Iceland, Faroe Islands and British Isles Cruise

Discover Reykjavík, Iceland's capital, where Hallgrímskirkja rises above the city skyline. See the striking Harpa Concert Hall and visit the Maritime Museum to learn about the city's seafaring heritage. Complete your visit with a stop at the Blue Lagoon, where geothermal waters offer a unique Icelandic experience.

Explore Heimaey, the largest island in the Westman Islands, known for its large Atlantic puffin colony during the breeding season. Visit the Eldheimar Museum to learn about the 1973 Eldfell volcanic eruption and see Vestmannaeyjar Bird Cliff, a popular nesting area for seabirds.

Included Activity
Pompeii of the North
1.5 hour
Travel through Heimaey to discover its volcanic landscapes and rich history. Pass coastal bird cliffs before visiting Herjólfsdalur Valley, home to Viking ruins dating back to around 900 AD. Continue along the western coast to view Elephant Rock and the volcanic island of Surtsey. Stop at Storhofdi for views of one of the world's largest puffin colonies and, on clear days, Iceland's glaciers. Drive between Helgafell and Eldfell volcanoes while learning about the 1973 eruption. Finish your excursion at the Eldheimar Museum, where exhibits explain Heimaey's volcanic past.

Hólmatindur Mountain, a skiing spot in winter, overlooks the town's red and white wooden houses. The local maritime museum documents the region's maritime history. Further afield, Hengifoss waterfall, one of Iceland's tallest falls, is known for its unique red clay layers.

Included Activity
Enjoy Eskifjordur on Foot
2.5 hours
Join your guide for a relaxed walking tour through Eskifjörður, a picturesque town beautifully set between towering mountains and the calm, shimmering sea. This easy stroll offers a wonderful introduction to the area’s history, culture, and everyday life in an East Iceland fjord community. Your walk begins at the Maritime Museum, located in a historic building originally constructed by a Danish trading company in the 18th century. As you continue along the shoreline, you’ll visit Randulff’s Sea House, built by Norwegian herring fishermen in the early 20th century and a reminder of the town’s strong fishing heritage. Along the way, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the fjord and keep an eye out for ducks and seabirds that thrive in these sheltered waters. This gentle walk is an ideal way to experience the charm and natural beauty of Eskifjordur at an unhurried pace.

Cut adrift in the Atlantic, between Scotland and Iceland, the Faroes are a self-governing archipelago in the Kingdom of Denmark. On the southern tip of Streymoy, the largest of the 18 islands, the lively little capital of Tórshavn (Thor’s Harbor) charms with its rainbow-hued clapboard warehouses, grass-roofed wooden churches and the quaint old quarter, Tinganes. Off the radar for many, the Faroes are fast becoming known for their scenery.

Included Activities
Hike with Onboard Expedition Team
Join your Swan Hellenic Expedition Team for a guided hike in and around Tórshavn, offering an active and immersive way to experience the Faroese landscape. The route will be carefully selected on the day by your Expedition Team, taking into account current weather conditions and local terrain to ensure the best possible experience. As you walk through a mix of coastal paths, hills, and open countryside, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the sea, rugged cliffs, and rolling green landscapes that define the Faroe Islands. Along the way, your guides will share insights into local nature, geology, and Faroese life, bringing context and depth to the surroundings. This flexible, weather-dependent hike is ideal for travelers who enjoy exploring off the beaten path and embracing the changing conditions of the North Atlantic, guided by experienced professionals who know the area well. Places are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis—early booking is recommended.

Panorama Streymoy
1 hrs 50 min
Board your coach at the harbor opposite historic Tinganes, the rocky peninsula in Tórshavn where Viking assemblies once took place. From here, travel onto the scenic ridge-top road that runs along southern Streymoy Island, offering wonderful views over the Faroese landscape. A first photo stop above Torshavn provides a sweeping view of the colorful capital below. As you continue through rolling green hills and sheep pastures, keep an eye out for ancient stone cairns that once marked footpaths between villages. Another stop above Norðradalur (North Valley) reveals dramatic vistas across to the island of Koltur on clear days. Continuing north, enjoy views over the fjords of Kaldbak and Kollafjørður before winding down into a valley dotted with brightly painted villages. The return journey to Tórshavn takes you through a three-kilometer tunnel and along a fjord at sea level, where you may spot salmon leaping near coastal fish farms.

Elduvík is a tiny coastal village on Eysturoy in the Faroe Islands, where guests can admire turf-roofed houses, steep green slopes and a narrow bay framed by dramatic cliffs. Here they can enjoy quiet coastal scenery, watch seabirds along the shoreline and take in classic Faroese views of the open North Atlantic. During your visit the ship will be at anchor, with landings by zodiacs, as well as zodiac scouting along the coast and the opportunity for kayaking in these sheltered waters.

Included Activity
A Visit to Elduvik
1 hour
Enjoy a warm and intimate cultural experience with A Visit to Elduvík, one of the Faroe Islands’ smallest villages, home to just 12 residents. Upon arrival, you are welcomed by representatives from the Port of Runavík and Visit Runavík before setting out on a short guided village stroll of approximately 370 meters. Along the way, local pop-up guides share stories, anecdotes, and myths that bring village life and traditions to life. A highlight of the visit is an introduction to the traditional Faroese Chain Dance. You’ll hear its story and be invited to join local dancers dressed in national costume. The experience continues in the village church, where all guests gather for a short concert and the shared singing of hymns. This visit is a carefully designed sustainable experience, developed with the local community. When ships call, relatives return to help welcome guests, and to protect Elduvík’s unique character, only three ship visits are allowed each year - making this a truly special and meaningful encounter.

Lerwick, the main town of the Shetland Islands, offers guests a mix of colorful waterfront houses, historic stone lanes and views across a sheltered natural harbor. Here they can stroll along the quay, explore the old town’s narrow streets and take in the rugged coastal scenery that reflects Shetland’s Norse and Scottish heritage.

Included Activity
Jarlshof and Sumburgh Head Bird Cliffs
4.5 hours
Depart from Lerwick, Shetland’s capital, and travel south toward the island’s most southerly point. En route, weather permitting, pause to admire Mousa Broch, the tallest and best-preserved broch in the world. Continuing along the west coast, look out for seals at Rerwick and views toward St Ninian’s Isle, famed for the discovery of a 9th-century Pictish silver hoard. The journey continues to Jarlshof, one of Britain’s most remarkable archaeological sites, revealed by storms in the late 19th century. Here, explore an extraordinary sequence of settlements spanning more than 5,000 years, from Neolithic houses and Iron Age structures to Norse longhouses and a medieval farmstead. Next, visit the RSPB Reserve at Sumburgh Head, home to Shetland’s first lighthouse, built in 1821. The dramatic sea cliffs host large seabird colonies—including puffins, guillemots, fulmars, and shags—during the breeding season from May to mid-August. Offshore waters may reveal seals, porpoises, dolphins, or even whales. After time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife, return to Lerwick, keeping an eye out for Shetland’s famous ponies along the way.

Stromness, on the Orkney Islands, is a picturesque harbor town of narrow flagstone streets, old stone houses and a busy waterfront facing Scapa Flow. Visitors can stroll along the snug main street, discover local galleries and shops, and enjoy views of fishing boats, low cliffs and the wide island seascape that reflects Orkney’s long maritime heritage.

Included Activity
Heart of Neolithic Orkney
3 hrs 45 min
Depart from Stromness and travel west across Mainland, Orkney’s largest island, passing through gentle rolling countryside into the Neolithic Heartland of Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its extraordinary prehistoric remains. Here, stop at the impressive Ring of Brodgar, a vast ceremonial stone circle dating back nearly 5,000 years and set within a dramatic natural landscape. Continue on to Kirkwall for a guided visit to St Magnus Cathedral, built by the Vikings during their 500-year rule over the islands. After the visit, enjoy some free time to explore Kirkwall at your own pace. The return journey follows a scenic circular route past Scapa Flow, before arriving back at the ship. Please note: St Magnus Cathedral is closed on Sunday mornings and occasionally at other times for services. If closed, guiding will take place from outside the building, and guests may still be able to visit the interior independently when permitted.

Portree, on the Isle of Skye, is a charming harbor town set against steep hills and colorful waterfront houses. Guests can wander the lively quayside, take in views of fishing boats and rugged headlands, and enjoy the atmosphere of the island’s main village. During your visit you will go ashore by tenders, allowing time to explore the town and its classic Highland coastal scenery.

Included Activity
Dunvegan Castle and The Cuillins
3.5 hours
Depart the charming port of Portree and drive across the lovely Isle of Skye to its west-coast to the castle of Dunvegan; seat of the Clan MacLeod chiefs since the 13th Century. One of the greatest and most renowned among the Hebridean strongholds, Dunvegan Castle is the only one to have been continuously owned and occupied by the same family over a period now spanning 8 centuries. Within the castle are priceless heirlooms, some of which have come down through the hands of the Chiefs of MacLeod since medieval times, including such treasures as the Dunvegan cup, the mysterious Fairy Flag and Rory Mor’s Horn. Explore the lovely gardens that surround the waterfall known as Rory Mor’s cascade. Enjoy the varied landscape including views of the dramatically beautiful Cuillin Mountains as you return to Portree. Return to Portree (tour will end at Somerled square and guests will make their own way to the harbor).

One of Britain’s most beautiful stretches of water, The Sound of Mull, between the Isle of Mull and the Scottish mainland, offers spectacular views with ancient castles, beaches and dramatic cliffs always on view. Distant mountain peaks, often shrouded in mist, add to the dreamlike scenery. Three lighthouses stand guard, including Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse, while a number of wrecks sit below on the seabed.

Nestled on Loch Linnhe's shores, Fort William is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife spotting such as seals in Loch Linnhe and the gateway to Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak, nearby. The Cromwell-built fort of 1654 survived a Jacobite siege in 1746. A plinth at its remnants marks the start of the 73-mile "Great Glen Way." The town's history is featured at the West Highland Museum, and the Ben Nevis Distillery is renowned for its whisky.

Included Activity
Glencoe Wonders, an adventure with a Highland Ranger
3.5 hours
A short journey from Fort William brings you to one of Scotland's most spectacular places. Surrounded by towering mountains, Glencoe is the iconic highland landscape. Travel south along the shores of Loch Linnhe to the scenic majesty of Glencoe. The glen provides some of Scotland’s most dramatic scenery and is a paradise for climbers, walkers and skiers. It is, of course, also the scene of the infamous 1692 massacre. Visit the award-winning Glencoe visitor center to learn more about the history, geology and nature of this region with exclusive use of the cinema room. Discover Clan Macdonald’s way of life by stepping in a Turf House telling the story of Highland living. Meet one of the Glencoe Rangers to discover how they look after the wildlife and rare habitats before venturing out to the glen. Get lucky and spot red deer, wild mountain goats or even a golden eagle. Continue your journey through some of Scotland's most iconic and breathtaking landscapes, offering an unforgettable experience of the natural beauty and grandeur of the Highlands. The road winds through the valley, offering spectacular views of the iconic Buachaille Etive Mòr, a pyramid-shaped mountain that stands sentinel at the eastern end of the glen. The landscape is a patchwork of lush green meadows, heather-covered hillsides, and cascading streams. Pause to photograph the famous “Three Sisters” as the mountain peaks are fondly known, before returning to Fort William.

Portrush is a lively seaside town on Northern Ireland’s Atlantic coast, known for its sandy beaches, rocky headlands and views towards the Skerries islands. Guests can stroll along the waterfront, see the historic harbor and enjoy the classic feel of a British seaside resort framed by dramatic cliffs and ocean swells. During your visit there will be landings by tenders, zodiac scouting along the rugged coastline and opportunities for kayaking in the surrounding waters.

Included Activity
Antrim Coast & Giant's Causeway
3.5 hours
After tendering ashore board your motor coach and embark on a scenic drive along the stunning Antrim coast with your expert guide. Your first stop will be a visit to the world-famous Giant's Causeway, where you'll experience its awe-inspiring beauty. The striking basalt columns, formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity, create a natural wonder that has fascinated visitors for centuries. As you stroll the Causeway, let your imagination wander—whether reflecting on the ancient volcanic forces or delving into the local myths and legends surrounding the site. Learn more with an engaging audio-visual presentation and Causeway exhibition. For those wishing to explore the area further, hop aboard the "Causeway Coaster" minibus (optional and payable directly for £1 Per Person). Next, enjoy a visit to Dunluce Castle, where you'll explore the inside of this iconic medieval fortress. Dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, Dunluce Castle (Irish: Dún Lios) stands dramatically atop a basalt outcrop, surrounded by steep cliffs. Its strategic location was of great importance to early Christians and Vikings, and its haunting beauty makes it one of Northern Ireland's most impressive ruins. Afterward, rejoin your coach for a scenic drive back to Portrush and your awaiting ship.

Set in the middle of the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man is a self-governing kingdom designated a biosphere reserve by UNESCO. Horse-drawn trams run along the seafront promenade and nearby is the Manx Museum, home to an extensive collection of artefacts documenting the history of the island. The ruined 11th-century Peel Castle is located on the island’s west coast. Renowned for the T.T. Motorbike Races, the north hosts the Isle of Man Motor Museum.

Included Activity
Steam Train & Castletown
3 hours
Departing from Douglas, your tour will take you to the south of the Island, passing over the Fairy Bridge where it is considered bad luck to pass over the bridge without greeting the “little people” (the Island is steeped in folklore, and the Islanders are rather superstitious!). Your first stop will be in Castletown, the ancient capital that traces its origins back to around 1090. During your free time, you may wish to visit Castle Rushen, one of the best examples of a medieval castle in the British Isles. Believed to have been built around 1200, the Castle served as a residence of the last Norse King of Man who died in 1265. Part of the Castle was destroyed in a siege by Robert the Bruce in 1313 but was rebuilt by Sir William de Montacute in around 1344. In the Clock Room, formerly used as the castle chapel, lies a clock presented by Queen Elizabeth I in 1597 while she held the Island in trust pending a dispute. The turret clock is of simple construction and now has a single-handed dial and still keeps very good time. Alternatively, enjoy some free time to explore the center of the town, characterized by its narrow streets and small fishing cottages. Re-joining your bus, transfer to Castletown’s train station where you will board a train on the 125-year-old Victorian railway. The railway still uses much of the original rolling stock with carriages being pulled by the original engines that first worked the line in the 1890s. From the train you will enjoy impressive view over the Island countryside during your approximate 40-minute journey. Arriving at Douglas train station, re-board your coach for the transfer back to the Sea Terminal to board your tender back to the ship.

Dublin, capital of Ireland, seamlessly blends grit and beauty with Georgian squares, parks and canals. It boasts a rich literary heritage, home to renowned writers like Oscar Wilde and James Joyce. Literary attractions include Trinity College Library, housing the 9th-century Book of Kells, and the James Joyce Center. The vibrant pub culture, with landmarks like the Guinness Storehouse and Temple Bar, adds to its lively charm.