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Scenic Isles of Scotland

S2512

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Ornsay Lighthouse in the Loch Hourn Ornsay Lighthouse in the Loch Hourn
07 May 2025
Newcastle
7 nights
Borealis

Your cruise at a glance

Hand-crafted highlights

This cruise to Scotland has been created to take you on a journey of discovery across scenic Scottish isles, showcasing the natural beauty and wildlife of this region of the UK. Join us on deck as Borealis diverts off the normal cruising route to sail along picturesque Loch Hourn, past the intriguing symmetrical basalt columns of Fingal’s Cave and bonnet-shaped Bac Mòr. You can immerse yourself in the way of life in the Scottish Isles by sampling local foods such as Orkney fudge, cheeses, oatcakes, and whisky, visiting a local crofter to discover how this form of farming sustains livelihoods, or discovering the importance of preserving the Gaelic language. Cruising past the Small Isles and along Pentland Firth offers you opportunities to spot seabirds and whales from Borealis with the help of wildlife charity ORCA. Visits to the unspoilt isles of Orkney, Lewis, and Skye open up the possibility of seeing ancient settlements and exploring awe-inspiring landscapes.

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Highlights

Bolette cruising past Dutchman's cap

Explore the scenic Isles of Scotland

The scenic islands of Scotland offer a magnificent tapestry of rugged beauty and natural wonders. As we sail past Fingal's Cave on the Isle of Staffa, uncover tales of myth and legend hidden within its perfectly symmetrical basalt columns and marvel at the dramatic silhouette of Bac Mòr, also known as Dutchman's Cap. Loch Hourn, nestled amidst the awe-inspiring hills of the Highlands, offers remote and wild landscapes, while the Small Isles of Rum, Muck, Eigg, and Canna beckon with unspoiled scenery and rich biodiversity. Meanwhile, the pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr is best witnessed from the decks of Borealis, perched on the rugged cliffs of the Isle of Skye.

A close-up of whiskey glasses being filled

Scottish traditions of the Isles

With a deep connection to heritage and community, life in the Scottish Isles seeks to preserve ancient customs and cultures, including telling tales of folklore passed down through generations and ensuring the Gaelic language is preserved. Local gatherings in Stornoway are enlivened by energetic reels of Ceilidh dancing, fostering bonds between neighbours, while meeting with a crofter will give you an insight into how the land is worked. Meanwhile, the Isle of Harris Distillery offers chances to sample the wonderfully complex flavours of Hearach single malt whisky and uncover the fascinating history of Harris Tweed during a workshop to create your very own piece.

Itinerary

Cruise Itinerary

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Map Image

Life On Board

Introducing Borealis

Sister ship to Bolette, Borealis is perfectly suited for enjoying scenic cruising of the world's lesser-known waterways. From cruising past remarkable landscapes and historical sites to capturing the beauty of the natural world. 

Borealis at sea at sunset
Borealis at sea at sunset

Borealis

Sister-ship to Bolette, Borealis is perfectly suited for taking guests on a journey around the globe, enabling more exploration in more exciting ports. Her smaller size, spacious public areas, open deck spaces and impressive array of restaurants make her perfect for longer voyages, and shorter journeys alike.

702 cabins
1,360 guests
662 crew
61,849 GT
25kts max speed
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Sample Shore Tours

At each port of call on your cruise, we carefully research and hand pick Shore Tour options for you, designed for you see as many of the world's best destinations as possible.

Below, you will find some sample Shore Tours which will give you an example of what to expect on your cruise. Your Shore Tours will be available to book approximately 8-13 weeks prior to departure via your My Cruises account.

 Skara Brae & Skaill House

Skara Brae & Skaill House

This exploration of Skara Brae village will shed light on prehistoric life as your tour guide leads you through the remains of eight dwellings built during the Stone Age and the manor of Skaill House

££££

Kirkwall

Kittiwake birds sitting on a nest with two eggs

Bird Watching

Scotland’s remote islands are home to gulls, guillemots, kittiwakes, and white-tailed eagles. After a scenic drive through Orkney en route to an RSPB reserve, travel onwards to a clifftop where you can see cliff bird colonies, including gannets, guillemots, and possibly puffins.

££££

Kirkwall

Stornoway

Cultural Heritage of the Outer Hebrides

Experience life in the Outer Hebrides. Visit An Taigh Cèilidh to enjoy performances by local musicians before proceeding to Stornoway seafront to gain an insight into the town’s culture and history.

££££

Stornoway

Old Man of Storr rock formation on Isle of Skye, Scotland

Northern Scenic Drive

Journey to Kilt Rock, a 200ft-high cliff with a waterfall, before passing Staffin, en route to Kilmuir Settlement to explore the Skye Museum of Island Life, whilst listening to the myths and legends of Skye along the way.

££££

Portree Isle of Skye

A picturesque view of a traditional Scottish croft, surrounded by lush greenery and hills

The Croft - Island at the Edge

Visit a local croft where you can admire the sheep, listen to their breeding process and learn about the history of the croft. Try your hand at spinning wool wihlst learning about the wool process, before concluding with refreshments.

££££

Portree Isle of Skye

Your Guest Speakers

We’ve arranged for some wonderful guest speakers to join us for this cruise. They will be delivering a programme of insightful talks and activities to deepen your cultural, artistic and historical understanding of the destinations we will be exploring, well as helping you to enjoy the natural beauty of the places we visit.

A photo of guest speaker Andy Gray
Photography

Andy Gray

Photographer Andrew Gray will  be joining us throughout our sailing, ready to assist in capturing unforgettable moments of the destinations we will cruise by.

Kara Ghobhainn Smith
Isle of Lewis Local

Kara Ghobhainn Smith

Isle of Lewis local, Kara, will be joining us throughout your cruise to provide an insight into the local way of life.

ORCA
Ocean Wildlife

Orca

Founded in 2001, ORCA is a group of Ocean Conservationists. Join them out on deck to search the seas for marine life.

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Neolithic History

Susan Cohen

Susan is an accomplished author, publisher, and broadcaster based in Edinburgh. She has a passion for travel, having lived oversees for many years. Despite her extensive travels, her heart remains in Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands, where she takes great joy in showcasing the beauty and heritage of her homeland. Susan will be joining us to share her knowledge about Neolithic Orkney and the ancient Norse influence present in Shetland.

Treats & Pastimes

In addition to our Signature Experiences, we have a selection of lovely Treats & Pastimes for you to enjoy when on board. Just check your Daily Times each day for full details.

Discover our Treats & Pastimes

Cabins, Prices & Offers

Cabin Options On Your Cruise

* Prices correct as of 18:00 15/10/2024, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on two people sharing a twin cabin. Please call +441473746175 for live availability & prices.

* Prices correct as of 18:00 15/10/2024, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on sole occupancy. Please call +441473746175 for live availability & prices.

Cabin Grades

Standard Pricing Solo Pricing
Suite

Balcony Junior Suite (BJ)

Borealis' Balcony Junior Suites have a private balcony and sitting/bedroom area.

Freedom Fare From £2,499 pp
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Suite

Balcony Junior Suite Wheelchair Adapted (BJD)

Borealis' Balcony Junior Adapted Suites have a balcony and sitting/bedroom area.

Freedom Fare From £2,499 pp
Call for details
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Suite

Balcony Suite (BS)

Located on Highland deck & Bridge deck, Borealis' Balcony Suites have a private balcony.

Freedom Fare From £2,599 pp
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Suite

Premier Suite (PS)

Borealis' Premier Suites are located on Bridge deck, and have a private balcony.

Freedom Fare From £3,199 pp
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Suite

Premier Suite Wheelchair Adapted (PSD)

Borealis' Premier Adapted Suites are spacious and stylish, and located on Bridge deck.

Freedom Fare From £3,199 pp
Call for details
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Suite

Olsen Suite (OW)

The Olsen Suite is the largest suite on Borealis, with a private balcony and sitting area.

Freedom Fare From £4,299 pp
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Cruise Offers

FREE Drinks Package Upgrade   Freedom Fare

What's Included

SO MUCH ALREADY INCLUDED

As well as our Signature Experiences, there are a host of other treats to enjoy on board our ships.

  • À la carte breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Daily buffet dining options
  • Late night Supper Club
  • Afternoon tea
  • Self-service tea & coffee
  • In-cabin dining & snacks
  • Evening shows
  • Live music & dancing
  • Dance classes
  • Lectures & talks
  • Cookery demonstrations
  • Traditional deck games
  • Daily games & quizzes
  • Swimming Pools
  • Jacuzzis
  • Fitness Centre
  • Fitness Classes

Enhance your cruise

Each of our cruises has been carefully designed for you to get the very best out of your time on board; and now you can enhance your cruise to make it even more special.

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