Isles of the North Atlantic
10 Days / 9 Nights On Board
Troon to Reykjavík
Island-Hop Across the North Atlantic, From the Fabled Gaelic-Speaking Western Isles, to the Windswept Faroe Islands, and On to the Land of Ice and Fire
Embark on a journey like no other, island-hopping across the best-kept secret isles of the North Atlantic. From the picturesque town of Troon (just a stone’s throw from the beating heart of Glasgow), sail first to the Inner Hebrides and discover ancient Celtic Christian heritage at the sacred Isle of Iona, before venturing on to Stornoway, Scotland’s Gaelic heartland. Next, venture off the map to lonely St Kilda, Britain’s most remote archipelago and only dual UNESCO World Heritage Site, before spending two days in the ruggedly beautiful and rarely-visited Faroe Islands. Following the trail of Norse explorers, we navigate around Iceland’s south coast before arriving in Reykjavík, Scandinavia’s most hip capital city – the perfect place from which to explore the Land of Ice and Fire.
Expedition Dates
| Ship | Arrive | Board | Disembark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ocean Victory | May 25, 2027 | May 25, 2027 | Jun 3, 2027 |
Activities: Kayaking, Photography, Citizen Science
Itinerary Overview
- Day 1: Troon, Scotland – Embarkation
- Day 2: Iona and Lunga, Scotland
- Day 3: Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, Scotland
- Day 4: St Kilda, Scotland
- Day 5: Vágur, Faroe Islands
- Day 6: Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
- Day 7: At sea, en route to Iceland
- Day 8: Djúpivogur, Iceland
- Day 9: Heimaey, Westman Islands, Iceland
- Day 10: Reykjavík, Iceland – Disembarkation
Day 1: All Aboard in Troon!
Ocean Victory awaits our guests in the quaint harbour town of Troon, overlooking the sheltered waters of the Firth of Clyde. After the mandatory safety briefings and drill, settle into your stateroom and toast your departure with an expertly crafted cocktail as Ocean Victory sets a course for the Inner Hebrides.
Day 2: Iona and Lunga
Early on the third day of our expedition, Ocean Victory will drop anchor off the sacred Isle of Iona. It was here in 563AD that St Columba established Iona Abbey – bringing Christianity to Scotland. Still a site of pilgrimage, Iona Abbey may not be the largest, but is certainly one of Scotland’s most holy and historic places. In the Afternoon, Ocean Victory will reposition to the Isle of Lunga, a natural paradise brimming with nesting puffins and other seabirds.
Day 3: Stornoway, Isle of Lewis
The capital of the Western Isles, Stornoway is the largest town on the Isle of Lewis. The Western Isles are the heartland of the Scottish Gàidhealtachd – and Stornoway is one of the few towns in Scotland where visitors can hear the Gaelic language spoken on a daily basis. However the history of Lewis stretches back far beyond the Gaels – highlights of the islands include the spellbinding Callanish Stones -an ancient Neolithic stone circle and probable ritual site.
Day 4: St Kilda
Britain’s remotest archipelago, St Kilda is Britain’s only dual UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed for both its human and natural wonders. We drop anchor in the bay overlooking the Village – a unique settlement often compared to Macchu Picchu, entirely built from stone by the islanders who once called this island home. Windswept, rugged and difficult to farm, the locals of St Kilda left for less difficult lands in 1930, leaving the island to the vast colonies of seabirds and tiny ancient Soay sheep which were once the islanders’ main source of food.
Day 5: Vágur, Faroe Islands
Vágur is the largest town of Suðuroy, the southernmost of the Faroe Islands. Treeless, windswept and rarely visited, the Faroe Islands were first discovered by Norse settlers around the year 750AD (although archaeological evidence hints at earlier settlement, perhaps from Scotland). Isolated from the rest of the Norse world, the Faroe Islands have retained a unique language and culture directly descended from the Ancient Norse. Although Vágur is a modern town with several well known art galleries and workshops, the jaw-dropping clifftop vistas have remained the same since the age of Viking exploration.
Day 6: Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
The capital and largest city of the islands, ‘Havn’ as it is called by locals is the cultural and financial hub of the islands. The narrow winding streets of the city beg to be explored, and host highlights such as the National Gallery, the Tórshavn Cathedral. No visit is complete without a stroll around Tinganes, the artfully preserved old town, where turf-roofed buildings lead to the old parliament house which overlooks the harbour, reminiscent of famous Nyhavn in Copenhagen.
Day 7: At sea, en route to Iceland
As we cross the Norwegian Sea, join your Expedition Team either on deck to watch for the plethora of seabirds which reside in this region or in the Lecture Lounge to delve deeper into the history, culture and nature of your voyage. Alternately, book some pampering in our onboard spa and relax in Ocean Victory’s hot tubs as we approach the coast of Iceland.
Day 8: Djúpivogur, Iceland
Situated on Iceland’s scenic southeast coast, Djúpivogur is framed by fjords, mountains, and rich bird habitats. It is the closest port in the country to the Faroe Islands, Scandinavia, and mainland Europe, and is a popular port of call for vessels exploring the North Atlantic. Centered around the harbor, the town dates back to the 16th century and is known for its unique public art, including the Eggin í Gleðivík (Eggs of Merry Bay) sculpture. Hikers and birdwatchers are spoiled for choice, with mile upon mile of nature waiting to be explored. One of Iceland’s most beautiful black sand beaches is just a short stroll from town and features a huge variety of bird species.
Day 9: Heimaey, Westman Islands, Iceland
Next, we visit Heimaey, the largest of the volcanic Westman Islands. Visitors can explore the dramatic lava fields of Eldfell volcano and the world-renowned bird colonies of the island. The residents of Heimaey were severely tested in 1973, when Eldfell volcano began to spew lava, threatening the town and its vital harbour. Heroic locals fought back, cooling the lava with seawater jets to save their community.
Day 10: Reykjavík, Iceland – Disembarkation
On the final day of our voyage, we arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital. Famous for its modern Nordic culture, excellent food scene, and relaxed atmosphere, Reykjavik is the ideal starting point for adventures deeper into the Land of Ice and Fire, or a convenient place to begin the journey home, brimming with memories of your North Atlantic adventure.
| Ship | Starting From | Availability | |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 25, 2027 | Ocean Victory | $7,595 | Book Now! |
Activities
(available on select departures)
- Discover Kayaking ($345)
Book in advance – pay on board
- Citizen Science (Included)
Sign up on board
- Photography Coach (included)
Available to all
Important Details
Prices based on twin occupancy except for Singles (1), Triples (3), and the Brynhilde Suite (4). A limited number of twin cabins may be sold for single occupancy at 1.7 times the twin rate.
Traveling With a Group?
Reach out to our Sales team to inquire about groups of 10 or more.
Rates vary by cabin.
A Thoroughly Modern Ship, Built for Polar Waters
The sister ship of Ocean Albatros, Ocean Victory boasts the same strikingly unconventional profile as its sibling. It’s a look that reflects decades of Polar experience and design refinement, resulting in a vessel ideally suited for the challenges and opportunities of this unique part of the world. From its uber-stable X-Bow to its heated mudroom and four exterior doors that will get you out and exploring quickly and safely, this is the ship that the polar regions – and all would-be explorers – have been waiting for.
All Voyages Include:
- Beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages with dinner
- Certified Emergency MD and Clinic
- World Class Cuisine
- Complimentary coffee/tea station
- Voyage Photographer
- Dedicated Passenger Service Manager
Ship Facilities:
- Two Jacuzzis with panoramic views
- SPA & Gym
- Multiple observation decks
- Fine dining restaurant
- 24/7 Bistro
- Private balconies with most cabins
- Generously-sized communal spaces
- Spacious bar and lounge area
- Elevator serving all passenger decks
- Library with computers
- Citizen Science Area
All Staterooms Feature:
- Exterior views
- Fridge
- Flat Screen TV
- Telephone
- Safe to store your valuables
- Independent temperature controls
- Toiletries
- Hair dryer
- Bathrobe
- USB Sockets
