Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords
Set sail on an unforgettable 8-day cruise aboard Le Lapérouse, between Celtic lands and Viking territory. Historical discoveries and stunning scenery will punctuate this trip taking you from Scotland to Norway.
At each port of call on your trip, every guest will be able to choose one included activity from the selection offered by Ponant. During this cruise, admire the incredible panorama composed of waterfalls and craggy peaks from aboard the Flåm train, one of the steepest and most famous railways in the world. Visit the Neolithic treasures of the Orkney Islands from Kirkwall, or discover the mythical Highlands region and the Glencoe visitor center from Fort William. The diversity of options on offer promises intense and varied experiences. (Find the full list of excursions under the Itinerary tab.) Departing from Bergen, famous for its Hanseatic wharf which still bears some traces of the city's rich Viking past, your first stop will be Flam. Nestled in the heart of the Aurlandsfjord between verdant mountains, this picturesque village with colourful houses is home to the famous Flam Railway. Next, you will sail to Eidfjord. In the ancient glacial valley of the Hardanger Fjord, the steep mountains and roaring waterfalls, including the Voring Falls, among the highest in Europe, are an awesome display of nature. You will then head for the Orkney archipelago and its windswept moorland landscape. Le Lapérouse will sail towards Kirkwall, capital of the Orkney Islands, where numerous seabirds, such as gannets and European shags, have taken up residence. Not far from there, the Neolithic Heart of Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a striking reminder of the ancient settlements that once inhabited this timeless place. You will also discover the Isle of Skye, known for its rich Gaelic culture, its famous bridge, and its stunning scenery, Stornoway, the largest city in the Hebrides with a warm and friendly atmosphere. You will then sail towards Fort William. This harbour town on the shores of Loch Linnhe is steeped in Scottish history and tradition, close to the beautiful and spectacular scenery of Glencoe and the Highlands. Finally, you will reach Glasgow, Scotland's warm cultural capital with a rich artistic and architectural heritage, your disembarkation port.
When searching for a luxury yacht expedition cruise, there’s one name above all else that you need to know – Ponant Cruises. Founded in 1988 by former French Merchant Navy officers, Ponant combines succulent luxury with authentic adventures on all seven continents.
From classic Mediterranean itineraries and Caribbean sailings, to bucket-list expeditions around Greenland and Antarctica, Ponant cruises proudly counteract the banality of mainstream voyages with a unique take on the concept of small-ship cruising. It’s the absolute trip of a lifetime.
Environmentally friendly, fitted with innovative equipment and complete with lounges designed to be largely open to the exterior, this new and intimately sized yacht offers a unique type of cruise experience.
