Scottish Isles & Celtic Coasts - An Autumn Adventure

Your expedition begins on Scotland's west coast

You'll embark your ship MS Spitsbergen in Fairlie, a small community outside of Glasgow. Lying on the shores of the Firth of Clyde and nestled against a backdrop of the North Ayrshire Hills, this area is known for coastal towns that boast both Viking heritage and scenic walks. Get to know the ship before meeting the Expedition Team - your guides for the adventure ahead. Enjoy your first onboard dinner as we set sail.

Discover 'Scotland in miniature'

Welcome to Arran, an island cloaked in heather. Known as 'Scotland in miniature', Arran's varied landscape is split by the Highland Boundary Fault, giving the island its distinctive highland peaks in the north and lush lowlands in the south. Explore on foot for views towards the craggy summit of Goat Fell, Arran's highest peak. Across the island, woodland and open hillsides take on autumn colours, adding another layer to the scenery. Arran is also home to Scotland's 'Big Five': golden eagles, red deer, red squirrels, otters, and harbour seals. Keep watch for them as you explore.

Explore an island shaped by Celts and Vikings

Arriving in Douglas, you'll discover an island with its own language, traditions, and distinctive Manx identity. The Isle of Man and its surrounding territorial waters form a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognised for their natural environments and cultural heritage.

A warm Irish welcome

Northern Ireland's capital combines a proud industrial heritage with lively neighbourhoods and striking architecture. In the Titanic Quarter, discover the waterfront where RMS Titanic was built, then follow the Maritime Mile to explore more of Belfast's seafaring story.

Fire up your spirit of discovery on 'Whisky Island'

Islay, the 'Queen of the Hebrides', is the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides. It's the proud home of world-famous peaty single malts, but that's far from the only reason to visit. Enjoy the company of your fellow travellers and the Expedition Team as you explore the coastline on foot.

Get ready for the dreamy beauty of the Sound of Mull

Brightly coloured Georgian houses line the waterfront in the picturesque fishing port of Tobermory, located on the Isle of Mull. As we explore, your local guide will bring the port to life with stories of its vibrant past and present.

Get close to dramatic scenery and wonderful wildlife on Skye

We plan to explore the Isle of Skye, where dramatic scenery surrounds us. "The wildest scene in the Highlands" is how the Victorian poet Lord Tennyson described Loch Coruisk and the surrounding craggy peaks of the Cuillin Mountains. Depending on conditions, we'll put on our hiking boots to explore the loch with the Expedition Team.

Explore the land of munros

Sailing along Loch Linnhe brings us to Fort William, at the foot of Ben Nevis. With mountains, lochs, and walking trails close by, the town is a gateway to the landscapes of the western Highlands. Discover the town and its surroundings, or explore the region's whisky-making heritage at Ben Nevis Distillery, on the outskirts of Fort William. Further afield, Glen Coe reveals a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity and sculpted by glaciers. To the west, the Glenfinnan Viaduct curves across the hillside on 21 arches, while the nearby Glenfinnan Monument commemorates those who supported the Jacobite Rising of 1745.

Discover Oban's harbour and Highland hospitality

Set around a sheltered, horseshoe-shaped bay, Oban is known as the 'Gateway to the Isles'. Ferries come and go from its busy harbour, connecting this west-coast town with communities across the Hebrides. Stroll along the Corran Esplanade, taking in the waterfront's Victorian architecture and views across the bay. There's time to enjoy the town's cafés, shops, and Highland hospitality as you explore. For a wider perspective, make your way uphill to McCaig's Tower. Inspired by classical architecture, this distinctive landmark overlooks the harbour, with views towards the islands beyond.

Explore Bute's coast and grand island heritage

Set in the Firth of Clyde, Bute combines gentle coastal scenery with a rich architectural heritage. We plan to step ashore in Rothesay, where the seafront recalls the days when Clyde paddle steamers brought holidaymakers to the island. Discover the moated medieval Rothesay Castle, closely associated with the Stewart dynasty. Down by the harbour, the remarkably ornate Victorian public toilets, commissioned in 1899, offer an unexpected glimpse of the town's seaside heyday.

Farewell to Scotland

Your expedition comes to an end at Fairlie, where you'll disembark MS Spitsbergen on the shores of the Firth of Clyde. Say goodbye to the crew and Expedition Team before continuing your journey home.