If you have always had a hankering to visit some of the remotest and most inaccessible islands in Scotland, this is the ideal opportunity. Join us aboard the Ocean Nova as we sail from the port of Oban visiting both inhabited and uninhabited islands and places of great natural beauty, rich in wildlife and mystical history, many with a long history dating back to the Iron Age.
Few cruise ships offer the chance to explore in-depth the islands off the northern coast of Scotland and this unique expedition ventures far north to the Shetland and Orkney Islands as well as the magical Hebridean islands. We will discover spiritual Iona, lovely Loch Scavaig, the remote, uninhabited outposts of St Kilda and Isle Martin, the inhabited islands of Foula and North Ronaldsay and the northernmost point of the United Kingdom at Unst.
Whether your interest lies in horticulture or the natural world, history or bird watching or simply being there to witness the beauty of the islands, this trip will lift the spirits and gladden the heart. Such an itinerary 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 with the opportunity to revel in the timeless enchantment that these islands exude to all those who appreciate the natural world.
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, Inner Hebrides.
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 Staffa & Iona.
Overnight we will 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. 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 Loch Scavaig.
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. Return to the Ocean Nova for lunch and an afternoon at sea.
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 2,000 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 Isle Martin & Handa, Inner Hebrides.
Sail overnight to the Summer Islands. Isle Martin, Eilean Mhartainn in Scots Gaelic, is an uninhabited island in Loch Broom, on the west coast of Scotland. During the 1980s and 1990s it became the site of a reforestation experiment by ecologists with native woodlands planted throughout, and these are now flourishing and improving soil fertility and biodiversity. Then in 1999, the island became one of the first handovers of land to community ownership. We will be offered a warm welcome by volunteers from the community trust and will learn about the work they do on the island promoting the landscape, community and traditions. In the late afternoon we will anchor off Handa where we will use our Zodiacs to explore the magnificent sea cliffs of Torridonian sandstone which rise from the Atlantic. The island comes alive each summer when nearly 100,000 seabirds gather to breed including internationally important numbers of guillemot, razorbill, puffins and great skua.
Day 7 Kirkwall, Orkney Islands.
This morning we arrive at the Orkney capital of Kirkwall from where we will head into the west of Mainland, Orkney’s largest island. We will pass through a gentle rolling landscape and into the Neolithic Heartland of Orkney; an area designated as a World Heritage Site due to its wealth of pre-historic archaeology. We will see the Ring of Brodgar; a huge ceremonial circle of stones dating back almost 5000 years before continuing to the 5000-year-old village of Skara Brae and see the remarkable dwellings revealed from beneath the sand dunes by storms only 150 years ago. The afternoon is free to explore at your own pace, perhaps visit St Magnus Church which dates back over 900 years.
Day 8 Papa Westray & North Ronaldsay.
Continuing our exploration of the Orkney Islands we arrive at Papa Westray. Here you have time to stretch your legs on a number of island walks. You can choose to visit the 3500 year-old Knap of Howar, a Neolithic farm building that claims to be the oldest standing house in Europe, or the 12th century St Boniface Kirk. Alternatively, search for birds at the nearby Loch of Tredwell. A short sail over lunch brings us to 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 9 Foula & Papa Stour, Shetland Islands.
This morning we visit Foula, one of Britain’s most remote inhabited islands. Apart from a narrow coastal strip of fertile croft land, Foula is an expanse of peat and moorland rising steeply to five dramatic peaks. Translated as ‘Bird Island’ from Old Norse the island is designated as a Special Protection Area for Birds and is home to the world’s largest colony of great skuas, known locally as bonxies, which compete fiercely with Arctic skuas for breeding territories. Kittiwakes and Arctic terns return annually to nest whilst the cliffs teem with puffins, shags and fulmars. Over lunch we will sail the short distance to Papa Stour where we will use our Zodiacs to explore the stunning cliff scenery, sea stacks, arches, blowholes and coastal caves which are home to Arctic skua and large numbers of Arctic terns.
Day 10 Unst & Fetlar.
Spend the morning in Unst, Britain’s most northerly inhabited island. At the Heritage Centre we will learn about the islanders’ 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 the Hermaness National Nature Reserve and Muckle Flugga stacks, home to thousands of gannets and puffins as well as rare Arctic alpine plants. Later we will sail to Fetlar which has been inhabited for over 5000 years and 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.
Day 11 Fair Isle.
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 an afternoon at sea as we return to the Scottish mainland.
Day 12 Aberdeen.
Disembark after breakfast. Transfers will be provided to Aberdeen Airport and Railway Station at a fixed time.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 24 May to 4 June 2028 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Category 1 Bunk Bedded cabin for twin use | £5495 | |
| Category 2 Standard Twin | £5895 | |
| Category 3 Superior Twin | £6195 | |
| Category 1 Bunk bedded cabin for sole use | £6295 | |
| Category 2 Standard twin for sole use | £6795 | |
Tour Reference Code: SCON240528
PRICE INCLUDES: 11 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