2021-10-06
2022-05-31
from$ 10062 AUD
Note: Current p/p indicative rate. Final price may change due to currency fluctuations.
Ship
Ocean Endeavour
Ocean Endeavour
City
Glasgow to Aberdeen
Glasgow to Aberdeen
Save 15%
2021-10-06
2022-05-31
Overview
It’s all about the islands The Shetlands, the Orkneys, and the Hebrides offer a glimpse of Scottish island life, where crofters and fisherfolk live close to the sea. Travel in comfort aboard the Ocean Endeavour to Scotland’s farthest-flung islands Make landings by Zodiac in places otherwise inaccessible to visitors History and archaeology—everywhere! History buffs will wander wide-eyed in Scotland. From Neolithic villages to medieval castles, Scotland is a living testament to a rich and layered history Visit archeological ruins including standing stones, brochs, ancient complexes, and castles English, Scots, Norse, Pictish, and Neolithic cultures all made their mark in Scotland Astounding sea life Scotland’s rocky coastlines attract millions of seabirds, including puffins—and the rich waters of the North Atlantic and North Sea are favoured by numerous species of whales. Spring conditions are excellent for viewing seabirds and spotting marine mammals Fine Scotch straight from the source Small distilleries are famed the world over as some of Scotland’s most enduring attractions. Among the islands, where fresh water and characteristic peat are found in plenty, numerous Scotch distillers ply their unique trade. Visit distilleries dating to the 1700s, and sample their glorious fare!
Departures
Note: Current p/p indicative rate. Final price may change due to currency fluctuations.
Cruise Itinerary
After meeting in Glasgow we’ll depart via coach, and travel onward to Greenock. Greenock has a rich maritime history and was a major shipbuilding and import centre. Here, we’ll board the Ocean Endeavour, our home for the next ten nights.
The Queen of the Hebrides, Islay is the southernmost of the Inner Hebrides, known for its fine whisky and as a haven for seabirds. We will visit Loch Finlaggan historic site, home of the Lords of the Isles and Clan Donald, and visit to the Gruinart Nature Reserve, a habitat for barnacle goose, hen harriers, and corncrakes.
The Isle of Staffa is famed for basaltic formations and numerous caves, the best known being Fingal’s Cave. Originally known in Gaelic as “the melodious cave,” it provided the inspiration for Mendelssohn’s overture, The Hebrides. We then visit nearby Iona, where St. Columba established his monastery—the burial place of kings. The restored Iona Abbey complex preserves two outstanding crosses dating as far back as the eighth century.
This is a fabulous day for birders, photographers, and hikers. We will cruise the southwestern shore of Skye to visit Loch Coruisk, a freshwater loch accessed through Loch Scavaig. Here we find one of the finest mountainscapes in Britain, backed by the Cuillin hills.
The Outer Hebrides are a fantastic collection of over 100 islands seventy kilometers off Scotland’s west coast. Here we find the oldest evidence of human habitation in Scotland with Pictish, Norse, and Scottish influence. We’ll search out the rich marine and bird life of the islands as conditions permit.
The archipelago known as St. Kilda was inhabited until 1930. Today, St. Kilda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, protecting fascinating ruins as well as natural heritage features. Seabirds thrive on the island of Hirta, which is also home to feral sheep left by the departing islanders. Enormous cliffs offer dramatic ocean views for our hikers!
Lewis is the largest of the Hebridean Islands and a Gaelic stronghold. We’ll visit the island’s capital, Stornoway, where one can purchase the island’s famous tweed. One of Britain’s most important Stone Age sites, Callanish’s standing stones are said to be giants who were punished by St. Kieran for refusing to convert to Christianity.
Kirkwall is dominated by the massive St. Magnus Cathedral, dating from 1137. We’ll visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we’ll find the 4,000-year-old Ring of Brodgar. We’ll also tour the Hall of Clestrain, childhood home of Arctic explorer John Rae.
Marine and bird life flourish at Papa Stour among cliffs, caves, sea stacks, and blowholes. We will have a morning Zodiac cruise exploring the coastline’s rugged beauty! Twenty-three kilometres west of the Shetland Islands, Foula is the home of just a few dozen folks, many of whom preserve traditional methods of of agriculture and subsistence. Arctic terns, red-throated divers, and great skuas may be found here.
Once a Viking hub, Fair Isle is now an idyllic island colony of artists and shepherds. The island boasts 350 bird species, including puffins and great skuas in substantial numbers. The local museum is dedicated to preserving island heritage.
Many of Aberdeen’s historic stone buildings are made of locally quarried granite; high in mica, they can sparkle like silver. The city is famed for its forty-five parks, gardens, and floral displays. In the morning we will disembark at the Aberdeen port.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Ocean Endeavour
Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 137m Passenger Capacity: 199 Built: 1982 - refurbished 2001, 2004, 2010, 2015, 2016, 2018 Ocean Endeavour is a comfortable, well-appointed small expedition ship expertly engineered to explore the Polar Regions. The ship has an ice-strengthened hull, Zodiacs for exploration and remote landings, and advanced navigation equipment. The newly-refurbished vessel offers a superb guest experience with an expansive choice of cabin categories, large cabins and common areas, a sundeck and observation area, plenty of deck space for polar landscape viewing, and lounges for learning and reflection. The ship’s interiors have a contemporary aesthetic that provides a bright and spacious feel throughout. Endeavour is also the only polar adventure ship in Antarctica focused on health and wellness , and offers a contemporary approach to cuisine and newly-designed health and fitness features. Facilities include a spa serviced by organic spa provider VOYA, His & Hers saunas, a salt water pool, a gym, and a juice and smoothie bar. Complimentary activities include yoga and stretching classes, an exclusive Polar Photography program, the Scientists in Residence program, and more adventure activities than any other Quark vessel. The ship also has a polar library, and a Polar Boutique for gifts and any needed gear. Features of the Ocean Endeavour VOYA spa treatments and beauty products, Choice of 13 cabin categories, Bright, spacious cabins and common areas, Plenty of deck space for observation, Lounge with expansive views, Quiet zone for contemplation, Newly-refurbished restaurant, Contemporary dining with complimentary wine with dinner, Juice and smoothie bar, Lecture theater, Polar library, Polar boutique, Health and Wellness, Spa treatments and beauty products by spa provider VOYA - Organic Beauty From The Sea, Spa menu for face, body, hair and nails, including the exclusive Quark Explorer’s treatment, and signature VOYA hand and foot rituals, Yoga and stretching classes, His & Hers saunas, gym, and heated salt water pool Full range of adventure activities including: kayaking, camping, mountaineering, cross-country skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, Zodiac cruising, shore landings and hiking/ walking. Deck plan varies for the trips to Antarctica
Highlights
• It’s all about the islands • History and archaeology—everywhere! • Astounding sea life • Fine Scotch straight from the source
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