Hanseatic Inspiration, INT Wild Scotland & Iceland ex Bremerhaven to Reykjavik – 17 May 2021

12 Night cruise departing from Bremerhaven to Reykjavik onboard Hanseatic Inspiration.

So much to see in Scotland and Iceland – discover wild, contrasting nature not to be found anywhere else. Islands that reveal their secrets during numerous activities.

Highlights of this cruise:

Leith (Edinburgh)/Scotland
In northern Europe, the small HANSEATIC inspiration sets a course for spectacular landscapes. On Scotland’s east coast, be surprised as you explore Edinburgh from its port at Leith. The capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an open book of cultural and architectural history. Winding streets, antique and neoclassical architecture, society and monarchy: a walking tour with a castle visit* reveals many facets, Edinburgh Castle being the crowning glory. In the council area of Midlothian, shed some light on the legendary Rosslyn Chapel*. Was this the home of the Templar archive or the Holy Grail? Dan Brown made the chapel world-famous in The Da Vinci Code.

Orkney Islands (cruising off the Old Man of Hoy, Stromness)
A walk on Arthur’s Seat* is like an excursion into volcanology. At around 250 m (820 ft), the mountain sets the tone for another of Scotland’s unspoilt regions: the Orkney Islands. By their very nature, the islands are just as impressive as centuries-old cultural treasures. The spectacular Old Man of Hoy stands at the steep red coastline like a proud sailor. As you cruise off the almost 140 m (459 ft) high needle, you will find yourself asking how long this old chap will be able to withstand the forces of nature. From Stromness, your route of discovery will take you back to the islands’ early history. Your journey through time will take in the Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae and Skaill House*, covering around 4,000 years. Wind, water and walking: an active tour on the Orkneys* will introduce you to one of the most popular hiking routes and show you how the tides shape the coastal landscape.

Ullapool
The small fishing town of Ullapool is a beautiful spot. Open the gateway to the Highlands with Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle and Inverness*. Even if the famous monster doesn’t show its face, the striking castle ruins and the capital of the Highlands will provide plenty of photo opportunities. Scottish whisky has just as much character. Try it for yourself at the Glen Ord distillery*. Inverewe Garden* is the region’s surprise, the effects of the Gulf Stream allowing subtropical plants to flourish.

Inner and Outer Hebrides (Isle of Skye, Isle of Canna, Rum, St Kilda)
Lush, green highlands, rugged coasts and the heritage of kings and clans: head deep into the rugged island world of the Hebrides and feel the soul of Scotland – for example on the Isle of Skye. Take an island tour in the north* and explore bizarre rocky landscapes and an open-air museum that reveals what life was like around 100 years ago. Keep an eye out for sea eagles, dolphins and puffins when you take a sea kayak along the Scottish coast* and every stroke of the paddle brings you closer to the wildlife. Two premiere destinations await on your Scottish explorations: Canna is home to razorbills, shearwaters and golden eagles. Rum is the site of the grand Kinloch Castle. Both islands are home to seals and numerous seabirds – keep a look out with your experts. Literally as solid as a rock: the steep, towering “stacks” emerge off the coast of the remote island group of St Kilda. Subject to official approval, you will go ashore on Hirta for an island hike.

Iceland (Bakkagerdi , Djupivogur , Heimaey)
Iceland adds to your discoveries with Nordic might. In the hamlet of Bakkagerdi, the bird-inhabited cliff – a great place to watch puffins – will thrill even amateur ornithologists. Djupivogur, one of the oldest trading posts in Iceland’s eastern fjords, is among the region’s most beautiful villages. A glacier adventure to Vatnajokull*, Iceland’s largest and most famous ice field, is an impressive example of natural architecture. Bizarre lava formations, grassy hills and steep cliffs: untamed nature shapes Heimaey too, the largest of the Westman Islands. Whether alone or with your experts, a visit to the Eldheimar Museum or a hike on the Eldfell volcano will give you a glimpse into the creative power of primeval forces. The dramatic nature of Iceland and the wild terrain of northern Europe will stay with you forever.