This expedition cruise is one of our most popular and will appeal to those who prefer their islands deserted, but with abundant bird and wildlife. True, Noble Caledonia can bring you all over the world, visiting all manner of exotic and wonderful places yet it is also true that some of the finest scenery, fascinating history and most endearing people are found close to home and nowhere is this truer than the islands off Scotland’s indented coastline which form stepping stones into the Atlantic. During this unique voyage, we will journey along rugged coastlines and visit once inhabited islands venturing far north to the Orkney, Shetland and Faroe Islands combined with our time in the Hebrides.
We have been operating cruises around the tip of Scotland for many years and this really is an itinerary that conveys the multiple benefits of small ship cruising. With our fleet of Zodiacs we are able to make calls into some of the remote and uninhabited islands that surround the Scottish coast and cruise close to shorelines and cliffs crowded with birdlife. Few ships make the journey to these outer islands and we are grateful to therefore be able to explore these wonderful places aboard the all-suite MS Island Sky with just 100 or so fellow passengers. To combine the small communities of North Ronaldsay, Fetlar and Unst with uninhabited St Kilda into one itinerary is rare and when combined with the towns of Lerwick and Runavik, such an itinerary allows us to understand the history, witness the wildlife and experience the culture of these remote and beautiful islands.
Island Sky
The MS Island Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Hebridean Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
27th May Itinerary
Day 1 Aberdeen, Scotland.
Embark this afternoon. Transfers will be provided from Aberdeen Railway Station and Aberdeen International Airport at a fixed time. Sail this evening.
Day 2 North Ronaldsay, Orkney Islands.
Cruise this morning to the Orkney Islands arriving in the early afternoon at the northernmost isle of North Ronaldsay. The birdlife here is prolific as the wetland habitats support the wildfowl and wader species whilst the rugged coastline provides nesting sites for seabird colonies. If weather conditions permit, a series of walks will include the bird observatory and we also hope to view the seals hauled up on the beaches. Those wishing to explore further can visit the lighthouse with views over the nearby islands or the wool mill where yarn is produced from the island’s seaweed eating sheep.
Day 3 Fair Isle & Noss Head, Shetland Islands.
This morning we anchor off the remote island of Fair Isle. Located midway between the Shetland and Orkney Islands, the tiny population of sixty or so islanders always extend us a warm welcome. Enjoy a walk across the island searching out the puffin slopes, visit the community hall for a cup of tea or maybe purchase some of the famous knitwear. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon we hope to sail around Noss Head. Here the cliffs will be full of nesting gannets, guillemots and fulmars whilst we may also see skuas in the skies above. This evening we moor overnight in Lerwick.
Day 4 Lerwick.
From the Shetland capital, we will visit the remarkable archaeological site of Jarlshof. The site was uncovered by a violent storm in the winter of 1896/7, revealing an extraordinary settlement site embracing at least 5000 years of human history. The site contains an extraordinary sequence of stone structures – late Neolithic houses, a Bronze-Age village, an Iron-Age broch and wheelhouses, several Norse longhouse, a Medieval farmstead and the 16th century laird’s house. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy a free afternoon to explore this historic port. Tonight we will be entertained by local musicians.
Day 5 Fetlar & Unst.
Spend the morning in Fetlar. Inhabited for over 5000 years the island lays claim to being the first Norse landing site in the Shetlands. Known as the most fertile of the Shetland Islands the wildflowers bring colour to the landscape whilst the birdlife on the island is prolific. Our expedition team will lead walks ashore including the Fetlar Interpretative Centre and Museum where we will learn about the wildlife and archaeological history of the island. During lunch sail to Unst, Britain’s most northerly inhabited island. At the Heritage Centre we will learn about the islander’s struggles over the centuries and the industries that have prospered whilst the Unst Boat Haven is dedicated to the history of the island’s distinctive wooden boats which descend from Viking craft. We also visit Saxa Vord with views over Hermaness National Nature Reserve and Muckle Flugga stacks, home to thousands of gannets and puffins as well as rare Arctic alpine plants.
Day 6 Runavik, Faroe Islands.
After a morning at sea we arrive in the Faroe Islands. This afternoon join a guided tour from Runavik to Kirkjubour, the island’s oldest cultural centre, where we see the ruins of the 13th century St Magnus Cathedral and the 11th century church, still in use. We also visit the 900-year old “Roykstovan”, the old bishopric, considered to be the oldest wooden house in Europe. For those feeling active, we will arrange a hike in the hills surrounding the town to discover the local flora and fauna. We remain moored overnight for anyone wishing to take an after dinner stroll.
Day 7 Vagur, Suduroy.
Our last call in the Faroes will be at Suduroy, the southernmost island of the group. From the port of Vagur we have a choice of activities. Choose to join an island tour passing the beautiful scenery as we drive between the villages seeing the stunning geology, fjords, tunnels and architecture of the island and end at the southernmost point and the Akraberg lighthouse. In Porkeri we will take the ridge-top road which winds up the mountainside for wonderful views towards the steep cliffs on the west coast, the Beinisvoro promontory to the north and the luscious grass slopes to the east. To locals, this delivers the essence of the Faroe Islands with mountains and fjords, villages and valleys, birds, sheep and nature. Alternatively those feeling active may wish to join a hike to Hvaanhagi, a beautiful, uninhabited place on the east coast of Suduroy. The view is fantastic towards the three islands Litla Dimun, Stora Dimun and Skuvoy. There are sheep and birds, a valley with a lake and beautiful high mountains. Spend the afternoon at sea as we return to Scotland.
Day 8 Tvoroyri, Suduroy.
Our last call in the Faroes will be at Suduroy, the southernmost island of the group. From the port of Tvoroyri we have a choice of activities. Choose to join an island tour passing the beautiful scenery as we drive between the villages seeing the stunning geology, fjords, tunnels and architecture of the island and end at the southernmost point and the Akraberg lighthouse. In Porkeri we will take the ridge-top road which winds up the mountainside for wonderful views towards the steep cliffs on the west coast, the Beinisvoro promontory to the north and the luscious grass slopes to the east. To locals, this delivers the essence of the Faroe Islands with mountains and fjords, villages and valleys, birds, sheep and nature. Alternatively those feeling active may wish to join a hike to Hvaanhagi, a beautiful, uninhabited place north of Tvoroyri on the east coast of Suduroy. The view is fantastic towards the three islands Litla Dimun, Stora Dimun and Skuvoy. There are sheep and birds, a valley with a lake and beautiful high mountains. Spend the afternoon at sea as we return to Scotland.
Day 9 Stornoway, Isle of Lewis & Shiant Islands, Scotland.
On leaving the island capital of Stornoway, we will head across the island of Lewis to the beautiful west coast. Described as Scotland’s Stonehenge, the Callanish Standing Stones date from around 3000 BC. There are a total of 32 stones in a circular and avenue design. The stones stand like a petrified forest on the flat top of a peninsula which reaches out into East Loch Roag. We also visit the Dun Carloway Pictish Broch, probably built sometime in the last century BC, it would have served as an occasionally defensible residence for an extended family complete with accommodation for animals at ground floor level. Our next stop is the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, a reconstructed settlement of traditional black houses which were made using dry stone masonry and have thatched roofs, distinctively weighted down with rocks. Visit the small museum, enjoy a display of a typical crofting activity such as weaving and take in the views of this dramatic site on the wild Atlantic coast. This afternoon we will board the Zodiacs for a cruise around the spectacular basalt cliffs of the Shiant Islands, a group of little islands located a few miles off the shores of Lewis. This is an excellent place to spot puffins, razorbills, guillemots, seals and hopefully white-tailed eagles.
Day 10 St Kilda, Outer Hebrides.
This morning we arrive at St Kilda, a remarkable uninhabited archipelago some fifty miles beyond the Outer Hebrides. Dominated by the highest cliffs and sea stacks in Britain, Hirta, St Kilda’s main island was occupied on and off for at least two thousand years, with the last 36 Gaelic speaking inhabitants evacuated at their own request in 1930. Immediately after the evacuation, the island was bought by the Marquess of Bute to protect the island’s thousands of seabirds including puffin and fulmars, and in 1957 it was bequeathed to The National Trust for Scotland. St Kilda is one of only a few UNESCO World Heritage Sites with dual status reflecting its natural and cultural significance. The local ranger will join us on board before our expedition staff lead a number of guided walks on the island. Later, cruise past two of the largest gannetries in the world at Stac Lee and Berneray. These impressive stacs rise 170 metres from the sea and are home to up to 60,000 breeding pairs of northern gannet.
Day 11 Canna & Loch Scavaig, Inner Hebrides.
Strategically placed between the mountains of Rum and the Outer Hebrides, the island of Canna and its adjoining neighbour Sanday are bound together like some rare text that reveals over 60 million years of Hebridean geology and history. They have an amazingly rich archaeological landscape with remains dating to all periods of settled occupation in Scotland. Canna is run as a single farm and bird sanctuary by the National Trust for Scotland and enjoys the best harbour in the Small Isles, a hornshaped haven. The fertile soil and its diversity of habitats mean that the island has an incredibly rich plant life with 248 native flowering plants recorded. We will see Canna House and wander across grassy basalt plateaus to the 600 foot cliffs on the north shore. Arrive in the early afternoon at the lovely Loch Scavaig. Just beyond is the freshwater Loch Corruisk with its breathtakingly beautiful view over the Cuillins. This is great walking country, but for those who prefer a less energetic afternoon our Zodiacs will explore the coast looking out for seals.
Day 12 Staffa & Iona.
At first light we arrive at Staffa where the perpendicular rock face features an imposing series of black basalt columns, known as the Colonnade, which has been cut by the sea into cathedralesque caverns, most notably Fingal’s Cave. Weather permitting, we will use our Zodiacs to explore closer. Sail over lunch to Iona which has been occupied for thousands of years and has been a place of pilgrimage and Christian worship for several centuries. It was to this flat, Hebridean island that St Columba fled from Ireland in 563 and established a monastery. Here his followers were responsible for the conversion of much of pagan Scotland and Northern England. No less than 62 Scottish Kings are buried in the Abbey. Visit the Abbey or perhaps walk along the white sandy beaches or go in search of the corncrake amongst the irises.
Day 13 Oban.
Disembark this morning. Transfers will be provided to Glasgow International Airport and Glasgow Queen Street Railway station at a fixed time.
25th June Itinerary
Day 1 Aberdeen, Scotland.
Embark this afternoon. Transfers will be provided from Aberdeen Railway Station and Aberdeen International Airport at a fixed time. Sail this evening.
Day 2 North Ronaldsay, Orkney Islands.
Cruise this morning to the Orkney Islands arriving in the early afternoon at the northernmost isle of North Ronaldsay. The birdlife here is prolific as the wetland habitats support the wildfowl and wader species whilst the rugged coastline provides nesting sites for seabird colonies. If weather conditions permit, a series of walks will include the bird observatory and we also hope to view the seals hauled up on the beaches. Those wishing to explore further can visit the lighthouse with views over the nearby islands or the wool mill where yarn is produced from the island’s seaweed eating sheep.
Day 3 Fair Isle & Noss Head, Shetland Islands.
This morning we anchor off the remote island of Fair Isle. Located midway between the Shetland and Orkney Islands, the tiny population of sixty or so islanders always extend us a warm welcome. Enjoy a walk across the island searching out the puffin slopes, visit the community hall for a cup of tea or maybe purchase some of the famous knitwear. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon we hope to sail around Noss Head. Here the cliffs will be full of nesting gannets, guillemots and fulmars whilst we may also see skuas in the skies above. This evening we moor overnight in Lerwick.
Day 4 Lerwick.
From the Shetland capital, we will visit the remarkable archaeological site of Jarlshof. The site was uncovered by a violent storm in the winter of 1896/7, revealing an extraordinary settlement site embracing at least 5000 years of human history. The site contains an extraordinary sequence of stone structures – late Neolithic houses, a Bronze-Age village, an Iron-Age broch and wheelhouses, several Norse longhouse, a Medieval farmstead and the 16th century laird’s house. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy a free afternoon to explore this historic port. Tonight we will be entertained by local musicians.
Day 5 Fetlar & Unst.
Spend the morning in Fetlar. Inhabited for over 5000 years the island lays claim to being the first Norse landing site in the Shetlands. Known as the most fertile of the Shetland Islands the wildflowers bring colour to the landscape whilst the birdlife on the island is prolific. Our expedition team will lead walks ashore including the Fetlar Interpretative Centre and Museum where we will learn about the wildlife and archaeological history of the island. During lunch sail to Unst, Britain’s most northerly inhabited island. At the Heritage Centre we will learn about the islander’s struggles over the centuries and the industries that have prospered whilst the Unst Boat Haven is dedicated to the history of the island’s distinctive wooden boats which descend from Viking craft. We also visit Saxa Vord with views over Hermaness National Nature Reserve and Muckle Flugga stacks, home to thousands of gannets and puffins as well as rare Arctic alpine plants.
Day 6 Torshavn, Faroe Islands.
After a morning at sea we arrive in the Faroe Islands. This afternoon join a guided tour through Torshavn over the hills to Kirkjubour, the island’s oldest cultural centre, where we see the ruins of the 13th century St Magnus Cathedral and the 11th century church, still in use. We also visit the 900-year old “Roykstovan”, the old bishopric, considered to be the oldest wooden house in Europe. For those feeling active, we will arrange a hike in the hills surrounding the town to discover the local flora and fauna. We remain moored overnight for anyone wishing to take an after dinner stroll.
Day 7 Vestmanna.
Over breakfast we will sail the short distance to Vestmanna, our base as we explore the northwest corner of Streymoy and the nearby cliffs. Here we will board local boats to explore these vertical cliffs that climb almost 1500 feet, sailing into grottos carved by the surf over the years and watching the thousands of seabirds including puffins, guillemots, fulmars and kittiwakes that nest here each summer. After lunch on board, we will drive to the beautiful village of Saksun, an isolated settlement situated beneath steep majestic mountains. We visit Duvugaroar, an old farmhouse, which is now a museum and a traditional Faroese wooden church in Kollafjord.
Day 8 Tvoroyri, Suduroy.
Our last call in the Faroes will be at Suduroy, the southernmost island of the group. From the port of Tvoroyri we have a choice of activities. Choose to join an island tour passing the beautiful scenery as we drive between the villages seeing the stunning geology, fjords, tunnels and architecture of the island and end at the southernmost point and the Akraberg lighthouse. In Porkeri we will take the ridge-top road which winds up the mountainside for wonderful views towards the steep cliffs on the west coast, the Beinisvoro promontory to the north and the luscious grass slopes to the east. To locals, this delivers the essence of the Faroe Islands with mountains and fjords, villages and valleys, birds, sheep and nature. Alternatively those feeling active may wish to join a hike to Hvaanhagi, a beautiful, uninhabited place north of Tvoroyri on the east coast of Suduroy. The view is fantastic towards the three islands Litla Dimun, Stora Dimun and Skuvoy. There are sheep and birds, a valley with a lake and beautiful high mountains. Spend the afternoon at sea as we return to Scotland.
Day 9 Stornoway, Isle of Lewis & Shiant Islands, Scotland.
On leaving the island capital of Stornoway, we will head across the island of Lewis to the beautiful west coast. Described as Scotland’s Stonehenge, the Callanish Standing Stones date from around 3000 BC. There are a total of 32 stones in a circular and avenue design. The stones stand like a petrified forest on the flat top of a peninsula which reaches out into East Loch Roag. We also visit the Dun Carloway Pictish Broch, probably built sometime in the last century BC, it would have served as an occasionally defensible residence for an extended family complete with accommodation for animals at ground floor level. Our next stop is the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, a reconstructed settlement of traditional black houses which were made using dry stone masonry and have thatched roofs, distinctively weighted down with rocks. Visit the small museum, enjoy a display of a typical crofting activity such as weaving and take in the views of this dramatic site on the wild Atlantic coast. This afternoon we will board the Zodiacs for a cruise around the spectacular basalt cliffs of the Shiant Islands, a group of little islands located a few miles off the shores of Lewis. This is an excellent place to spot puffins, razorbills, guillemots, seals and hopefully white-tailed eagles.
Day 10 St Kilda, Outer Hebrides.
This morning we arrive at St Kilda, a remarkable uninhabited archipelago some fifty miles beyond the Outer Hebrides. Dominated by the highest cliffs and sea stacks in Britain, Hirta, St Kilda’s main island was occupied on and off for at least two thousand years, with the last 36 Gaelic speaking inhabitants evacuated at their own request in 1930. Immediately after the evacuation, the island was bought by the Marquess of Bute to protect the island’s thousands of seabirds including puffin and fulmars, and in 1957 it was bequeathed to The National Trust for Scotland. St Kilda is one of only a few UNESCO World Heritage Sites with dual status reflecting its natural and cultural significance. The local ranger will join us on board before our expedition staff lead a number of guided walks on the island. Later, cruise past two of the largest gannetries in the world at Stac Lee and Berneray. These impressive stacs rise 170 metres from the sea and are home to up to 60,000 breeding pairs of northern gannet.
Day 11 Canna & Loch Scavaig, Inner Hebrides.
Strategically placed between the mountains of Rum and the Outer Hebrides, the island of Canna and its adjoining neighbour Sanday are bound together like some rare text that reveals over 60 million years of Hebridean geology and history. They have an amazingly rich archaeological landscape with remains dating to all periods of settled occupation in Scotland. Canna is run as a single farm and bird sanctuary by the National Trust for Scotland and enjoys the best harbour in the Small Isles, a hornshaped haven. The fertile soil and its diversity of habitats mean that the island has an incredibly rich plant life with 248 native flowering plants recorded. We will see Canna House and wander across grassy basalt plateaus to the 600 foot cliffs on the north shore. Arrive in the early afternoon at the lovely Loch Scavaig. Just beyond is the freshwater Loch Corruisk with its breathtakingly beautiful view over the Cuillins. This is great walking country, but for those who prefer a less energetic afternoon our Zodiacs will explore the coast looking out for seals.
Day 12 Staffa & Iona.
At first light we arrive at Staffa where the perpendicular rock face features an imposing series of black basalt columns, known as the Colonnade, which has been cut by the sea into cathedralesque caverns, most notably Fingal’s Cave. Weather permitting, we will use our Zodiacs to explore closer. Sail over lunch to Iona which has been occupied for thousands of years and has been a place of pilgrimage and Christian worship for several centuries. It was to this flat, Hebridean island that St Columba fled from Ireland in 563 and established a monastery. Here his followers were responsible for the conversion of much of pagan Scotland and Northern England. No less than 62 Scottish Kings are buried in the Abbey. Visit the Abbey or perhaps walk along the white sandy beaches or go in search of the corncrake amongst the irises.
Day 13 Oban.
Disembark this morning. Transfers will be provided to Glasgow International Airport and Glasgow Central Railway station at a fixed time.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
27th May Itinerary
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 27 May to 8 June 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Magellan Deck Standard Suites | £6995 | £6695 |
| Columbus Deck Superior Suites | £7295 | £6995 |
| Marco Polo Deck Premium Suites | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Marco Polo Deck Corner Suites | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Explorer Deck Island Suite | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Magellan Deck Standard for sole occupancy | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Columbus Deck Superior for sole occupancy | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
25th June Itinerary
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 25 June to 7 July 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Magellan Deck Standard Suites | £6995 | £6695 |
| Columbus Deck Superior Suites | £7295 | £6995 |
| Marco Polo Deck Premium Suites | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Marco Polo Deck Corner Suites | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Explorer Deck Island Suite | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Magellan Deck Standard for sole occupancy | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
| Columbus Deck Superior for sole occupancy | £9295 | £8995 |
Tour Reference Code: SCISK270525/SCISK250625
PRICE INCLUDES: 12 nights aboard the MS Island Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia expedition team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
During this expedition you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings and excursions will be made by Zodiac landing craft. The use of Zodiacs will be key to the operation of the itinerary as shown. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage, please do not hesitate to ask one of our experienced travel consultants.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
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Deckplan
Island Sky
The MS Island Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Hebridean Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
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Your Dining
Your Dining
It is quite a task to create a dining experience as that found on board our Sky vessels when you are cruising in far-flung corners of the globe, indeed it takes a team of highly talented chefs to deliver fresh, varied dishes no matter where you are at sea. Fortunately, our catering teams are well adapted to the world of small ship cruising where no two days are the same and the menus are often scheduled and tailored around the days’ excursions. With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the cuisine on board is of a consistent superior quality that befits such vessels. Where possible and when it meets their high standards, our accomplished chefs will obtain local produce in markets. Such purchases enhance the well-stocked larders and enable the chefs on board to exhibit their culinary skills and bring a local touch to the varied menus, emphasising the international expertise of the chefs on board. Afternoon tea and pre-dinner canapés take place every day in either the comfort of the Lounge or out on the Lido Deck when the weather is favourable. Tea and coffee are also available 24 hours a day. Special diets can be catered for with sufficient notice.
In keeping with the informal atmosphere on board, when dining you are able to choose your seating arrangements at your leisure. Whether that be joining a table of four to six other passengers outside on the Lido Deck in the evening’s sunshine or whether you prefer to enjoy meals in the à la carte restaurant. For those travelling alone, our onboard friendly restaurant staff will take care to ensure you are seated with other like-minded travellers. In the main elegant dining room, breakfast is served buffet-style, with certain items cooked to order on request. Lunch and dinner are à la carte with an excellent choice of dishes, with the menu reflecting the daily catch or local delicacies. To enhance your dining experience even further a selection of wines are included with both meals and there is also a comprehensive wine list with a wide selection of new and old world wines from which to choose.
The onboard catering and restaurant staff are experienced at sea and enthuse a passion for superb service. Whether it be ensuring you have an outdoor blanket as you enjoy the crisp sea breeze on the Lido Deck or sharing their knowledge of the characteristics of the days’ wine selections, you will experience a service on board like no other. You may also enjoy sumptuous barbeques on deck whilst at times, the chef will make your dish to order at special pasta or stir fry stations.
Click on image above to view a sample menu.
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Cabin Plans
Cabin Plan
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted you have chosen the MS Island Sky for your voyage. The 118-passenger, all-suite vessel is one of the finest small ships in the world and benefits from unusually spacious accommodation, public areas and outside decks. You will find the atmosphere on board akin to a private yacht or country hotel with a little music in the lounge or bar after dinner, talks from our onboard team and informative port briefings from your Cruise Director or Expedition Leader. After a day of exploration ashore, you will return to the comfort and peace of a well-run and exceedingly comfortable ship. Along with the Captain and officers and the Noble Caledonia team, our crew of 75 are dedicated to offering you the best possible experience during your time on board. We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Passengers: 118
Length: 90.60 metres
Width: 15.30 metres
Registered: Bahamas
Crew/Staff: 75
Year built: 1992
Language: English
Gross Tonnage: 4200 tonnes
Net Tonnage: 1262 tonnesADAPTORS
Please bring a two flat pin American adaptor for the 110v plug socket. If required there is a small supply of adaptors that can be obtained from Reception. These should be returned to Reception at the end of the cruise. There is also an adaptor extension box with USB ports in the suite.
AIR-CONDITIONING
The entire ship is air-conditioned. All suites feature individual temperature controls. In order to keep the air-conditioning system working efficiently, please keep doors closed when in use.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The ship uses a public address system to advise guests of all important information and activities during the cruise. Announcements can be heard throughout the public areas of the ship and in all suites.
COMMUNICATIONS
Telephone
If you wish to contact the ship, please call +1 954 6726785. This is a US number so calls will be charged at an international rate. There is a phone in your suite which has access to an outside line. Outgoing call costs will be advised on board. You can make suite to suite calls free of charge. The ship can be contacted by email at rec@is.salenship.com. Please indicate the passenger name and suite number in the subject field.
Satellite Internet & Wi-Fi
Connectivity is now an important feature in our lives and we do our best to bring this service to you on board. Complimentary Wi-Fi provided by Starlink is available in the public areas and passenger suites. Wi-Fi details, including your unique log in, will be available in your suite. The service provided on board uses direct satellite technology and has a certain amount of bandwidth available. The same level of connectivity and speed that we enjoy at home through cable or fibre-optic based infrastructures cannot be expected on board.
As you traverse the seas and ports, the ship’s antennae have to re-establish connection with the transmission satellites. Signal may also be blocked by mountains, buildings or even local radio frequency regulations. Remote locations out of satellite range, weather on earth or in space can also affect signal strength. Please also bear in mind that the network is shared by everyone on board so congestion can be anticipated which will slow down speeds especially at peak times. The bandwidth available to the ship means that connectivity is best served using text-based communications and simple social media. Some applications which involve downloading large files may not be available on board. Whilst Starlink provide the best possible coverage available there are certain areas where the connection maybe slower or non existent. Please refer to the following link for additional information regarding locations of coverage: www.starlink.com/map
Here are some tips for using satellite Wi-Fi on board:
• Avoid peak times such as the return to the ship after an excursion.
• Always log off the system when not in use to free up bandwidth space for other passengers and to pause your usage allowance.
• Work offline.
• Download any apps you need before leaving home.
• Turn off or disable background app data services and updates – apps that sync in the background can quickly eat up data without your knowledge.
• Disable push notifications as these use a lot of data.
• Remember to bring any charging or data cables required.
• Your Network provider may offer a cruise package but be careful, once the land signal is lost, this will transfer to the satellite signal which will incur greater costs.
• Cruise Terminals ashore often have good land based internet to supplement your connectivity.
• Put your phone on Airplane Mode when not in use to avoid roaming charges from your Network Provider.
• Be careful not to access private accounts such as bank accounts on public Wi-Fi systems.
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your suite daily.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Chef or the Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night on board to reconfirm your needs.
DINING & DRINKING
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the Restaurant. MS Island Sky operates an open seating policy which greatly enhances the convivial atmosphere on board. The Restaurant has table configurations of 8, 6, 4 and some 2’s. As we operate an open seating policy, we regret that reservations cannot be made. House wine, beer and soft drinks are included at lunch and dinner. Please note that passengers are not permitted to consume their own supplies of alcohol on board. Whether we have a morning at sea or you choose not to partake in an excursion, breakfast times have been extended, where possible, for your convenience. Times may vary and will be indicated on the Daily Programme. During good weather, early riser’s coffee, breakfast, lunch and dinner may also be served on The Lido Deck. Afternoon tea is served in The Club or in The Lounge depending on activities. Complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits are available self-service 24 hours a day in The Club. For those guests who may prefer more flexibility with regards to their meals we are delighted to offer an additional menu on board between 11.00 am and 4.00 pm. Details are available in The Club.
DISEMBARKATION
Your Cruise Director / Expedition Leader will provide you with detailed disembarkation information prior to the end of your cruise. This will include transfer information (where applicable). If you have any specific queries, please do not hesitate to contact the Cruise Director / Expedition Leader as soon as possible after embarkation.
DRESS CODE
The dress code on board is defined as casual. During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. The evenings are smart casual. Jackets and ties are not required. However, we kindly ask you to refrain from wearing shorts during evening meals in the Restaurant. You may wish to wear something a little dressier for the welcome and farewell dinners, for example, a jacket and tie for gentlemen and occasion wear for ladies. No “black tie” is necessary.
ELECTRICITY
Voltage is 110v/60Hz (American standard) and a 220v razor socket. This is only suitable for low voltage electrical appliances, e.g. mobile phone or camera charger. Please bring a two flat pin American adaptor for the 110v plug socket. Please note that the use of personal hairdryers, clothing irons, coffee makers, curling tongs, etc. in the suites is strictly forbidden as they may damage the ship’s electrical system. If you require electrical medical equipment, please notify the Reservations Department as soon as possible.
GOING ASHORE
Wait in public areas or in your suite until an announcement is made with instructions to disembark. Sailing times for each port are listed in the Daily Programme. Please note sailing times and ensure that you return back to the vessel at least 30 minutes prior to departure. In some ports a passport or port landing card must be carried when going ashore. This will be announced over the PA System if required. If the ship is in a remote area and you hear a continuous blast of the ship’s horn then please return immediately to the landing site. When leaving the ship at any time while in port always ensure you have checked IN/OUT at the gangway.
HAIR & BEAUTY SALON
MS Island Sky has a beauty technician providing hairstyling, some beauty treatments and massages. Appointments can be made on board at the Reception Desk. Fees for all treatments are available at Reception and will be charged to your onboard account. Each suite is equipped with a hairdryer which can be found in the right hand top drawer of the dresser.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
We have comprehensive plans in place to protect the health and hygiene of our passengers and crew. These are kept up to date in line with new advice and guidance and are continually evaluated. The ventilation system provides all suites and communal areas with fresh non recycled air. There is no recirculation of air on board. UV technology has been installed to ensure no risk of transmission via ventilation units. Hand sanitisers are present throughout the vessel particularly at entrances to dining venues and at the gangway. We kindly ask that you ensure to use these regularly. When it is required to bring in enhanced procedures you will be advised in either your pre cruise documentation or on board.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
A laundry service is available on board. Laundry bags and a price list can be found in the wardrobe in your suite. Please complete the laundry list and leave it together with the bag of items to be laundered on your bed. Your laundered items will be returned within 24 hours. There are no public launderette or ironing facilities on board. In the interest of safety we ask that you do not use an electric iron in your suite. An ironing service is available at reasonable cost. Dry cleaning facilities are not available on board. In the interest of the environment, towels will not be automatically changed every day. We ask that you put used towels on the bathroom floor if you wish them to be changed for fresh towels. Towels left hanging on the towel rack will not be changed.
LIFT
All passenger decks can be reached by lift. Please do not use the lift in the case of a fire or an emergency.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you disembark the ship, please check your suite to ensure you do not leave anything behind. On board the ship, any liquids, cosmetics, paper(s) and perishable items left behind will be disposed of immediately. Any books left on board the ship will be incorporated into the ship’s library or donated to charity. Other items left behind on the ship will be kept on board for 1 month or 2 cruises (whichever is the longer period), and after this time, any unclaimed items will be given to a local charity at the next main port the ship visits. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia within 21 days of disembarking. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and any costs incurred will be at your own expense.
MAIL
Although reception staff are happy to post letters on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or at the port of call at which you make such a request. Some postal services are unreliable and many letters or postcards that you ask to be delivered on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route. Under no circumstances can we be held liable for such occurrences.
MEDICAL FACILITIES
Medical services are available 24 hours a day. There is a Doctor on board and crew members are trained in first aid. Suite visits by the ship’s Doctor are available. Please note that all consultations and services are charged for. To arrange an appointment with the ship’s Doctor please contact Reception. It takes some people longer to find their sea legs. Sea sickness tablets are available from Reception, and should be taken at least one hour prior to departure.
MINI BAR/FRIDGE
This is stocked with complimentary soft drinks and beer and will be replenished daily/on request.
NEWS
News channels are available on your suite TV and in addition daily news bulletins can be found at Reception and in The Library.
NOBLE CALEDONIA TEAM
Throughout your cruise you will be accompanied by your Noble Caledonia team who will be happy to assist you with any queries or requests you may have.
ONBOARD ACCOUNT
All passengers will have their own “ship account” which allows you to sign a receipt for any expenses and then settle your bill at the Reception Desk at the end of the cruise. You will need to register your card at Reception shortly after sailing. If you are sharing a suite with a friend and would like separate bills, please inform Reception. Prices on board are shown in British Pounds. All final accounts will be presented in British Pounds.
Your ship’s account can be paid by:
• Cash (British Pounds, Euros or US Dollars).
• Credit Card (Visa or MasterCard).
If you intend to settle your shipboard account using your credit card, please provide Reception with an imprint of your card at your convenience during the cruise. As a standard procedure, a GBP10.00 pre-authorisation hold for settlements is made via credit card. Please note that this is only a temporary hold placed on your funds and released several days after the final onboard settlement is made. Debit cards and pre-paid credit cards may not automatically be accepted. Please let us know in advance if you plan to use one
PASSPORTS
All Passports are collected by the Purser upon embarkation. Passports are necessary to facilitate immigration formalities at each port of call and are returned at the end of the cruise.
PUBLIC AREAS
The Club – Located on the Marco Polo Deck, The Club features the main bar and a 24 hour tea and coffee station. A quiet place to meet friends or relax during the day
The Library – Located on the Marco Polo Deck. In The Library you can find a well stocked selection of reference books pertaining to the destinations. Fiction books, games and playing cards are also available. Novels brought on board may be exchanged with other books in the paperback library.
The Lounge – Located on the Columbus Deck, The Lounge is a comfortable place to relax or read a book. Daily Briefings by the Cruise Director or Expedition Leader are given in The Lounge which is fitted with multiple screens and presentation equipment. Informative talks from the Guest Speaker or expedition team are also given here.
Lido Deck – Located on the Erikson Deck aft. The Lido Deck is an alternative venue to the restaurant for meals, weather permitting. Outside of meal times it is an area where you can relax outside. Enjoy a drink from the bar or something to eat from the all day menu.
Observation Deck – Located on the Explorer Deck. There is an area for sun loungers which is ideal for sunbathing as well as a forward facing observation platform.
Promenade Deck – Located on the Marco Polo Deck. We kindly ask for your consideration to those guests whose suites are located on and beneath the Promenade Deck. Please use the deck for walking / jogging between the hours of 08.30 am and 9.00 pm only.
QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday experience and appreciate the time you take to complete the questionnaire. Kindly hand your completed questionnaire in at Reception.
SAFE
There is a safe in every suite located in the closet. The safe can be programmed with your own code, instructions can be found inside the closet door and housekeeping will be available to assist upon embarkation. We recommend that you leave money and other valuables in the safe. Kindly remember to remove all items from the safe before disembarking the ship at the end of your cruise.
SAFETY DRILL & SAFETY
International Maritime Law requires a lifeboat safety drill to take place prior to sailing. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. Please listen for the announcements. During the drill, all ships services will be suspended. Your assigned lifeboat station, location of your life jacket and the signal for lifeboat and fire drills are clearly explained on the emergency card posted on the back of your suite door. Life jackets are located in your suite. During the safety drill you will be shown how to wear the life jacket. It is essential that you take certain safety precautions while on board:
It is essential that you take certain safety precautions while on board:
• Walk, never run and be especially careful on wet and slippery decks.
• Ladies are advised to wear low heeled shoes especially on deck.
• Footwear should be worn at all times.
• Hold on to the handrails in passageways and stairways.
SHIP’S ID CARD
These personal ID cards with essential information are issued to each guest during embarkation. Please ensure you remember to check in and out at the gangway with the crew member on duty in order to ensure that you are on board prior to sailing.
SMOKING POLICY
The MS Island Sky offers a smoke-free cruise environment. Smoking is not permitted inside the ship, including the balcony areas. Smoking is only permitted in the designated area outside. Please never throw any cigarette ends overboard
SUITES
On board there are 59 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. All feature a sitting area, en-suite bathroom with vanity unit and walk-in shower, spacious wardrobe and dressing table. Suites on Explorer (Deck 6) and Erikson (Deck 5) have private balconies. Suites on Marco Polo Deck (Deck 4) have tinted sliding doors for enhanced views and quick access to the deck if any wildlife is spotted.All suites have the following facilities:
• Dressing gowns and slippers
• TV
• Electrical outlet & USB ports
• Hairdryer
• Heating and air-conditioning (individually controlled)
• Mini bar/fridge
• Safe
• Toiletries: hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion
• TelephoneEach suite has two twin beds that can be reconfigured to form a double bed upon request. Please advise the Reservations Department or the Reception, once on board, if you would like a double bed. Suites are serviced each morning by housekeeping and again in the evening when the beds are turned down. Please note that on MS Island Sky, all suites have a shower but none have baths.
TELEVISION
All suites are equipped with a television. There is a selection of channels available including news, films and documentaries.
TOILETRIES
Shampoo, conditioner, hand soap and shower gel are provided in your bathroom. If you have forgotten anything ie. toothpaste, please ask Reception, who have a selection of items available for purchase.
VISITORS
For the safety and security of all passengers no visitors are allowed on board the ship.
VISITING THE BRIDGE
At times Bridge visits may be possible. If visiting the Bridge, please note this is a working area and access may sometimes be restricted.
WAKE UP CALL
Wake up calls can be requested through the Reception Desk before 11.00 pm.WATER
In order to reduce the damage caused to the environment by waste plastic, we replaced plastic bottled water where possible with eco-friendly, reusable water bottles and water carafes. These are for your use during the cruise and we kindly ask you to leave them in your suite at the end of the cruise. The bottles and carafes can be filled from the water station outside The Club. Alternatively your Steward/ess can refill your carafe daily. Should you prefer to use plastic bottled water then please just let your Steward/ess know.
ZODIAC OR LOCAL BOATS TO TENDER ASHORE
Some destinations may require the use of the ship’s Zodiacs or local tender boats to go ashore. Guests will be advised where and when to meet the Zodiac or local tender boat to go ashore. Please ensure that your hands are free at all times and accept the assistance given by the crew on board the MS Island Sky when boarding tenders / Zodiacs. A Zodiac safety briefing will be given.
Please note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
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