Wild Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords - M/V Sylvia Earle

Having made your way to Aberdeen (ABZ) airport, you will be met by a representative and transferred to our group hotel. Upon arrival at your included hotel, please visit the AE Expeditions hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with our ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine, local ATMs and shops for any last minute items.

If already in Aberdeen, make your way to your pre-voyage hotel. Check-in is from 3pm. Today there's free time to enjoy Aberdeen at your leisure.

After breakfast, check-out and bring your luggage to the reception area. Please place any items required for the day in your hand luggage as your main bag will be placed in the bays of the coach.

Today we explore The Granite City, visiting some of Aberdeen's most famous landmarks including the magnificent Kings College Chapel which is a fantastic example of gothic architecture and the St Machar Cathedral a 12th century church with its beautiful stained-glass windows.

Depart for Glen Garioch Distillery, a 200-year-old distillery situated in the sheltered heart of the Valley of the Garioch, blessed as it is with the north east's mild climate, plentiful sunshine and not too much rain, the Valley has long been renowned as the finest barley growing area in the country. Once home to no fewer than six distilleries, today the Valley cradles just one - this established distillery has changed hands several times and the current owners have had the distillery in their family since 1886. You will be taken on a tour of this award-winning distillery where you will see their time-honoured skills at work and see what goes into making this unique spirit. Complete your distillery journey with a taste of two whiskies from their core range and for those who wish, there will be an opportunity to visit their onsite shop.

Afterwards enjoy a scenic drive to the Huntly Falconry Centre. This centre was established in 1991 and is one of the first falconry centres in Scotland. Huntly Falconry Centre hold birds of prey falconry demonstrations throughout the season, where owls, hawks, falcons, and eagles can be seen flying every day. Marvel at the full range of bird skills during the flying demonstration before our drive returns us to Aberdeen to board the Greg Mortimer in the late afternoon.

You will have time to settle into your cabin before our important safety briefings. We will set sail for Papa Westray in the evening and meet your expedition team and crew at the Welcome Dinner.

At the Knap of Howar on Papa Westray lies the earliest known house in Northern Europe, occupied by Neolithic farmers over 5,000 years ago. Here we are welcomed by the friendly locals. Enjoy the lively Scottish dance and folk ensemble, "Poor Man's Corner," hailing from Papa Westray, set to grace the local pub with their spirited tunes. Mingle and enjoy a few drinks, while listening to the captivating melodies and infectious rhythms.\~\~

Midway between Orkney and Shetland, Fair Isle houses a major European ornithological research station and is also famous for knitwear and historic shipwrecks. About five kilometres by three kilometres / three miles by two miles in area, it is surrounded by impressive cliffs. The 70 or so islanders mainly live in traditional crofts on the more fertile low-lying southern part of the island.\~

A bird watchers\ paradise, Fair Isle lies on the intersection of major flight paths from Scandinavia, Iceland and Faroe. In summer, the cliffs teem with breeding fulmars, kittiwakes, guillemots, gannets, shags and puffins. The Isle is an excellent place to view seabirds, especially puffins at close range. Fair Isle also has over 250 species of flowering plants, including wetland flowers, rare orchids, alpine species and common wildflowers. We'll be welcomed by the hospitable villagers and may take a hike or visit the museum. Grey and common seals inhabit these waters around Fair Isle, while sharp eyes may spot harbour porpoises, white-beaked dolphins, Atlantic white-sided dolphins, killer whales (orcas) and minke whales.\~

Britain's most northerly islands lie almost 160 kilometres (100 miles) north of the Scottish mainland, at a similar latitude to the southern tip of Greenland, or Bergen in Norway. Kept relatively warm by the Gulf Stream, Shetland's 100 islands experience almost 24 hours of daylight in summer. They abound with nature reserves and archaeological sites and offer a taste of traditional island life.\~\~

Mousa Broch, on the small uninhabited island of Mousa, is the best preserved of Scotland's 570 brochs (fortified Iron Age towers). Storm petrels nest among its stones, which can be seen when visiting the broch at night. In daylight, a large colony of common and grey seals basks on its shores, and you may spot otter (Dratsi, in Shetland dialect).\~\~

Jarlshof is one of Shetland's best preserved and most complex archaeological sites. It was exposed by storms in the late 19th century. The Old House of Sumburgh, built here in the 17th century, was named 'Jarlshof' by Sir Walter Scott in his novel 'The Pirate'. The record of human occupation dates from around 3,200 BCE. Jarlshof's main Bronze Age site is the house of a bronzesmith working around 800 BC. Clay moulds into which molten bronze was poured revealed that he was casting axe heads and short swords. It seems that Shetland suited early Norse settlers, for they quickly settled here and left their mark on Shetland's history for ages to come.\~

Hermaness National Nature Reserve, is close to Britain's most northerly point. The cliffs rise 170 metres (558 feet) above the Atlantic. During summer they are alive with the cacophony, and raw guano smell of over 100,000 breeding seabirds: kittiwakes, shags, snipe, dunlin, golden plover and Arctic skua, making this one of Europe's most diverse colonies. The grasslands, moors and cliff tops are a tapestry of colourful wildflowers - gentians, heather, orchids and thrift are a few of the species here.\~

Nordfjordeid is a small town nestled at the end of the Eidsfjord, a branch of the larger Nordfjord in western Norway. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and rich farmland, the area has a strong Viking heritage\emdash it's home to one of the largest Viking longship burial sites ever discovered in Norway, with the remains of the Myklebust ship unearthed nearby. Today, the town offers a blend of striking natural scenery and deep-rooted history, giving you a chance to connect with Norway's past while enjoying the quiet charm of a fjord-side community. Depending on the day's conditions, a range of activities will be offered during our visit.

Runde is a rugged gem off Norway's west coast, famous for its dramatic cliffs and thriving seabird colonies. With just 150 year-round residents, the island becomes a bustling bird haven in summer, when over 100,000 seabirds arrive to nest. Atlantic puffins, razorbills, kittiwakes and great skuas are among the highlights, with around 80 species breeding here regularly.

We'll reach Runde by ferry and coach, offering sweeping views of the fjords and coastline enroute. At the Runde Environmental Centre, gain insight into the island's fragile ecosystem and see artefacts from the Dutch ship Akerendam, wrecked nearby in 1725 and rediscovered centuries later with its treasure still aboard.

Keen walkers can hike up to the sea cliffs for close-up encounters with nesting birds and unforgettable photo opportunities. For those preferring a gentler experience, the centre and shoreline paths offer excellent vantage points and a rich sense of place.

Located off the coast of central Norway, the islands of Hitra and Frøya are two of Trøndelag's best-kept secrets, where dramatic coastlines, rich wildlife, and deep cultural roots come together to offer unforgettable experiences. Hitra, Norway's seventh-largest island, is known for its rugged landscapes, abundant wildlife, and strong fishing traditions. Sea eagles soar above rocky outcrops, red deer roam the forests, and the surrounding waters teem with marine life. Its long history as a centre for trade and industry is still visible in preserved buildings and traditional maritime culture.

Neighbouring Frøya offers a contrasting beauty, low-lying and windswept, with a network of small islets and sheltered coves. Here, life revolves around the sea. Frøya has embraced modern aquaculture while preserving the traditions and stories of a proud fishing community. It's also home to a vibrant food scene, including local breweries and seafood producers.

Personalise your expedition with our included \ Your Choice\ experiences that best suits your interests and level of fitness.\~

Option 1: Sea Eagle Safari & the Hopsjø's Old Trading Centre

Duration: 3.5 hours

Level of difficulty: Easy / Limited seats available

Step aboard a traditional wooden sailboat and cruise the breathtaking coastline of Hitra and Frøya, where sea eagles soar in their natural habitat. With local sailors at the helm, this sea eagle safari guarantees sightings of these majestic birds. Your journey begins with a short scenic bus ride to Hopsjø, a once-bustling trading hub now rich in heritage. As you glide through coastal waters, your guide will share fascinating insights about the sea eagles and the surrounding landscapes. Back on land, walk in the footsteps of the influential Parelius family and explore Hopsjø's well-preserved trading centre. Visit one of Norway's oldest country stores, still standing as a testament to centuries-old commercial traditions. A guided tour of the Whale Hunting Museum completes your experience, offering a deep dive into the history of the nearby whale hunting station at Hestnes. This tour seamlessly blends nature, history, and culture for a richly immersive experience.

Option 2: Ocean Farm 1: The World's First Offshore Fish Farm

Duration: 4 hours

Level of difficulty: Moderate / Included: wetsuits, life jackets, glasses, gloves

Get ready for an unforgettable guided tour by RIB-boat (Rigid Inflatable Boats) to Ocean Farm 1, the world's first offshore fish farm. Your adventure begins just a short walk from the ship (approx. 800m), where the boats will be waiting. Now located at Frohavet, Ocean Farm 1 represents a pioneering step toward a new era in sustainable aquaculture. Combining cutting-edge Norwegian offshore and aquaculture technology, this full-scale pilot facility is designed to explore both the biological and technological challenges of offshore fish farming, with the potential to revolutionise the industry. As we head out into the spectacular seascape of more than 5,400 islands and reefs, we'll make a stop at Sula, a picturesque island known for its traditional fishing village and coastal charm. From there, we'll continue to Ocean Farm 1 for a close-up look at this innovative and inspiring project.

Note: RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) boats are generally considered safe and stable, but they might not be ideal for everyone with back or mobility issues due to the potential for bumps and vibrations. The severity of the bumps depends the water conditions on the day. Transferring to a RIB, or vice versa, can be challenging, especially for people with mobility limitations.

Option 3: Beer & Food Tasting at Froya Brewery

Duration: 3 hours

Level of difficulty: Easy\~(Limited seats available)

Perfect for beer lovers and curious newcomers alike, this tour takes you behind the scenes of the Frøya Brewery in Uttian, where craft beer meets coastal tradition. Founded in 2016, Frøya Brewery draws inspiration from local life, reflected in the names, designs, and flavours of its brews. After a short ride to the brewery, you'll be welcomed for an insider tour that follows the brewing process from grain to glass. The brewmaster will guide you through a curated tasting of their signature beers, ranging from crisp lagers to rich ales, each with a unique flavour profile. Local snacks will be paired to complement and elevate each brew, making for a truly satisfying tasting experience.

Sailing north of the Arctic Circle, we explore the Vega Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014. Renowned for its birdlife, Vega Island is especially famous for its eider ducks, which have long been raised here for their valuable down, once contributing up to a third of the islanders' income. The local community continues the centuries-old tradition of building nesting shelters for the ducks, who, in return, leave behind soft down after they and their chicks head back to sea. This remarkable symbiosis reflects a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for over 1,500 years. A visit to Vega offers a unique glimpse into this enduring heritage and the art of eider tending. To help protect the island's fragile environment, we will explore its natural beauty through a choice of small group guided walks.

Option 1: Guided hike to Holandsosen Nature Reserve

Grade: Easy trict maximum numbers apply.

Wander through the serene landscapes of Holandsosen Nature Reserve, where limestone bedrock, wetlands, and flocks of birds create a peaceful backdrop. More than half of the area is draped in rare coastal heather, found in few places on earth, and a key part of Vega's unique cultural landscape. This gentle 5 km (3.1 mi) hike offers a chance to immerse yourself in the island's quiet beauty.

Option 2: Guided hike to Guristraumen

Grade: Easy\~/ Strict maximum numbers apply.

Step into the rich birdlife haven of Guristraumen, where in spring, wild orchids bloom in vibrant bursts of colour. After a brief 5-minute drive to Nes, your guided walk begins, winding through peaceful paths with sweeping views. While the full trail is 6 km (3.7 mi), we typically enjoy a relaxed 3 km (1.9 mi) walk, giving you plenty of time to soak in the sights and sounds of nature.

Option 3: Guided hike to Kjellerhaugvatnet Nature Reserve

Grade: Easy / Strict maximum numbers apply.

Explore one of Vega's most valuable wetland areas, vital for countless bird species that nest, migrate, and winter here. As you stroll along this 2 km (1.2 mi) trail, keep an eye out for local wildlife\emdash elk, hares, and roe deer are often spotted in the reserve's quiet corners. A short 2 km (1.2 mi) bus ride brings you from the ship to this peaceful trailhead.

Option 4: Guided hike in the old fishing villages of Kirkøy/Nes/Holand

Grade: Easy\~/ Strict maximum numbers apply.

Step back in time with a guided walk through Vega's charming old fishing villages. Setting off from the pier, you'll follow quiet roads past Kirkøy, as your local guide reveals favourite hidden spots and colourful stories of the people who have called Vega home. This 4.5 km (2.8 mi) route offers fantastic photo opportunities\emdash capture seabirds in flight, bright spring flowers, traditional boats bobbing in the water, and the character-filled homes that dot the landscape.

Option 5 Guided tour of the Vega World Heritage Centre

Grade: Easy\~

For those who choose not to participate on a guided hike, you can enjoy a guided tour of the Vega World Heritage Centre, where you will learn about the unique life of the islanders through films and audio-guides. The Heritage Centre also has a souvenir shop and a café where you can enjoy coffee/tea and local waffles served with jam, sour cream and Norwegian brown cheese.\~

Today we explore Svartisen, Norway's second-largest glacier, accessed via a scenic Zodiac landing at Brestua. Towering above Holandsfjord, Svartisen spans over 370 square kilometres, with the Engabreen tongue descending dramatically to just 20 metres above sea level - one of the lowest terminating glaciers in mainland Europe. This makes it both visually striking and relatively accessible. From Brestua, active guests may join a guided hike towards the Engabreen front, passing through rugged terrain with stunning views of icefalls and moraine fields. For those preferring a gentler pace, the lakeside café offers a relaxing setting to enjoy the glacier's beauty or simply soak in the serene atmosphere.

We make our way to the stunning Lofoten - meaning puma's foot - Islands. This is a land scoured by ice and legend, the towering crags with their sharp edges, standing in silent protection of the villages below.\~\~\~

Personalise your expedition with our included \ Your Choice\ experiences that best suits your interests and level of fitness.\~

Option 1: Guided hike towards Tjeldbergtind

Duration: 3 hours

Level of difficulty: Moderate-Strenuous\~\~

Experience the pristine landscape of Lofoten on this adventurous hike to a mountain top overlooking the beautiful peaks of the archipelago. After a steep ascent your reward awaits you with a 360 panoramic view of Lofoten's iconic jagged mountains, picturesque lakes, and peaceful surroundings. You will also have a spectacular view of Svolvær, Kabelvåg, Vågan and on a clear day you can see the mainland.\~\~

Note: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing and wear proper hiking boots. This hike is approximately 5 km (3.1 mi) on uneven terrain with loose gravel and some steep and consistent inclines. The highest point is 367 meters (1,204 feet). Visibility of sights may be affected by adverse weather conditions. Participants should be in good physical condition.\~\~

Option 2: Taste of Lofoten

Duration: 2 hours including snacks

Level of difficulty: Easy (limited seats available)\~

Lofoten lies in the middle of what is often called „ the world's largest dinner plate„ , and the unique commodities the inhabitants of Lofoten have fed on and lived from for centuries, are in large scale. Experience real flavours and an authentic gastronomic experience.\~\~On the way to the tasting venue, you will make stops to see the fish racks and the first taste of Lofoten is served. Arriving at the tasting venue the stories and delicacies from the north continue. Enjoy dried arctic cod, salmon, Lofoten lamb, tasty cloudberries and locally produced yoghurt made from local milk grazing right by the arctic coast. You will also get a taste of roe/caviar from arctic cod.\~\~

Note: The tour includes tastings of eight delicacies and should not be considered as a full meal. Drinks are not included, and a selection of beverages is available for purchase.\~\~

Option 3: Lofoten Fishing Village\~

Duration: 2 hours

Level of difficulty: Easy\~

Combine history and culture in the urban fishing village of Svolvær. Join this cultural walk featuring the history of the fisheries, the historical land-owning fish buyers and the present-day sights in the centre of Svolvær. During this 3-5 km (up to 3.1 mi) cultural walk you will make several stops of interest and your local guide welcomes all questions and comments to ensure the best possible experience. You will visit the most important current and historical sites and includes a tasting of Stockfish.\~\~\~

Embark on a leisurely amble through the quaint village of Torsken, where breathtaking natural beauty provides a captivating backdrop. As you meander along Torsken's narrow lanes, immerse yourself in the village's fascinating history, a rich tapestry woven from centuries of fishing traditions and the enduring spirit of its community. Admire the scenic splendour that surrounds you, with the majestic Senja mountains creating a stunning panorama and the tranquil streets lined with colourful houses, each possessing its own unique character. En route, you will have the opportunity to visit Torsken Church, a cherished local landmark dating back to the 18th century. Before your exploration concludes, indulge your palate with a selection of local delicacies, not only distinctive to this region but also emblematic of Norwegian culinary heritage.

Personalise your expedition with our included \ Your Choice\ experiences that best suits your interests and level of fitness.

Option 1: Norwegian Scenic Route

Duration: 3 hours

Level of difficulty: Easy

Embark on a scenic drive through Norway's second-largest island, Senja, and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of untouched nature. As you wind your way along the ridge above the charming village of Bergsbotn, you will reach a 44-metre-long platform offering a breathtaking panorama of the Bergsfjord and its surrounding peaks. Continuing your journey, you will arrive at Tungenes, a dramatic headland nestled between Steinfjord and Ersfjord. Take a leisurely stroll along the wooden walkway that extends over the rocks, where you can admire the vast expanse of the North Sea to the west and the imposing Okshornan mountains to the north. Your adventure concludes at Ersfjord Beach, a pristine stretch of white sand framed by the island's iconic jagged peaks.

Option 2: Trek to Ravnfløy

Duration: 3 hours

Level of difficulty: Moderate

Set off on an exhilarating hike to the dramatic summit of Ravnfløy, where the stunning beauty of Senja and Ånderdalen National Park unfolds before your eyes. This adventurous trek across rugged terrain promises breathtaking rewards. As you ascend higher, you'll be captivated by the panoramic vistas of Senja's rugged coastline, majestic mountains, and pristine fjords. Halfway through your journey, we'll pause to rejuvenate around a cosy fire pit, savouring local delicacies while taking in the spectacular scenery. Reaching the summit is a triumphant moment, as you stand atop the world and capture unforgettable memories and stunning photographs.

Please note: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing and wear proper hiking boots. This hike is 4 km return, with an elevation gain of 548 meters, on a gravel and loose rock path with boulders, some steep and consistent inclines, and a short passage with some exposed areas. Participants should be in good physical condition.

Option 3: Hike to Midtertinden

Duration: 4.5 hours

Level of difficulty: Strenuous

Challenge yourself on a strenuous yet immensely rewarding hike through the heart of Ånderdalen National Park. Immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness surrounding Senja as you conquer the ascent to Midtertinden, where breathtaking views of the surrounding community, mountains, and fjords await. Your adventure begins in the charming village of Torsken, nestled amidst dramatic fjords and pristine landscapes. As you climb towards the summit of Midtertinden, the trail unfolds to reveal panoramic vistas of the Norwegian Sea, its crystal-clear waters dotted with enchanting islets. Reaching the mountaintop at 623 metres is a triumphant achievement, rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree panorama of Senja's rugged coastline, majestic mountains, and the vast Arctic expanse.

Note: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing and wear proper hiking boots. This hike covers approximately 4.4 km return, with an elevation gain of 623 meters, on a gravel and loose rock path with boulders, some steep and consistent inclines, and a short passage with some exposed areas. Participants should be in excellent physical condition.

Disembark in the early morning and bid a fond farewell to fellow travellers before a transfer to the airport to continue your journey.