Scottish Isles & Norwegian Arctic - 10 Day Cruise
This 9-night itinerary traces a path between Norway’s Arctic landscapes and Scotland’s remote isles, shaped by dramatic coastlines, ancient history, and abundant wildlife. Sail through towering fjords and past the jagged peaks of the Lofoten Islands, where fishing villages and seabird colonies flourish. Along Norway’s coast, discover small towns and open seascapes alive with maritime traditions before crossing into Scotland. Here, prehistoric stone circles, Iron Age towers, and UNESCO-protected St Kilda reveal stories of past civilizations, while islands such as Staffa and Iona inspire with their local basalt cliffs, sea caves, and spiritual heritage.
Highlights
• St Kilda stands out as a rare blend of wilderness and archaeology, with towering sea stacks and the remains of a vanished island community.
• Staffa and Iona combine raw geology with deep cultural resonance, from basalt caves to early Christian heritage.
• The Lofoten arc delivers peak Arctic scenery — sharp mountains, sheltered fishing hamlets, and rich seabird habitats.
We begin our expedition in the charming Scottish town of Glasgow. Board Aqua Lares and settle into your luxurious suite, prepared for an adventure into the Arctic Circle.
Today, we discover Iona, a small island with a profound spiritual legacy as the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland, home to a historic abbey set amid tranquil landscapes. After lunch, head to Staffa, famous for its hexagonal basalt columns and dramatic sea caves, including the legendary Fingal’s Cave.
We land on the remote archipelago of St Kilda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Towering cliffs host vast seabird colonies, while the remains of stone houses tell of a community that once thrived in this isolated environment. The islands’ raw beauty mixed with their rich cultural past makes them one of Scotland’s most extraordinary destinations.
On the Isle of Lewis, we explore the Callanish Stones, a prehistoric circle dating back over 5,000 years. Standing on a windswept moor, these enigmatic stones evoke the mysteries of Scotland’s ancient past.
We sail into Scotland’s Shetland Islands to visit Mousa Broch, a remarkably preserved Iron Age stone tower. The site offers insight into Scotland’s early history, while the surrounding coastline offers the opportunity to encounter to seabirds and seals.
Arrive in Ålesund, renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture. Colorful buildings and sweeping coastal views make this one of Norway’s most distinctive urban landscapes.
Wake up to views of the low-lying islands and open seascapes which define Smøla. The scattered islets provide habitat for rich birdlife, including white-tailed eagles. Small fishing hamlets along the coast give a glimpse into Norway’s enduring maritime way of life.
Nestled on the Torget peninsula, Brønnøysund is framed by mountains and islands. Offshore lie natural wonders such as the Torghatten granite dome and the Vega Archipelago, recognized for their geology and cultural history. The town itself reflects Norway’s close connection to the sea and coastal traditions.
Wake up to views of Reine in the Lofoten Islands, where jagged peaks, deep-blue fjords, and colorful fishing villages reflect the region’s rich maritime heritage and traditional way of life. After lunch, we continue to Trollfjorden, a narrow, majestic fjord flanked by sheer cliffs rising up to a staggering 1,000 meters. Tender excursions bring you close to soaring eagles and curious seals along the fjord’s dramatic shoreline.
Savor a final breakfast on board before bidding farewell to Aqua Lares and the crew in Tromsø.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Cabin. From
Vessel Type: Superyacht
Passenger Capacity: 30
Length: 77 meters
Aqua Lares is a 77-metre superyacht offering an exclusive way to explore the Seychelles and Tanzania, available for both full charters and individual cabin bookings. With just 15 bespoke suites and a one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio, it provides an intimate small-ship experience that blends five-star comfort with adventurous discovery. Purpose-built for exploration, the yacht visits biodiversity hotspots such as Aldabra and La Digue, as well as remote islands like the African Banks that are normally out of reach for larger vessels. Its interiors combine European sophistication with African craftsmanship, creating a relaxed yet refined atmosphere across six decks.
On board, guests can enjoy fine dining, a spa, a jacuzzi, and inviting lounges while watching the Indian Ocean drift by. Days can be spent snorkelling pristine reefs, paddling secluded lagoons, or tracing the spice routes that once connected these shores. Evenings invite sunset cocktails on the Sun Deck or stargazing from a daybed on the Heli Deck. Whether seeking adventure or tranquillity, Aqua Lares delivers a world-class floating safari through East Africa’s most captivating seascapes.
Inclusions
• Elegant design suite accommodations
• All onboard meals
• Non-alcoholic beverages and house wines, and beer
• Small-group excursions with expert guides
• Use of snorkeling equipment
• Wet suits
• Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards
• Onboard lectures and evening entertainment
• Laundry service
• Complimentary high-speed satellite internet
• Entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park (for Galapagos cruises only).
• Provide group transfers from/to the airport if you arrive and depart on our recommended flights
Exclusions
• International and domestic flights
• Travel insurance
• Passport and visa costs if applicable
• Private transfers
• Spa costs
• Gratuities (Recommended USD20-30 per person per day for crew. Guide gratuities additional)
• Cocktails
• Optional boutique purchases
Yacht
Our Associates Include
