On this exceptional 8-day Timeless or Discoveries cruise, discover the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Isles and the beauty of the Norwegian fjords. These PONANT voyages in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys uniquely include transfers to and from the ship on embarkation and disembarkation days, talks and discussions aboard ship by world-class experts from Smithsonian Journeys, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of the local environment and culture. Timeless Explorations blend cultural curiosity, immersive experiences and serene relaxation, with one included activity per guest in every port and one or more guest lecturer on board. Discoveries offer a mix of naturalist activities and included shore excursions.

The voyage begins in Glasgow, Scotland or Bergen, Norway. Northbound, begin in Scotland’s cultural capital with a rich artistic and architectural heritage. Sail to Fort William for a cruise of fabled Loch Ness or a tour of a local distillery. From Portree, enjoy the unparalleled Isle of Skye. Next sail to either Kirkwall, Orkney, for numerous seabirds and the Standing Stones of Stenness, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit Lerwick, the main port in the Shetland Islands. Nearby is the Jarlshof prehistoric and Norse settlement, where Neolithic people first settled more than 4,000 years ago.

Cross the North Sea for Nordfjord or the small and charming village of Olden, near to one of the last ice caps in Europe, the Briksdal Glacier. Discover Flåm with a beautiful train journey high into the mountains of western Norway. View stunning rivers, waterfalls and cultural landscapes around every corner. The voyage ends in Bergen, famous for its Hanseatic wharf, Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site which still carries traces of the rich historic past of the city founded by the Vikings.

On the alternative, 14-day Scotland to Spitsbergen itinerary aboard 244-guest Le Lyrial (one of AdventureSmith’s Svalbard cruises) trade south Norway for the northern fjords, plus sailing along bird-rich Bear Island and exploring southern Spitsbergen.

Two identical 184-guest luxury French vessels operates this Norway cruise: Le Champlain and Le Laperouse. Enjoy refined and attentive service, a plethora of onboard activities and unrivaled elegance. Appreciate understated sophistication, an international feel and top-notch guides aboard this ship. These ships feature 100% private balconies or terraces, innovative equipment, elegantly designed guest accommodations, welcoming lounge areas that open to the outside and the Blue Eye underwater lounge–a multi-sensory space in the ship’s hull featuring hydrophones, expansive underwater views and other amenities that create the feeling of being underwater beside the marine life that the ship is sailing past. On both ships, a variety of onboard activities engage guests while underway.

Read on for details about this cruise, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises in Northern Europe.

 

Glasgow>Bergen Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage Itinerary

Glasgow, ScotlandBergen, Norway

The Glasgow>Bergen Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage operates from Glasgow, Scotland to Bergen, Norway. These Timeless/Smithsonian departures include one excursion per guest in every port, plus one or more onboard expert lecturers from Smithsonian Journeys.

Route map of northbound Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage with Smithsonian Journeys from Glasgow, Scotland to Bergen, Norway with visits to Norway's Olden & Gudvangen or Flam & Scotland's Lerwick, Kirkwall, Portree & Fort William or Tobermory.

In the heart of the Clyde Valley, the bustling city of Glasgow contrasts starkly with the wild beauty of the surrounding countryside. Scotland’s biggest city overflows with landmarks from its extensive artistic heritage and outstanding architectural tradition. The city’s chequerboard layout makes walking through the major pedestrian thoroughfares easy: go with the flow and let the lively street atmosphere take you past the many Victorian monuments. Don’t miss the collections on display in the numerous museums and art galleries. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is an outstanding example.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Champlain, Le Laperouse
MEALS Dinner

Loch Linnhe: This loch is located in the Scottish Highlands, stretching between the Isle of Mull and Fort William. Sail in the heart of picturesque landscapes and admire the formations of the magnificent mountains and valleys surrounding the loch, including the famous Ben Nevis. The pure waters of Loch Linnhe are teeming with marine life; harbor seals may be found among its faithful inhabitants.

Fort William: A port town on the eastern shore of Loch Linnhe, Fort William is sometimes described as the Outdoor Capital of the UK. Because it sits at the base of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the British Isles, and is in close proximity to the dramatic landscape of Glencoe, it is a popular destination for hikers and rock climbers. For those looking for a less adventurous experience, the nearby Ben Nevis Distillery offers tours and tastings, and Old Fort and Old Inverlochy Castle are interesting historical sites.

Tobermory, Isle of Mull: Located at the northernmost tip of the lovely Isle of Mull, Tobermory has to be one of the most beautiful natural seaports on Scotland’s West Coast. Founded in 1788, this ancient fishing village has been converted to a leisure port highly appreciated today for its surroundings and the quiet charm it exudes. You will definitely be won over by the row of many-storied houses on the hillside, illuminating the harbor with their vibrant colors. Although the real spectacle is outdoors, no less interesting are the Mull Museum dedicated to local history and the exhibitions at the An Tobar art gallery.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Champlain, Le Laperouse
MEALS Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Nestling in the crux of a gorgeous bay, Portree reflects the magnificence of the grandiose Isle of Skye as well as being its main town. Apart from the charm of its colorful houses, the town’s outstanding location on the banks of a loch makes it a very pleasant place to be. From its colorful harbor bustling with local craftsmen’s shops, you can take in a stunning view of the surrounding hills. Before trekking through the wilderness and drinking in the natural beauty of the Isle of Skye, check out some of the beautiful images in the Aros Center.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Champlain, Le Laperouse
MEALS Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Capital of the Orkney archipelago, Kirkwall, which means “church bay,” is an ideal stopover before continuing on to the Northern Isles. Sheltered in a wide bay, the lively town welcomes the visitor with its charming paved alleyways edged by old houses and craft shops. Tankerness House, the oldest homestead in the town, is a must-see landmark. But the true architectural treasure of the aptly named Kirkwall is none other than its remarkable red and gold stone cathedral. And because whisky is inseparable from Scotland’s identity, stop at the Highland Park Distillery for a highly instructive visit.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Champlain, Le Laperouse
MEALS Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The small and charming capital of the Shetland Islands, with its sea front of old houses and narrow streets, offers travelers its old districts and a warm port atmosphere. Geopark Shetland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located to the north. Incredibly well-preserved archaeological sites and ruins prove that the islands’ occupation dates back to the first Neolithic colonies. The Shetland Museum and Archives recounts the Shetlands’ history of heritage and culture: Lerwick’s abundant waters were even fished by the Dutch in the past.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Champlain, Le Laperouse
MEALS Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

With its two wooden churches, one red and the other white, plus its breathtaking view of the mouth of the river Oldeelva, Olden looks just like a picture post card. Located a few kilometres from the Jostedalsbreen park, home to one of the last glacier polar icecaps, this little village is a definite must for exploring the blue languages of the Briksdal or Kjennalen glaciers. Be sure to visit the Norwegian Glacier Museum. Absolutely amazing. Another gem is Lake Lovatn and its turquoise waters inviting quiet contemplation.

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Champlain, Le Laperouse
MEALS Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Flam: Nestled in the heart of the fjord country, less than 125 miles from Bergen, the picturesque village of Flåmpronounced Flômoffers an experience of authentic Norway. Mosey around the brightly colored streets and admire the majestic contours of the surrounding mountains. The town is also the departure point for the mythical train route Flamsbana, 12.5 miles long, whose journey offers a superb view of the scenery, as sublime as it is pristine. This attraction makes Flåm one of the country’s main tourist destinations.

Gudvangen: Located at the end of Nærøyfjord, one of the many arms of iconic Sognefjord, the village of Gudvangen is nestled among some of Norway’s most picturesque landscapes. Like most towns on the edges of the fjords, Gudvangen offers sightseeing aboard local boats and kayak and canoe rentals. The nearby Vikingebyen is a living museum with actors in costume, craft displays and storytelling. A 20-minute drive brings you to the small town of Flåm, at the end of yet another arm of Sognefjord, where you can board the Flåm Railway at sea level and travel a mere 12 miles to reach Myrdal Station at an altitude of 2,850 feet. It is among the steepest railways on earth and has been named by Lonely Planet Traveler “the world’s best train ride.”

ACCOMMODATIONS Le Champlain, Le Laperouse
MEALS Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Located at the end of Byfjord, Bergen was the capital of Norway in the 12th and 13th Centuries and has preserved some very beautiful monuments from the time when it was home to royalty. Wandering through Bergen’s streets means going back in time, in search of the hidden treasures that have been listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. A veritable open-air museum, Bergen is home to a thriving artistic community of painters, potters and jewelers. The Bergen cable car offers a splendid panorama over the port and the surrounding fjords. Do not miss the visit to the old quarter with its narrow streets, a testimony of the power of the Hanseatic League that controlled trade in Northern Europe at the end of the Middle Ages.

ACCOMMODATIONS n/a
MEALS Breakfast

Included

Transfers to and from the ship on embarkation and disembarkation days; an excursion in every port of call and Zodiac cruises; all meals while on board the ship; captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner; “open bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands); evening entertainment and events; room service; highly qualified bilingual French/English expedition team; lectures presented by the expedition team; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities.

Exclusions

Visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 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 beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – $250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 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 Glasgow>Bergen Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage begins in Glasgow, Scotland (GLA) and ends in Bergen, Norway (BGO). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Included activities on your Glasgow>Bergen Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage are onboard lectures and discussions with subject matter experts from Smithsonian Journeys, the travel component of the Smithsonian Institution. Also included is an excursion in every port of call such as Zodiac cruising; hiking; and guided explorations of cities, museums, monuments, and archeological sites. You will have the opportunity to choose your included excursions prior to departure. Onboard your ship a multitude of onboard activities keep guests engaged, including live music, dance and theater; optional spa treatments; exercise and stretching classes; specialty food, wine and cocktail tastings; organized games; and more.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining capacity per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

Children 1 year and older at time of travel are welcomed on this cruise. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. 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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Learn About The Luxury Small Ships On Your Itinerary

The Le Champlain is a refined, luxury expedition ship cruising the Caribbean. Enjoy her ethnic-yet-chic ambiance, luxury service, engaging educational program and active excursions.

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The Le Laperouse expedition ship pairs luxury with adventure cruising. Come aboard for upscale service, unique amenities, elegant accommodations and experienced multi-lingual guides.

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Le Lyrial is a refined, luxury expedition ship cruising Antarctica, the Arctic & the East Coast. Enjoy her private yacht atmosphere, understated elegance and culinary delights, paired with an engaging program of lectures, onboard entertainment and off-ship adventures.

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