Home > Iceland & the Northern Isles (from Tilbury)

Iceland & the Northern Isles (from Tilbury)

Blue Lagoon - a unique and natural thermal bath

Follow in the footsteps of the Vikings as you cruise via the ruggedly remote islands of Scotland and the Faroes to Iceland, the eerily atmospheric and spectacularly beautiful land of fire and ice, to traverse an ancient landscape studded with geysers, glaciers, volcanoes and waterfalls.

Check Price & Availability

Itinerary
Map
Ship
Cabin and Deck Plans

Blue Lagoon - a unique and natural thermal bath
St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall, Orkney Islands
Brodgar standing stones, Kirkwall, Orkney Islands
Heimaey, the only inhabited Westermann Island
Heimaey, Westermann Islands
Views over Reykjavik
Gulfoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall
Geysir hot springs, Iceland
Isafjordur, East Fjords
Traditional farmhouse overlooking Isafjordur, East Fjords
Puffin on the basalt cliffs of Latrabjarg
Puffin colony at Latrabjarg
Godafoss waterfall near Akureyri
Seydisfjordur
Vatnajokull Glacier near Seydisfjordur
Faroe Islands
Torshavn, Faroe Islands
Lerwick harbour, Shetland Islands

DAY 1: Tilbury, UK.

Make your own way to Tilbury to join your cruise ship, Marco Polo. Your cruise is full board from dinner this evening until breakfast on day 13. Your ship departs at 6pm, latest embarkation is at 4pm. (D)

DAY 2: At sea.

(B, L, D)

DAY 3: Kirkwall.

Comprising 70 unspoilt islands, dotted off the northeast tip of Scotland, the Orkney Islands are coated with richly fertile landscapes and edged by secluded beaches and sandstone cliffs that provide a haven for birds and wildlife. Visit Kirkwall, the capital and administrative centre of the Orkneys, to admire the picture-perfect charm of its red sandstone Magnus Cathedral, Tankerness House Museum, hand painted ?Italian Chapel? and World War II Churchill Barrier Causeways. Or perhaps join an optional trip to see the fascinating Stone Age settlement at Skara Brae or the ancient Brogdar standing stones? (B, L, D)

DAY 4: At sea.

(B, L, D)

DAY 5: Heimaey ? Surtsey.

Reaching Iceland, the ?land of fire and ice?, stop first at the tiny but intriguing Westermann Islands (Vestmannaeyjar), a collection of 15 islands and 30 reefs just off the mainland?s southern coast. This morning, visit Heimaey, the only inhabited Westermann Island and home to plentiful puffin colonies. In 1973, the intense eruption of the island?s Mt Eldfell volcano continued for almost six months and transformed the island?s landscape with freshly solidified lava, extending the island?s size by 2km. After exploring the quaint harbour town, rejoin your ship and sail around the spectacular new nature reserve of Surtsey Island. Created by a series of explosive, subaquatic volcanic eruptions, Surtsey, named after the Nordic God of Fire and Ice, gradually emerged from the sea as a newly formed island between 1963 and 1966 and quickly became an important site of study for vulcanologists, biologists and botanists. (B, L, D)

DAY 6: Reykjavik.

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital, set on a peninsula overlooked by majestic Mount Esja. It is a city of contrasts, combining traditional painted houses and the charming character of a provincial town with a modern, vibrant metropolis. Explore the power and diversity of Iceland's natural environment on optional trips to nearby attractions. Perhaps visit the Blue Lagoon, a unique oasis-like pool and spa set in a large lava field edged by black sand beaches and brimming with geothermally heated seawater. Or why not view the magnificent cascade of Gulfoss, also known as the 'Golden Waterfall', or the intriguing landscape of Geysir, a geothermal park peppered with bubbling mud pools, swirling steam vents and the impressive steam pillar eruptions of the geyser Strokkur? (B, L, D)

DAY 7: Isafjordur.

The capital of the Westfjords region on Iceland?s northwest coast, Isafjordur comprises two lush green valleys nestled amidst a steep, mountainous fjord. Once an important fishing centre, Isafjordur is home to some of Iceland?s oldest buildings in its Nedstikaupstadur Old Quarter. Why not explore the town centre or venture into the hills to enjoy breathtaking views from one of the many picturesque hiking trails? Alternatively, join an optional trip to admire the spectacular sheer basalt cliffs of Latrabjarg, home to some of the world?s largest colonies of puffins and other sea birds, or head to the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve to marvel at the area?s rugged, ethereal beauty and rare vegetation; there may even be a chance to spot wildlife such as seals and Arctic foxes. (B, L, D)

DAY 8: Akureyri.

A large town at the tip of Eyjafjordur, Iceland?s longest fjord, Akureyri is considered to be the capital of northern Iceland and is home to a fascinating town centre and a thriving fishing industry. Visit the distinctive Akureyrakirkja Lutheran church, one of the many museums or the lush botanical garden, or perhaps join an excursion to the mighty horseshoe shaped cascade of Godafoss - the 'waterfall of the gods, set amongst the magnificent landscape of volcanoes, waterfalls, valleys and geysers in the Lake Myvatn region. Alternatively join a whale watching excursion or perhaps take a polar flight to the quaint nearby island of Grimsey, a pearl of the Arctic Circle, where sheer blue cliffs are topped by the nests of millions of seabirds and the tiny harbour town is home to just 100 residents. (B, L, D)

DAY 9: Seydisfjordur.

A tranquil, remote village set amongst stunning natural surrounds, Seydisfjordur lies in the picturesque Eastfjords region, virtually isolated from central Iceland by an impressive mountain range. Speckled with delightfully authentic old wooden buildings, the village offers great access to many nearby waterfalls and hiking paths. Perhaps visit Iceland's largest glacier, the serenely beautiful Vatnajokull, whose vast, exquisite icecap stretches over several subglacial volcanoes, ice caverns and volcanic lakes and is dotted with simmering mud pools and the rising steam plumes of mighty geysers. Or venture to the placid, glassy waters of legendary Lake Lagarfljot, said to be home to a worm-like monster who guards treasure cast into the lake during the Viking era. (B, L, D)

DAY 10: Torshavn.

The ruggedly beautiful cluster of Danish islands comprising the Faroes is nestled in a remote position in the Atlantic Ocean, halfway between Iceland and Scotland. The picturesque central island, Streymoy, is the largest of the islands and home to the islands' capital Torshavn, meaning 'Thor's Harbour' and named after the Norse god of thunder. Enjoy free time to explore Torshavn's pretty harbour town, perhaps strolling along the waterfront to admire the colourful wooden houses or visiting the museums or quaint old churches. Wander around Tinganes Old Town, which dates back to the Middle Ages, to admire the authentic black-tarred houses with green-turfed roofs that huddle along the maze of tiny crooked lanes, or perhaps head inland to the marvel at the spectacular, untouched beauty of the islands' richly fertile and lushly verdant interior - a view that would still be recognisable to its early Viking settlers. (B, L, D)

DAY 11: Lerwick.

Capital of the Shetland Islands, Lerwick is an ancient isle, first settled by Norsemen in the 9th century. The northernmost town of the UK, Lerwick is secluded from the mainland yet maintains a fascinating blend of ancient sites and modern conveniences. Centred around a busy harbour, the town is home to the delightful shopping area along Commercial Street, the 19th century Town Hall, perched on the highest point in Lerwick, and Fort Charlotte, a 17th century hexagonal stone fort built to protect the island during the three Anglo-Dutch wars. Alternatively, venture to the magnificent prehistoric site at Jarlshof to see remnants of Bronze Age, Pictish, Viking and Medieval settlements believed to be amongst some of the most remarkable archaeological discoveries in Britain. (B, L, D)

DAY 12: At sea.

(B, L, D)

DAY 13: Tilbury, UK.

Arrive in Tilbury and disembark after breakfast. (B)

Travelling to the Port

Port Parking

Car parking is available at Tilbury for only £8 per vehicle per night. This must be pre-booked prior to departure.

Coach Transfer Service

A transfer service will operate between London Victoria Coach Station and the Cruise Terminal at Tilbury. This is available for only £20 per person return and must be pre-booked prior to departure.

Your Holiday Map

Iceland & the Northern Isles (from Tilbury)

Marco Polo
Marco Polo
Columbus lounge, Marco Polo
Marco Polo Theatre lounge, Marco Polo
Marco's Restaurant, Marco Polo
Captain's Club piano bar
Standard plus twin inside cabin, Marco Polo
Superior twin inside cabin, Marco Polo
Standard twin outside cabin, Marco Polo
Standard plus twin outside cabin, Standard plus twin cabin, Marco Polo
Superior twin outside cabin, Marco Polo
Premium twin outside cabin, Marco Polo
Pool and sun deck, Marco Polo
Whirlpool baths on deck, Marco Polo
Promenade, Marco Polo
Internet centre, Marco Polo

Marco Polo

With broad teak decks, an understated elegance and a charming home-from-home atmosphere, Marco Polo embodies the beauty and efficiency of classic ocean cruise liners. Although traditional in ambience, it is a modern and stylish ship, fully stabilised and air-conditioned, and offering a great range of facilities and entertainment. Compact yet comfortable, Marco Polo accommodates 800 guests in bright and tasteful cabins but children under 16 are not allowed and teenagers must be accompanied by an adult.

Public Rooms & Facilities

Swimming pool; 3 whirlpool baths; promenade; Waldorf Restaurant; Marco's Restaurant; Captain's Club lounge and piano bar; Palm Garden lounge; Columbus lounge; Marco Polo Show Lounge; Scotts Bar; Jade Wellness Centre with fitness centre, sauna, massage, spa and beauty treatments and hairdresser; Nansen card room; Livingston Library; internet centre; shopping arcade; photo gallery; 4 lifts.

Dining

Your cruise includes full board. Dinner can be taken at one of two fixed sittings in the stylish Waldorf Restaurant or at the casual Marco's buffet restaurant. Open seating breakfast and lunch is available in either restaurant. Menus include a good variety of international dishes and some dietary specific options such as vegetarian and healthy choice. Afternoon tea is available in Marco's Restaurant offering a selection of sandwiches, cakes and biscuits.

Cabins

All cabins have twin beds; air-conditioning; satellite TV; telephone; safety deposit box; hairdryer; shower and wc. Your holiday price includes a category 1 cabin or you may choose to upgrade.

Options/Upgrades

Cabin Categories & Descriptions:

1 Standard twin inside lower deck cabin

3 Superior twin inside middle/upper deck cabin

6 Standard twin outside lower deck cabin with port hole(s)

8 Standard Plus twin outside lower/middle deck cabin with port hole(s)

9 Superior twin outside upper deck cabin with window

11 Superior Plus twin outside upper deck cabin with window

12 Premium twin outside upper deck cabin with window

Marco Polo

Marco Polo Navigator Deck
Marco Polo Columbus Deck
Marco Polo Amundsen Deck
Marco Polo Magellan Deck
Marco Polo Pacific Deck
Marco Polo Atlantic Deck
Marco Polo Baltic Deck
Marco Polo Caribic Deck

Category 3 Pacific or Amundsen Deck Superior Twin inside cabin

Category 6 Caribic or Baltic Deck Standard Twin outside cabin

Category 8 Caribic, Baltic or Atlantic Deck Standard Plus Twin outside cabin

Category 9 Amundsen or Columbus Deck Superior Twin outside cabin

Category 11 Pacific or Amundsen Deck Superior Plus Twin outside cabin

Category 12 Pacific, Amundsen, Colombus or Navigator Deck Premium Twin outside cabin

Holiday Availability

Unfortunately we do not currently have any available departure dates for this holiday. For more information about possible future departures or suitable alternative holidays please contact us using the number at the top of the page or view one of the Other Holiday Choices