Viking Trails and Celtic Origins

Arrive in Reykjavík and transfer to your ship, Holland America Line's MS Rotterdam.

Home to around 4,500 residents, Heimaey is the largest of Iceland’s Westman Islands, just off the country’s south coast. Steeped in saga history and once raided by pirates in the 17th century, the island is best known for the dramatic eruption of Eldfell in 1973. Awoken by earthquakes and ash clouds, locals were evacuated while a small group remained, famously pumping seawater onto advancing lava to protect the harbour. After almost six months, the eruption ended — the town was partly buried, yet the harbour survived, and most residents returned. Today, Heimaey offers a remarkable window into Iceland’s living geology. At the Eldheimar Museum, see a home preserved beneath ash, while a cruise around the island reveals rugged cliffs, sea caves and birdlife. Spend time exploring at your own pace or join an optional sightseeing tour (additional expense).

Enjoy a day on board. Take advantage of the ship’s superb amenities, from exquisite dining and onboard shopping to the fitness centre and pickleball courts. Be entertained by performances at the spectacular World Stage or unwind with live music.

Enjoy a special Insider Experience today. On the August departure of this tour, discover the ancient treasure of Kirkwall, journeying into the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a World Heritage Site home to the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar and the remarkably preserved village of Skara Brae.

Insider Experience – Essence of the Scottish Highlands Discover the spirit of the Scottish Highlands on an Insider Experience. Travel through sweeping glens to Loch Ness, arriving at Clansman Harbour for a scenic cruise across the loch’s deep, mysterious waters. After returning to shore, continue by coach to Inverness, regarded as the capital of the Highlands. Enjoy free time to explore at your own pace, perhaps strolling along the River Ness, browsing local shops or relaxing in a welcoming cafe.

Next, arrive at the elegant Kingsmills Hotel for a two-course lunch accompanied by a traditional Scottish dram. This afternoon, visit Glen Ord Distillery on the Black Isle, where a guided tour reveals the art of whisky-making, followed by a tasting of Glen Ord single malts (June departure).

Just across the Firth of Forth from Rosyth lies South Queensferry, a harbour steeped in history. Around 1071, the future Queen Margaret of Scotland landed here, establishing 'Queen’s Ferry' as a key arrival point for pilgrims travelling to St Andrews, Scotland’s medieval religious centre. Her legacy lives on nearby at Edinburgh Castle, where St Margaret’s Chapel — the oldest surviving part of the fortress — is believed to have been her place of worship. Beyond the castle, you’ll find world-class museums, galleries and grand Georgian streets to explore. From here, you may also choose to visit Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city. Enjoy the day at leisure to explore independently, or join one of the optional sightseeing tours available (additional expense).

Your day begins with a panoramic tour of Edinburgh. Admire the elegant Georgian architecture of the New Town and stroll along Princes Street before travelling part of the famous medieval Royal Mile, which stretches between Edinburgh Castle and the 17th-century Palace of Holyroodhouse. The palace was home to Mary, Queen of Scots. Today, it serves as the official residence of the monarch of the United Kingdom in Scotland.

Dominating the city skyline, Edinburgh Castle stands proudly atop an extinct volcanic rock and remains one of the nation’s most important historic landmarks. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old and New Towns, the fortress reveals layers of Scotland’s past through its varied architecture, with sections dating back to the 12th century. Inside, you’ll also have the opportunity to view the Honours of Scotland.

Enjoy time to relax on board your ship as you cruise to Rotterdam.

Today, you will transfer to your hotel in Amsterdam for the night. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, perhaps wandering beside the city’s canals or relaxing at a cafe.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your onward flight.