Scenic British Isles

The capital of Orkney, an archipelago of around 70 islands, Kirkwall is an intriguing mix of Christian, Nordic and Celtic influence, and the ideal starting place for exploring Orkney’s fascinating historical sites. From the village of Skara Brae, dating back as far as 3100 BC, to the imposing Ring of Brodgar, Orkney’s history is varied and intriguing, mapping out centuries of conflict and settlement, from the Stone Age to World War II.

Lerwick is the friendly capital of the 100 islands and islets of Shetland. The bustling, cosmopolitan seaport is the islands’ only town, and its wonderful natural harbour is a joy to explore. Until the 1600s, Leir Vik, Norse for a muddy bay, was little more than a few huts. However, conflict between the British and Dutch, whose fishing fleet fished for herrings off the islands, led to the building of a permanent settlement. This included Fort Charlotte, which once overlooked the harbour but has now been enclosed by the town following land reclamation.

Despite the wealth created by North Sea oil, modern Lerwick retains many fascinating small shops and historic buildings. Wandering along atmospheric Commercial Street is a delight, and the Böd of Gremista, a “fishing booth” built in 1780, is now a fascinating museum. Outside the town are the well-preserved remains of the Broch of Clickimin, a small Bronze-Age settlement excavated in the last century.

Portree is the Isle of Skye’s largest and liveliest town. Set within a pretty natural harbour with brightly-coloured houses and surrounded by rocky cliffs and rolling hills, Portree is a truly beautiful place to explore. Its name (from the Gaelic for King’s Harbour) commemorates James V, who arrived here in 1540 to pacify the local clans.

The town is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its stunning coastline and interesting attractions that include the An Tuireann Arts Centre, which celebrates the island’s Gaelic heritage. Portree also serves as a gateway to other attractions on the island, such as the intriguing rock formations at Trotternish Ridge, the ruins of Duntulm castle, and the peninsula unflatteringly known as ‘The Lump’, which once provided a setting for public hangings in Trotternish.

The intriguing sight of the 90m-high Kilt Rock sea cliff can be seen while sailing by Trotternish, the Isle of Skye’s northernmost peninsula. The cliff gets its name from the patterns within its basalt columns, which form a striking arrangement similar to a pleated kilt. Plunging over the cliff and onto the rocks below is the Mealt Waterfall, fed by the nearby freshwater Mealt Loch.

Together these landmarks provide a unique audio-visual experience. It is even said that one can hear an eerie, organ-like noise from the area on a windy day, due to the holes in the lookout point fencing that face the sea.

Part of the Inner Hebrides, lying just south of the Isle of Skye, the Small Isles are four beautiful lands - Eigg, Rum, Canna and Muck - famed for their dramatic scenery, their variety of wildlife and natural wonders, and some architectural highlights too. 

As you sail the waters surrounding the isles, you'll witness their wild beauty from the comfort of your small ship. Look out for mighty volcanic peaks and Kinlock Castle on Rum, where Sea Eagles are often spotted in the skies above; the basalt cliffs of Canna; the charming villages of Eigg; and Muck's fertile lowlands and pretty beaches. 

Flowing between the Isle of Mull and the shores of Scotland, the Sound of Mull is a beautiful stretch of water that forms part of the Atlantic Ocean. As you sail through the sound on your Fred. Olsen cruise ship you'll see some stunning natural landscapes and will truly appreciate the beauty of the British Isles.

Duart Castle dates back to the 13th century and is one of the most historic, important and prettiest castles in the Highlands. Set amongst a back drop of beautiful valleys, the castle looks impressive from any angle, especially from the water - a sight you'll get to see during your scenic cruise here.

The Firth of Lorn is a beautiful 16 mile stretch of water that flows between the Isle of Mull and the Slate Islands. A designated Special Area of Conservation, for the the protection of its rocky reefs - which are considered amongst the most diverse in Europe - it is a haven for a wide variety of marine life. 

Above the glass-like waters, the firth is flanked by typically Scottish, simply outstanding tide-swept shores. As you cruise the waterway, you'll see the diversity of its landscapes, from exposed, wave-carved waterfronts to sheltered, tucked away coves.

Bac Mòr, affectionately known as ‘Dutchman’s Cap’ due to its unmistakable shape, is one of the most distinctive landmarks discovered amongst the beautiful Scottish Isles, a unique volcanic formation of grass-topped black lava that provides a safe haven for sea birds, and spectacular views for anyone who visits.

While the island doesn’t have any suitable landing places, simply sailing by Bac Mòr with Fred. Olsen makes for a memorable experience; you’ll get to wonder at its intriguing shape and look out for the native birds from the comfort of your smaller sized ship.

Similar to the famous, UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, Fingal’s Cave is a beautiful basalt sea-cave with distinctive ‘columns’ and a remarkable symmetry that looks incredible as you cruise past.

Often, the cliffs, ledges and grassy slopes are smothered with native seabirds, including guillemots, razorbills, puffins and more, so it’s the perfect place to enjoy a little birdwatching. Just make sure you have your binoculars to hand!

Douglas is the picturesque, historic capital of the Isle of Man and gateway to the unique, diverse treasures of the world’s first entire island country to have been awarded Biosphere status by UNESCO. A lively hub of activity, where ferries from England and Ireland land, Douglas is a delight to explore; along the promenade, a relaxing stroll – or ride on the wonderful horse-drawn tram – takes in a mix of architecture, from Victorian and Edwardian to modern, while plenty of attractions await if you dig a little deeper in the heart of the town. Interesting museums, galleries and charming old theatres are just some of the highlights.

Situated at the entrance of Cork Harbour, Spike Island is one of the most important sites in Irish history. Originally a Monastic settlement in the 7th century, the island became – thanks to its ideal strategic location – and important site for defence and imprisonment, and is now often referred to as ‘Ireland’s Alcatraz’.

It’s dominated by the 18th century Fort Mitchel, which at the time of opening was the largest prison in the world, with capacity for over 2300 prisoners. While you won’t get to head ashore on your scenic cruise by the island – which now is also a protected haven for various species of flora and fauna – to explore the fort itself, you’re sure to think back to the times when the prisoners were taken to face their punishment across the very same waters you’re sailing.

The charming town of Cobh is situated on Great Island in Cork Harbour, the second-largest natural harbour in the world. The harbour at Cobh, which is pronounced ‘cove’, is one of the most important industrial areas in Ireland, and its history is entwined with the many great ships and majestic liners that have dropped anchor here. Cobh has always maintained a strong maritime tradition and the old buildings of the port have been carefully preserved, including the offices of the White Star and Cunard Lines.

Between 1848 and 1950, over six million Irish people emigrated to North America, many from Cobh. It was also the final port of call for the RMS Titanic as she set out across the Atlantic on her ill-fated maiden voyage in 1912. The disaster has never been forgotten here as the town itself lost 123 locals. During World War I, RMS Lusitania was sunk by a German U-Boat off the Old Head of Kinsale on May 7th, 1915. The survivors were brought to the town of Cobh, and over 100 victims were laid to rest in the Old Church Cemetery about a mile north of the town. The town’s architecture and streetscape are distinctly Victorian, with St. Colman’s Cathedral dominating the town, its 49-bell Carillon is the only one in Ireland and is the largest in the British isles. The families of departing emigrants would climb the cathedral steps for one last sight of their departing loved ones.

A landscape carved by the force of the rain, wind and sea, North Cornwall's coastline is amongst the most beautiful and dramatic. It is a spectacular stretch of rugged, countryside-topped cliffs, curious caves and coves, golden-sand beaches and picturesque waterfront towns, providing mile-upon-mile of unforgettable scenic views that you'll get to revel in from the comfort of your Fred. Olsen cruise ship.