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In the Wake of the Vikings: Orkney, Shetland & the Faroe Islands

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16 days from

£7299 GBP pp

* Current p/p indicative rate.

Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ships

Highlights

  • Orkney Islands’ Neolithic Wonders: Explore the UNESCO-listed ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney,’ visiting 5,000-year-old sites like Skara Brae and Maeshowe, while spotting diverse wildlife and delving into Kirkwall’s rich history.
  • Faroe Islands’ Dramatic Landscapes and Culture: Discover the Faroe Islands’ steep cliffs and grass-roofed homes, visiting Suðuroy and Thorshavn to experience traditional Faroese communities, historic Magnus Cathedral, and stunning scenery in Saksun.
  • Lofoten Islands and Troll Fjord, Norway: Marvel at the dramatic Lofoten Islands, explore the Viking Museum, and enjoy a scenic after-dinner cruise into the breathtaking Troll Fjord, with opportunities for hiking and cultural immersion in Tromsø.

Highlights

  • Orkney Islands’ Neolithic Wonders: Explore the UNESCO-listed ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney,’ visiting 5,000-year-old sites like Skara Brae and Maeshowe, while spotting diverse wildlife and delving into Kirkwall’s rich history.
  • Faroe Islands’ Dramatic Landscapes and Culture: Discover the Faroe Islands’ steep cliffs and grass-roofed homes, visiting Suðuroy and Thorshavn to experience traditional Faroese communities, historic Magnus Cathedral, and stunning scenery in Saksun.
  • Lofoten Islands and Troll Fjord, Norway: Marvel at the dramatic Lofoten Islands, explore the Viking Museum, and enjoy a scenic after-dinner cruise into the breathtaking Troll Fjord, with opportunities for hiking and cultural immersion in Tromsø.
Ship Expedition
Capacity: 132, Type: Expedition
Feture image for In the Wake of the Vikings: Orkney, Shetland & the Faroe Islands

Set sail for a 16-day adventure through the wild and windswept corners of the North Atlantic — from the mystical Scottish Isles to the dramatic Faroe Islands and along the stunning coast of the Norwegian Sea. Follow the ancient paths of the Vikings, get up close to glaciers and fjords, and discover landscapes so surreal they feel otherworldly. Along the way, you’ll explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, spot wildlife on remote shores, and uncover the deep history woven into every rugged cliff and fishing village. Starting in storybook Edinburgh and ending in Arctic Tromsø, this is the kind of journey that stays with you long after you’re home.

  • Orkney Islands’ Neolithic Wonders: Explore the UNESCO-listed ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney,’ visiting 5,000-year-old sites like Skara Brae and Maeshowe, while spotting diverse wildlife and delving into Kirkwall’s rich history.
  • Faroe Islands’ Dramatic Landscapes and Culture: Discover the Faroe Islands’ steep cliffs and grass-roofed homes, visiting Suðuroy and Thorshavn to experience traditional Faroese communities, historic Magnus Cathedral, and stunning scenery in Saksun.
  • Lofoten Islands and Troll Fjord, Norway: Marvel at the dramatic Lofoten Islands, explore the Viking Museum, and enjoy a scenic after-dinner cruise into the breathtaking Troll Fjord, with opportunities for hiking and cultural immersion in Tromsø.

Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights

25 May, 2026 to 09 June, 2026 on Expedition
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Lower Deck Twin
£7299 GBP pp
Lower Deck Twin
Located on the Lower deck Approximately 11 sq. m (115 sq. ft.) Includes 2 lower berths and one porthole Ensuite bathroom
Main Deck Twin Porthole
£7699 GBP pp
Main Deck Twin Porthole
Located on the main deck Approximately 11 sq. m (115 sq. ft.) Includes 2 lower berths and one porthole Ensuite bathroom
Triple
£7699 GBP pp
Triple
Located on the Main Deck Approximately 13.5 sq. m (145 sq. ft.) Includes 2 lower and 1 upper berth and a porthole Ensuite bathroom with hairdryer
Main Deck Twin Window
£7949 GBP pp
Main Deck Twin Window
Located on the main deck, midships (Deck 2) Approximately 11 sq. m (115 sq. ft.) Includes 2 lower berths and 2 windows Ensuite bathroom
Superior upper deck twin
£8549 GBP pp
Superior upper deck twin
Located on the Captain's Deck or Upper Deck Approximately 12 sq. m (132 sq. ft.) Includes 2 lower berths and large view window Ensuite bathroom
Deluxe
£9099 GBP pp
Deluxe
Located on the Captain’s Deck Approximately 13 sq. m (144 sq. ft.) Includes 2 lower berths and a large view window Ensuite bathroom
Suite
£9599 GBP pp
Suite
Located on the Captain’s Deck Approximately 20 sq. m (215 sq. ft.) Include a double bed (comprised of 2 twin berths), a couch and sitting area, and a large view window Ensuite bathroom
Owners Suite
£9899 GBP pp
Owners Suite
Located on the Bridge Deck at the stern Approximately 19 sq. m (208 sq. ft.) Includes a double bed (comprised of 2 twin berths), large sitting area with couch Panoramic window facing either aft or port or starboard (depending on the cabin) Ensuite bathroom
show reverse itinerary
Day 1 Edinburgh/Leith


Embark aboard the Expedition in the afternoon and depart Leith in the late afternoon. Arrival transfer included.

Meals included: Dinner

Days 2–3 Orkney Islands

Sail north to the Orkney Islands, known for their unique blend of rich history, gorgeous natural landscapes, and some of the oldest, best-preserved Neolithic sites in Europe. Visit Kirkwall, the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ where a group of 5,000-year-old sites reside. Enjoy time to explore here and see places like Skara Brae and Maeshowe. Make sure to also search for a diverse array of wildlife. You will also be able to discover other important sites like, Scapa Flow and Ring of Brodgar.

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Days 4–5 Shetland Islands

Sail to the Shetland Islands where dramatic landscapes, deep Viking and Scottish heritage, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural traditions await. Over the course of the next two days the ship will visit different parts of the islands like Lerwic and Hermaness National Nature Reserve. Search for wildlife and see ancient Viking settlement sites like Jarlshof and Old Scatness, where you can walk among the ruins and imagine how communities lived during the Viking Age. Enjoy time on your own and choose to visit the Shetland Museum which has an incredible display of the human history of these islands. On the ship cruise in Hermaness look to spot gannets and basking sharks.

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Days 6–9 Faroe Islands

Travel farther north to the mystical atmosphere of the Faroe Islands where steep cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush green hills await. Encounter traditional Faroese homes with grass roofs and close-knit communities with a strong emphasis on fishing and art. Over the next few days, spend time getting to know this stunning destination. Visit Suðuroy, the southernmost island with its own rich history and legends. Head ashore near the community of Vágur. Pass through other small communities and enjoy the landscape. Visit Thorshavn, the largest town on the islands, where you will be able to explore important historical sites on your own like Magnus Cathedral. And finally travel to Streymnes on the island of Streymoy and go by vehicle to Saksun, a small community to the Northwest where you will visit a heritage farm and admire the beautiful scenery. Spend a full day at sea when travelling between the Faroe Islands and Norway.

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Days 10–12 Southern Coast of Norway

Spend a few days cruising along the southern coast of Norway between Bergen and Trondheim. The Norwegian coast is renowned for its stunning fjords and charming fishing villages. Enjoy time off the ship in Bergen, Fosnavåg, and Trondheim. Choose to hike, see puffins, or ride a cable car. There are plenty of opportunities to make your time here as active or relaxing as you choose. From museums to trails through Norwegian forests to small mountain lakes, these next few days will be full of adventure.

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Days 13–15 Northern Coast of Norway

Continue north along the coast of Norway. Visit the island of Lovund and walk through a small Norwegian village out to their puffin colony. Learn more about the salmon industry here. Then, visit the Lofoten Islands that stretch dramatically out into the Norwegian Sea. See the Viking Museum here and learn about the area’s history and importance to the Viking Age. Enjoy an after-dinner ship cruise into Troll Fjord. Take advantage of a day to enjoy Tromsø, where you can hike, hop on a bus tour, or tour museums if you choose.

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 16 Tromsø

Shortly after breakfast, disembark at the Port of Tromsø. From here, you will need to transfer to the airport for your departing flight.

Meals included: Breakfast

Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Day 1 Edinburgh/Leith


Embark aboard the Expedition in the afternoon and depart Leith in the late afternoon. Arrival transfer included.

Meals included: Dinner

Days 2–3 Orkney Islands

Sail north to the Orkney Islands, known for their unique blend of rich history, gorgeous natural landscapes, and some of the oldest, best-preserved Neolithic sites in Europe. Visit Kirkwall, the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ where a group of 5,000-year-old sites reside. Enjoy time to explore here and see places like Skara Brae and Maeshowe. Make sure to also search for a diverse array of wildlife. You will also be able to discover other important sites like, Scapa Flow and Ring of Brodgar.

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Days 4–5 Shetland Islands

Sail to the Shetland Islands where dramatic landscapes, deep Viking and Scottish heritage, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural traditions await. Over the course of the next two days the ship will visit different parts of the islands like Lerwic and Hermaness National Nature Reserve. Search for wildlife and see ancient Viking settlement sites like Jarlshof and Old Scatness, where you can walk among the ruins and imagine how communities lived during the Viking Age. Enjoy time on your own and choose to visit the Shetland Museum which has an incredible display of the human history of these islands. On the ship cruise in Hermaness look to spot gannets and basking sharks.

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Days 6–9 Faroe Islands

Travel farther north to the mystical atmosphere of the Faroe Islands where steep cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush green hills await. Encounter traditional Faroese homes with grass roofs and close-knit communities with a strong emphasis on fishing and art. Over the next few days, spend time getting to know this stunning destination. Visit Suðuroy, the southernmost island with its own rich history and legends. Head ashore near the community of Vágur. Pass through other small communities and enjoy the landscape. Visit Thorshavn, the largest town on the islands, where you will be able to explore important historical sites on your own like Magnus Cathedral. And finally travel to Streymnes on the island of Streymoy and go by vehicle to Saksun, a small community to the Northwest where you will visit a heritage farm and admire the beautiful scenery. Spend a full day at sea when travelling between the Faroe Islands and Norway.

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Days 10–12 Southern Coast of Norway

Spend a few days cruising along the southern coast of Norway between Bergen and Trondheim. The Norwegian coast is renowned for its stunning fjords and charming fishing villages. Enjoy time off the ship in Bergen, Fosnavåg, and Trondheim. Choose to hike, see puffins, or ride a cable car. There are plenty of opportunities to make your time here as active or relaxing as you choose. From museums to trails through Norwegian forests to small mountain lakes, these next few days will be full of adventure.

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Days 13–15 Northern Coast of Norway

Continue north along the coast of Norway. Visit the island of Lovund and walk through a small Norwegian village out to their puffin colony. Learn more about the salmon industry here. Then, visit the Lofoten Islands that stretch dramatically out into the Norwegian Sea. See the Viking Museum here and learn about the area’s history and importance to the Viking Age. Enjoy an after-dinner ship cruise into Troll Fjord. Take advantage of a day to enjoy Tromsø, where you can hike, hop on a bus tour, or tour museums if you choose.

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 16 Tromsø

Shortly after breakfast, disembark at the Port of Tromsø. From here, you will need to transfer to the airport for your departing flight.

Meals included: Breakfast

Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Itinerary also available in reverse
Expedition
The MS Expedition provides an intimate small-ship cruising experience. Completely refurbished in 2009, she boasts spacious cabins, each featuring ocean-facing windows or portholes and priva…

Expedition

Length 105 metres
Capacity 132 passengers
The MS Expedition provides an intimate small-ship cruising experience. Completely refurbished in 2009, she boasts spacious cabins, each featuring ocean-facing windows or portholes and private en-suite facilities. Large common areas and observation decks provide panoramic views of the distinctive landscapes of some of the world's most remote regions. The Expedition's spacious confines can hold up to 140 passengers.
You will be given a free expedition parka jacket on all Polar voyages on board MS Expedition
  • Fast – spend less time in transit and more time exploring
  • Sturdy – excellent stability and performance in rough weather
  • Safe – designed with safety in mind
  • Responsible – environmental policies that meet and exceed industry regulations

Facilities and Amenities

  • 360° Top Observation Deck
  • All cabins with private ensuite and outside views
  • Raised Forward Observation Deck
  • Large fleet of Zodiacs with four stroke engines
  • Complimentary Wellington Boots for duration of your cruise
  • Complimentary destination guides for every passenger
  • Large headed Mud Room
  • Lonely Planet Library
  • Discovery Lounge
  • Fine dining – international cuisine in one sitting
  • Large aft deck with barbeque facilities
  • Polar Bear Pub
  • Gift Shop
  • Medical Clinic
  • Sauna
  • Computer Room with internet where available
  • Gym

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Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.

Cabin layout for Expedition
Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ship

16 days from £7299 GBP pp

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