, offers deep-rooted Gaelic culture, windswept coastlines and a powerful sense of place.
Celebrating the character of the northern islands, this cruise is ideal for travellers drawn to distinctive cultures, dramatic coastlines and historic island communities — a rewarding voyage defined by heritage, landscape and the enduring connection between land and sea.
CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS
- Lerwick
Lerwick feels shaped by sea and sky, where stone buildings, narrow lanes and a busy harbour reflect centuries of life at the edge of Britain. From here, there’s time to explore the town’s maritime history, browse local shops, or walk along the waterfront as fishing boats come and go. Beyond the town, the Shetland landscape opens out into wide moorland, dramatic cliffs and quiet beaches where seabirds gather. Norse heritage still runs deep here, felt in place names, traditions and stories. Lerwick offers a strong sense of place - remote, resilient and quietly captivating.
- Stornoway
Perched on the wild edge of the Outer Hebrides, Stornoway blends rugged beauty with deep Gaelic roots. Discover the mysterious Callanish Standing Stones, older than the pyramids, or explore the stately Lews Castle and its woodland grounds. Watch skilled weavers craft Harris Tweed by hand, and stroll quiet harbours where time slows to the rhythm of the sea. Remote yet richly alive, Stornoway is Scotland in its rawest, most resonant form.
- Kirkwall
Rich in ancient heritage and Viking echoes, Kirkwall is the heart of the Orkney Islands. Step back in time at the UNESCO-listed Skara Brae, one of Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic villages, or walk the atmospheric Ring of Brodgar, a vast stone circle older than Stonehenge. In town, admire the striking red sandstone St Magnus Cathedral, founded by Norse settlers and still dominating the skyline. From archaeology to island charm, Kirkwall reveals layers of history in every direction.