Through the North Atlantic

The journey begins in Aberdeen. Scotland's Granite City is a city of opulence, rich history, and stunning architecture. Aberdeen, which began as a fishing and shipbuilding city in Scotland, has now become the UK's main port for oil and gas. These gleaming structures are a testament to the fact that Aberdeen is Northern Scotland's financial powerhouse.

The expedition ship is waiting to embark in the busy harbor, and its cozy rooms are ready for our guests. The expedition ship, following safety protocols will leave Aberdeen and navigate towards the historical Isles of Orkney.

We will be sailing along the north-east coast of Scotland during the night to reach Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney. Orkney is a windy island off of the Scottish mainland. Orkney means "seal Islands" in old Norse. Like many North Atlantic islands Orkney also has an interesting Viking history.

Orkney is a place with a rich history. It has one of the largest concentrations of Neolithic ruins in the entire world. They are preserved by the softly blowing beaches of the islands. The sites include the impressive stone circles of Brodgar and the intimate Neolithic homes of Skara Brae. They are preserved in such a way that they look like they were still inhabited. Orkney, Shetland and the Scottish mainland were not colonised by Norse people, but were part of Norway from the 1400s until late. The islands have a different language, culture, and architecture to Scotland. The locals in Glasgow are very proud of their Nordic heritage. It is visible everywhere in the city. From the St Magnus' Cathedral, whose founding is described in bloody Sagas, and is one of only a few churches with its own dungeon, to street names to the world renowned Highland Park Distillery.

In recent years, these islands have been of great military significance to Britain. An entire German fleet is scuttled in Scapa Flow just outside of the city. After a daring U Boat raid during the Second World War, the barricades were built between the islands. The barricades, along with the Italian Chapel built by Italian POWs during World War II, bear witness to the complex history of the islands.

Orkney is a place that has reinvented itself. Visitors are welcomed and there's a bustling port full of equipment and parts for tidal power and wind energy.

Optional excursion "Highlights Of Orkney:

Kirkwall is our departure point. We head west to Mainland, Orkney’s largest island. We will travel through rolling countryside into the Neolithic Heartland, an area that has been designated as a World Heritage Site because of its abundance of prehistoric archaeological sites. After passing the Standing Stones of Stenness we stop to visit the Ring of Brodgar, a 5000 year old ceremonial circle.

Then we continue on to Stromness, a charming fishing village. Enjoy free time after orientation to stroll through the charming streets and explore the harbour. Visit the newly refurbished Pier Arts Centre, which features exhibitions of local and international artist. Relax with a warm beverage at a café or browse the local craft shops that sell knitwear and pottery.

We then return to our coach, and we continue on a circular route that follows the coast of Scapa Flow - the British Naval Base famous for its use in World War II.

The excursion was part of an optional package of excursions and is not included in your trip price.

If you are staying in Kirkwall we can arrange a walking tour of the city, which will include the St. Magnus Cathedral, as well as the ruins and picturesque ruins at the Bishop's Palaces.