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NORTHERN ISLANDS, SEABIRD CLIFFS AND VOLCANIC OUTPOSTS

Scotland and the Arctic Regions

A spring expedition from Scotland through Orkney, Shetland and the Faroe Islands, continuing north to remote Jan Mayen before reaching Iceland.

About 14 days Typical durationMay–June Travel seasonAberdeen, Scotland to Iceland Start and finish

Trip Overview

Duration
About 14 days
Season
May–June
Voyage style
Northern islands expedition cruise

This northbound voyage connects a chain of Atlantic islands shaped by seabirds, Norse history, fishing communities and powerful ocean weather, beginning in Scotland and finishing in Iceland.

Jan Mayen provides the High Arctic objective, but the exposed shoreline often makes access difficult. The captain may substitute scenic cruising or additional island exploration when conditions close the landing zone.

Why This Route

01

Northern Island Cultures

Explore archaeological landscapes, working harbours and living island communities from Orkney to the Faroes.

02

North Atlantic Seabird Cliffs

Spend time near major nesting areas during the spring breeding season while observing all wildlife at responsible distances.

03

Jan Mayen Objective

Attempt to approach the volcanic High Arctic island and view Beerenberg when cloud, wind and swell permit.

Route Map

Aberdeen → Orkney → Shetland → Faroe Islands → Jan Mayen → Iceland

The map shows the main sailing direction. Actual landing sites are selected by the captain and expedition team according to weather, sea ice and safety conditions.

AberdeenOrkneyShetlandFaroe IslandsJan MayenIcelandAberdeenOrkneyShetlandFaroe IslandsJan MayenIceland

DAY BY DAY

Day by Day

A representative itinerary. The order of landings and cruising is adapted to local conditions.

Day 1

Embark in Aberdeen

Join the ship in Aberdeen, meet the expedition team and sail north after safety briefings and an introduction to the island route.

Embark in Aberdeen
Days 2–4

Orkney and Shetland

Explore prehistoric sites, seabird coasts and island communities through a programme adjusted to harbour conditions and local arrangements.

Orkney and Shetland
Days 5–7

Faroe Islands

Navigate between steep green islands for walks, coastal views and community visits selected around the North Atlantic weather.

Faroe Islands
Days 8–11

At Sea and Jan Mayen

Sail north across open water and attempt a landing or coastal cruise at Jan Mayen only when visibility, surf and wind are suitable.

At Sea and Jan Mayen
Days 12–14

Iceland and Disembarkation

Reach Iceland for a final coastal exploration before disembarking at the confirmed port and continuing with onward arrangements.

Iceland and Disembarkation

EXPEDITION SHIPS

Ships Commonly Found on This Route

Ship assignments vary by departure. These examples show the range of expedition styles available.

PLANNING NOTES

Plan This Journey

Departure
Aberdeen, Scotland
Arrival
Iceland

Who This Journey Suits

  • Travellers interested in island culture, archaeology and seabirds
  • Guests seeking a softer introduction to expedition cruising before entering the High Arctic

What You May See

  • Puffins and other breeding seabirds
  • Seals and whales when naturally present
  • North Atlantic marine life
  • Scottish island coasts
  • Faroe Island cliffs
  • Jan Mayen's volcanic profile and Iceland

Physical Activity & Sea Conditions

  • Moderate, combining port walks, uneven historical sites, Zodiac transfers and open-ocean days.
  • North Atlantic passages are exposed and may be rough; fog, wind and swell commonly affect Jan Mayen operations.

Before You Book

  • Jan Mayen access is never guaranteed
  • Island ports and landing sequences vary with weather and local permissions

WHAT TO EXPECT

Inclusions and Exclusions

What Is Usually Included

  • Shipboard accommodation and meals
  • Scheduled landings and Zodiac cruising
  • Expedition team lectures and guiding
  • Loan of expedition boots on many ships

What Is Usually Not Included

  • International and domestic flights
  • Travel insurance and medical costs
  • Optional adventure activities
  • Gratuities and personal expenses

Important

  • Final inclusions vary by operator and departure
  • Activities depend on weather and ice
  • Ask us to compare the exact terms before booking

PLAN THIS JOURNEY

Ready to plan Scotland and the Arctic Regions?

Tell us your preferred travel window, cabin style and priorities. We will help you compare suitable departures and expedition ships.

Plan This Journeyinfo@polartraveltribe.com