Scotland Cruises

A cruise around Scotland with Fred. Olsen turns the journey itself into part of the experience, as it means there are no flights, no luggage limits and no long transfers, so you can step aboard, unwind and let the scenery of the Scottish coast come to you.

Our smaller cruise ships are well suited to cruises around Scotland, slipping into scenic lochs, quiet harbours and island anchorages that larger vessels often cannot reach. This is why a cruise around the Scottish islands with us tends to feel closer to the landscape, whether you are enjoying a peaceful sail-in past the Highlands, watching wildlife along the Outer Hebrides or arriving into ports rich in Gaelic culture and history.

From mini cruises to longer Scottish Isles cruises taking in Orkney, Mull, Stornoway and beyond, there is a choice of itineraries designed to help you experience Scotland's dramatic scenery, heritage and warm local welcome.

Every cruise to Scotland with Fred. Olsen includes comfortable accommodation and full-board dining throughout your holiday, with freshly prepared menus that showcase seasonal produce and a taste of Scottish flavours along the way.

Onboard, you can enjoy live entertainment, guest talks and a varied programme of daytime activities between ports, alongside facilities such as swimming pools, Jacuzzis and the fitness centre. Guests booking a Freedom Fare on a Scottish cruise also enjoy selected house drinks with lunch and dinner, plus gratuities included.

Scotland’s coastline is rich in history and natural beauty – from island‑dotted seas to dramatic glens and working harbours. Cruising lets you reach remote corners that feel unchanged by time.

With Fred. Olsen, there is plenty of scenic cruising along the way. Our smaller ships can make thoughtful diversions through narrow sounds and quieter stretches that larger vessels often miss. It means more time enjoying Scotland’s landscapes from the water before stepping ashore where stories and communities feel closely connected.

Scotland’s cruising season runs from late spring through summer and into early autumn. Summer offers long days and calm conditions for exploring islands and coastal communities. Late spring and early autumn provide cooler air and a quieter experience, with scenery that remains striking.

A Scotland cruise brings you close to highland legends, royal history and remarkable prehistoric sites. You can:

• Visit Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle, surrounded by sweeping Highland scenery.
• Explore Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland’s most recognisable royal landmarks.
• Tour Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar in Orkney – extraordinary Neolithic sites set within a dramatic island landscape.

Between ports, you can enjoy steady scenic sailings past rugged headlands, islands and lochs as the coastline unfolds from deck.

Scotland cruises from the UK generally range from five to twelve nights, visiting rugged coastlines, lochs, and scenic islands. Itineraries combine gentle sailings with stops to explore historic villages, castles, and dramatic landscapes.

For cruises to Scotland, you need to pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes for walking excursions. Even in summer, a warm jumper is useful, and evenings onboard call for smart-casual attire.

As cruises to Scotland with Fred. Olsen depart from and return to UK ports, you do not usually need a passport if the itinerary stays within the British Isles. However, if your Scottish cruise also calls at ports in Ireland, Norway or elsewhere overseas, a valid passport will be required. We recommend checking your specific itinerary before you sail.