Whiskey, Fire & Ice - Scotland to Iceland

Welcome to Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. Spread out under the gaze of its ancient castle, the city is an inspiring blend of history, culture and nature. It’s said to have more pubs per capita than anywhere else in the UK, so take some time to join the locals for a pint.

Transfer to Leith where you’ll board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse. Meet the Captain, crew and Discovery Team, and settle into your spacious suite. Join your fellow guests at the Sky Bar for a glass of Champagne before setting sail.

Please book your flight to arrive into Edinburgh prior to 11:00 AM.

Docked: 15:30

In bustling Kirkwall, the main town on Orkney, there's plenty to see in the narrow, winding streets extending from the harbor. The cathedral and some museums are highlights.

Founded approximately 1000 years ago, Kirkwall is the capital of the Orkney Islands, just off the northern tip of the Scottish mainland. A Viking spirit still runs through the town, centred around the grand St Magnus Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture.

Wander the charming streets lined with quaint shops and cosy cafes, and soak up the early summer sunshine in pretty Tankerness House Gardens. Dive into Orkney's rich heritage at the Orkney Museum or go all the way back to prehistoric times at the world-famous Neolithic sites of Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar.

Scenic Freechoice:
Orkney Treasures with St Magnus Cathedral: Discover Orkney’s heritage with visits to the Neolithic Heartland and the Ring of Brodgar, explore the ancient village of Skara Brae, stroll through historic Skaill House and finish at the majestic St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall.

Heart of Neolithic Orkney: Step back 5,000 years at Orkney’s UNESCO Neolithic Heartland, wandering the Ring of Brodgar, Standing Stones of Stenness and Barnhouse Village. Admire sweeping views of Harray Loch and historic Scapa Flow along the way.

Sites of the South Isles & Taste of Orkney: Travel across Orkney’s southern isles via the historic Churchill Barriers to visit the beautiful Italian Chapel. Enjoy local treats in Burray and explore the Fossil and Heritage Centre before returning to the ship.

Kirkjuvagr Gin Tasting & Kirkwall Town Walk: Explore historic Kirkwall on a guided tour, uncovering Viking tales along its harbour and flagstone streets. Visit St Magnus Cathedral, Earl’s and Bishop’s Palaces, then tour Kirkjuvagr Gin Distillery for a gin tasting with waterfront views, ending with a leisurely return or free time.

Offshore: 12:00 - 21:00

Founded by Dutch fishermen in the 17th century, Lerwick today is a busy town and administrative center. Handsome stone buildings—known as lodberries—line the harbor; they provided loading bays for goods, some of them illegal. The town's twisting flagstone lanes and harbor once heaved with activity, and Lerwick is still an active port today. This is also where most visitors to Shetland dock, spilling out of cruise ships, allowing passengers to walk around the town.

The most northerly point of the British Isles, the Shetland Islands sit almost 200 kilometres off the north coast of mainland Scotland. Lerwick is the island group’s only town and has a charming waterfront lined with sandstone buildings dating back to the 18th century. This is the place where Norse heritage meets Scottish charm. Listen out for the sound of traditional Shetland music as you walk through the twisting lanes and bustling market square of this pretty harbour town.

Scenic Freechoice:
Sumburgh Head to Jarlshof Hike: Embark on a guided hike through Shetland’s southern reaches from Lerwick, featuring views of Mousa Broch (weather permitting). Hike to Sumburgh Head’s RSPB Reserve for birdlife, then explore Jarlshof’s 5,000-year-old archaeological site, returning with scenic views and pony sightings.

Jarlshof & Southern Shores: Depart from Lerwick to Shetland’s southern tip, stopping at Mousa Broch and St Ninian’s Isle, then explore the remarkable Jarlshof archaeological site.

Town Walk & Shetland Museum: Discover Lerwick’s rich history on a guided walk from Victoria Pier through the Old Town, exploring its maritime past, iconic Lodberries, and narrow lanes. Visit the historic Town Hall and conclude at the Shetland Museum, with time to browse local shops.

Western Shetland - Meet the Locals: Discover Shetland’s culture with visits to Lerwick, a local fisherman in Hamnavoe, Shetland ponies in Tingwall and a jewellery workshop—all set against stunning scenery.

Offshore: 08:00 - 17:00

Named after Thor, the Norse god of weather, strength, and growth, Tórshavn is one of the world’s smallest capital cities in one of Europe’s least travelled destinations. The Faroe Islands offer a captivating blend of Scandinavian culture and breathtaking natural beauty. Wander down cobbled alleyways between colourful buildings with grassy roofs and imagine life in Viking times. Towering cliffs, craggy fjords and powerful waterfalls create a wild landscape.

Stand on your private verandah this afternoon as Scenic Eclipse sails out through the majestic Djupini Channel, known for its dramatic cliffs rising up to approximately 1,000 meters above sea level.

Scenic Freechoice:
Tórshavn the Capital: Explore Tórshavn’s historic Tinganes district on a guided walk through its charming turf-roofed streets, then visit the National Museum to discover the Faroe Islands’ rich history from the Viking Age to modern times.

Mountain Hike: Journey through the Faroe Islands’ dramatic landscapes, driving along Kaldbak fjord to Kollafjørður and ascending Streymoy’s 280m basalt sill. Enjoy a guided mountain walk with views of Vágar and lakes, ending with a Tórshavn viewpoint stop.

Coastal Villages: Visit the charming village of Kollafjørður to see a traditional turf-roofed church, then explore Saksun’s picturesque valley and heritage farm museum. On the way back, enjoy scenic stops with stunning views of the island’s dramatic landscapes.

Countryside of Eysturoy: Discover traditional Faroese farming with a local tasting at a sheep house, then visit a renowned wool producer and explore the historic Blásastova Museum in Gøta. On the way back, cross the iconic “Bridge Over the Atlantic” and enjoy panoramic views of the capital.

Vestmanna Sea Cliffs: Cruise along Vestmanna’s breathtaking Bird Cliffs and enchanting sea grottoes, then savour stunning mountain vistas on the scenic journey back to Tórshavn.

Docked: 12:00 - 18:00

Seyðisfjörður, a beautiful 19th-century Norwegian village on the east coast of Iceland, is regarded by many as one of Iceland's most picturesque towns, not only due to its impressive environment, but also because nowhere in Iceland has a community of old wooden buildings been preserved so well as here. Poet Matthías Johannessen called Seyðisfjörður a 'pearl enclosed in a shell'. The community owes its origins to foreign merchants, mainly Danes, who started trading in the fjord in the mid-19th century. But the crucial factor in the evolution of the village was the establishment of the Icelandic herring fishery by Norwegians in 1870-1900. The Norwegians built up a number of herring-fishing facilities, and in a matter of years the little community grew into a boom town. Today, about 800 people live in Seyðisfjörður. The local economy has long been based on the fisheries, while light industry also flourishes. Tourism is playing a growing role, as the picturesque town in its spectacular surroundings attracts more and more visitors. The car/passenger ferry Norrøna, which plies between continental Europe and Iceland every summer, docks at Seyðisfjörður every Thursday. Seyðisfjörður has been a cosmopolitan community from its foundation, and the ferry service has contributed to ensuring that it remains so.

Seyðisfjörður, a beautiful 19th-century Norwegian village on the east coast of Iceland, is regarded by many as one of Iceland's most picturesque towns, not only due to its impressive environment, but also because nowhere in Iceland has a community of old wooden buildings been preserved so well as here. Poet Matthías Johannessen called Seyðisfjörður a 'pearl enclosed in a shell'. The community owes its origins to foreign merchants, mainly Danes, who started trading in the fjord in the mid-19th century. But the crucial factor in the evolution of the village was the establishment of the Icelandic herring fishery by Norwegians in 1870-1900. The Norwegians built up a number of herring-fishing facilities, and in a matter of years the little community grew into a boom town. Today, about 800 people live in Seyðisfjörður. The local economy has long been based on the fisheries, while light industry also flourishes. Tourism is playing a growing role, as the picturesque town in its spectacular surroundings attracts more and more visitors. The car/passenger ferry Norrøna, which plies between continental Europe and Iceland every summer, docks at Seyðisfjörður every Thursday. Seyðisfjörður has been a cosmopolitan community from its foundation, and the ferry service has contributed to ensuring that it remains so.

In a country with an abundance of natural drama, Seyðisfjörður may steal the show. Set at the mouth of a beautiful fjord, this is East Iceland’s heart of culture, heritage and hospitality – and then there’s the architecture. The centre of town is known for 19th-century timber houses perched on the side of the lagoon, built by fisherfolk when the region was booming.

There’s plenty of culture to go with the small-town country charm, complemented by plentiful wildlife, including reindeer and porpoises drawn by the verdant setting of cascading waterfalls and snow-capped mountains.

Elevate your Icelandic experience and take flight on one of two on board helicopters^, marvelling at the jaw-dropping views from above. This exclusive adventure offers a breathtaking new perspective on one of the world’s most dramatic landscapes.

Scenic Freechoice:
Chasing Waterfalls: Experience a breathtaking hiking adventure through the scenic Vestdalur Valley, showcasing stunning landscapes like waterfalls, meadows, wetlands, and ancient human settlements over a thousand years ago.

Vök Baths: Cross the stunning Fjardarheidi mountain pass to reach the peaceful Vök Baths, where natural hot springs offer relaxation amid breathtaking lake scenery. Experience a selection of pools and a sauna inspired by Icelandic traditions.

History & Heritage Walk: Discover the charming town on a guided walking tour through its historic streets and vibrant cultural sites. Conclude your visit at the East Iceland Technical Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits at your own pace.

Skálanes Nature Walk: Enjoy a scenic drive through a lush valley dotted with abandoned farms, reflecting Iceland’s rural past. Visit the Skálanes Nature and Heritage Centre, a private reserve rich in wildlife and natural beauty.

Scenic Discovery:
Today, weather permitting and with harbour master approval, you may get the opportunity to enjoy immersive Discovery experiences including hiking, kayaking and Zodiac cruising.

Docked: Overnight - 16:00

The town of Húsavík sits below Húsavíkurfjall mountain on the eastern shore of Skjálfandi bay. Just above the town is lake Botnsvatn, a popular place for outings. The lake is just the right size for a nice hike around it. The lakes surroundings are rich in vegetation and bird life and trout is said to be abundant, though small. Húsavík harbour lies below the bank right in the heart of town. The harbour once boasted a large fishing fleet, bustling with the activity of fishermen. It still serves as a fishing harbour but today's activity revolves more around the successful whale watching businesses. The first organised whale watching excursions in Iceland started from here in 1995. Since then, whale watching has become a major attraction and Húsavík continues to be the leading destination for whale watching. In addition to the tours, a fascinating whale museum is located right by the harbour. Húsavík is considered to be the oldest settlement in Iceland. The Swedish explorer, Gardar Svavarsson, spent one winter there in 870 AD during which time he built himself a house from which the settlement derives its name.

Nestled on the edge of Shaky Bay, Húsavík has a long history and was the first place in Iceland to be settled. In the year 860, a Swedish Viking and his crew built Iceland’s first house here as they wintered on the island. Today, it’s known for its colourful houses, unique museums and stunning peaks across the bay, making it one of the prettiest fishing villages in the northeast. It’s considered the Whale Capital of Iceland, and you can spot various species breaching from the deep blue waters regularly between May and September, while pods of dolphins frolic year-round.

Scenic Freechoice:
Diamond Circle: Experience Iceland’s dramatic Diamond Circle, featuring the powerful Dettifoss waterfall and the unique Whispering Cliffs. Explore the legendary Ásbyrgi Canyon before a scenic drive along the rugged Tjörnes Peninsula.

Whale Watching: Set sail from Húsavík aboard a traditional oak boat to spot whales, dolphins and puffins in Skjálfandi Bay. Enjoy expert-guided wildlife viewing and stunning coastal scenery on this unforgettable marine adventure.

Husavik Sea Baths: Relax in the GeoSea Sea Baths with stunning views over Skjálfandi Bay. Enjoy naturally heated waters for a peaceful, rejuvenating experience.

Lake Myvatn: Discover Iceland’s geothermal wonders from Húsavík, visiting bubbling mud pools and lava formations. End the day at the majestic Goðafoss waterfall, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Scenic Discovery:
Today, weather permitting and with harbour master approval, you may get the opportunity to enjoy immersive Discovery experiences including kayaking and Zodiac cruising.

Offshore: 08:00 - Overnight

Grímsey is a small island north of the Icelandic mainland, home to only 100 people and one million seabirds. Nesting on the high cliffs that surround the whole island, the chatter of seabirds here is constant, especially during the 24 hours of sunshine in summer. This green, grassy outcrop straddles the Arctic Circle, making it one of the few places on earth where you can cross over the Arctic Circle on foot – truly a once in a lifetime experience. Enjoy this unique opportunity to experience the magic of the far north and leave footprints on the edge of the world.

Elevate your Iceland experience and take flight on one of two on board helicopters^, marvelling at the jaw-dropping views of glaciers, volcanoes and cascading waterfalls from above. This exclusive adventure offers a breathtaking new perspective on one of the world’s most dramatic landscapes.

Scenic Freechoice:
Walk Around Grímsey (Easy - 5km): Explore Grímsey Island, Iceland’s sole Arctic Circle territory, with its charming driftwood church and vibrant folklore. Admire cliffside seabird colonies where summer egg-collecting thrives, stroll the reinforced harbor settlement, and hear the poignant 1793 epidemic tale, earning an Arctic Circle certificate as a treasured memento.

Walk Around Grímsey (Moderate - 10km): Explore Grímsey Island, Iceland’s sole Arctic Circle territory, with its charming driftwood church and vibrant folklore. Follow a slightly more challenging walking path to admire cliffside seabird colonies, stroll the harbor settlement, hear the poignant 1793 epidemic tale, and earn an Arctic Circle certificate as a treasured memento.

Grimsey Passenger Train: Immerse in Grímsey Island’s remote allure, perched on the Arctic Circle, with dramatic seabird cliffs and rich folklore. Ride a passenger train through the village, visit the lighthouse for coastal views, cross the Arctic Circle Monument and admire the driftwood church, hearing the 1793 survival tale.

Scenic Discovery:
Today, weather permitting and with harbour master approval, you may get the opportunity to enjoy immersive Discovery experiences including kayaking and Zodiac cruising. 

Offshore: 09:30 - 15:00

Grundarfjörður is a picturesque town nestled in the heart of Iceland's stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Surrounded by towering mountains and pristine fjords, Grundarfjörður offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and Icelandic charm. Explore the quaint streets lined with colourful houses, or venture into the nearby wilderness to discover hidden waterfalls and volcanic landscapes. Make sure you catch a glimpse of the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, a favourite among photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Scenic Freechoice:
Snæfellsnes Peninsula Express: Journey to Djupalonssandur’s black sand beach, featuring lava formations and shipwreck remnants. Visit Malarrif’s historic lighthouse for photos, pass Londrangar’s volcanic towers and stroll Arnarstapi’s cliffs with seabird colonies and Bardur Snaefellsas’ statue, ending with a scenic drive back to Grundarfjörður.

Coves, Craters & Caves: Admire the Snæfellsjökull Glacier’s mystical 1,446m presence on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Ascend Saxhóll’s crater for mossy lava views, walk Djupalonssandur’s 1km coastal trail to Dritvík and descend Vatnshellir Cave’s 35m lava tunnels, inspired by Jules Verne’s classic tale: Journey to the Centre of the Earth.

Docked: 08:00 - 15:00

It’s hard to imagine, as you stroll Heimaey’s idyllic streets of white wooden houses, that this island was literally torn apart by a spectacular volcanic eruption, just over 40 years ago. The fact that you can visit incredible Heimaey at all is something of a miracle – because the oozing lava of the Eldfell volcano threatened to seal the harbour off completely. Fortunately, its advance was halted by gallons of seawater, pumped onto it by the plucky islanders, who saved their fishing industry in the process. Iceland's famous for its scenery, and the huge castles of volcanic rock that rise out of the sea's waves here are some of the country's most dramatic.

The earth is always rumbling beneath Iceland. Today, you’ll see a perfect example of nature’s ability to both create and destroy. When the volcano Eldfell, meaning ‘Hill of Fire’, erupted here in 1973, parts of the island were covered in lava and ash, sealing them in a virtual time capsule. Walking through the town, you’ll be able to see signs of the eruption and fallout. 

Keep your eyes open for our black and white friends, with more Atlantic puffins nesting here than anywhere else in the world.

Scenic Freechoice:
Boat Tour of Heimaey: Set off from Heimaey’s historic harbour, shaped by the 1973 eruption, and cruise the Westman Islands’ wild beauty past cliffs and caves, guided by tales of its past. View millions of seabirds, including 6–8 million puffins, and spot whales, ending with a musical performance in Klettshellir Cave.

Volcanic Hike & Eldheimar Museum: Enjoy a guided walk through Heimaey’s historic harbour, continuing to the lava fields of Eldfell volcano before hiking to its summit for panoramic vistas. Conclude with a visit to the Eldheimar Museum to learn about the 1973 eruption and its impact.

Bus Tour & Eldheimar Museum: Explore Heimaey’s natural harbour and dramatic cliffs, visiting Sprangan’s rope-swinging site and Herjólfsdalur’s Viking ruins. Explore Stórhöfði’s puffin colony, view Surtsey and volcanoes Helgafell and Eldfell, then stop at Eldfell viewpoint and Eldheimar Museum before a short drive back to the pier.

Docked: 08:00 - 18:00

Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve center and government seat, is home to half the island's population. On a bay overlooked by proud Mt. Esja (pronounced eh-shyuh), with its ever-changing hues, Reykjavík presents a colorful sight, its concrete houses painted in light colors and topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. In contrast to the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík has many tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, as well as imported aspen, pines, and spruces.Reykjavík's name comes from the Icelandic words for smoke, reykur, and bay, vík. In AD 874, Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson saw Iceland rising out of the misty sea and came ashore at a bay eerily shrouded with plumes of steam from nearby hot springs. Today most of the houses in Reykjavík are heated by near-boiling water from the hot springs. Natural heating avoids air pollution; there's no smoke around. You may notice, however, that the hot water brings a slight sulfur smell to the bathroom.Prices are easily on a par with other major European cities. A practical option is to purchase a Reykjavík City Card at the Tourist Information Center or at the Reykjavík Youth Hostel. This card permits unlimited bus usage and admission to any of the city's seven pools, the Family Park and Zoo, and city museums. The cards are valid for one (ISK 3,300), two (ISK 4,400), or three days (ISK 4,900), and they pay for themselves after three or four uses a day. Even lacking the City Card, paying admission (ISK 500, or ISK 250 for seniors and people with disabilities) to one of the city art museums (Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, or Ásmundarsafn) gets you free same-day admission to the other two.

Your voyage concludes in Reykjavik this morning. This busy, buzzy capital has a captivating creative soul, vibrant nightlife and a population of cool, quirky Reykvíkingurs. Stay longer to explore its stylish restaurants, chic boutiques, innovative galleries and fascinating museums.  

After one final breakfast on board, you’ll disembark your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht. Farewell the crew and your fellow guests, taking with you a wealth of memories from an unforgettable voyage. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Reykjavik after 01:00 PM.

Docked: 08:00

+All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. #Spa treatments at additional cost.

Helicopter not in operation in the Faroe Islands or United Kingdom.

Please note the itinerary is a guide and may be subject to changes for operational reasons. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.