Royal Scotsman and Expedition Voyage of Scotland & Norway
Expedition Voyage
Royal Scotsman and Expedition Voyage of Scotland & Norway
OVERVIEW
Explore the remote corners of Scotland and Norway during our private charters of the Royal Scotsman and Aqua Lares. Discover Highland culture, ancient ruins, and coastal communities as we explore the Scottish mainland and sail north, across the Hebrides, to the Norwegian coast and the Arctic Circle. Just 26 guests will traverse timeless terrain and enjoy the flexibility and intimacy of our own transport across both land and sea.
Departing 19 May 2027 — New Release
Edinburgh to Tromsø
14 Days
Privately Chartered Royal Scotsman Train & Expedition Cruise
PRIVATE RAIL AND CRUISE CHARTERS
Our exclusive charters of the Belmond Royal Scotsman and Aqua Lares take place for just 26 guests. The Royal Scotsman brings us the best of the region over two nights, before our expedition vessel, Aqua Lares, delivers us to the Scottish Isles, and along Norway’s vast coastline, into the Arctic Circle.
AN EXCLUSIVE CHARTER OF THE ROYAL SCOTSMAN
The magnificent Scottish Highland’s remoteness is best experienced by train, and the iconic Royal Scotsman is our transport of delight. We spend two nights aboard during this exclusively chartered journey, seeing the best of the Highlands and enjoying onboard entertainment.
EXCLUSIVE GALA DINNER AT EDINBURGH CASTLE
Edinburgh Castle towers over the city and speaks to centuries of Scottish history. We dine in the splendid surroundings of the Queen Anne Room, at the very top of the castle. To cap off our evening, we enjoy a private viewing of the Scottish Crown Jewels.
BOARD AQUA LARES FOR ISLAND IMMERSIONS
The small ship, Aqua Lares, sails just 26 guests to the remote islands of Scotland, as well as Norway’s striking coastlines and archipelagos – our expeditions led by expert naturalist guides. Board the ship’s Zodiacs for a closer look at pristine waterways, wildlife and geological wonders.
CRUISE REMOTE SCOTTISH ISLES
Explore far-flung Scottish islands aboard Aqua Lares. Discover the fascinating dual World Heritage-listed St Kilda archipelago; the ruins of Mousa; Iona’s historic abbey; and the tiny island of Staffa, with its hexagonal basalt columns and captivating cave. Across the Hebridean Islands, we also keep watch for colonies of the incomparable puffin.
NORWAY'S EPIC COASTLINE & COLOURFUL HARBOURS
During our cruise of the Lofoten Islands, we enter Trollfjorden via a narrow passage, emerging into a scene framed by kilometre-high mountains. Our vessel also sails into picture-perfect harbours, where vibrantly coloured homes, hotels, bars and museums occupy their coveted waterfront settings.
RESIDENCES OF THE HIGHEST STANDARD
THE CALEDONIAN EDINBURGH
The Caledonian is a city landmark, built on historic Princes Street in 1903 by the Caledonian Railway Company, at a time when railways were expanding rapidly. For more than 120 years, it has provided fine accommodation for travellers, including royalty and celebrities, all of whom have enjoyed its famous views over Edinburgh.
THE BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN
With supremely comfortable ensuite cabins, an opulent observation car, and even an onboard spa carriage, the Royal Scotsman sets the standard in luxury trains. Our exclusive Captain’s Choice charter allows unrivalled access and freedom.
AQUA LARES
The privately chartered Aqua Lares delivers us to the remote islands of Scotland and Norway. Over nine nights, we enjoy the considered amenities of this nimble expedition vessel. Stylish suites and sumptuous dining complement our coastal adventures, as we drop anchor where larger vessels cannot reach.
CLARION HOTEL THE EDGE, TROMSO
Our journey culminates in an overnight stay at Tromsø’s Clarion Hotel The Edge, conveniently located near the port. The modern establishment enjoys prized views across the waterfront and its proximity to the airport also ensures a comfortable conclusion to our adventures.
ITINERARY
Please note, our cruise itinerary is included merely as a guide. Our voyage will be of an expeditionary nature, where each day’s activities will be determined not only by our Captain and Expedition Team, but on occasion, the vagaries of the weather and sea conditions. Should we chance upon any unexpected encounters with majestic marine life or other natural marvels, we also have the flexibility to drop anchor and linger a while.