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Ancient sites and modern life Sail from Edinburgh to the Icelandic capital via the remote and wild isles of the North Atlantic. As the gentler summer weather warms these much-storied seas, you’ll explore exciting capital cities, Neolithic sites, thriving island towns, and tiny villages where the influence of the Vikings can still be felt. Wildlife and expansive skies Seabirds and marine life thrive under the huge skies of the North Atlantic. Whether you’re on our small expedition boats, on MS Maud’s decks or on foot, you’ll see towering cliffs teeming with seabirds and watch for whales and dolphins splashing in the seas around us. Explore the wild and rugged islands of the North Atlantic on this 1012-day expedition cruise between mainland Britain and Iceland. Discover the Viking heritage that links many of these remote places as we island hop our way north aboard expedition ship MS Maud. Visit bustling capital cities and tiny villages, and spot the seabirds and marine life that thrive in this diverse part of the world. Wildlife, bygone civilisations and modern life in the North Atlantic PLEASE NOTE: In keeping with our adventurous spirit, we visit small remote ports on our expeditions. Due to sea conditions and secluded locations we visit, it's not always possible to dock in port. Sometimes we have to use our small expedition boats to get ashore.
Our cozy Polar Inside cabins are located on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with a shower/toilet. Most cabins have separate beds, with one doubling as a sofa. Others are equipped with upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Our Polar Outside cabins are mostly situated on the middle or lower decks and all have bathrooms with a shower/toilet. They have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both the upper and middle decks, they all have bathrooms with shower/toilet. They are also equipped with tea- and coffee-making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All cabins have individual specifications.
Our Expeditions Suites are the most luxurious cabins. Situated on the ship’s upper deck, the suites feature seating areas with TV and bathrooms with shower/toilet, all with double beds. Some suites have more amenities than others. Located on decks 6, 7, and 8. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.
Our cozy Polar Inside cabins are located on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with a shower/toilet. Most cabins have separate beds, with one doubling as a sofa. Others are equipped with upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Our Polar Outside cabins are mostly situated on the middle or lower decks and all have bathrooms with a shower/toilet. They have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both the upper and middle decks, they all have bathrooms with shower/toilet. They are also equipped with tea- and coffee-making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All cabins have individual specifications.
Our Expeditions Suites are the most luxurious cabins. Situated on the ship’s upper deck, the suites feature seating areas with TV and bathrooms with shower/toilet, all with double beds. Some suites have more amenities than others. Located on decks 6, 7, and 8. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.
Your island-hopping expedition cruise starts in Iceland's art, culture and history-packed capital, Reykjavík. If you have time before boarding MS Maud, stroll along Laugavegur with its boutiques and galleries, head to the striking Hallgrimskirkja cathedral or the fascinating Reykjavík Art Museum. With so much to explore, you may want to come early and join one of our Pre-Programmes to the Golden Circle or Icelandic Highlands. On board MS Maud, pick up your expedition jacket, check out your cabin, meet the Expedition Team, and enjoy your first delicious dinner as we set sail towards our first stop, Heimaey.
As we sail to the Faroe Islands, enjoy an idyllic day at sea with plenty to do. Admire the views from MS Maud’s expansive Observation Deck, visit the Science Center for insights into the destinations ahead, or take advantage of the gym and hot tubs. Photography enthusiasts can pick up some pointers from our onboard photographer on how to capture wildlife and landscapes. You'll find the comfort of the Explorer Lounge a great place to read or watch the world glide by. You can also enjoy a talk by the Expedition Team – experienced explorers who will share their extensive knowledge of the places ahead with you.
Tiny Runavik is a flourishing town on the Faroe Island of Eysturoy. Hugging the eastern side of Skálafjørður fjord, it’s been a haven for ships for many centuries. The Vikings used to dock here too. Join the Expedition Team on a kayaking tour of Skálafjørður – at nine miles long, it’s the longest fjord in the Faroe Islands – or head off on one of the many hiking routes. You could follow the relatively easy path through the heather-rich moorland around Lake Toftavatn, known for its birdlife. Hike up the nearby hill for astounding views of the surrounding green peaks. Take the opportunity to stretch your legs before we cruise to Streymoy, the largest of the islands. You can also enjoy a talk by the Expedition Team – experienced explorers who will share their extensive knowledge of the places ahead with you.
A visit to Streymoy in the Faroe Islands Founded by Norsemen in the 10th century, Tórshavn – ‘Thor’s Harbour’ – is one of Northern Europe’s oldest capitals. Wander along winding cobbled alleyways and past colourful, turf-roofed houses. In the local museums, you’ll learn about the city’s origins and the flora, fauna and geology of the Faroe Islands. Just over a mile north of the town, Svartafoss waterfall tumbles over mossy rocks. And as you walk along the seafront, look out for the Eider Drake and the distinctive Faroese Starling with its beige-tipped wings.
Sea birds and Vikings in the northern Shetlands The northern Shetland Islands represent the geographical extremity of the British Isles. In these remote areas, we’ll explore according to the conditions and where we find the best opportunities. We may visit charming Haroldswick on Unst, where the Vikings reputedly first made footfall in the British Isles. Home to a reconstruction of a Viking longhouse and ship, there’s also a burial mound thought to be the grave of King Harald Fairhair, the village’s namesake. We may also take out our small expedition boats, exploring hidden coves below towering cliffs. At the UK’s most northerly point, the cliffs of the Hermaness National Nature Reserve shelter thousands of breeding seabirds including fulmars, puffins, shags and gannets, so be sure to bring your binoculars.
Experience life in the capital of Scotland's most northerly inhabited isles We'll dock alongside Lerwick, the capital of the Shetland Islands, to explore this friendly, Victorian-influenced fishing town. Navigate the narrow lanes on foot to discover little shops selling local whiskies, woollen sweaters and fudge. By the old waterfront, you’ll find the Shetland Museum, exploring the area's rich history. Nearby, see Fort Charlotte and the regal Town Hall. The wider island is home to remarkable Iron Age villages and the Croft House Museum, where you'll learn about the hard life of the local crofters. Keep your binoculars handy as you may spot grey and common seals along Lerwick's beaches, and local birdlife such as Red-throated Divers, redshanks and curlews.
A scenic stop for bird lovers Your cruise continues in the Shetlands as we visit Fair Isle, Britain's most remote island, known for its birdlife and knitwear. A magnet for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers, the island is home to 27 bird species. It's a vital stop for migrating seabirds, drawn to the red sandstone cliffs, green fields and moors. Why not join a hike along breathtaking clifftop trails with the Expedition Team. Gain fascinating insights into the life and history of the 65-strong island community at the local museum. You can support Fair Islanders by buying genuine Fair Isle knitwear directly from local makers. If landing isn’t possible, the scenic cruising is just as spectacular.
Discover the islands’ rich heritage, wildlife and whisky The Orkney Islands' largest town, Kirkwall, is a vibrant place influenced by every era from the Vikings to World War II. In the Norse town centre, visit the regal St Magnus Cathedral and the adjacent Earl’s Palace to see the stone ruins of this once-grand Renaissance building. Whisky aficionados will enjoy Kirkwall's Highland Park and Scapa distilleries’ sublime single malts. Delve into the past at Scara Brae settlement and the mysterious standing stones of Ring of Brodgar and Stones of Stenness – all part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage site. Sea birds such as puffins, gannets, guillemots, kittiwakes and eagles thrive around the Orkneys. Look out for dolphins, whales and orcas.
Discover the many charms of the much-loved city of Edinburgh After London, Edinburgh is the most visited city in the United Kingdom, and you’ll soon see why. With streets steeped in history and a thriving cultural scene, the Scottish capital offers the perfect balance between the traditional and contemporary. Explore mysterious winding alleys and elegant terraced rows, and check out some of the many shops, bars and restaurants. Get a great view of the city from majestic Edinburgh Castle, where you can see Scotland’s Crown Jewels and the famed Stone of Destiny.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship Length: 135,75 m Passenger Capacity: 528 Built: 2003 About the ship MS Maud, previously MS Midnatsol, is named after one of the most famous polar vessels of all time, Roald Amundsen's 'Maud' from 1917. The original 'Maud' got her name from the first Queen of modern-day Norway. She also had her namesake in Hurtigruten Expedition’s 1925 flagship, DS Dronning Maud ('DS Queen Maud'). Ship features This ship has passed stringent tests and has been accredited by the leading independent certification body Bureau Veritas (BV). The strict and thorough safety audit required by BV ensures every ship is in compliance with industry and international health, safety and hygiene best practices. When you see the SafeGuard label, you can feel confident the vessel you’re sailing in meets the highest standards to achieve certification. SafeGuard furthermore ensures that best practice guidelines are being followed with regard to hygiene, sanitation and limiting the spread of infectious diseases on board. Today, MS Maud is equipped with advanced technology that makes her exceptionally well-suited for expedition cruises in Norway and the British Isles. Premium expedition comfort Her bright interiors are appointed in a classic Art Deco style. Colours are inspired by the Midnight Sun, allowing you to relax in warm vibes every day of the year. Channel your inner scientist in the advanced Science Center and enjoy daily lectures in the lecture hall or in the comfort of your cabin with our new streaming service. Sample delicious dishes from local suppliers in the restaurants and enjoy beverages and the spectacular views in the Explorer Lounge & Bar. On deck 9, you can enjoy the spectacular views from the outdoor Observation deck. There’s also a gym and a sauna with stunning views. Interior and Cabins MS Maud is well-suited for expedition cruising, with a décor inspired by Norway’s stunning nature, reflected in many of the pieces of Norwegian modern art on board. Her bright interiors are appointed in a classic Art Deco style. Colours are inspired by the Midnight Sun, allowing you to relax in warm vibes every day of the year. Explorer lounge & bar Enjoy the view with a drink in the Explorer lounge & bar. Science Center The hub of onboard learning is our Science Center, an edutainment venue where guests and crew meet to create a deeper understanding of the areas we explore. We stream for your comfort our lectures to cabins. Gym The MS Maud offers a complete gym. Sauna & Ralaxation After a day of exploring, guests can relax and rejuvenate in the hot tubs or the sauna, exercise in the gym, take in the scenery in the elegant Explorer Lounge & Bar, or browse in the on-board shop. Library The ship has a small selection of books that are available to guests while on board. Observation Deck The Observation Deck is an ideal place to scan the scenery and watch wildlife with your binoculars. Aune Restaurant Welcome onboard to a culinary journey and our award-winning food sourcing program. On board you find restaurant Aune - our main dining room; Named after the Norwegian ship chandler and polar expedition supplier Tinus Aune. Fredheim Restaurant The ships’ informal and social meeting place – named after a 1900s hunting station on Svalbard. Fredheim - with casual fast food and plant based alternatives. Lindstrom Restaurant And our fine dining restaurant Lindstrøm, named after Polar Hero and Amundsen Chef Adolf Lindstrøm. Take a deep breath, relax and enjoy.
Wildlife, bygone civilisations and modern life in the North Atlantic Viking heritage Visit bustling capital cities and tiny villages, and spot the seabirds and marine life that thrive in this diverse part of the world.
