14 Night Across the Arctic Circle Cruise and Land Tour from Aberdeen

Having made your way to Aberdeen, you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to your group hotel. Upon arrival at your included hotel, please visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with the ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine, withdraw cash, or purchase last-minute items from a local pharmacy or supermarket. The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense. Accommodation: Sandman Signature Hotel

This morning, your luggage will be collected from the hotel and transferred directly to the port for sanitization, clearance, and delivered to your cabin ahead of your arrival onboard. Please ensure that your luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labeled with your name and cabin number. Any valuables or personal items should be kept on you throughout the day. After breakfast, check out and bring your luggage to the foyer. Please place any items required today in your hand luggage as your main bag will be placed in the bays of the motorcoach. Today, we explore 'The Granite City' visiting some of Aberdeen's most famous landmarks including the magnificent King's College Chapel which is a fantastic example of Gothic architecture and the St Machar's Cathedral, a 12th-century church with its beautiful stained-glass windows. Depart for Glen Garioch Distillery, a 200-year-old distillery situated in the sheltered heart of the Valley of the Garioch; blessed as it is with the north east's mild climate, plentiful sunshine, and not too much rain, the valley has long been renowned as the finest barley growing area in the country. Once home to no fewer than six distilleries, today the Valley cradles just one - this established distillery has changed hands several times and the current owners have had the distillery in their family since 1886. You will be taken on a tour of this award-winning distillery where you will see their time-honored skills at work and see what goes into making this unique spirit. Complete your distillery journey with a taste of two whiskies from their core range and for those who wish, there will be an opportunity to visit their onsite shop. Afterwards, enjoy a scenic drive to the Huntly Falconry Centre. This center was established in 1991 and is one of the first falconry centers in Scotland. Huntly Falconry Centre holds birds-of-prey falconry demonstrations throughout the season, where owls, hawks, falcons, and eagles can be seen flying every day. Marvel at the full range of bird skills during the flying demonstration before our drive returns us to Aberdeen to board the Greg Mortimer in the late afternoon. Settle into your cabin before attending important safety briefings and enjoy the thrill of departure as we 'throw the lines' and set sail. This evening, get to know your fellow expeditioners and our friendly Expedition Team and crew at the Welcome Dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure.

Among Orkney's archipelago of 70 windswept islands, nine kilometers (six miles) north of the Scottish mainland, a rich tapestry of archaeology, history, and wildlife awaits. We follow the passage of time - from 5,000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage-listed Neolithic sites, past relics from wandering Vikings and reminders of World War II occupation - to present-day crofting communities. Imposing sea cliffs teem with seabirds, and clifftop paths and bleak moors beckon the keen hikers among us, while our kayakers use paddle-power to explore sections of Orkney's fascinating coastline. Discover the rich history in Kirkwall, capital of the Orkney Islands. Initial impressions are misleading, as the harbor area looks modern, but the narrow winding streets and lanes of the old town, which have remained relatively unchanged over the centuries are appealing. Everything west of Kirkwall is known as West Mainland, an area of rich farmland, rolling hills, and moorland, with dramatic cliffs along the Atlantic coastline. Some of the main archaeological attractions we may see include the standing Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar, and the chambered tombs of Maeshowe that to this day still have unresolved mysteries. You can choose from a selection of shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness. Option 1: Orkney Treasures - Skara Brae: Embark on a journey through the serene countryside, venturing into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed heartland of the Orkney, celebrated for its abundance of prehistoric archaeology. Traverse past the awe-inspiring Standing Stones of Stenness and make a pause at the Ring of Brodgar-an immense ceremonial stone circle with roots reaching back nearly 5,000 years. Continue your exploration to the ancient village of Skara Brae, a settlement that has withstood the test of time for 5,000 years. Delve into its rich history, thoughtfully interpreted at the visitor center, and witness the remarkable dwellings unveiled from beneath the sand dunes by storms a mere 150 years ago. A short 200-meter stroll leads to Skaill House, a distinguished manor and Orkney's finest. Constructed in 1620 by Bishop George Graham on the grounds of a farmstead believed to date back to the Norse period, Skaill House boasts a 400-year legacy. All 12 of its lairds throughout history are interconnected, each contributing to the house's storied history and impressive collection. Immerse yourself in the captivating tales and artifacts within the walls of this historic manor, a testament to the enduring heritage of Orkney. Option 2: The Heart of Neolithic Orkney: Pass through the gentle rolling landscape and into the Neolithic Heartland of Orkney; an area designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its wealth of pre-historic archaeology. Stop at the Ring of Brodgar; a huge ceremonial circle of stones dating back almost 5,000 years. Next take a short motorcoach journey to marvel at the smaller, yet taller and more ancient Standing Stones of Stenness, currently the oldest known stone circle in Europe. Ponder upon its creation and hear of folk tales and traditions inspired by its mysterious and elusive magnificence. Wander along to Barnhouse, an ancient Neolithic village and part of Orkney's UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk among the houses and learn about everyday lives of the Neolithic people who built these structures. Pause to appreciate the serene bird hide nestled along Loch of Harray, offering a tranquil interlude in nature. Conclude your day with a visit to St Magnus Cathedral, a testament to the Vikings' architectural prowess during their 500-year reign over the islands. This unique tour promises a fresh perspective, unveiling the lesser-explored facets of Orkney's Neolithic legacy and inviting you to connect with its mysterious and enduring history. Midway between Orkney and Shetland is Fair Isle, home to quaint croft houses and famous for its knitwear and historical shipwrecks. The 70 or so islanders mostly live in traditional crofts on the more fertile low-lying southern part of the island. A bird watcher's paradise and boasting a major European bird observatory, Fair Isle lies on the intersection of major bird flight paths from Scandinavia, Iceland, and Faroes. It attracts common species and also eastern rarities such as the lanceolated warbler. In summer, the cliffs teem with breeding fulmars, kittiwakes, guillemots, gannets, shags, and puffins. Fair Isle is an excellent place to view seabirds at close range - especially puffins. The island also has more than 250 species of flowering plants, including rare orchids, alpine and wetland species, and common wildflowers. We will be welcomed by the hospitable villagers, and we might take a hike or visit the museum.

Britain's most northerly islands lie almost 160 kilometers (100 miles) north of the Scottish mainland, at a similar latitude to the southern tip of Greenland, or Bergen in Norway. Kept relatively warm by the Gulf Stream, Shetland's 100 islands experience almost 24 hours of daylight in summer. They abound with nature reserves and archaeological sites and offer a taste of traditional island life. Hermaness National Nature Reserve is close to Britain's most northerly point. The reserve is a place of bird cries and sea smells, of myth and mist. The cliffs rise 170 meters (558 feet) above the Atlantic. During summer they are alive with the cacophony, and raw guano smell of over 100,000 breeding seabirds: kittiwakes, shags, snipe, dunlin, golden plover, and Arctic skua, making this one of Europe's most diverse colonies. The grasslands, moors, and cliff tops are a tapestry of colorful wildflowers - gentians, heather, orchids, and thrift are a few of the species here.

As we sail towards the Norwegian coastline, the bridge or the outer decks offer an excellent and warm vantage point for birdwatching. Our historian and naturalists will delight us with their informative talks.

We spend three days exploring the superb Norwegian coastline, cruising the intricate maze of seldom-visited inlets and outer islands. You can choose from a selection of shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness. Option 1: Hike the Mythical Mountain of Torghatten (2.5 hours); Grade - Intermediate/Difficult: Embark on the thrilling quest to discover mythical trolls and trek towards one of Norway's most intriguing natural wonders-the hat-shaped Mt. Torghatten, distinguished by a central hole. Commence your hike from the trailhead, following a well-maintained path that offers breathtaking views of the sea and a chain of islands. Upon reaching the distinctive opening in Mt. Torghatten, savor the extraordinary perspective of gazing through the mountain to the other side. Despite appearing diminutive from a distance, the true dimensions of the tunnel become apparent up close-measuring 525 feet in length, 115 feet in height, and up to 65 feet in width-formed by millennia of sea erosion. According to legend, this remarkable cleft was created by an arrow shot by the Horseman of Hestmannen Island. Note: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing and wear proper walking/hiking shoes. This hike covers approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) and involves loose gravel and rocks, boulders, stone steps, and a consistent incline. Option 2: Norwegian Aquaculture Centre (2.5 hours); Grade - Easy: Witness the remarkable world of fish farming, a major part of the Norwegian industry. At the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre you will have a glimpse of life in the sea with the use of underwater cameras, and learn about the process of aqua-farming from egg stage to high-quality seafood products. Begin with a brief sightseeing tour by motorcoach of Bronnoysund, crossing the splendid Bronnoysund Bridge before arriving at the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre. Since Norway has an extensive coastline, utilizing the resources of these fertile, clean waters has been, and remains, one of the most important businesses for Norwegians. The country is considered a leader in practicing environmentally friendly and responsible aquaculture and is already one of the world's major exporters of fish and seafood. On your guided tour of the center, you'll learn about the many chapters of modern fish farming. The center features a number of outdoor mini-aquariums and use underwater cameras to show you what lies underwater. You will see feeding and hear about the development of salmon from fertilized fish egg to sexual maturity. The indoor exhibition documents the history of Norway's aquaculture industry and sheds light on some local history. Note: Consider dressing in layered clothing and wearing comfortable walking shoes. The center includes walking on a floating pier and a ramp which can be steep at times, depending on the tide.

Crossing the Arctic Circle, we make our way to the stunning Lofoten - meaning lynx's foot - Islands. This is a land scoured by ice and legend, the towering crags with their sharp edges, standing in silent protection of the villages below. As you traverse the scenic vistas of Lofoten, marvel at majestic mountain peaks and expansive fertile lands that once set the stage for Viking sagas. Your expedition begins in Sund where you will visit a blacksmith at the Fisheries Museum, famous for his beautiful cormorants made of steel. The decorative wrought iron cormorants are famous all over the world, and can be found in the Pentagon, the Kremlin, and in the King of Norway's palace. Drive through the scenic landscapes of Lofoten to Norway's renowned Haukland Beach, a paradisiacal haven with its pearly white sands and sapphire waters, embraced by lush greenery and towering peaks, evoking the essence of an Arctic paradise. We will have ample time to hike from Uttakleiv to Haukland Beach-a gentle stretch over hills and along the coastal path to the pristine white-sand beach. Upon reaching the Viking Museum in Borg, immerse yourself in an exhibition showcasing archaeological discoveries and meticulous recreations of Viking dwellings. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of a Viking village, gaining a vivid understanding of the daily lives of these seafaring people a millennium ago. The museum endeavors to authentically recreate the Viking village atmosphere, complete with handicrafts, traditional buildings, and era-specific cuisine. As part of this immersive experience, you'll be treated to a soup crafted from an ancient North Norwegian recipe, prepared over an open fire-a culinary journey back in time amid the fascinating history of the Vikings.

You can choose from a selection of shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness. Option 1: Guided hike towards Tjeldbergtind (3 hours): Experience the pristine landscape of Lofoten on this adventurous hike to a mountain top overlooking the beautiful peaks of the archipelago. After a steep ascent your reward awaits you with a 360 panoramic view of Lofoten's iconic jagged mountains, picturesque lakes, and peaceful surroundings. You will also have a spectacular view of Svolvaer, Kabelvag, Vagan, and on a clear day you can see the mainland. Note: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing and wear proper hiking boots. This hike is approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) on uneven terrain with loose gravel and some steep and consistent inclines. The highest point is 367 meters (1,204 feet). Visibility of sights may be affected in adverse weather conditions. Participants should be in good physical condition. Option 2: Taste of Lofoten (1.5 hours): Lofoten lies in the middle of what is often called "the world's largest dinner plate", and the unique commodities the inhabitants of Lofoten have fed on and lived from for centuries are in large scale. Experience real flavors and an authentic gastronomic experience. On the way to the tasting venue, you will make stops to see the fish racks and the first taste of Lofoten is served. Arriving at the tasting venue the stories and delicacies from the north continue. Enjoy dried arctic cod, salmon, Lofoten lamb, tasty cloudberries, and locally produced yoghurt made from local milk grazing right by the arctic coast. You will also get a taste of roe/caviar from Arctic cod. Note: The tour includes tastings of eight delicacies and should not be considered as a full meal. Drinks are not included, and a selection of beverages is available for purchase.

Our team of experts entertain us with informative talks about wildlife, geology, and epic tales of early explorers. As we cross to Bear Island, keep watch for various species of whale.

We approach Spitsbergen at its most southerly point, South Cape or Sorkapp, and explore the coastline, entering a different world - that of the polar desert. Enormous peaks and deeply gouged fjords make our visit to Hornsund a powerful experience. As Hornsund is the southernmost fjord in Svalbard, we keep a lookout for polar bears, and Zodiac-cruise along glacial fronts that are home to bearded and ring seals, kittiwakes, and guillemots. Here in Svalbard, we continue our exploration into human history dating back 400 years, encompassing trapping and hunting, whaling and mining. If the skies are clear we may catch a glimpse of the dramatic Hornsundtind, peaking at 1,430 meters (4,695 feet). Dramatic folds characterize the geological landscape of Bellsund and here we will enjoy magnificent vistas, steep bird cliffs, and lush vegetation, always an open invitation to Arctic fox and polar bears. Little auks, guillemots, northern fulmar, and pink-footed geese make this their breeding home. Reindeer graze the slopes peacefully and as the fjord branches, there are numerous places to explore. Polar bears pass through the area on their way to the west coast, and if we are lucky, we may encounter the elusive and alluring white beluga whale.

During the early morning, we cruise into the port of the remote village, Longyearbyen, the 'capital' of Spitsbergen. After bidding farewell to newfound friends, we are transferred into town, where there is time to explore and shop before transferring to the airport in the afternoon. Note: Booking flights departing prior to 12 pm on the day of disembarkation is not recommended, as we may experience delays at the conclusion of the voyage.