Scottish Islands & Norwegian Fjords - Edinburgh to Tromsø

The expedition begins near Scotland's incomparable capital city. Board the ship this afternoon in the suburb Port of Leith, to embark on a voyage to the Arctic. The G Expedition departs in the evening through a lock which leads down to sea level, before heading out to sail down the Firth of Forth. While on deck, keep a lookout for common eiders and northern gannets.

There are few places in the world that offer as much as the Orkneys. Only six miles off the coast of Scotland, the islands are famous for their abundant marine bird life and dramatic coastal scenery. Enjoy an afternoon to explore the ancient history of the people of these Scottish Isles.

Continue northwards to the remote Shetland Islands. Opt to visit Jarlshof or join the Puffin Bus to focus on puffins and seabird photography at Sumbrugh Head (weather dependent). Enjoy additional time to explore Lerwick.

Cross the famous North Sea to reach Norway. Opt for a historical walking tour of the city, or enjoy a funicular ride for amazing views of Bergen, then explore on your own for the afternoon.

Hop on the Flåm Railway, travelling through valleys and mountain passes to reach the scenic fjord of the Flåm district.

Cruise into the Olden Fjord before a short bus ride to the Birksdal area. Enjoy a moderate walk to Briksdalbreen glacier, or, for an easier option, take a trolley ride with a shorter walk to make it to the glacier lake.

Sail deep into one of Norway's most beautiful, and most visited, fjords. Enjoy a coach tour to Dalnibba, soaking in the views at this UNESCO World Heritage site. For the more adventurous, opt for a 10km mountain hike exploring the area and taking in amazing views of the fjord from above.

Continue on to Trondheim. Choose between hiking in Bymarka Nature Reserve before visiting the Sverresborg Folk Museum, or enjoying a city tour including the Folk Museum and the elaborate Nidaros Cathedral, built between 1070 and 1300. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the area on your own.

The rugged coastline of central Norway features some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. Hike up to the famous hole in the mountain, with fantastic views of the region. Keep an eye out for Norway's mythical trolls. In the afternoon, head to the quaint and picturesque Vega Island, a UNESCO site. Wander the fishing villages, go on a guided nature hike, and appreciate the slow pace of life.

Visit Svartisen, Lovund, and Vikingen, to see beautiful glaciers and a globe sculpture which marks Vikingen as a point directly on the Arctic Circle.

The Lofoten archipelago is an enchanting area of picturesque villages by the sea backed with jagged peaks. Go ashore by Zodiac for a day trip of the area. Start by visiting the Tørrfiskmuseum to learn about traditional work of the islands before visiting Nusfjord, one of Norway's oldest and best-preserved fishing villages for lunch at a local restaurant. After, stop in Henningsvær for time to see local art or explore the quaint fishing village. In the evening, stay on deck as you cruise into one of Norway's most famous fjords, the short yet dramatic Trollfjord. Search the cliffs on your continuing quest to spot trolls.

Enjoy a day off the coast with Zodiac excursions to search out the local marine life, including sperm whales.

Head back to the coast and visit Nordkapp in the Finnmark region. Take a scenic drive of this high rugged, coastal plateau, keeping an eye out for wild reindeer. This will be the most northerly point of the trip at 71 º N.

Tromsø, the capital of northern Norway, is known as the "Gateway to the Arctic" as it was the embarkation point for many Arctic expeditions. Disembark in the morning. We recommend booking some extra time in Tromsø to explore.