Venture along icy cold waters through the gorgeous fjordscapes of Norway and Scotland's mysterious islands before sailing on to Edinburgh for a proper Scottish welcome. This 16-day expedition brings you to important sites of Norway’s ancient history, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the iconic landscapes of Scotland for some of the most incredible sights you'll ever lay eyes on whether by sea, air, or land. Your arrival in Edinburgh will give you a chance to embrace its charm before your wondrous journey comes to a close.
Day 1 Tromsø
Welcome to Tromsø, the capital of northern Norway, known as the "Gateway to the Arctic". Embark in the afternoon. Consider arriving early to explore Tromsø.
Day 2 Nordkapp
Explore one of the most northern points in Europe. A popular spot to watch the midnight sun during the summer months, as the sun never sets between the middle of May to late August, this cape is the location where the Atlantic and Arctic oceans meet. Explore the barren landscape, quaint fishing villages, and stop by the Northern Cape Plateau standing 307 m above the sea.
Day 3 At Sea
Enjoy a day at sea, taking in the stunning scenery of the Arctic. Keep a sharp eye while on deck to try and spot marine wildlife.
Day 4 Trollfjord/Lofoten Islands
Spend the early morning at the short, yet dramatic Trollfjord. Try to spot the mythical creatures along the cliffs. Head ashore in Svolvaer to explore the Lofoten Islands by coach. Stop in Henningsvær for time to see local art or explore the quaint fishing village. After, visit Nusfjord, one of Norway's oldest and best-preserved fishing villages for lunch at a local restaurant, before visiting the Tørrfiskmuseum to learn about traditional work of the islands. End the day in the town of Å.
Day 5 Svartisen/Vikingen/Lovund
Visit Svartisen, Lovund and Vikingen, for beautiful glaciers and a globe sculpture which marks Vikingen as a point directly on the Arctic Circle.
Day 6 Vega/Torghatten
The rugged coastline of central Norway features some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. Head to the quaint and picturesque Vega Island, a UNESCO site. Wander the fishing villages, go on a guided nature hike, and appreciate the slow pace of life. In the afternoon, hike up to the famous hole in the mountain, with fantastic views of the region. Keep an eye out for Norway's mythical trolls.
Day 7 Trondheim
Continue on to Trondheim. Choose between hiking in Bymarka Nature Reserve before visiting the Sverresborg Folk Museum, or enjoying a city tour including the Folk Museum and the elaborate Nidaros Cathedral, built between 1070 and 1300. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the area on your own.
Day 8 Geiranger
Sail deep into one of Norway's most beautiful, and most visited, fjords. Enjoy a coach tour to Dalsnibba, soaking in the views at this UNESCO World Heritage site. For the more adventurous, opt for a 10km mountain hike exploring the area and taking in amazing views of the fjord from above.
Day 9 Olden
Cruise into the Olden Fjord before a short bus ride to the Birksdal area. Enjoy a moderate hike to Briksdalbreen glacier, or, for an easier option, take a trolley ride with a shorter walk to make it to the glacier lake.
Day 10 Flåm
Hop on the Flåm Railway, travelling through valleys and mountain passes to reach the scenic fjord of the Flåm district.
Day 11 Shetland Islands
Continue southwards to the remote Shetland Islands. Opt to visit Jarlshof or join the Puffin Bus to focus on puffins and seabird photography at Sumbrugh Head (weather dependent). Enjoy additional time to explore Lerwick.
Day 12 Orkney Islands
Visit historic and mystical sites by coach on this remote island. Explore the Standing Stones of Stenness, the intriguing Ring of Brodgar, and the village of Skara Brae.
Day 13 Edinburgh
Cruise overnight to Edinburgh's Port of Leith, then disembark the G Expedition in the morning.
This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Edinburgh.
Day 14 Edinburgh
Enjoy a walking tour of Edinburgh and a visit to the famous Edinburgh Castle. The afternoon is free to discover at your own pace.
Day 15 Scottish Highlands
Enjoy a day trip to the Scottish Highlands. Explore Stirling on a guided tour of the old town including Stirling Castle. Continue to Wallace Monument and learn about the infamous battle of Bannockburn. Enjoy some free time in Stirling for lunch. After lunch visit Deanston Distillery and enjoy a tasting before returning to Edinburgh for the night.
Day 16 Edinburgh
Depart at any time.
- 12 nts aboard the G Expedition
- Meeting point to ship transfer
- Zodiac and land excursions with our expert expedition team
- Lectures and educational programs
- Nordkapp excursion
- Local village visit (Lofoten Islands)
- Svartisen glacier excursion
- Vega Island visit
- Trondheim visit
- Geirangerfjord visit
- Flåm Railway excursion and Olden visit
- Shetland Islands visit
- Orkney Islands guided tour of ancient ruins
- Waterproof boots supplied for USA sizes 4 - 16
- Expedition parka
- Edinburgh city tour
- Edinburgh Castle visit
- Day trip to Scottish Highlands
- 15 breakfasts
- 11 lunches
- 12 dinners
Reference : GAH