Built in 2021, the Ocean Victory is a technologically advanced polar vessel offering refined spaces and a relaxed atmosphere. Designed for smooth, efficient cruising, the ship treats guests to premium amenities including Jacuzzis and a gym, and lectures led by tenured expedition guides.
Photo by: Werner Kruse/Polar Latitudes
Isles of the North Atlantic Cruise
Embark 194-guest Ocean Victory to comfortably explore ancient coastlines from Scotland to Iceland via the Faroe Islands. Select routes focus on Ireland or Scotland. Discover windswept islands, unique geology, bird colonies and hearty cultures.
Apr
May
Jun
FROM
$5,095
USD
PER PERSON
/
Embark on a journey like no other, island-hopping across the best-kept secret isles of the North Atlantic. From the picturesque town of Troon (just a stone’s throw from the beating heart of Glasgow), sail first to the Inner Hebrides and discover ancient Celtic Christian heritage at the sacred Isle of Iona, before venturing on to Stornoway, Scotland’s Gaelic heartland.
Next, venture off the map to lonely St Kilda, Britain’s most remote archipelago and only dual UNESCO World Heritage Site, before spending 2 days in the ruggedly beautiful and rarely-visited Faroe Islands. Following the trail of Norse explorers, navigate around Iceland’s south coast before arriving in Reykjavík, Scandinavia’s most hip capital city–the perfect place from which to explore the Land of Ice and Fire.
Select alternative itineraries instead focus on Ireland and Scotland in depth. The 7-day Ireland Circumnavigation cruise sails round-trip from Dublin with visits to some of Ireland’s most lively and exciting cities, as well as hidden offshore gems inaccessible to the casual traveler. The 7-day Jewels of Scotland itinerary positions north from Dublin, Ireland to Aberdeen, Scotland, visiting some of the hardest-to-reach corners of Scotland, including the Neolithic monuments and Viking heritage of windswept Orkney, and the dual UNESCO World Heritage Site of St Kilda, plus enigmatic Loch Ness.
Purpose-built, 194-guest Ocean Victory serves as your floating basecamp. This ice-breaker polar ship features modern technology, state-of-the-art efficiency, a smooth ride and nimble design for active off-ship excursions. Her fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks, plus citizen science equipment, keep travelers active outside the boat. And their inviting lecture room and library, plus relaxing wellness amenities, keep guests engaged between excursions.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Northern Europe cruises, Arctic cruises and Iceland cruises.
Isles of the North Atlantic Itinerary
Troon, ScotlandReykjavik, Iceland
This 10-day island-hopping cruise positions north from Glasgow (via Troon), Scotland to Reykjavik, Iceland with visits to the Faroe Islands en route. Along the way, discover Celtic heritage, the spellbinding Callanish Stones, Britain’s most remote archipelago, the windswept Faroe Islands and Iceland’s southern coast.
Your ship awaits in the quaint harbor town of Troon, overlooking the sheltered waters of the Firth of Clyde. After the mandatory safety briefings and drill, settle into your stateroom and toast your departure with an expertly crafted cocktail as your ship sets a course for the Inner Hebrides.
Early on, the ship will drop anchor off the sacred Isle of Iona. It was here in 563AD that St Columba established Iona Abbey–bringing Christianity to Scotland. Still a site of pilgrimage, Iona Abbey may not be the largest, but is certainly one of Scotland’s most holy and historic places. In the Afternoon, the ship will reposition to the Isle of Lunga, a natural paradise brimming with nesting puffins and other seabirds.
The capital of the Western Isles, Stornoway is the largest town on the Isle of Lewis. The Western Isles are the heartland of the Scottish Gàidhealtachd–and Stornoway is one of the few towns in Scotland where visitors can hear the Gaelic language spoken on a daily basis. However, the history of Lewis stretches back far beyond the Gaels–highlights of the islands include the spellbinding Callanish Stones-an ancient Neolithic stone circle and probable ritual site.
Britain’s remotest archipelago, St Kilda is Britain’s only dual UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed for both its human and natural wonders. Drop anchor in the bay overlooking the Village–a unique settlement often compared to Macchu Picchu, entirely built from stone by the islanders who once called this island home. Windswept, rugged and difficult to farm, the locals of St Kilda left for less difficult lands in 1930, leaving the island to the vast colonies of seabirds and tiny ancient Soay sheep which were once the islanders’ main source of food.
Vágur is the largest town of Suðuroy, the southernmost of the Faroe Islands. Treeless, windswept and rarely visited, the Faroe Islands were first discovered by Norse settlers around the year 750AD (although archaeological evidence hints at earlier settlement, perhaps from Scotland). Isolated from the rest of the Norse world, the Faroe Islands have retained a unique language and culture directly descended from the Ancient Norse. Although Vágur is a modern town with several well known art galleries and workshops, the jaw-dropping clifftop vistas have remained the same since the age of Viking exploration.
The capital and largest city of the islands, ‘Havn,’ as it is called by locals, is the cultural and financial hub of the islands. The narrow winding streets of the city beg to be explored, and host highlights such as the National Gallery and the Tórshavn Cathedral. No visit is complete without a stroll around Tinganes, the artfully preserved old town, where turf-roofed buildings lead to the old parliament house which overlooks the harbor, reminiscent of famous Nyhavn in Copenhagen.
As you cross the Norwegian Sea, join your expedition team either on deck to watch for the plethora of seabirds which reside in this region, or in the Lecture Lounge to delve deeper into the history, culture and nature of your voyage. Alternately, book some pampering in the onboard spa and relax in the ship’s hot tubs as you approach the coast of Iceland.
Situated on Iceland’s scenic southeast coast, Djúpivogur is framed by fjords, mountains and rich bird habitats. It is the closest port in the country to the Faroe Islands, Scandinavia and mainland Europe, and is a popular port of call for vessels exploring the North Atlantic. Centered around the harbor, the town dates back to the 16th century and is known for its unique public art, including the Eggin í Gleðivík (Eggs of Merry Bay) sculpture. Hikers and birdwatchers are spoiled for choice, with mile upon mile of nature waiting to be explored. One of Iceland’s most beautiful black-sand beaches is just a short stroll from town and features a huge variety of bird species.
Next, visit Heimaey, the largest of the volcanic Westman Islands. Visitors can explore the dramatic lava fields of Eldfell volcano and the world-renowned bird colonies of the island. The residents of Heimaey were severely tested in 1973, when Eldfell volcano began to spew lava, threatening the town and its vital harbor. Heroic locals fought back, cooling the lava with seawater jets to save their community.
On the final day of your voyage, arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital. Famous for its modern Nordic culture, excellent food scene and relaxed atmosphere, Reykjavik is the ideal starting point for adventures deeper into the Land of Ice and Fire, or a convenient place to begin the journey home, brimming with memories of your North Atlantic adventure.
Included
Arrival transfer to ship (Day 1); shipboard accommodations; waterproof expedition jacket, yours to keep, and rubber style muck boots on loan for the duration of your expedition; English-speaking expedition team; guided walks, nature hikes, Zodiac landings and excursions, as per itinerary (excluding optional activities with cost); briefings and educational lectures; citizen science program; all meals on the ship (full board): breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks; complimentary house wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner (selected labels and brands, no wine at lunch); 24-hour access to tea, coffee and ‘Grab and Go’ comfort food; welcome and farewell cocktail parties; taxes and landing fees; 500MB Complimentary WiFi for use on your personal device; digital expedition memento.
Exclusions
International or internal airfares unless listed in the itinerary; excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary (such as optional, added-cost activities); meals and beverages not listed as included; voluntary gratuity for the crew and expedition team; personal expenses such as spa services, boutique purchases, bar, laundry and communications unless specified; mandatory travel insurance and insurance of any kind; visa, reciprocity and passport fees; medical care or emergency evacuation; expedition jacket and rubber muck-style boots outside of available sizes (inquire for more details); life jackets for selected minors (inquire for more details); premium alcohol and any alcohol not mentioned in Inclusions; WiFi from personal devices in excess of the 500 MB provided; post-voyage airport transfer.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 181 days – $1,250 cancellation fee
180 to 120 days – 100% of deposit
119 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Isles of the North Atlantic cruise begins in Troon, Scotland (accessed via Glasgow, GLA) and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland (KEF). Plan flights to arrive to Glasgow any time on Day 1 of the itinerary. The estimated disembarkation time from the vessel is 8:00am on the last day of the itinerary. We recommend booking your return flight as late in the day as possible, avoiding any flights departing before 12:00pm Noon, in case of unintended delays due to weather or sea conditions. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
There are no added-cost activities available on your Isles of the North Atlantic cruise. Photography, trekking and Zodiac cruises are included.
Room Configuration
Single travelers (18+ only) wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.7x the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Solo travelers willing to share can reserve a triple or twin-shared cabin, where you will be matched with a person of the same gender. If the other cabin berth goes unsold, you will be guaranteed the double rate. Aboard Ocean Albatros and Ocean Victory, third person rates are available at 50% reduction of the double occupancy rate, in Junior Suites and Deck 4 Superior Balcony Suites (inquire for pricing).
Families & Children
Children must be at least 12 years of age to participate. However, on a case-by-case basis, children ages 7-11 may be accepted with additional screening prior to booking. Children under 18 years old must room with a responsible adult who is designated as the lead passenger on the booking.
Travel Insurance
Medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $150,000 USD per person. This plan must cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, evacuation expenses and pre-existing medical conditions. Trip cancellation insurance is optional but highly recommended. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
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The Ocean Victory accommodates 194 guests and 120 crew members, offering an exceptional level of service and comfort. Like her sister ship, Ocean Albatros, she’s polar-maximizing—purpose-built for stability, safety, and smooth sailing in even the roughest seas. Her innovative X-BOW® design ensures a remarkably steady ride across the Drake Passage, while a spacious heated mudroom and four exterior doors make Zodiac operations quick, safe, and effortless. On board, enjoy airy staterooms, everywhere visibility, and seamless connections to the outdoors—all combining to deliver an Antarctic experience that exceeds expectations.
Ocean Victory Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Ocean Victory ship review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel in Antarctica and the Arctic. Please read our Ocean Victory review below then contact our experts to compare the Ocean Victory with other Antarctica ships and ice-class expedition ships operating Antarctica cruise itineraries, small ship cruises in Northern Europe, and Arctic cruises including Greenland small ship cruises and Iceland cruises.
Choose the Ocean Victory for her superior comfort and modern feel. With 194 guests and 120 crew, the Ocean Victory offers one of the best guest-to-crew ratios in Antarctica and the Arctic. Beneath the sleek exterior of the Ocean Victory lies decades of learning and adaptation to the harsh Antarctic environment. Her patented X-BOW offers unprecedented stability and comfort; her many onboard amenities are designed to maximize your Antarctic experience; and her spacious heated mudroom with four exterior doors makes Zodiac boarding quick, safe and effortless.
Design and Sustainability
The Ocean Victory is powered by a hybrid propulsion system featuring two diesel and two electric engines, electronically optimized for speed and fuel efficiency. This advanced setup reduces emissions by up to 50% compared to traditional expedition vessels. As part of the Green Initiative Program, Ocean Victory blends innovation and responsibility—delivering high standards of comfort while minimizing her environmental footprint. She represents the future of sustainable exploration in Antarctica and beyond.
Onboard Facilities
Aboard Ocean Victory, the polar wilds are always within view. Expansive observation decks and floor-to-ceiling windows keep the scenery close, while two hydraulic platforms lower to near water level for unforgettable wildlife and photography moments. Between landings, stay active in the fitness center, unwind in the Jacuzzis, explore the Shackleton Lecture Room and Knud Rasmussen Library, or join hands-on research in the Citizen Science Lab. Every space aboard Ocean Victory is designed to keep you connected to the adventure outside.
Dining & Bars
Dining aboard Ocean Victory highlights both variety and quality. The main dining room (the Beagle Restaurant, Deck 5) features diverse menus of hot and cold dishes, multiple entrée selections, and indulgent desserts, all fully plated. On Deck 8, the Bistro ("specialty restaurant" on the deck plan) offers a more casual atmosphere with a mix of always-available buffet items and made-to-order options. Additionally, a convenient grab-and-go station is available at the bar on Deck 5; offering quick bites around the clock. Guests can unwind in several bars and lounges, each offering a curated selection of wines, cocktails, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Activities & Expeditions
Increased storage space aboard Ocean Victory translates into more adventure equipment aboard, including kayaks, dry suits, neoprene gloves, and camping gear The Ocean Victory invites travelers to take part in the Citizen Science Program, engaging directly with ongoing environmental and wildlife research. Through hands-on participation, guests contribute to global understanding of the Antarctic ecosystem and climate change impacts.
Her expanded equipment storage allows more guests to join premium adventures such as kayaking and camping. A dedicated Zodiac loading platform ensures smooth embarkations for daily excursions, so you can spend more time exploring and less time waiting.
Cabins & Ocean Victory Deck Plan
Every stateroom aboard Ocean Victory offers a front-row seat to the polar world. Most feature private balconies, and all are equipped with a sitting area, complimentary mini-bar, flat-screen TV, safe, and luxury toiletries. Suites include thoughtful upgrades such as wine and fruit on arrival, laundry service, a restocked mini-bar, and an in-room espresso machine. Daily housekeeping and turn-down service ensure comfort and care from morning to night. Whether you’re unwinding after a day of exploration or watching the ice drift by, your stateroom provides a warm, inviting retreat.
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