Small ship with blue hull & white upper decks cruises through calm Norwegian fjords with fall colors on hillside & waterfall.

Calm fjord in Norway with teal water, bright green grass & verdant mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

2 baby lambs walk through a grassy field, seen on the Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords cruise with Smithsonian Journeys.

View from the water up to a beige brick castle with a bridge sitting under a blue sky beside calm water.

Small ship with blue hull & white upper decks sits docked along a grassy field in a glassy fjord in Norway.

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Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords

Photo by: Mike Louagie/Ponant

Photo by: Laurence Fischer/Ponant

Photo by: Ponant

Photo by: Mike Louagie/Ponant

1/5

$7760^USD

Starting At

Days

Jun

Overview
Itinerary
Rates & Dates
Accommodations
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Europe Northern Europe Cruise

Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords

On this exceptional 8-day cruise, discover the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Isles and the beauty of the Norwegian fjords. These Ponant voyages in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys uniquely include transfers to and from the ship on embarkation and disembarkation days, talks and discussions aboard ship by world-class experts from Smithsonian Journeys, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of the local environment and culture.

The voyage begins in Glasgow, Scotland or Bergen, Norway. Northbound, begin in Scotland’s cultural capital with a rich artistic and architectural heritage. Sail to Fort William for a cruise of fabled Loch Ness or a tour of a local distillery. From Kyle of Lochalsh, enjoy the unparalleled Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan, one of the most recognizable castles in the world. Next sail to either Kirkwall or Stromness, Orkney, for numerous seabirds and the Standing Stones of Stenness, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit Lerwick, the main port in the Shetland Islands. Nearby is the Jarlshof prehistoric and Norse settlement, where Neolithic people first settled more than 4,000 years ago.

Cross the North Sea for the small and charming village of Olden, near to one of the last ice caps in Europe, the Briksdal Glacier. Discover Flåm with a beautiful train journey high into the mountains of western Norway. View stunning rivers, waterfalls and cultural landscapes around every corner. The voyage ends in Bergen, famous for its Hanseatic wharf, Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site which still carries traces of the rich historic past of the city founded by the Vikings.

One 184-guest luxury French vessel operates this Norway cruise: Le Champlain. Enjoy refined and attentive service, a plethora of onboard activities and unrivaled elegance. Appreciate understated sophistication, an international feel and top-notch guides aboard this ship. Le Champlain features 100% private balconies or terraces, innovative equipment, elegantly designed guest accommodations, welcoming lounge areas that open to the outside and the Blue Eye underwater lounge–a multi-sensory space in the ship’s hull featuring hydrophones, expansive underwater views and other amenities that create the feeling of being underwater beside the marine life that the ship is sailing past. On both ships, a variety of onboard activities engage guests while underway.

Read on for details about this cruise, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises in Northern Europe and Northern European tours.

Itinerary

Glasgow>Bergen Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage Itinerary

The Glasgow>Bergen Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage operates from Glasgow, Scotland to Bergen, Norway.

Route map of reverse Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage with Smithsonian Journeys from Glasgow, Scotland to Bergen, Norway with visits to Norway's Olden & Flam & Scotland's Lerwick, Kirkwall, Kyle of Lochalsh & Fort William.

Day 1

Embark Glasgow, Scotland

In the heart of the Clyde Valley, the bustling city of Glasgow contrasts starkly with the wild beauty of the surrounding countryside. Scotland’s biggest city overflows with landmarks from its extensive artistic heritage and outstanding architectural tradition. The city’s chequerboard layout makes walking through the major pedestrian thoroughfares easy: go with the flow and let the lively street atmosphere take you past the many Victorian monuments. Don’t miss the collections on display in the numerous museums and art galleries. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is an outstanding example.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

dinner

Day 2

Fort William

A port town on the eastern shore of Loch Linnhe, Fort William is sometimes described as the Outdoor Capital of the UK. Because it sits at the base of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the British Isles, and is in close proximity to the dramatic landscape of Glencoe, it is a popular destination for hikers and rock climbers. For those looking for a less adventurous experience, the nearby Ben Nevis Distillery offers tours and tastings, and Old Fort and Old Inverlochy Castle are interesting historical sites.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 3

Kyle of Lochalsh, Scotland & Sailing Along Skye Bridge

Kyle of Lochalsh (“Straits of the Alsh Inlet”) is a small port town at the foot of the bridge connecting the mainland to the Isle of Skye. It is set amidst extraordinary natural beauty and serves as a gateway to the Scottish Highlands and to several castles that preserve the history and traditions of the clans who once ruled here. Eilean Donan Castle, on a tiny island overlooking the confluence of three lochs, is one of the most picturesque and most-filmed castles in Scotland. Armadale Castle and Gardens, historic residence of Clan Donald, is also within easy reach of the town.

The Isle of Skye is the largest in the Inner Hebrides archipelago. Nicknamed the island of the mist, its romantic and magical landscapes have inspired the greatest authors and filmmakers, such as the poet Walter Scott or Virginia Woolf. The almost deserted interior of the island and its coast are a concentration of the most emblematic beauty of the Scottish Highlands: rocky outcrops, basalt columns, hills and wide vales covered in peat bog and heather, lakes, waterfalls, fine sandy coves and cliffs. You may be lucky enough to see a sea eagle perched on their summits, watching the waves beneath which otters, sea lions, seals, dolphins and whales may be hiding.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4

Stromness, Orkney

The stone houses stand proudly facing the sea in the charming town of Stromness, the second most populous town in Scotland’s Orkney Islands. Long ago called Hamnavoe–meaning safe harbor–because of the safety it provided to Viking travelers, sailors and merchants sailing around Great Britain, the town has retained its gentle way of life. Strolling along its picturesque streets will immerse you in the history of the fishermen and whale hunters, but also allow you to discover a lively town with a living culture.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 5

Lerwick, Shetland Islands, Scotland

The small and charming capital of the Shetland Islands, with its sea front of old houses and narrow streets, offers travelers its old districts and a warm port atmosphere. Geopark Shetland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located to the north. Incredibly well-preserved archaeological sites and ruins prove that the islands’ occupation dates back to the first Neolithic colonies. The Shetland Museum and Archives recounts the Shetlands’ history of heritage and culture: Lerwick’s abundant waters were even fished by the Dutch in the past.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 6

Olden

With its two wooden churches, one red and the other white, plus its breathtaking view of the mouth of the river Oldeelva, Olden looks just like a picture post card. Located a few kilometres from the Jostedalsbreen park, home to one of the last glacier polar icecaps, this little village is a definite must for exploring the blue languages of the Briksdal or Kjennalen glaciers. Be sure to visit the Norwegian Glacier Museum. Absolutely amazing. Another gem is Lake Lovatn and its turquoise waters inviting quiet contemplation.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 7

Flam

Nestled in the heart of the fjord country, less than 125 miles from Bergen, the picturesque village of Flåm—pronounced Flôm—offers an experience of authentic Norway. Mosey around the brightly colored streets and admire the majestic contours of the surrounding mountains. The town is also the departure point for the mythical train route Flamsbana, 12.5 miles long, whose journey offers a superb view of the scenery, as sublime as it is pristine. This attraction makes Flåm one of the country’s main tourist destinations.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 8

Disembark Bergen, Norway

Located at the end of Byfjord, Bergen was the capital of Norway in the 12th and 13th Centuries and has preserved some very beautiful monuments from the time when it was home to royalty. Wandering through Bergen’s streets means going back in time, in search of the hidden treasures that have been listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. A veritable open-air museum, Bergen is home to a thriving artistic community of painters, potters and jewelers. The Bergen cable car offers a splendid panorama over the port and the surrounding fjords. Do not miss the visit to the old quarter with its narrow streets, a testimony of the power of the Hanseatic League that controlled trade in Northern Europe at the end of the Middle Ages.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Details

Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All meals while on board the ship; captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner; “open bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands); evening entertainment and events; room service; highly qualified bilingual French/English expedition team; lectures presented by the expedition team; Zodiac and shore excursions; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities.

Exclusions

Optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise; visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; gratuities; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
181 days or more – $250
180 to 91 days – 25% of total trip cost
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Glasgow>Bergen Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage begins in Glasgow, Scotland (GLA) and ends in Bergen, Norway (BGO). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Included activities on your Glasgow>Bergen Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage are onboard lectures and discussions with subject matter experts from Smithsonian Journeys, the travel component of the Smithsonian Institution. Also included is an excursion in every port of call such as Zodiac cruising; hiking; and guided explorations of cities, museums, monuments, and archeological sites. You will have the opportunity to choose your included excursions prior to departure. Onboard your ship a multitude of onboard activities keep guests engaged, including live music, dance and theater; optional spa treatments; exercise and stretching classes; specialty food, wine and cocktail tastings; organized games; and more.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining capacity per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

Children 3 years and older at time of travel are welcomed on this cruise. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with one or two full-fare adults. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Bergen>Glasgow Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage Itinerary

The Bergen>Glasgow Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage operates from Bergen, Norway to Glasgow, Scotland.

Route map of Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage with Smithsonian Journeys from Bergen, Norway to Glasgow, Scotland with visits to Norway's Olden & Flam & Scotland's Lerwick, Kirkwall, Kyle of Lochalsh & Fort William.

Day 1

Embark Bergen, Norway

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

dinner

Day 2

Flam

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 3

Olden

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4

Lerwick, Shetland Islands, Scotland

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 5

Kirkwall, Orkney

Capital of the Orkney archipelago, Kirkwall, which means “church bay,” is an ideal stopover before continuing on to the Northern Isles. Sheltered in a wide bay, the lively town welcomes the visitor with its charming paved alleyways edged by old houses and craft shops. Tankerness House, the oldest homestead in the town, is a must-see landmark. But the true architectural treasure of the aptly named Kirkwall is none other than its remarkable red and gold stone cathedral. And because whisky is inseparable from Scotland’s identity, stop at the Highland Park Distillery for a highly instructive visit.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 6

Sailing Along Skye Bridge & Kyle of Lochalsh, Scotland

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 7

Fort William

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 8

Disembark Glasgow, Scotland

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Details

Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Exclusions

Payment & Cancellation

Terms & Conditions

Arrival & Departure

The Bergen>Glasgow Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage begins in Bergen, Norway (BGO) and ends in Glasgow, Scotland (GLA). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Included activities on your Bergen>Glasgow Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords Voyage are onboard lectures and discussions with subject matter experts from Smithsonian Journeys, the travel component of the Smithsonian Institution. Also included is an excursion in every port of call such as Zodiac cruising; hiking; and guided explorations of cities, museums, monuments, and archeological sites. You will have the opportunity to choose your included excursions prior to departure. Onboard your ship a multitude of onboard activities keep guests engaged, including live music, dance and theater; optional spa treatments; exercise and stretching classes; specialty food, wine and cocktail tastings; organized games; and more.

Room Configuration

Families & Children

Travel Insurance

Itinerary Notes

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Jun 08 - Jun 15, 2024

Le Champlain • 8 days

From $8440^USD

Per Person

Jun 15 - Jun 22, 2024

Le Champlain • 8 days

From $7760^USD

Per Person

Themed

Accommodation

Learn About The Luxury Small Ship On Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship

Le Champlain

The 184-guest Le Champlain is a refined, luxury expedition ship cruising the Caribbean. Enjoy her ethnic-yet-chic ambiance, luxury service, engaging educational program and active excursions.

Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

877-620-2875 877-620-2875 Contact Us

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