Set sail on an 11-day North Atlantic cruise to the region’s most captivating islands aboard the National Geographic Endurance. Start in Edinburgh, then explore ancient ruins and cathedrals in Orkney and Viking history in the Shetland Islands. Discover the dramatic fjords and turf-roofed villages of the Faroe Islands, including Torshavn and Leitisvatn’s famous “floating lake.” In Iceland, visit black-sand beaches in Djupivogur and volcanic craters in the Westman Islands, cruising past Surtsey, a UNESCO site. Hike coastal trails, visit local communities, and attend exclusive musical performances on this culture-focused trip that highlights historic sites, natural landscapes, and daily opportunities for active exploration.
Highlights
Walk Kirkwall’s cathedrals and historic stone palace ruins
Meet villagers in Eysturoy and share their traditions
Discover Shetland’s Viking roots and rugged coastal trails
Witness the beauty of the Faroe Islands in picturesque villages
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Arrive in Edinburgh and transfer to the city center. Home to the famous Edinburgh Castle, the city is full of history, charm, and things to explore. Enjoy some free time to discover it at your own pace before boarding the ship in the afternoon.
Arrive in Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands, and take a guided walk through the historic old town. Explore landmarks like the Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces and the striking St. Magnus Cathedral before enjoying some free time to wander High Street on your own. The next day, choose from several excursions that showcase the islands’ unique history. You might visit Scapa Flow, one of the world’s largest natural harbors and a key naval base during both World Wars. Or explore the ancient sites scattered across Mainland or Horse Island, from remote ruins to more recent stone structures, and discover how life here continues to blend tradition with the traces of its deep past.
The Shetlands are characterized by deep-seated cultural traditions and dramatic landscapes. Close enough to Norway to speak Scottish with a Scandinavian accent, this 100-island archipelago has never been fully tamed by those who live here. Discover some of these picturesque, rural islands with their mix of long-haired ponies, ancient ruins and windswept pastures, including a visit to the protected harbor of Burrafirth at the base of the Hermaness Nature Reserve and joining in a night of music and dance at a local community hall.
This morning, arrive in the Faroe Islands, an autonomous archipelago within the Kingdom of Denmark. The legacy of the Vikings persists here, reflected in the language of the Faroese and their love of the sea. Hike out to Leitisvatn—or the "floating lake"—for pristine views of the North Atlantic and stunning photo opportunities.
Visit Tórshavn, the colorful capital of the Faroe Islands, where homes and government buildings are capped with the region’s iconic turf roofs. Witness the 12th-century St. Olav’s Church, which is still in use today, alongside the ruins of Kirkjubøur Cathedral.
Navigate to one of the local communities on Eysturoy, the second largest island in the Faroes, to enjoy the warm hospitality of its villagers and take in the stunning landscapes and trails of their beautiful fjord.
Day 9-10: Djúpivogur, Iceland | The Westman Islands
Arrive in Djúpivogur and explore the remote black-sand beaches and steep fjords of eastern Iceland. Alternatively, visit secluded valleys and remote waterfalls in the countryside or join a hike to the black sand beaches of southern Iceland.
Later on, voyage to the Westman Islands. which were formed by undersea volcanoes between 5,000 and 10,000 years ago and are among the youngest of the world’s archipelagos. In 1963, the world witnessed on film the birth of its newest island, Surtsey—a UNESCO World Heritage site—which you’ll see as you cruise past its coast. In Heimaey, visit the crater, where the earth is still hot, for amazing views of areas that were once engulfed by lava in 1973.
Day 11: Reykjavík | Disembark Ship
1 Breakfast
Disembark in Reykjavík and transfer to the airport for flights home.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$11,5872-3 travelers
Please confirm embark/disembark locations before reserving flights, as this itinerary operates in reverse on alternating departures.
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Category 1
Located on the Fore Deck. 183 square ft room with two large windows, Alcove seating, Relax chair, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 2
Located on the Fore Deck. 205 square ft. room with two large windows, Alcove seating, Relax chair, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers.
Category 3
Located on the Main Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 4
Located on the Lounge Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 5
Located on the Bridge Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 6
Located on the Bridge Deck. 344 square ft suite with large balcony, sofa bed, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 7
Located on the Bridge Deck. 430 square ft. suite with large balcony, sofa bed, bathtub, walk-in closet, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category A Solo
Located on the Main Deck. 140 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category B Solo
Located on the Lounge Deck. 140 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
10 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 10 Dinners
10 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Assistance by the onboard National Geographic Photography Expert
Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan (aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet)
Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are available aboard the ship. Additionally, a selection of super premium wines and liquors is offered for purchase.
Crew gratuities
Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary
Selection of exploration tools curated to your destination, such as Zodiacs and glass-bottom boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment (including wetsuits, masks, and fins), and other state-of-the-art gear
Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore. Meals are inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
Hors d’oeuvres inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations
The services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic where available
Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment where available
24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library stocked with regionally relevant literature, and other shared spaces
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, Wi-Fi and phone services (except when indicated as included)
We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels
Airfare (except flights when indicated as included), pre- and post-expedition extensions, additional hotel nights, and private transfers (except when indicated as included)
Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees
Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans, which may enable video chat, web browsing, and streaming (connectivity permitting)
Additional costs associated with medical services outside onboard physician consultation (where available)
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
