If ever an archipelago was made for expedition cruising it is the islands off Scotland’s magnificent coastline, an indented landscape of enormous natural splendour with offshore islands forming stepping stones into the Atlantic. One of Europe’s last remaining wilderness areas affords the traveller a marvellous island hopping journey through stunning scenery accompanied by spectacular sunsets and prolific wildlife. Over the course of nine nights and accompanied by our naturalists and local guides, we will explore the isles and with our nimble Zodiac craft be able to reach some of the most remote and untouched places including the remarkable uninhabited archipelago of St Kilda, spiritual Iona and Ulva, one of the smallest inhabited islands in the Hebrides.
We will visit both inhabited and uninhabited islands and places of great natural beauty, rich in wildlife and many with a long history dating back to the Iron Age. Learn something of the history of the islands, see their abundant bird and marine life, but above all revel in the timeless enchantment that these islands exude to all those who appreciate the natural world. Such a trip would be almost impossible to arrange independently and requires a small ship with the expeditionary qualities of the Ocean Nova. With just seventy travelling companions, the atmosphere on board is convivial and when ashore with our local experts and expedition team, we will divide into small groups thereby enjoying a comprehensive and peaceful experience. We will witness vibrant colours and amazingly prolific birdlife, explore deserted villages and learn of the history and ancient culture of unique island life.
Ocean Nova
We are delighted to have once again exclusively chartered the expedition ship, the Ocean Nova for our island hopping adventures around the British Isles. The vessel was built in Denmark in 1992 with high ice class to serve Greenland’s west coast. In 2006 she was completely refurbished and now has a career as a small and comfortable, expedition ship. Whilst at full capacity the Ocean Nova can accomodate up to 84 passengers, we limit passenger numbers on our charters to just 70 guests.
Click here for an interactive tour of the ship.
Itinerary
Day 1 Oban, Scotland.
Embark the Ocean Nova this afternoon. Transfers will be provided from Glasgow Central Railway Station and Glasgow Airport at a fixed time. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.
Day 2 Gigha & Jura.
Gigha is a place apart: heather covered hills, deserted beaches, and a single lane verged with wildflowers that meanders for some six miles between cottages and farms. Privately owned by its 120 inhabitants, it is a gem of a place and somewhere not easily forgotten. After landing by Zodiac, we will walk to the gardens of Achamore House where the Horlick family have created a lovely and eclectic garden with their collection of azaleas, rhododendrons and exotic plants. This afternoon we will use our Zodiacs to land on Jura where we will go ashore at the village of Craighouse and be welcomed at the cooperage of the Jura Distillery for an introduction to the distilling process and an opportunity to taste the local whisky. Alternatively, join one of our naturalists on a walk along the shore.
Day 3 Colonsay & Iona.
Awake this morning off Colonsay. Lying between Mull and Islay, we will spend the morning on a choice of walks exploring this lovely island, with her craggy, heatherbacked hills, picturesque beaches and sparse woodland yet with an impressive array of plant and birdlife. Near Colonsay House, built in 1722 by Malcolm MacNeil and bought by Lord Strathcona in 1904, we will visit the wooded gardens, which protect the tiny, enigmatic 8th century St Oran’s Cross. 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 4 Staffa & Ulva.
At dawn we sail to Staffa, where the perpendicular rock face features an imposing series of black basalt columns, known as the Colonnade, which have been cut by the sea into cathedralesque caverns, most notably Fingal’s Cave. Weather permitting, we will use our Zodiacs to explore more closely. At only five miles long and two miles wide, Ulva is one of the smallest inhabited islands in the Hebrides, with a population of just 16. We will use our Zodiacs to go ashore and spend the afternoon exploring this tranquil island steeped in history and rich in wildlife.
Day 5 St Kilda & Stac Lee, Outer Hebrides.
Arrive this morning at St Kilda, a remarkable uninhabited archipelago some 50 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 2000 years, with the last 36 Gaelic speaking inhabitants evacuated at their 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 puffins and fulmars, and in 1957 it was bequeathed to the National Trust for Scotland. St Kilda is one of the 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 several guided walks on the island. This afternoon we cruise past two of the largest gannetries in the world at Stac Lee and Boreray. These impressive stacs rise 170 metres from the sea and are home to up to 60,000 breeding pairs of northern gannets.
Day 6 Inverewe & Loch Torridon.
Anchoring in Loch Ewe we visit one of Scotland’s premier gardens, Inverewe. This botanical garden in the northwest Highlands presents an amazing collection of exotic trees and shrubs that are sheltered by well positioned windbreaks of native pine. After an independent exploration of the gardens, we will return to the Ocean Nova and sail to the stunning scenery of Loch Torridon where the mountains tower over the villages below. We will call into the small community of Shieldaig where there will be an opportunity for a stroll in this remote and captivating landscape.
Day 7 Shiant Islands & Isle of Lewis.
This morning 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 the Isle of Lewis. This is an excellent place to spot puffins, razorbills, guillemots, seals and hopefully white-tailed eagles. Over lunch we sail the short distance to Loch Sealg on the southern coast of Lewis where we can stretch our legs as we explore the abandoned, former crofters’ village of Stiomrabhaigh.
Day 8 Dunvegan, Isle of Skye & Canna.
From our anchorage in Loch Harport on the Isle of Skye we make our way to the MacLeod stronghold of Dunvegan Castle. Remarkably, the castle has been almost continuously occupied by the MacLeods for nearly eight centuries. Discover the castle, a fascinating place that contains work from at least ten building periods. We will also explore the gardens, following paths through woodland glades past pools and burns fed by a waterfall. The formal gardens were laid out in the 18th century and make a wonderful contrast to the moorland hills and sea. We will also keep a look out for the seal colony on the adjoining rocks. Over lunch we cross to the Small Isles. 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.
Day 9 Loch Scavaig & Inverie.
We will spend the morning 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 morning our Zodiacs will explore the coast looking out for seals. This afternoon we arrive at the Knoydart Peninsula and the village of Inverie which is the largest settlement in mainland Britain without a road connection. Our expedition team will lead walks in the surrounding forest with great views down to Loch Nevis. Alternatively, choose to explore the town and visit the Old Forge which is listed as mainland Britain’s most remote pub.
Day 10 Oban.
Disembark after breakfast. Transfers will be provided to Glasgow Airport and Glasgow Central Railway Station at a fixed time.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 15 to 24 May 2028 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Category 1 Bunk Bedded cabin for twin use | £4995 | |
| Category 2 Standard Twin | £5395 | |
| Category 3 Superior Twin | £5695 | |
| Category 1 Bunk bedded cabin for sole use | £5795 | |
| Category 2 Standard twin for sole use | £6295 | |
Tour Reference Code: SCON150528
PRICE INCLUDES: Nine nights aboard the Ocean Nova 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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Scotland & Newfoundland Deckplan
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Antarctica Deckplan
Ocean Nova
We are delighted to have once again exclusively chartered the expedition ship, the Ocean Nova for our island hopping adventures around the British Isles. The vessel was built in Denmark in 1992 with high ice class to serve Greenland’s west coast. In 2006 she was completely refurbished and now has a career as a small and comfortable, expedition ship. Whilst at full capacity the Ocean Nova can accomodate up to 84 passengers, we limit passenger numbers on our charters to just 70 guests.
Click here for an interactive tour of the ship.
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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 Ocean Nova for your upcoming voyage and hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel.
SHIP TECHNICAL DETAILS
Built: 1992 (Denmark)
Registered: Bahamas
Draft: 4.5 metres
Gross tonnage: 2180 tonnes
Length: 73 metres
Breadth: 11 metres
Passenger capacity: 84
Staff & crew: 32
Ice class: Ice 1B, EO (Hull Ice 1A)
Cruising speed: 13 KnotsAIR-CONDITIONING
The Panorama Lounge and dining room are air-conditioned and all cabins have outside airflow that can be individually controlled. The ship is heated throughout.
ALARM
An alarm will be sounded in the event of an emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do should an emergency occur.
BAR/BEVERAGES
A bar offering soft and alcoholic drinks is available in the Panorama Lounge. Wine and beverage service is also available in the dining room. Individually purchased drinks consumed throughout your journey should be settled at the end of your voyage. Complimentary tea and coffee are available 24 hours a day in the Bar and Library.
BRIDGE
Permission to visit the ship’s Bridge may be requested. Please note this is a working area and access may sometimes be restricted, for example, during manoeuvres or bad weather conditions.
CABINS
There are 39 passenger cabins on board, all outside facing and with en-suite bathroom facilities. All cabins have upper and lower beds, however, in twin cabins only the lower beds will be used. Each cabin features a window, mirror, writing table and chair, hairdryer and telephone. All cabins are cleaned daily and towels are changed as required.
COMMUNICATION
Telephone: The ship can be contacted by satellite phone (tel: + 870 77306 4426). Passengers will be able to receive and make satellite phone calls via the telephone on the Bridge and the charges will be added to their onboard account. Since all communication by phone or email is through a satellite system, coverage and availability can vary throughout the cruise, depending on the signal. Satellite Internet & Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available throughout the vessel and Wi-Fi cards are available to purchase at Reception. Depending on the ship’s location, there may be times when the connection is very slow or is disrupted and the same level of connectivity that you enjoy at home cannot be expected on board.
CURRENCY
The currency on board is Euros. Your ship account will be payable at the end of your cruise by cash (in Euros) or credit card (Visa, MasterCard and American Express). Please note that debit cards are not accepted.
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 cabin each evening.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department in advance. 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 Hotel Manager at dinner on your first night to reconfirm your requirements.
DRESS CODE
On board the emphasis is on comfortable and casual clothing at all times. It is recommended to wear sturdy shoes with rubber soles or other non-slip soles when moving around inside the ship.
ELECTRICITY
The electrical supply aboard ship is 220 volts. AC and outlets take Scandinavian two-prong plugs. We recommend that you take an adaptor with you.
EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES
Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation. There is a medical doctor and a first aid station on board.
FIRE SAFETY
On your cabin door is a deck plan displaying your closest (and all other) emergency exits. Emergency exits are marked in green and fire extinguishers fitted in all corridors.
FITNESS ROOM
An exercise area is available on the Bridge Deck and contains a variety of equipment. If you intend to use the gym please ensure you wear suitable clothing.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitisers at all important contact points around the vessel.
HOUSEKEEPING
Your cabin will be cleaned twice a day and you will be provided with a ‘turn down’ service at night.
LAUNDRY
Laundry service is available at an additional charge (price list is available in your cabin). Laundry will be collected in the morning and will be returned to you in approximately two days. Ironing facilities are also available for a fee, however, please note there is no tumble drying or dry cleaning on board.
LIBRARY
A small selection of books is available for use on board. A laptop with internet access is available here as well as complimentary tea and coffee.
LIFT
There is no lift on board the vessel.
LOST PROPERTY
Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s reception. Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia directly. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection and to advise of any associated costs.
MEALS
The dining room is located on the Upper Deck and seats all passengers at a single sitting. The chef will serve three meals a day. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style and dinner is a combination of self-service and served items. All tables seat at least five people.
MOSQUITOES
Please ensure you take the appropriate precautions to guard against mosquito bites.
OBSERVATION DECK
The Observation Deck is available to passengers throughout the sailing. However, please note the deck may have to be closed during periods of inclement weather.
PAYMENTS ON BOARD
The vessel operates a signed-chit system whereby no payment is immediately required (the vessel only requiring a signature for your purchase) and, only at the end of the cruise will you be presented with your final itemised bill to settle.
POST
The vessel’s crew will be happy to send any post you may have on your behalf (although please note that as they are unable to do so at every port of call, this could take longer than if you were to post yourself).
QUESTIONNAIRES
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.
RECEPTION
Reception is staffed during peak hours. You will always be able to contact a member of the crew 24 hours a day.
SAFE
A safe is available in the hotel manager’s office for valuables but we recommend leaving valuables at home or keeping them on your person.
SMOKING
Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and can be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation.
WATER
The water on board is safe to drink. There are strategically placed water bottle filling stations where water is additionally filtered for taste and quality
V.1 JULY 2022
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Deck Plan
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Scotland & Newfoundland Deckplan
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Antarctica Deckplan
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Scotland & Newfoundland Deckplan
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000