The village of Olden is situated at the end of the innermost arm of lovely Nordfjord, which cuts its way inland to the mighty ice fields of the Jostedals Glacier , Europe's largest glacier. Briksdal Glacier , your destination on this tour, is one of its arms.Leaving Olden's center by coach with your guide, you will pass two picturesque churches and the beautiful lakes Floren and Olden. At the end of the valley lies Rustøen, around which numerous waterfalls tumble from the ice field. The road ascends through woodlands to the Briksdalen Inn, where you will leave the coach. The powerful Briksdal Glacier is a part of the Jostedal Glacier National Park. The wild glacier swoops down from a height of 3,927 feet to the lush, narrow Briksdal Valley. When you arrive at Briksdal Fjellstove the "Troll cars" will be waiting to take you safely to where the road ends - at the famous glacier. It's a fantastic trip on a narrow road that crosses the foaming glacier stream twice. You will return to Briksdal Fjellstove which has been the meeting place for hill walkers and mountaineers in Briksdalen for several generations. Here you will be served some coffee/tea and cake before your return by bus to Olden and the ship. Please note : Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in warm layers.

After a safety briefing and dressing in a warm weatherproof suit, you will set out on a speedy and invigorating RIB boat trip on the Nordfjord. The crayfish pots are already down below in the fjord, so all you will have to do is pull them up into the boat. Once ashore, you will cook your delicious catch on an open fire by Mølla Guesthouse. Then it's time to relax and enjoy a lovely meal of freshly caught crayfish, accompanied by fresh bread and mayonnaise. Please note: You will be provided with a weatherproof suit, goggles & a life jacket.

Enjoy a scenic 50-minute drive to Kjenndal Glacier , where you can take a leisurely stroll to have a closer look at the lowest glacier arm of the mighty Jostedal Glacier, the largest glacier in mainland Europe. Leave the charming village of Olden, at the head of the beautiful Nordfjord, you will drive along its shores toward the popular village of Loen . This small village offers you the pleasure of its fjord, Loen Lake, glaciers, high mountains and luxuriant plant life. Continue to the Kjenndal Valley where you will experience the lovely, troll-like atmosphere in Lodalen, and the jade green, mirror of Loen Lake. You will be surrounded by mountains covered by protruding glacier arms. Upon arrival at the trailhead you can take a short stroll to the glacier viewpoint where you can view the magnificent Kjenndal Glacier nestled between two high mountain tops with glistening waterfalls. Continuing to Kjenndalstova , situated on the shore of Lake Loen, you will enjoy waffles and coffee in beautiful surroundings. Please note : It is recommended that guests dress in layered clothing, wear comfortable walking shoes and are prepared for inclement weather. The optional walk to the viewpoint is on a dirt and gravel path with gradual slopes and is approximately .5 miles round trip.

Explore the majestic landscapes surrounding Loen, on a ride to Kjenndal Glacier, offering views of tall mountains, lush foliage, waterfalls and glaciers. Travel by motorcoach on a 45-minute drive outside the quaint village of Olden, where the landscape transitions from fjord to valley, with an emerald colored lake nestled between high mountains covered with luxuriant plant life. Arriving in Kjenndal Valley, leave your coach and follow a trailhead that leads to Kjenndal Glacier, nestled between two high mountain tops with glistening waterfalls. Then you will return to Loen, an take a ride on the Mount Hoven Cable Car, one of the steepest cable cars in the world, bringing you from the fjord to the top of Mount Hoven, up 3,317 feet (1011 meters) in just 7 minutes! From the mountain top you will find magnificent views over Olden and Loen Valley, see the jade green water of the Loen and Briksdals lakes, and catch a glimpse of the grand Jostedals Glacier, the largest glacier in continental Europe. Enjoy some coffee and cake while marveling at the beauty of nature. Please note: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing, wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for inclement weather. The optional walk to the viewpoint is approximately 2,297 feet (700 m.) round trip, and is on a dirt and gravel path with gradual slopes. Coffee, tea and cake will be served at Mount Hoven. Visibility of sights may be affected in adverse weather conditions.

The Loen Skylift is the fastest and easiest way to the best views in Norway. This cable car is one of the steepest cable cars in the world and offers magnificent views over the Olden and Loen Valley. You will see parts of the grand Jostedals Glacier, the largest glacier in continental Europe, maintained by the heavy snowfall in the region. You will also overlook the jade green water of the Loen and Briksdals lakes. Continuing on you will hike on a well maintained path, past the north side of Tungegjølet, a steep narrow gully that ends down at Loen. You will walk close to the steep mountainsides until you reach the peak of Staurinibba, 4,524 feet (1379m) above sea level. The reward that awaits you is well worth the effort - with an impressive view of inner Nordfjord. At the conclusion of your hike, sit back, relax and breathe in the mountain air as you enjoy a light refreshment at the top of Mount Hoven. Please note: Participants must be in good physical condition and should dress in layered clothing, bring rain gear and wear comfortable hiking shoes. The trail covers 3.5 miles (5.4km) round trip and is on dirt and gravel, with gradual but consistent inclines, and steps. This tour is not recommended for anyone who is afraid of heights or experiences vertigo. Comfort stops available at the base and top of the cable car. If there is snow on top of the mountain snowshoes and poles will be available for additional charge.

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Please note : Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it's in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

This is the perfect kayak experience for those interested in a more adventurous introduction of the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund. After a short 10-minute walk to the kayak center you will be outfitted with the proper equipment and given a brief safety talk before you board your 2-person sea kayak. This leisurely kayak trip will take you along Ålesund's Jugend-style architecture where your guides will share stories about the area. You will be given an interpretation of the history and culture of this Art Nouveau city perched on the Atlantic. You will also paddle through the scenic maze of islands offering views of Ålesund's coastline that you can only enjoy from the vantage point of a kayak. Please note : Participants must be at least 6 years of age and children must be accompanied by an adult. It is recommended that guests dress in layered clothing and wear flat shoes. You may get wet! Two- person (tandem) sea kayaks will be used. Not suitable for disabled people. Excursion is dependent on weather.

Alesund, the largest town on the Northwest coast, has a beautiful settin g, built on several islands stretching out into the ocean. A large part of Alesund was destroyed by fire in 1904 and rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style . Today, it is a bustling town where the fish and fish processing industry are the main sources of income. You will take a stroll through the many rooms in the listed building known as "The Swan Pharmacy ," and be mesmerized by the beautiful and authentic décor. The tour continues through the Jugend (Art Nouveau) quarters of the town center and inner harbor, through the attractive park at the foot of Mount Aksla and back to the pier and your ship. Please note : This tour is a walking tour with steps, cobblestones and uneven ground and is not recommended for people with mobility issues. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

After a short walk to the bicycle center your guide will give a brief safety instruction before you begin your adventurous and scenic ride to Hess Island. You will set off bicycling through Ålesund , riding past delightful stone buildings and churches carved with enchanting art nouveau décor. Riding over Asp Island and around the outer edge of Hess Island you will see beaches, pasturelands, and historic installations from World War ll. Arriving at Sugar Summit trailhead you will leave your bicycles and begin your 35-minute hike up to some breathtaking panoramic views of the sea, surrounding islands, Sunnmøre Alps and the city of Ålesund. The view is worth every step, making this the highlight of your tour. On your return bicycle ride you will get another chance to enjoy the scenic views that Ålesund has to offer. Please note : Participants must be 10 years of age and children must be accompanied by an adult. It is recommended that guests wear layered clothing and flat shoes. Take a bottle of water and backpack for your belongings.

Just a short distance away you will arrive at the heliport where you will meet your pilot and receive a safety briefing. Then, climb on board your aircraft, don your headset and prepare to be astounded. Your helicopter will begin its ascent, giving you unparalleled views over the Sunnmøre Alp mountain range and surrounding fjord landscape. Formed over millions of years, shifting glaciers have carved their way through the bedrock and left behind a network of fjords, valleys and towering peaks. During your flight, your pilot will point out the sights below. Please note: This excursion is not recommended for guests who suffer from motion sickness and/or vertigo, nor guests who have a fear of heights and enclosed spaces. Guests must weigh less than 260 pounds (about 118 kilograms) and must register their body weight and be prepared to be weighed at the heliport. Seat arrangements are based on this information to insure safety. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions, as are visibility, views and the route chosen.

The community of Giske consists of four islands. Two of them will be visited on this tour - the Giske and Godøy Islands, which lie further to the west. The tour to the islands will take you via bridges and underwater tunnels, the longest being 2.6 miles (4.2 km). Giske is known as the Saga Island for the fact that the Viking Chieftain Rollo was born here. This island is fairly flat and fertile. On the island you will visit the old stone church dating back to 1150, originally a chapel belonging to the mighty Giske family. From Giske you will continue over to Godøy Island. On the northwestern side of the island you will drive towards the small but picturesque fishing village of Alnes , situated facing the Atlantic Ocean. Take a closer look at the old lighthouse, climb the stairs to the very top and enjoy refreshments at the visitor center. On the way back to the ship visit the viewpoint Mt. Aksla , with a spectacular view of Ålesund and the islands that have just been visited. Please note : Giske church is a working church and due to unforeseen church services, an inside visit to the church cannot be guaranteed. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the ground is uneven in places.

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Please note : Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it's in the area and does not exceed the duration of 4 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

Just minutes from the pier is the cathedral of Molde, a double-nave basilica built in 1957 that has a free-standing bell tower next to the main building. Spend about 20 minutes appreciating its architecture, the roses surrounding the church bell tower and the flowers blooming on the terraced hillside before continuing to the Romsdalen Open Air Museum, among Norway's largest regional museums, founded in 1912. You will see an open-air museum with houses, all furnished and equipped according to their respective ages, showing the development of the farmers' culture from the 17th to the 20th century. Leaving the museum, stop at Varden Viewpoint en route to your yacht. Located on the mountainside 1,300 feet above Molde, this vintage point affords magnificent panoramas of the fjords and Romsdal Alps. Please note: Dress in layered clothing and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Your tour will start with a brief sightseeing tour of Molde including the Molde Church , the City Hall and the Museum of Romsdalen Valley before you head to the Varden Viewpoint with its impressive view of Molde, Romsdalsfjorden and the 87 peaks of the Romsdals Alps. Then you will continue your scenic drive passing the village of Eide before entering one of the masterpieces of Norwegian engineering, the Atlantic Road . Opened in 1989, the road covers a distance of 5 miles including 8 bridges from islet to islet connecting Averoya Island to the mainland. Your tour will continue to the fishing village of Bud, where you will have a photo stop then pass by the Church of Bud, built in 1717, before returning to Molde. Please note : Places of interest may be visited in a reverse order.

Enjoy a scenic drive from Molde to Åndalsnes where you will cross the fjord by ferry to Åfarnes and make your first stop at Rødven Stave Church. The Rødven Stave Church, now the property of the Society for the Preservation of Ancient Norwegian Monuments, dates back to 1300 and is still located on its original site. You'll have the opportunity to discover the unique architecture and atmosphere of this church, which is one of only 30 surviving stave churches in Norway. Your next stop will be Woldstad Farm, where you will be warmly welcomed by your hosts. Woldstad Farm dates back to 1654, and the Woldstad family has owned and run the farm since then. Your hosts will share stories about the local history and entertain you with Norwegian folk songs before you are served a delicious 3-course lunch. Just up from the town center of Åndalsens, you will find a newly built gondola that will take you 2,323 feet (708 meters) above sea level. Arrive at Nesaksla mountain top and experience a breathtaking view of the mountains and fjord. Depart Åndalsens passing more wonderful scenery en route to Molde. The return drive includes a 15-minute ferry crossing from Åfarnes to Sølsnes. Please note : It is recommended that guests dress in layered clothing, bring raingear for inclement weather, and wear flat comfortable shoes. Visibility of sights may be affected in adverse weather conditions. Comfort stop available at Woldstad Farm.

Enjoy a magical visit to the magnificent Bergtatt Marble Caves . After a 45-minute scenic drive north your adventure will begin on board a small, open-air boat taking you deep into the glistening caves, crisscrossing an underground lake. The caves are decorated with beautiful lighting reflecting on the water, giving you a mystical experience. Your knowledgeable guide will inform you of the mining operations which were active from 1938-1987. You will also see a short film of how this marble mine is still operating in other parts of the mountain. During your visit you will have time to capture photos of this unique marble cavern. Continuing on by motor coach you will pass the village of Eide before entering one of the masterpieces of Norwegian engineering, the Atlantic Ocean Road . The road workers experienced 12 hurricanes during construction of the road before it was opened in 1989. In a distance of 5 miles, 8 different bridges have been built from islet to islet connecting Averøya Island with the mainland. Your scenic drive will conclude along the Moldefjorden on your way back to Molde and the ship. Please note : Walking is very limited, however guests must be able to embark transportation both for the motor coach and the boat independently.

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own car. You will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Please note : Capacity: 1-3 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English-speaking guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it's in the area and does not exceed the duration of 4 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own van. You will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Please note : Capacity: 3-5 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private van, driver and English-speaking guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it's in the area and does not exceed the duration of 4 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

Experience the magnificent Geirangerfjord in a safe and comfortable open RIB (rigid inflatable boat) . You will be met at your ship to walk to the RIB launch. You will receive an introduction to the RIB and how to use the waterproof safety suits. In high speed with sea spray in your face you will enjoy a trip through the Geirangerfjord accompanied by your expert guide. You will make photo stops at the famous waterfalls Seven Sisters, the Suitor and the Bridal Veil, and get very close to the falls. You will view the abandoned farms along the Geirangefjord such as Skageflå, Knivsflå, Blomberg, and Matvik, all of which reveal the life along the fjord many years back. Please note : This tour is not recommended for children under 14 and written consent must be provided by parent/guardian to participate. For safety reasons, this adventure is not recommended for people with limited mobility.

Experience the tranquil beauty of Geirangerfjord from the water as you skim along its pristine surface by kayak. You will take a short bus ride to meet your guide who will give you a safety briefing and paddling instruction. Don your required life jacket and embark your double sea kayak to begin your adventure. You will pass several small homes along the coastline while you head toward the magnificent Seven Sisters Waterfall . Of its seven cascades, the tallest has a free fall of about 820 feet. Throughout, your guides will share stories and interesting facts about life in the fjord, the high mountains that form its walls and the incredible waterfalls. Please note : Participants must be at least 8 years of age and children must be accompanied by an adult. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women or guests with back or neck problems. All participants will be given a life jacket. Dress in warm, layered clothing and bring rain gear. Wear flat shoes, heels are not permitted. Although you will kayak toward Seven Sisters Waterfall the distance you cover will depend on the group you are traveling with. You may get wet!

Your trek takes you along a wild river with 326 stairs leading up to cascading waterfalls. Hear stories about how the forces of water have shaped the World Heritage landscape for thousands of years. When you reach the two old hydropower plants, you will have an insight into how the pioneers in the village saw the possibilities of hydropower - a lesser-known fairy tale in the story of Geiranger. At the Norwegian Fjord Center learn more about the West Norwegian Fjords and the Geirangerfjord World Heritage Site. The exhibitions showcase the exciting and unique fjord landscape that was granted World Heritage status by UNESCO in 2005. Exhibitions and interactive stations give you an opportunity to learn about how the geological processes formed the fjord landscape, and to see what the landscape looks like today. You will also learn about the area's biological diversity and how animals and plants have adapted to the various habitats. In the cinema hall you can view a film illustrating the beautiful landscape and nature found in this World Heritage area. Before heading back to the harbor, you will be treated to freshly homemade Norwegian waffles and coffee in the cafe. Please note : It is recommended to dress in layered clothing and wear comfortable walking shoes. Walking involves mostly paved paths and 326 stairs. Comfort stop available at the Norwegian Fjord Center.

En route to the farm, enjoy a stop at the viewpoint at Ørnesvingen, or Eagle's Bend, for panoramic views of the fjord and your ship. Åshild Dale and Jostein Sande have, since 1983, been the owners and farmers of a family-farm at Dale Fjord Farm, as well as 1/6 of Herdalssetra Mountain Summer Farm. This part of the big old Viking Age Farm has been in the Dale family since 1790. The fjord and mountain farms are operated as one unit - still travelling like "nomads" - using the resources where "the grass is greenest." It is only possible to stay in the mountains from June to September. The rest of the year both animals and people live in the valley Norddal where you will be visiting. Refreshments will be served, highlighted by a special treat of homemade goat caramel - a taste not to be missed! Please note : This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven surfaces at the farm, which can also be muddy when wet. There are also a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilize a wheelchair. It is recommended to dress in warm, layered clothing and wear flat comfortable walking shoes. This tour involves gravel and stone pathways, uneven ground, steps and gradual slopes. Comfort stop available at the farm.

Nordic walking began as a summer training exercise for serious "cross-country" skiers. Fitness walkers in Europe adopted Nordic walking as a time-efficient, low- stress, total body workout and popularity is growing worldwide. Today,you will be invited on this invigorating and exciting walking excursion through the beautiful setting of Geiranger. You will meet the expert guide at the pier where a briefing on Nordic walking will take place, along with specially designed poles to work the upper body while you walk. Like cross-country skiing, the poles are used by the arms to match each step you take. Beginning the walk, proceed at a casual walking speed , but experience a full body workout as the walking poles raise the heart rate and exercise the arms. You will tour the hills and admire the mountain sides of Geiranger . Proceed uphill and over uneven terrain; however, the strenuous walk allows for wonderful views of the countryside. During the walk, stop at the village of Westerås , to enjoy a break , before continuing to Hole . After a brief stop, you will begin the Nordic walk back to the pier. Please note : Guests must be in good physical condition to participate on this excursion. Uphill walking, uneven, gravel and paved terrain will be encountered.

Just a short distance from the pier, perched above the famous Geirangerfjord, you arrive at Møllstunet Farm. This cluster of small, protected farms date back to the 16th century. Your welcoming hosts will share stories about the families that once lived here and give you a tour of the house and farm. Inside the home it is like time stood still 100 years ago with photos of ancestors, old furniture and heirlooms. Learn about the traditional way of living on the farm and the culture of fjord life, while you are treated to coffee and home-made cake. Please note : It is recommended to dress in layered clothing and wear comfortable walking shoes. Walking involves approximately 70 meters on uneven ground and 15 narrow, stone steps at the farm house. Comfort stop is available at the farm house.

This tour will show you Geiranger and the spectacular Geirangerfjord from the most famous viewpoints in the area. You will board your motor coach departing from the pier. From the landing stage in Geiranger the drive goes uphill via the Ørnesvingen (Eagle's Road) to a viewpoint, where you will see a breathtaking view of the fjord and your ship. After a photo stop, you will return to Geiranger and continue through the wild Flydal Valley along numerous hairpin bends to Lake Djupvatn . Afterwards you will continue along the fascinating road to the summit of Mount Dalsnibba (5,000 ft. elev.). From here you will be able to see far beyond the Geirangerfjord on a clear day. On the way back to Geiranger and to your waiting yacht, there will be a photo stop at Flydalsjuvet viewpoint. Please note : There are steps to access the motor coach, no wheelchair elevator and wheelchairs must be collapsible. The ride along Eagle's Road contains several hairpin turns.

Departing Lerwick, head west to the picturesque harbor village of Hamnavoe on the isle of Burra. After a brief photo stop, continue north towards Girlsta, through the Tingwall Valley with its Norse heritage before arriving at the "Keolka" croft - a beautiful Shetland croft nestled within the rugged heather hills, with stunning views across the water. Here you will enjoy an authentic crofting experience, as well as getting to meet a local crofter and his dogs. David Murray is an active crofter/farmer in north Shetland and is widely known throughout the sheepdog trialling world having qualified for the Scottish National Team, The International Supreme Championship, and the World Sheepdog Trials with his dog Sweep. Witness working sheepdog demonstrations with a talk on their training, see some of the native, colored Shetland sheep and witness a sheep shearing demonstration (weather dependent), meet Shetland ponies, and enjoy a talk on the typical year in the life of a Shetland crofter. After a short drive, warm up with a delicious traditional lunch of soup and sandwiches in the Herrislea House Hotel. On the way back to Lerwick, hear more of Shetland`s culture and heritage. Please note : Some aspects of this tour are weather dependent such as the sheep clipping demonstration. Croft is on a gentle slope, grassy and can be muddy depending on the weather.

Depart through Lerwick, the capital of Shetland as you begin your trip to Burra, one of the smaller Shetland Islands; connected to the mainland by a series of bridges and the island of Trondra. En route there will be a photo stop at Meal Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Shetland. The beach is around 300 yards away from the car park along a boarded walkway. Next, you will arrive at the pony experience, where you will be met by members of the Tait family, who are the local owners and breeders of the ponies. Learn about the 2,000-year-old history of these small horses on the island and how they are bred and used today. Next, you will break out into small groups for an intimate experience with the ponies. You will have the unique opportunity to pet, brush and handle the ponies before leading one of the ponies down to a secluded beach, and have your photo taken with these beautiful animals. After your time here, you will re-board the coach and return to your ship. Please note: The ponies are very friendly and used to people but are still animals so can be unpredictable. Please do not feed the animals. Guests will be asked to sign a disclaimer on the coach before arrival.

Your tour starts in the fishing port of Lerwick, founded in the 17th century. The center is full of character, especially by the water's edge where the older buildings are situated. As we drive through the town we will see the Town Hall before turning west to the old town of Scalloway, the original main town and second largest settlement on the island. En route we will pass Clickimin Broch -a defense tower with surrounding structures dating back 2,000 years. On arrival in Scalloway we will stop to visit the now roofless Castle which was built around 1600 by the tyrant Earl Patrick Stewart. He used forced labor to build his residence and was executed in Edinburgh in 1615. You will then visit the fascinating local museum, which has a special display devoted to the Shetland Bus, boats which traveled between Shetland and Norway helping the Norwegian Resistance movement during World War II. If you prefer, wander along Scalloway's Main Street and view the waterfront. Leaving Scalloway, you will travel through the Tingwall Valley, pausing for a photo stop to view a small herd of Shetland Ponie s.This tour also includes a stop at the Shetland Jewellery Workshop, where the group will get a tour of the workshop to see how the pieces are designed and created. Please note : Scalloway Museum is wheelchair accessible, Scalloway Castle is not. Scalloway Castle is situated right next door to the museum, so guests will be able to see it however it is covered in scaffolding for the foreseeable future.

Depart through Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, as you begin your trip to the island's most southerly point. En route, you will pass through the rural townships of Fladdabister and, conditions permitting, pause to admire the view of the magnificent Mousa Broch, the tallest and best preserved broch in the world. You will continue south down the west coast and pass St Ninian's Isle where the famous Pictish horde of silver dating from the 9th Century was found in 1958. Continue south to visit the remarkable archaeological site of Jarlshof. The site was uncovered by a violent storm in the winter of 1896/7, revealing an extraordinary settlement site embracing at least 5,000 years of human history. The site contains a remarkable sequence of stone structures - late Neolithic houses, a Bronze-Age village , an Iron-Age broch and wheelhouses, several Norse longhouse, a medieval farmstead, and the 16th century laird's house. Visit the remains of these village settlements with your guide to make the most of your time here. You will then return to Lerwick with your guide telling you more about these islands as we look out for Shetland's famous ponies on the way back. . Please note : Jarlshof is not wheelchair accessible. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

This is a wonderful tour for exploring the South Isles of Orkney and sampling some local produce. You will leave Orkney's biggest island and follow the coast of Scapa Flow on a 30-minute drive to the smaller South Isles. Drive over the first of the Churchill Barriers, built during the Second World War to protect Scapa Flow. You will visit the beautiful, hand-painted Italian Chapel , built by Italian prisoners of war who were interned on this small island during World War Two. The chapel stands as a lasting memorial to peace. You will then continue south across two further Churchill Barriers to the island of Burray and stop for delicious refreshments in the lovely small fishing town of Burray Village for a taster plate of some local produce including Bere Bannocks (local bread) and local farmhouse cheese, and Orkney Fudge Cheesecake. The tour will also include a glass of wine or beer. You will then continue to the Fossil and Heritage Centre. Here you will learn more about the heritage of Orkney and the building of the Churchill Barriers in addition to an opportunity to learn more about Orkney's geological history before returning to the ship. Please note: Dress in warm, comfortable clothes and bring along waterproof things like an umbrella or rain poncho. This tour is wheelchair accessible.

Depart Kirkwall and head into the west of Mainland, Orkney's largest island. This tour passes through gentle rolling landscape and into the Neolithic Heartland of Orkney; an area designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its wealth of pre-historic archaeology. Passing the Standing Stones of Stenness you will stop at the Ring of Brodgar ; a huge ceremonial circle of stones dating back almost 5,000 years. You then continue on to the 5000-year-old village of Skara Brae, beautifully interpreted in the visitor center. See the remarkable dwellings revealed from beneath the sand dunes by storms only 150 years ago. From here it is only a 656-foot walk to visit Skaill House , Orkney's finest manor. Skaill was built by Bishop George Graham in 1620 on the site of a farmstead thought to date to the Norse period. In its 400 year history all 12 of its Lairds have been related and all have contributed to the history and collection in the house. Return to your coach and continue this circular route following the coastline of Scapa Flow , made famous for its role in both World Wars. Please note : The ground around the Ring of Brodgar is very soft and not suitable for wheelchairs or people with mobility issues. Wear comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing.

Depart the ship for Scapa Distillery on this Concierge Collection small group tour. Located on the beautiful Scapa Bay, Scapa Distillery was founded in 1885 and specializes in producing single malt whisky with notes of honey. During your visit, you will learn the distilling processes and history of Scapa and the legendary Scapa Flow, a famous British Naval Base in both World Wars. After the tour, visit The Noust to sample 3 whiskies while taking in the stunning views of Scapa Flow. After your visit, you'll take a stroll along the sandy bay of Scapa and visit the Royal Oak Gardens before returning to the ship. Please note: This tour includes a tasting of 3 drams at the distillery. Additionally, we recommend you wear warm waterproof clothing and comfortable walking shoes.

Start your journey from Hatston Pier by taking the shuttle bus to the town of Kirkwall. Begin your guided walk along the charming harbor, exploring the ancient shoreline dating back to the Viking era when the town was founded. As you make your way down the flagstone streets into the town's center, immerse yourself in the rich history of Kirkwall. Visit St Magnus Cathedral, an impressive 850-year-old structure made of red and yellow sandstone that dominates Kirkwall's skyline. Explore the nearby Earl's and Bishop's Palaces, once owned by the notorious Earl Patrick Stewart, the illegitimate nephew of Mary, Queen of Scots, who notoriously used forced labor to construct the Earl's Palace. End your tour at the Orkney Museum, where you can enjoy free time to explore the exhibits, browse local shops, and make your way back to the ship at your own pace.