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UK Archaeology Cruises

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Embark on a timeless journey through the United Kingdom's rich past with our 34 archaeological site visit tours for 2025. The British Isles are steeped in millennia of history, from the enigmatic standing stones to ancient Celtic fortresses and Viking cultural remnants. These tours offer an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the stories etched into this land, where each stone and ruin whispers tales of bygone eras. Over a range that spans from 8 to 15 days, you will sail aboard small ships like Sea Spirit and Le Lyrial, exploring legendary locales such as Tresco Abbey Garden with its Bronze Age burial sites or Loch Ness with its medieval ruins—all starting at just $5,395 to $44,310. To weave your own tale into the fabric of these ancient isles' storied tapestry, contact one of Adventure Life's tour specialists for help planning your next seamless trip.
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Ring Of Brodgar, Orkney
from $11,995
EXPLORE

Wild Scotland

Edinburgh - Aberdeen - 12 Day Itinerary aboard Greg Mortimer
Starts / Ends
Edinburgh / Aberdeen
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 12-day cruise aboard the Greg Mortimer, exploring the stunning landscapes of the Inner and Outer Hebrides. Experience highlights like Fingal's Cave, the ancient island of Iona, and the rich history of Orkney before concluding your adventure in Aberdeen.
  • Explore Edinburgh’s medieval charm
  • Experience Orkney’s ancient wonders
  • Encounter Shetland’s rich wildlife
  • Visit Fair Isle’s bird cliffs
Cruise Details
0
The ancient standing stone of Clava Cairns.
from $9,678
EXPLORE

Scotland's Highlands and Islands

Westbound - 8 Day Itinerary aboard Lord of the Glens
Starts / Ends
Inverness / Kyle of Lochalsh
Activities
Biking, Kayaking
Activity Level
Variable
From Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh, explore the historic sites of Scotland on this week-long cruise on the Lord of the Glens. Lochs, castles, villages, pubs, and ancient ruins highlight this tour, which features inland visits like Loch Ness and Duart Castle.
  • Sail through Loch Ness
  • Visit medieval abbey ruins
  • Hike in spectacular Cuillin Hills
  • Discover ancient standing stones
Cruise Details
0
Seabirds flying over dramatic ocean island cliffs St Kilda
from $13,595
EXPLORE

Wild Scotland

Edinburgh - Aberdeen - 12 Day Itinerary aboard Sylvia Earle
Starts / Ends
Edinburgh / Aberdeen
Activities
Whale Watching, Hiking
Activity Level
Variable
Set sail on a 12-day cruise from Edinburgh to Aberdeen aboard the Sylvia Earle, exploring Scotland's untamed islands. Discover the ancient Hebrides and lush Orkney Islands, encounter wildlife along scenic coastlines, and experience local culture in charming villages while enjoying Scotland's renowned whisky.
  • Explore Edinburgh’s historic sites
  • Discover Troon’s charming coast
  • Marvel at Orkney’s ancient wonders
  • Visit St Kilda’s seabird colonies
Cruise Details
0
Explore the enchanting city of Glasgow
from $7,395
Save 20%
EXPLORE

Scotland Slowly

11 Day Itinerary aboard Ocean Endeavour
Starts / Ends
Glasgow / Aberdeen
Activity Level
Variable
Explore Scotland's ancient past on this 11-day expedition cruise through Scotland's western and northern isles aboard Ocean Endeavor. In this land of abundant culture, heritage and natural history you'll discover islands that preserve some of the oldest monuments in Europe dating back to the Stone Age with visits to Glasgow & Shetland & Orkney Islands.
  • Observe prehistoric structures
  • Appreciate Scotland's shorelines
  • Climb an Iron Age fortification
  • View a large sea bird colony
Cruise Details
0
Skara Brae, Orkney
from $7,295
EXPLORE

The Jewels of Scotland

Aberdeen Roundtrip - 9 Day Itinerary aboard Ocean Albatros
Starts / Ends
Aberdeen / Aberdeen
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 9-day roundtrip cruise on Scotland’s stunning coastlines and wild islands from Aberdeen aboard the Ocean Albatros. Sail to remote gems like Scrabster, Stornoway, and Kirkwall. Visit historic landmarks such as the Castle of Mey, the Calanish Standing Stones, and the bustling port of Lerwick.
  • Explore Scrabster’s coastal beauty
  • Visit historic Castle of Mey
  • Marvel at Calanish Stones
  • Stroll through Stornoway harbor
Cruise Details
0
Broch of Mousa, Scotland
from $5,995
EXPLORE

Best of British Isles

Portsmouth - Edinburgh - 13 Day Itinerary aboard Sea Spirit
Starts / Ends
Portsmouth / Leith
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 13-day expedition aboard the Sea Spirit, starting in Portsmouth and exploring the Scilly Isles, Ireland's scenic coast, Wales' Snowdonia, and Northern Ireland's Giant's Causeway. Discover Scotland's Orkney sites and Fair Isle's seabirds, and finish in Edinburgh's lively port of Leith.
  • Explore Tresco's exotic gardens
  • Tour Dunmore East's lush estates
  • Visit Saltee's famed bird haven
  • Stroll Kirkwall's historic streets
Cruise Details
0
Discover ancient cultures of the Orkney islands
from $12,995
EBD 25%
EXPLORE

Spirit of Scotland

Aberdeen - Greenock/Glasgow - 11 Day Itinerary aboard Exploris One
Starts / Ends
Aberdeen / Glasgow
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on an 11-day Spirit of Scotland cruise aboard the Exploris One. Witness rare seabirds on Fair Isle, cruise the dramatic coastlines of Papa Stour and Foula and uncover Neolithic wonders in Orkney. Immerse yourself in a journey that blends history, nature, and adventure in the remote and awe-inspiring locations in Scotland and Ireland.
  • Birdwatch on Fair Isle
  • Cruise Papa Stour’s coastline
  • Visit the Calanais Stones
  • Marvel at Fingal’s Cave
Cruise Details
0
Visit charming Portree
from $6,500
EXPLORE

Shetland, Orkney & Hebrides

Edinburgh - Glasgow - 8 Day Itinerary aboard Le Laperouse
Starts / Ends
Edinburgh / Glasgow
Activities
Urban Exploration
Activity Level
Variable
Set sail on an 8-day cruise aboard Le Laperouse, exploring Scotland's stunning archipelagos from Edinburgh to Glasgow, including the Shetland, Orkney, and Hebrides Islands. Each port offers a unique excursion, from the Calanais Standing Stones to the Ben Nevis distillery, finishing in Glasgow’s vibrant cultural hub.
  • Explore Edinburgh landmarks
  • Discover Lerwick’s coastal allure
  • Wander Kirkwall’s streets
  • Experience Portree’s landscape
Cruise Details
0
Ring Of Brodgar, Orkney
from $5,595
EXPLORE

Wild Islands & Lands of Legends

Roundtrip Edinburgh - 12 Day Itinerary aboard Sea Spirit
Starts / Ends
Edinburgh / Edinburgh
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 12-day expedition aboard the Sea Spirit in historic Edinburgh, Scotland. Explore Orkney's rich heritage, Fair Isle's birdwatching, and the scenic landscapes of Lerwick before delving into the unspoiled beauty and Viking history of the Faroe Islands aboard this unforgettable journey.
  • Stroll Edinburgh historic streets
  • Explore Kirkwall’s ancient ruins
  • Witness puffins on Fair Isle cliffs
  • Discover Lerwick's rich heritage
Cruise Details
0
Pastel homes on Isle of Skye
from $11,595
EBD 20%
EXPLORE

Scotland and Faroes: Isles and Wonders

Aberdeen - Greenock/Glasgow - 13 Day Itinerary aboard Ocean Nova
Starts / Ends
Aberdeen / Glasgow
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 13-day Arctic cruise aboard the Ocean Nova through Scotland and the Faroe Islands. Explore rugged coastlines, ancient ruins, and thriving wildlife habitats. Sail to Orkney and the Outer Hebrides, and marvel at prehistoric sites. Visit the UNESCO-listed St. Kilda, hike through Skye’s landscapes, and explore the historic Isle of Iona.
  • Spot puffins on Fair Isle
  • Walk through ancient Orkney
  • Visit UNESCO-listed St. Kilda
  • Admire Staffa’s Fingal’s Cave
Cruise Details
0
Grass-roofed houses of the Faroe Islands
from $6,495
EBD 15
EXPLORE

Wild Islands & Lands of Legends

Roundtrip Edinburgh - 12 Day Itinerary aboard Sea Spirit
Starts / Ends
Edinburgh / Edinburgh
Activities
Photography Seminars
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 12-day expedition aboard the Sea Spirit, beginning in Edinburgh and traveling to the Orkney Islands to explore historic sites and natural beauty. Experience the rugged charm of Fair Isle, Lerwick's heritage, and the stunning landscapes of the Faroe Islands, which are filled with Viking history and seabird colonies.
  • Explore Edinburgh's historic street
  • Tour Kirkwall's medieval treasures
  • Admire Fair Isle's rugged beauty
  • Discover Lerwick's rich heritage
Cruise Details
0
Golden light along the cliffs of the Irish coast
from $7,070
EXPLORE

Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea – with Smithsonian Journeys

London - Glasgow - 9 Day Itinerary aboard Le Bellot
Starts / Ends
London / Glasgow
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 9-day cruise aboard Le Bellot, exploring iconic landmarks, historic castles, and scenic coasts around the Irish Sea. Highlights include Dover Castle, the Giant’s Causeway, Tresco Gardens, and the Hebrides before ending near Glasgow.
  • Explore London’s vibrant landmarks
  • Visit Dover's iconic cliffs
  • Discover Cowes' scenic coast
  • Wander Canterbury Gothic cathedral
Cruise Details
0
Rugged coastlines of the British Isles
from $7,880
EXPLORE

Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea – with Smithsonian Journeys

London - Fairlie - 9 Day Itinerary aboard Le Bellot
Starts / Ends
London / Tobermory
Activity Level
Variable
Discover the Irish Sea's rich history and breathtaking landscapes on this 9-day cruise aboard Le Bellot. Highlights include Dover Castle, Tresco Gardens, Belfast's Titanic Museum, and the enchanting Hebrides, ending in Glasgow.
  • Explore London’s vibrant landmarks
  • Visit Dover's iconic cliffs
  • Discover Cowes' scenic coast
  • Wander Canterbury Gothic cathedral
Cruise Details
0
Colorful sunset over the Scottish Highlands
from $12,745
EXPLORE

Ancient Isles: England, Ireland and Scotland

12 Day Itinerary aboard National Geographic Explorer
Starts / Ends
Windsor / Edinburgh
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on a 12-day cruise from Portsmouth to Edinburgh aboard the National Geographic Explorer. Explore Britain's, Ireland's, and Scotland's lesser-known wonders. Discover ancient megaliths, mysterious sea caves, historic dockyards, and lush botanical gardens.
  • Explore Celtic and Viking culture
  • Sail around Skellig Michael
  • Zodiac cruise in Scotland
  • Visit giant seabird colonies
Cruise Details
0
View the colorful houses of Bergen
from $7,550
EXPLORE

Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage – with Smithsonian Journeys

Glasgow, Scotland - Bergen - 8 Day Itinerary aboard Le Champlain
Starts / Ends
Glasgow / Bergen
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard Le Champlain to discover Scotland's rugged isles and Norway's stunning fjords. Highlights include the Isle of Skye, Orkney's ancient Standing Stones, Shetland's Jarlshof, Olden's Briksdal Glacier, the Flam Railway, and Bergen's historic Bryggen Wharf.
  • Explore Glasgow’s vibrant charm
  • Experience Portree’s scenic beauty
  • Visit Kirkwall’s historic treasures
  • Marvel at Olden’s glacial wonders
Cruise Details
0
A market in Bryggen, Bergen, Norway
from $8,590
EXPLORE

Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage – with Smithsonian Journeys

Glasgow, Scotland - Bergen - 8 Day Itinerary aboard Le Laperouse
Starts / Ends
Glasgow / Bergen
Activities
Local Market Visits
Activity Level
Variable
Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard Le Laperouse to explore Scotland’s rugged isles and Norway’s stunning fjords. Highlights include the Isle of Skye, the Briksdal Glacier, and UNESCO sites like Orkney’s Standing Stones and Bergen’s Bryggen Wharf.
  • Explore Glasgow’s vibrant charm
  • Experience Portree’s scenic beauty
  • Visit Kirkwall’s historic treasures
  • Marvel at Olden’s glacial wonders
Cruise Details
0
Explore the enchanting city of Glasgow
from $7,150
EXPLORE

The Hebrides Archipelago, a Journey Deep into the Heart of the Wilderness

Dublin - Glasgow, Scotland - 10 Day Itinerary aboard Le Laperouse
Starts / Ends
Dublin / Glasgow
Activities
Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level
Variable
Sail on a 10-day cruise exploring the Hebrides Archipelago from Dublin to Glasgow aboard Le Laperouse. Stroll through Portrush & marvel at the Giant’s Causeway, then to Rathlin Island, home to seabird colonies & the upside-down lighthouse. Glide into Loch Scavaig, ringed by the misty Cuillin Hills, & pause in Canna, the “garden of the Hebrides.”
  • Explore the Trinity College Library
  • View Giant’s Causeway
  • Discover Iona’s abbey
  • Watch puffins and seals
Cruise Details
0
Colors of Copenhagen, Denmark
from $10,700
EXPLORE

Copenhagen to Southampton

13 Day Itinerary aboard Silver Dawn
Starts / Ends
Copenhagen / Falmouth
Activities
Spa Relaxation, Small Ship Sailing, Archaeological Site Visits, Village Visits
Activity Level
Variable
Sail from Copenhagen to Southampton on this 13-day Silver Dawn cruise. Explore Skagen’s dune landscapes and vibrant port, then unwind during a serene day at sea. Continue to Scotland’s Shetland and Orkney Islands, where Iron Age towers, Viking history, and windswept cliffs await.
  • Explore Copenhagen by bike
  • Tour Skara Brae
  • Spot puffins and seabirds
  • Visit Titanic Museum and Peace Wall
Cruise Details
0
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