Wild Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords

Upon arrival at Glasgow International Airport, transfer to the Embarkation Suite (conditions apply below). Explore Glasgow at your leisure before returning at the advised time for the group transfer to the Sylvia Earle.

Important Information

• Complimentary airport arrival transfers are available as group transfers for passengers arriving at Glasgow International Airport before 12.00 pm on Day 1 only.
• If you arrive after the airport-transfer cut-off, please make your own way to the Embarkation Suite before 2.00 pm to complete mandatory check-in.
• If you are already in Glasgow, please bring all your luggage to the centrally located Embarkation Suite and complete mandatory check-in between 9.00 am and 2.00 pm.
• At the Embarkation Suite, luggage storage, Wi-Fi, tea, coffee and light refreshments are available, along with assistance from Aurora Expeditions staff regarding your voyage and time in the city.
• Embarkation Suite location: To be advised approximately six months before departure.
• Your main luggage will be transferred to the ship at 2.30 pm. Please keep passports, medication, money, cards and anything else you may need during the day in your hand luggage.

In the late afternoon, join the mandatory group transfer to the Sylvia Earle. Once onboard, settle into your cabin before attending the important safety briefings as the vessel prepares to set sail for Scotland’s western isles. This evening, meet your Expedition Team and fellow travelers at a welcome dinner and raise a toast to the journey ahead.

Golden beaches, jagged peaks, heather-clad hills and remote island communities make the Inner Hebrides wonderfully varied. Enjoy cruising into secluded lochs, walking among extraordinary rock formations and watching for whales, dolphins, otters, seals and basking sharks.

Kayakers receive a full briefing before taking to the water, perhaps circumnavigating tiny islets or gliding through narrow island channels.

Anticipate a visit to tiny Iona, just five kilometers (three miles) long yet central to Scotland’s spiritual history. In 563 CE, the Irish monk St Columba arrived with 12 followers and established a monastery that became an influential center of Christianity. Iona is also the burial place of early Scottish kings and remains an important place of pilgrimage.

On Staffa, look forward to exploring Fingal’s Cave, where waves echo between towering basalt columns. The island’s extraordinary acoustics and geology inspired Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture. Depending on conditions, approach by Zodiac or land and walk towards the cave entrance. In season, puffins add another memorable dimension to the visit.

Far out in the North Atlantic, the isolated archipelago of St Kilda rises dramatically from the sea. Recognised by UNESCO for both its cultural and natural significance, these islands preserve the story of a community that survived for centuries in one of Britain’s most remote environments. Weather permitting, plan to land on Hirta and walk through the abandoned village, where stone houses, cleits and field walls reveal how islanders once lived, raised distinctive Soay sheep and harvested seabirds from the surrounding cliffs.

Beyond the village, immense sea stacks and near-vertical cliffs support one of Europe’s most important seabird colonies. Gannets, fulmars and puffins breed here in vast numbers, while the scale and isolation of the landscape create an unforgettable sense of wilderness. St Kilda is notoriously exposed to Atlantic weather, making any visit a genuine expedition achievement.

The Outer Hebrides form a long chain of islands facing the full force of the Atlantic. Here, empty beaches, machair grasslands, sea lochs, and weathered cliffs create a landscape of striking beauty, while abandoned settlements and archaeological traces speak to generations shaped by isolation and the sea. Plans respond to the day’s conditions, allowing the Expedition Team to choose the most rewarding landing, walk, or Zodiac cruise.

Look forward to exploring around Mingulay or the Monach Isles, among the most remote and wildlife-rich corners of the archipelago. Mingulay’s towering cliffs provide nesting ledges for thousands of seabirds, while its deserted village tells the story of a community evacuated in the early 20th century. The low-lying Monach Isles offer sweeping beaches, dune systems, and important habitat for gray seals. Whether walking ashore or exploring by Zodiac, become immersed in the elemental character of Scotland’s western edge.

Between Orkney and Shetland, tiny Fair Isle is renowned for its bird observatory, distinctive knitwear, and dramatic shipwreck history. Cliffs surround much of the island, while its small community lives mainly in traditional crofts across the more fertile south.

Positioned beneath major migration routes from Scandinavia, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands, Fair Isle is a paradise for birdwatchers. In summer, fulmars, kittiwakes, guillemots, gannets, shags, and puffins crowd the cliffs. Wildflowers flourish across the island, presenting the chance to meet local residents, hike through the landscape, or visit the museum. The surrounding waters are home to gray and common seals, with possible sightings of porpoises, dolphins, orcas, and minke whales.

Almost 160 kilometers (100 miles) north of mainland Scotland, the Shetland Islands sit at a similar latitude to Bergen and the southern tip of Greenland. Summer brings extraordinarily long days to an archipelago rich in nature reserves, archaeological treasures, and distinctive island traditions.

On the uninhabited island of Mousa stands Mousa Broch, the best-preserved of Scotland’s Iron Age fortified towers. Nearly 2,000 years old, its remarkable stonework still rises more than 13 meters. Look forward to exploring around Noss National Nature Reserve, whose immense sandstone cliffs support thousands of breeding seabirds. Common and gray seals inhabit these waters, presenting the perfect opportunity to keep watch for otters—known locally as dratsies.

Today, leave Scotland’s northern isles behind and set a course across the North Sea toward Norway. This ocean passage is an expedition experience in its own right: spend time on deck scanning the horizon for whale blows, dolphins, and seabirds that glide effortlessly in the ship’s wake. As the day unfolds, the Expedition Team brings the journey to life with engaging talks on the wildlife, geology, Viking history, and maritime cultures connecting Scotland and Norway. It is also a chance to exchange photographs, relax with fellow travelers, and watch the light shift across the open sea as anticipation builds for the first Norwegian fjord.

Nordfjordeid sits at the end of Eidsfjord, surrounded by dramatic mountains, fertile farmland, and the deep waters of Nordfjord. The town is closely connected to Norway’s Viking past: nearby, archaeologists uncovered the Myklebust ship, one of the largest Viking longships ever discovered in the country. Depending on local arrangements and conditions, the visit may combine fjord scenery, community life, and opportunities to discover the region’s remarkable history.

North of the Arctic Circle, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Vega Archipelago. Vega is renowned for a remarkable relationship between islanders and wild eider ducks that has endured for more than 1,500 years. Generations of families built nesting shelters and protected the birds through the breeding season; after the ducks and their chicks returned to sea, the islanders collected the soft down left behind. This sustainable tradition shaped both the landscape and the community’s way of life. To help protect Vega’s fragile environment, discover the island through a choice of small-group guided walks or a visit to the World Heritage Center.

Option 1: Guided hike to Holandsosen Nature Reserve
Grade: Easy | Strict maximum numbers apply
Walk through the peaceful landscapes of Holandsosen Nature Reserve, where limestone bedrock, wetlands and abundant birdlife create a wonderfully varied environment. More than half the reserve is covered in rare coastal heath, a defining part of Vega’s cultural landscape. This gentle five-kilometer (3.1-mile) hike offers time to absorb the island’s quiet beauty.

Option 2: Guided hike to Guristraumen
Grade: Easy | Strict maximum numbers apply
Discover Guristraumen’s rich birdlife and, in season, colorful wild orchids. After a short drive to Nes, follow peaceful paths with sweeping views. Although the full trail is six kilometers (3.7 miles), anticipate a relaxed three-kilometer (1.9-mile) walk, allowing time to appreciate the surrounding nature.

Option 3: Guided hike to Kjellerhaugvatnet Nature Reserve
Grade: Easy | Strict maximum numbers apply
Explore one of Vega’s most important wetland habitats, used by countless birds for nesting, migration and winter refuge. Along this two-kilometer (1.2-mile) trail, keep watch for wildlife including elk, hares and roe deer. A short coach transfer connects the ship with the trailhead.

Option 4: Guided walk through Kirkøy, Nes and Holand
Grade: Easy | Strict maximum numbers apply
Step into Vega’s fishing heritage on a guided walk through its characterful coastal villages. Follow quiet roads as your local guide shares stories of island life and favorite hidden corners. The 4.5-kilometer (2.8-mile) route offers excellent opportunities to photograph seabirds, spring flowers, traditional boats and colorful waterfront homes.

Option 5: Guided tour of the Vega World Heritage Center
Grade: Easy
If you prefer not to join a guided hike, discover the islanders’ unique way of life through films, exhibits and audio presentations at the Vega World Heritage Center. Afterwards, browse the shop or visit the café for tea or coffee and local waffles served with jam, sour cream and Norwegian brown cheese.

Today, explore Svartisen, Norway’s second-largest glacier, travelling ashore by Zodiac near Brestua. Spanning approximately 370 square kilometers, the ice cap feeds the Engabreen glacier tongue, which descends dramatically towards Holandsfjord and is among mainland Europe’s lowest-reaching glaciers. Active guests may have the opportunity to join a guided hike towards viewpoints overlooking the glacier, crossing rugged terrain shaped by ice and meltwater. Those seeking a gentler experience can enjoy the lakeside setting and admire the glacier from below. Conditions and safe access will determine the day’s activities.

Arrive in the Lofoten Islands, where jagged peaks rise abruptly above sheltered harbors, white-sand beaches and colorful fishing villages. Often translated as ‘the lynx’s foot’, Lofoten is a landscape shaped by ice, ocean and centuries of life connected to the sea.

Personalize your expedition with an included ‘Your Choice’ experience suited to your interests and fitness level.

Option 1: Guided hike towards Tjeldbergtind
Duration: 3 hours
Level of difficulty: Moderate-Strenuous

Hike through Lofoten’s pristine mountain landscape towards Tjeldbergtind. A steep ascent is rewarded with a magnificent 360-degree panorama of jagged peaks, lakes and coastal communities, including Svolvær, Kabelvåg and Vågan. On a clear day, views extend across the sea towards mainland Norway. Note: This hike covers approximately five kilometers (3.1 miles) over uneven terrain with loose gravel and sustained steep sections, reaching a maximum elevation of 367 meters (1,204 feet). Layered clothing and sturdy hiking boots are recommended. Participants should be in good physical condition, and views are subject to weather.

Option 2: Taste of Lofoten
Duration: 2 hours including snacks
Level of difficulty: Easy (limited seats available)

Discover the flavors and food traditions that have sustained Lofoten’s communities for centuries. Along the way, see traditional fish-drying racks before tasting local specialities such as dried Arctic cod, salmon, Lofoten lamb, cloudberries, locally produced yoghurt and cod roe. Stories of fishing, farming and life on the Arctic coast add depth to this authentic culinary experience. Note: The tour includes tastings of eight delicacies and should not be considered as a full meal. Drinks are not included, and a selection of beverages is available for purchase.

Option 3: Lofoten Fishing Village
Duration: 2 hours
Level of difficulty: Easy

Explore the history and culture of Svolvær on a guided walk through this working fishing community. Learn about the fisheries, the influential land-owning fish buyers and the town’s evolution, pausing at important historic and contemporary sites. The walk covers approximately three to five kilometers and includes a taste of traditional stockfish.

On the rugged island of Senja, steep mountains plunge into narrow fjords and small fishing villages sit between sea and wilderness. From Torsken, choose how you would like to experience this spectacular corner of Arctic Norway: discover the village’s history and flavors at a leisurely pace, climb towards Ravnfløy for sweeping coastal views, or challenge yourself on a strenuous hike into the wild landscapes adjoining Ånderdalen National Park. Whichever experience you choose, today reveals the close relationship between Senja’s dramatic environment and the resilient communities that call it home.

Personalize your expedition with an included ‘Your Choice’ experience suited to your interests and fitness level.

Option 1: Torsken Village Walk
Duration: 3 hours
Level of difficulty: Easy

Stroll through the fishing village of Torsken, where colorful houses sit beneath Senja’s dramatic mountains. Hear stories of the community’s maritime heritage, visit the 18th-century Torsken Church and sample local delicacies that reflect northern Norway’s culinary traditions.

Option 2: Trek to Ravnfløy
Duration: 3 hours
Level of difficulty: Moderate

Set out on an exhilarating hike towards Ravnfløy, where views unfold across Senja’s rugged coastline, mountains and pristine fjords. Pause beside a fire pit to enjoy local delicacies before continuing towards a magnificent viewpoint and the reward of memorable photographs. Note: This four-kilometer return hike gains approximately 548 meters over gravel, loose rock and boulders, with sustained steep sections and a short exposed passage. Layered clothing and sturdy hiking boots are recommended. Participants should be in good physical condition.

Option 3: Hike to Midtertinden
Duration: 4.5 hours
Level of difficulty: Strenuous

Challenge yourself on a strenuous but immensely rewarding hike towards Midtertinden. Beginning in Torsken, climb through Senja’s untamed landscapes as views open across the Norwegian Sea, scattered islets, mountains and fjords. Reaching the 623-meter summit is a genuine achievement, rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree Arctic panorama. Note: This approximately 4.4-kilometer return hike gains 623 meters over gravel, loose rock and boulders, with sustained steep sections and a short exposed passage. Layered clothing and sturdy hiking boots are recommended. Participants should be in excellent physical condition.

Disembark in the early morning and farewell your Expedition Team and fellow travellers before transferring to Tromsø Airport or a central Tromsø location for your onward journey. 

Note: At the conclusion of the voyage, it is recommended to book flights departing after 12:00 PM on the day of disembarkation in case there are delays.