In the Wake of the Vikings: Orkney, Shetland & the Faroe Islands - 16 Days

From £7,086

Trip Snapshot

Age range

10 - 100

Start / End

  • Edinburgh
  • Tromsø

Physical rating

3/5

Group size

1 - 128

Meals included

44

Highlights

  • Unveiling Neolithic Secrets in the Orkney Islands: Step back 5,000 years into the past on the enchanting Orkney Islands. Explore UNESCO-listed wonders like the ancient village of Skara Brae and the mysterious Ring of Brodgar, set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty and rich wildlife.
  • Shetland's Dramatic Shores and Viking Echoes: Immerse yourself in the rugged grandeur of the Shetland Islands, where dramatic landscapes meet a deep Viking and Scottish heritage. Discover ancient settlement sites, delve into local history, and cruise past stunning seabird colonies, keeping watch for diverse marine life.
  • The Spellbinding Faroe Islands, A Land of Green Hills and Waterfalls: Experience the otherworldly beauty of the Faroe Islands, a mystical archipelago defined by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and emerald-green valleys. Wander through charming grass-roofed villages, explore historical towns like Thorshavn, and connect with vibrant fishing traditions.
  • Norway's Fjordic Majesty and Charming Coastal Towns: Sail along Norway's spectacular southern coast, where iconic fjords carve through majestic mountainsides. Discover the vibrant cultural hubs of Bergen, Fosnavåg, and Trondheim, offering a perfect blend of scenic hikes, puffin sightings, and opportunities to embrace the serene beauty of Norwegian forests and lakes.
  • Arctic Wilderness and Viking Sagas in Northern Norway: Continue your journey into the Arctic wonders of Northern Norway. Witness vast puffin colonies on Lovund, explore the dramatic Lofoten Islands with their rich Viking history, and embark on an unforgettable evening cruise into the majestic Troll Fjord, culminating in the lively city of Tromsø.
  • An Epic Expedition Following Ancient Viking Routes: Embark on a grand 16-day marine adventure from historic Edinburgh to Arctic Tromsø, charting a course through the wild and windswept Scottish Isles, the mystical Faroe Islands, and along Norway's breathtaking coastline, where glaciers, fjords, and a profound Viking legacy await your discovery.
Recommended before you book

Everything you need to picture the adventure and pack with confidence — in one free PDF.

What's inside the PDF

  • Day-by-day itinerary
    Every day mapped out, covering activities, travel times, meals and where you'll stay.
  • Packing & kit list
    Exactly what to bring, from clothing and essentials to luggage guidelines and what's available to hire locally.
  • What's included
    Accommodation, transport, guides and meals, so you can see exactly what your price covers.
Free, instant PDF - no obligation

Summary

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 storied Edinburgh and ending in Arctic Tromsø, this is the kind of journey that stays with you long after you’re home.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Edinburgh/Leith

    Arrive to Edinburgh and enjoy an included transfer to the ship. Embark aboard the Expedition in the afternoon and depart Leith shortly after. Please make sure you drop your checked luggage off at the meeting point between 9am - 12pm. A local representative will be in the luggage storage room. They can provide general information about the town or your embarkation process.

    All passengers will be transferred to the ship as a group for embarkation at 4pm. Please ensure that for embarkation you have your passport accessible (not in your luggage which is being transferred separately to the ship).

  • Day 2

    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.

  • Day 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.

  • Day 4

    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.

  • Day 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.

  • Day 6

    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.

  • Day 7

    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.

  • Day 8

    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.

  • Day 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.

  • Day 10

    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.

  • Day 11

    Southern Coast of Norway

    Spend a few days cruising along the southern coast of Norway between the Faroe Islands and Trondheim. The Norwegian coast is renowned for its stunning fjords and charming fishing villages. Enjoy time off the ship in 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.

  • Day 12

    Southern Coast of Norway

    Spend a few days cruising along the southern coast of Norway between the Faroe Islands and Trondheim. The Norwegian coast is renowned for its stunning fjords and charming fishing villages. Enjoy time off the ship in 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.

  • Day 13

    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.

  • Day 14

    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.

  • Day 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.

  • 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.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Aboard the Expedition in triple-, twin-share cabins, or suites (all with en suite bathrooms and porthole or window, 15 nts). Please note that all cabins consist of twin-size berths and are ocean-facing. Suites have one queen-size bed.

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 15, Lunches: 14, Dinners: 15

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    Guided

    This adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.

  • Airport Transfers

    Arrival Only

    An airport transfer to the start of the tour is included. Please contact our team if you require a quote for a return transfer.

  • Wifi

    Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.

Dates & Prices

  • May 2027

    from £7,086
  • Sunday 23 May 2027to Monday 7 Jun 2027
    6+ spaces of 128 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £7,086
    Pay MonthlyBest offer
    Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
    Private Room from +£9,959
private departures available

Make this tour private

Every departure on this trip can be booked just for your own group — your dates, your people, the same expert local guides.

What changes when you go private

  • Travel with just your own group
    No other travellers on the trip — just the people you choose to bring
  • Travel on your schedule
    Pick your exact start date—no fixed group departures or rigid timetables.
  • Exclusively for your party
    Enjoy this handcrafted itinerary with a dedicated private guide just for you.
No obligation — we'll come back to you with a quote

Essential trip information

Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.

Frequently asked questions

  • What kind of experience can I expect on this tour?

    This adventure sails through the North Atlantic, exploring the wild Scottish Isles, dramatic Faroe Islands, and stunning Norwegian Sea coastline. You'll follow ancient Viking paths, witness glaciers and fjords, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, spot diverse wildlife, and delve into rich history and culture.
  • What are some of the key destinations and highlights of the tour?

    Key destinations include the Orkney Islands (Neolithic sites like Skara Brae), Shetland Islands (Viking heritage sites like Jarlshof, wildlife at Hermaness National Nature Reserve), the mystical Faroe Islands (Suðuroy, Thorshavn, Saksun), and various points along Norway's coast, such as Bergen, Trondheim, Lovund (puffin colony), and the Lofoten Islands with its Viking Museum and Troll Fjord.
  • What type of accommodation is provided during the trip?

    Accommodation is provided aboard the Expedition ship for 15 nights. Guests stay in triple-, twin-share cabins, or suites, all featuring en suite bathrooms and either a porthole or window. Cabins have twin-size berths and are ocean-facing, while suites offer one queen-size bed.
  • What meals are included in the tour price?

    The tour includes 15 breakfasts, 14 lunches, and 15 dinners.
  • What modes of transportation will be used throughout the tour?

    The primary modes of transportation are the Expedition ship and Zodiac boats for shore excursions and landings. Additionally, private vehicles and walking will be used for exploring on land.
  • What is the physical rating for this tour, and what should I expect?

    This trip has a Physical Rating of 3. It is accessible to most fitness levels capable of extended walks and light hiking on varied terrain. Guests should be prepared for Zodiac landings, which may involve safely navigating ice and snow on uneven ground, lifting a leg over the side of a Zodiac, pushing up, walking on wet, rocky beaches, and standing during landings. The ship does not have an elevator, requiring the use of staircases, and may encounter rough sea conditions.
  • Are there any age restrictions for participants on this expedition?

    The tour has a minimum age requirement of 10 years and a maximum age of 100 years.
  • Is travel insurance mandatory for this trip?

    Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must include coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation, with a minimum of USD $200,000. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and luggage loss is strongly recommended.
  • How are payments handled for incidental expenses on board the Expedition ship?

    The Expedition operates as a cashless ship. Major credit cards (VISA, Mastercard, and AMEX) are accepted for settling incidental bills, such as bar tabs, laundry, and crew tips, with the ship's Purser at the end of the cruise.
  • What are the tipping guidelines for the crew and Expedition Staff?

    A suggested tipping amount of USD $10-15 per person per day spent on board is customary. Tipping is a personal choice, and this amount serves as a guideline. Crew tips can be settled using major credit cards with the ship's Purser.
  • What is the policy for solo travelers regarding accommodation?

    For group trips, solo travelers are typically paired in shared accommodation (twin or multi-share) with someone of the same sex without an additional single supplement. If the "My Own Room" option is purchased, you will receive a single room for all night stops.
  • Is laundry service available during the trip?

    Yes, laundry service is available on board the Expedition ship, provided by the shipboard team, at an additional charge.
  • What items or gear are provided as part of the expedition?

    The tour includes Zodiac excursions led by an expert expedition team, informative lectures and educational programs, insulated waterproof boots (available in USA sizes 4-16), and an expedition parka.
  • What is the maximum number of travelers on this tour?

    The maximum group size for this tour is 128 travelers.
  • Are there any specific measures to reduce plastic waste on board?

    The ship makes efforts to reduce single-use plastics by providing exceptional drinking water at refilling stations and a complimentary reusable water bottle. Guests are asked to help prevent pollution by taking any non-recyclable plastic items back to their home countries for recycling.
  • What kind of guidance is provided for free-time activities and safety?

    Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will provide options for free-time activities. While these are not part of the itinerary, travelers should use good judgment regarding their safety and the operators. It's recommended to explore in small groups and use taxis for night excursions. Water-based activities should only be undertaken with a guide.
  • Who will be leading the group during the expedition?

    The group will be led by members of an expedition team, with a ratio of one expedition team member per 10 guests.
  • What emergency funds should I have access to?

    It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances that might require changes to the planned route.
  • Who can I contact for arrival issues or in the event of an emergency?

    For urgent issues, it is best to first contact the tour operator's Local Representative in Longyearbyen, Norway at +44 1858 378000. If an immediate answer is not received, leave a detailed message. Other contact numbers are available for different regions, including toll-free for North America: 1 888 800 4100.
  • Anna's profile
  • Petra's profile
  • Charlotte's profile

Still have questions?

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Please chat to our friendly team.

Get In Touch

Why book with us

  • Help Change The World

    We collaborate with local businesses and communities.

  • Best Price Guaranteed

    We won't be beaten on price. If you find this adventure at a lower price please get in touch!

  • You're In Good Hands

    We work with trusted tour operators around the world.

  • You're spoilt for choice

    We have the best choice of adventures on the market.

Similar adventures

Sign up for our deals

Stay up to date with our new latest deals & special offers!

Your email is secure and we won't send you any spam.
Feefo Rating 4.9/5

The Adventure People has been rated excellent by its customers