The next stop is Oban, a charming port town known as Scotland’s “seafood capital.” Excursions here include visits to the Arduaine Gardens, a scenic walk with views of Inveraray Castle, or a tour of the picturesque town center with a stop at the Dunollie Museum. The afternoon offers moments of pure relaxation as the ship sails through the scenic Sound of Mull, among bays and cliffs inhabited by seals and sea eagles.
Scenic: 12 Days of History, Nature, and Celtic Charm
There is a place where the wind carries the scent of the sea and legends, where history intertwines with breathtaking landscapes, and luxury meets the truest spirit of the North. This is the Scotland of the isles—wild and majestic—unveiled through a unique itinerary offered by Scenic Eclipse, the ultra-luxury expedition yacht that turns every journey into an unparalleled experience.
Over twelve days, the Scottish Isles: Historic Trails & Wilderness itinerary takes guests from Dublin to Edinburgh, passing through Northern Ireland and the most stunning Scottish archipelagos—from the Outer Hebrides to the Shetlands and Orkneys—in a crescendo of emotions, discoveries, and exclusive comfort.
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The journey begins in Dublin, a city of poets and historic pubs, where a lively atmosphere blends with a rich cultural heritage. After boarding and a welcome Champagne toast on the deck of Scenic Eclipse, the route heads north to Belfast, where industrial history meets contemporary energy. Highlights include a visit to the Titanic Belfast Museum, which traces the birth and legend of the famous ocean liner, or an excursion to the spectacular Giant’s Causeway, a natural masterpiece of 40,000 basalt columns. For food and drink enthusiasts, a stop at the Old Bushmills Distillery, the world’s oldest whiskey distillery, is a must.
The voyage continues to the Inner Hebrides, home to the small, mystical island of Iona, the cradle of Celtic Christianity. Here, visitors can admire the ancient Iona Abbey, stroll among the ruins of the medieval monastery, or follow the Nunnery Walk, a path offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Nearby, the island of Staffa enchants with the famous Fingal’s Cave, formed by perfectly hexagonal basalt columns, which can be explored up close using the Discovery Team’s Zodiacs for an immersive encounter with untamed nature.
Itinerary
Scenic Eclipse – Helicopter Heli Deck
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Reaching St. Kilda feels like arriving at the edge of the world. This UNESCO World Heritage archipelago is a natural sanctuary for millions of seabirds and a place steeped in silence and mystery. As the ship sails toward the Flannan Isles, guests can relax in their suites while the Discovery Team observes local wildlife—including puffins, dolphins, and whales—and shares fascinating natural history insights.
The Isle of Skye captivates with its pastel-colored villages and the Cuillin Mountains, among the most spectacular in Scotland. In Portree, time seems to stand still. Excursions include a tour of Dunvegan Castle, the historic home of Clan MacLeod, or a scenic journey along the Trotternish Peninsula to the famous Old Man of Storr and the cliffs of Kilt Rock.
On the Isle of Lewis, in Stornoway, Viking heritage and Gaelic culture converge. Guests can choose between a tour of Lews Castle, a visit to the Isle of Harris Distillery—renowned for its artisanal gin—or an excursion to Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, an ancient stone village carefully restored.
In Lerwick, the capital of the Shetlands, the Nordic essence of the archipelago is palpable: a captivating blend of Viking heritage and warm Scottish hospitality. Popular excursions include a visit to the prehistoric site of Jarlshof or the “Meet the Locals” tour, offering encounters with Shetland pony breeders and local artisans. Continuing to the Orkney Islands, the ship docks in Kirkwall, where guests can admire the majestic St. Magnus Cathedral and the Neolithic sites of Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar, remarkable testaments to a millennia-old past.
Belfast
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The final intermediate stop is Aberdeen, the “Granite City,” with its silver-hued buildings and bustling fish markets. Scenic offers a variety of experiences here, including a visit to Crathes Castle, an authentic Scottish manor, or a tasting at the Glen Garioch Distillery. The journey culminates in Leith, Edinburgh’s historic port, where guests can explore the Royal Yacht Britannia, the floating residence of the British royal family, and admire the Scottish capital from Princes Street to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of timeless history.
The Scottish Isles: Historic Trails & Wilderness itinerary is far more than a cruise—it is a journey into the soul of Scotland. Aboard Scenic Eclipse, every detail is designed for absolute comfort, from suites with private balconies to world-class dining experiences and impeccable service from personal butlers. Between seas that tell stories and breathtaking landscapes, this itinerary invites guests to discover an authentic, wild, and unforgettable Scotland.
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Giorgia Lombardo
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