The historic city of Edinburgh beckons you and your fellow explorers with an overnight stay. Delve deep into Scottish culture with a bagpipe workshop and whisky tasting. Marvels like the incredible Book of Kells, one of the most beautifully illuminated manuscripts in the world, call out to curious minds with an overnight in Dublin. Within the Scottish Highlands sits Scrabster, a destination that feels straight out of the past with the neo-Gothic Castle of Mey. But a sense of magic also imbues it, and you and your fellow explorers will find that as you explore its plunging granite cliffs, lush moors and sandy shores. Amid the Summer Isles, Ullapool is the perfect starting point for sea kayaking or canoeing through incredible scenes. The old fishing village of Tobermory offers stunning landscapes, including golden eagles overhead and dolphins and minke whales in the water. From Belfast, gather your companions for an adventure through the UNESCO-listed Giant's Causeway, a majestic sight created by an ancient volcanic eruption.
Oct 01Ijmuiden (Amsterdam), The Netherlands
Depart: 11:00 pm
Ijmuiden (Amsterdam), The Netherlands
The capital of the Netherlands located along the banks of the Amstel River, its namesake, is considered among the greatest planned cities of northern Europe. It has played a critical role in the country’s development, having once been the center of world economy and now known as a destination of open-minded values. Since the 17th century, the Jewish culture and religion has influenced life here, and you can see hundreds of years of their history throughout the city. Amsterdam isn’t known for its beachfront scenery, but the Zandvoort aan Zee beach, formerly a fishing port established as far back as 1100, now stands as a popular seaside resort town.
Oct 02At Sea
At Sea
Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore
Oct 03Leith (Edinburgh), Scotland
Arrive: 8:00 am OVERNIGHT
Leith (Edinburgh), Scotland
Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, is dynamic, but small enough to walk almost anywhere. The streets are busy, narrow, and lined with towering buildings once described as, "a dream in masonry" by Edinburgh-born novelist Robert Louis Stevenson. Edinburgh Castle has played an important role in the history of Scotland as both a royal residence and a military stronghold. It’s really two cities: Old Town and New Town, where Old Town is the network of medieval streets south of the castle and New Town is everything on the other side. What unites both and all of Scotland is its whisky, part of the true Scottish experience, as is a toast with scotch, of which you can partake in at Leith’s Kaleidoscope Bar and Dining Room on Queen Street.
Oct 04Leith (Edinburgh), Scotland
Depart: 7:00 pm
Leith (Edinburgh), Scotland
Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, is dynamic, but small enough to walk almost anywhere. The streets are busy, narrow, and lined with towering buildings once described as, "a dream in masonry" by Edinburgh-born novelist Robert Louis Stevenson. Edinburgh Castle has played an important role in the history of Scotland as both a royal residence and a military stronghold. It’s really two cities: Old Town and New Town, where Old Town is the network of medieval streets south of the castle and New Town is everything on the other side. What unites both and all of Scotland is its whisky, part of the true Scottish experience, as is a toast with scotch, of which you can partake in at Leith’s Kaleidoscope Bar and Dining Room on Queen Street.
Oct 05Aberdeen, Scotland
Arrive: 8:00 am Depart: 6:00 pm
Aberdeen, Scotland
When the sun shines on the Victorian buildings of Aberdeen, the facades sparkle with an allure that beckons you and other explorer spirits to discover its many charms. Once the world capital of granite (the reason for the buildings’ sparkle), it has earned the nickname the Granite City. Amid old cottages and cobblestone streets, there are thousands of years of history to explore. Dive into the rich, seafaring past of the city at the Maritime Museum. The King’s College Chapel stuns with its awe-inspiring facade and stained-glass windows. Although renowned for its glittering silver hues and deep history, Aberdeen also offers bursts of color at Johnston Gardens, a collection of vibrant flowers like rhododendrons and ornate bridges. When you and your friends are ready for a respite, stop in at one of the local pubs for a bite and a pint, and maybe make new friends with some of the locals.
Oct 06Scrabster, Scotland
Arrive: 8:00 am Depart: 6:00 pm
Scrabster, Scotland
Within the Scottish Highlands on Thurso Bay sits the town of Scrabster, a destination that feels straight out of the past with the neo-Gothic Castle of Mey. But a sense of magic imbues it as well, and you and your fellow explorers will find that as you explore its plunging granite cliffs, lush moors and sandy shores. The views from Holburn Head Lighthouse look out over breathtaking cliffs of green as they roll into the sea. Discover the city’s modern side with a bustling harbor of lively cafes, bars, restaurants and traditional shops. A short distance from Scrabster is the town of Wick, home to the 1826 Old Pulteney Distillery, the northernmost distillery in mainland Scotland. Gather with new friends and raise a glass to the grand Scottish tradition of whisky. Venture out to the nearby Caithness, a stunning locale with scattered farmlands, rivers and lochs.
Oct 07Ullapool, Scotland, UK
Arrive: 8:00 am Depart: 6:00 pm
Ullapool, Scotland, UK
Although small, the Scottish village of Ullapool is the only settlement in the area for many miles and is packed with adventure. From hiking Ullapool Hill to discovering the Puffins of Handa Island, it’s a destination prime for exploration. Amid the Summer Isles, it’s the perfect starting point for sea kayaking or canoeing through stunning landscapes. Explore the Bone Caves, where the bones of polar bears, lynx and reindeer were once found. Keep going until you find the Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve. Make sure to stop at a pub for a taste of the local color. Raise a glass as you revel in live music and an energetic atmosphere.
Oct 08Tobermory, Scotland
Arrive: 8:00 am Depart: 6:00 pm
Tobermory, Scotland
The capital of the Isle of Mull, Tobermory, welcomes you with colorful shops, cafes and houses lined along the picturesque harbor. Sitting amid the Scottish Inner Hebrides, this old fishing village offers stunning landscapes, including golden eagles overhead and dolphins and minke whales in the water. Gather your fellow explorers for a trek along the bay in search of the town’s namesake, Mary’s Well (Tobermory in Gaelic), a stone structure marked with a Celtic cross dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Local history comes to life at the Mull Museum, but legend holds just as much allure with tales of a sunken Spanish galleon filled with gold and treasure lying below the harbor waves. Discover local artists and the art scene at An Tobar and Mull Theater, filled with exhibitions, workshops and activities that engage the senses. Raise a glass to the Scottish tradition of whisky with new friends at Tobermory Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest established in the 1790s.
Oct 09Bangor (Belfast), Northern Ireland
Arrive: 8:00 am Depart: 9:00 pm
Bangor (Belfast), Northern Ireland
Within the lush scenes of Northern Ireland’s County Down sits the seaside town of Bangor, close to the heart of Belfast. Delve into the story of the famous RMS Titanic at the Belfast museum and be transported back in time with interpretive materials, media, and a thrilling ride that takes you through recreated shipyards. Or head over to the Ulster Folk Museum, an eye-opening journey to the past that uncovers a way of life from over a century ago. Weave through the verdant counties of Down and Antrim toward the natural splendor of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giant’s Causeway, a dramatic coastal formation of interlocking basalt columns, the result of ancient volcanic fissure eruptions or, as legend has it, the handiwork of giants. Take the Belfast food trail, led by a knowledgeable guide, for an exploration of the city’s gastronomic hot spots, showcasing its colorful heritage. Back in Bangor, become enchanted by the local, rich history at Bangor Castle and its Victorian gardens..
Oct 10Dublin, Ireland
Arrive: 9:00 am OVERNIGHT
Dublin, Ireland
Ireland’s capital, Dublin, is bustling, cosmopolitan, ancient, and young at heart all at once. It is one of Europe’s liveliest cities, where medieval and 17th-century buildings stand comfortably amid all the trappings of a 21st-century community. Marvels like the incredible Book of Kells, one of the most beautifully illuminated manuscripts in the world, call out to the curious. A gentle and relaxing cruise along the River Liffey immerses you in the capital’s colorful history, from the first arrival of the Vikings to the rapid development of the city during the 18th and 19th centuries. When in Dublin, the Guinness Storehouse, located in the heart of St. James’ Gate Brewery, invites you to raise a glass at the Gravity Bar with a 360-degree view of the city skyline.
Oct 11Dublin, Ireland
Arrive: 8:00 am
Dublin, Ireland
Ireland’s capital, Dublin, is bustling, cosmopolitan, ancient, and young at heart all at once. It is one of Europe’s liveliest cities, where medieval and 17th-century buildings stand comfortably amid all the trappings of a 21st-century community. Marvels like the incredible Book of Kells, one of the most beautifully illuminated manuscripts in the world, call out to the curious. A gentle and relaxing cruise along the River Liffey immerses you in the capital’s colorful history, from the first arrival of the Vikings to the rapid development of the city during the 18th and 19th centuries. When in Dublin, the Guinness Storehouse, located in the heart of St. James’ Gate Brewery, invites you to raise a glass at the Gravity Bar with a 360-degree view of the city skyline.
Always Included
FREE cultural immersion
FREE gourmet dining with ever-changing menus
FREE unlimited beverages, including fine wines, spirits and craft beers
FREE open bars and lounges, including 24-hour bar service with specialty canapés
FREE stocked in-room minibar
FREE specialty coffees, teas and fresh-pressed juices
FREE afternoon and high tea
FREE champagne and gourmet canapés during meet and greet
FREE 24-hour room service, including spirits, wine and beer
FREE L'OCCITANE bath amenities
FREE pre-paid gratuities
FREE use of walking sticks and binoculars
FREE reusable water bottle
FREE butler service and expanded room service menu in suites
Exclusively on Polar Expeditions
FREE cultural immersion
FREE private charter jet service*
FREE enrichment lectures and destination briefings
FREE shore landings led by expert field guides
FREE escorted sightseeing safaris by Zodiac
FREE polar plunge
FREE Atlas Ocean Voyages parka and vest
FREE use of knee boots
FREE private group transfers between airport and yacht*
FREE 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay on all Antarctica expeditions
FREE 1-night post-cruise hotel stay on select Antarctica expeditions
*Available on Antarctica and select Arctic expeditions
Exclusively on Epicurean Expeditions
FREE cultural immersion includes culinary experience ashore, such as local market visits, specialty tastings and more
FREE Josper Grill Dining Experience at 7AFT Grill
FREE culinary presentations and wine tastings
FREE cooking demonstrations and cuisine tastings
FREE events hosted by a Tastes & Traditions Expert on select expeditions
FREE Atlas Ocean Voyages backpack
Exclusively on Cultural Expeditions
FREE cultural immersion
FREE enrichment programs and workshops on select expeditions
FREE authentic, local experiences and on board events on select expeditions
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