We have designed this itinerary to take you on a discovery of natural wonders and wildlife found close to home, yet off the beaten track, amongst hard-to-reach isles and lochs.
Balmoral will divert away from the main coastal routes to show you a host of scenic highlights, from the wild, unspoilt landscapes of the Small Isles and Loch Hourn, to the remarkable rock formations of Dutchman’s Cap and Fingal’s Cave.
There will be chances to explore seabird havens in Orkney and Shetland, experience what life is like on the remote Isle of Lewis, and visit Invergordon, gateway to famous Loch Ness.
On cruises with a little bridge there is a BMB host on board but no team. Bridge is for days at sea only.
Departure - late afternoon
As we set sail for the Scottish Isles, learn of the legends of the famous Loch Ness Monster, meet Ocean Conservationists ORCA to discover the marine and wildlife life you could see on your cruise, and head out on deck to admire the beautiful sunrise.
Arrival - early afternoon
Departure - late evening
Located at the head of Cromarty Firth, in the beautiful Scottish Highlands, Invergordon serves as a starting point for exploring Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield and the Whyte & Mackay whisky distillery. Close by are the imposing Cawdor Castle – often linked with Shakespeare’s Macbeth, and Dunrobin Castle, which dates back to the 13th century. As well as the infamous ‘Nessie’ said to be lurking in the lochs, the surrounding coastline is also home to many species of seal, porpoise, dolphin and whale.
Arrival - early morning
Departure - late afternoon
The Orkneys archipelago, around 70 islands in the far north of Scotland, were once the centre of innovation in the British Isles, where farmers in the Stones Ages brought various cattle, pigs and sheep, thus establishing farmsteads on the islands. Today, Skara Brae is a preserved settlement, along with excavated burial and ceremonial sites. Kirkwall stands as the capital of the islands, and is the perfect starting point for exploring Orkney’s fascinating historical sites.
Arrival - early morning
Departure - late morning
Part of the Inner Hebrides, lying just south of the Isle of Skye, the Small Isles are four beautiful islands - Eigg, Rum, Canna and Muck - famed for their dramatic scenery, variety of wildlife and natural wonders. Mighty volcanic peaks surround Kinlock Castle on the largest island, Rum - where Sea Eagles are often spotted. The basalt cliffs of Canna; charming villages of Eigg; and Muck's fertile lowlands and appealing beaches make this archipelago the perfect scenic cruising destination.
Arrival - early afternoon
Departure - early afternoon
Located opposite the island of Skye, and branching inward from the Sound of Sleat, the narrow, fjord-like Loch Hourn is flanked by some of Scotland's most dramatic scenic landscapes. Lined with steep, imposing mountains which slide down into the shore line, and dotted with bays and beaches which break the waters edge, Loch Hourn is home to an abundance of wildlife, including a creature who, according to local legend, lives in the loch, and is known as the Loch Hourn Monster.
Arrival - late afternoon
Departure - late afternoon
Bac Mòr is one of the most striking and iconic Scottish Treshnish Isles near Mull and is located a few miles west of Staffa and Iona. Affectionately referred to as The Dutchman’s Cap due to its unusual shape, Bac Mòr has a height of 283 feet, and its flat surroundings resemble glassy lava fields. The Treshnish Isles were formed 60 million years ago when volcanic eruptions on the nearby island of Mull caused lava to flow into the sea.
Arrival - late afternoon
Departure - late afternoon
Created around 60 million years ago, and said to be the corresponding piece of road built by the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill, to the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, Fingal’s Cave is a basalt sea-cave with distinctive columns and a remarkable symmetry. Looming 69 metres out of the ocean, it appears to look like a piece of contemporary art, but is completely shaped by nature. Often, the cliffs and ledges are covered with native seabirds, including guillemots, razorbills and puffins.
Arrival - early morning
Departure - late afternoon
Located on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, Stornoway is a thriving town with a busy port, best seen from the top of ‘Gallow’s Hill’ – reached by the impressive grounds of Lews Castle. Originally built in 1847, the castle has had some well-known owners, including Lord Leverhume, who founded the company now known as Unilever. He gave the castle to the people of Stornoway, where it served as a naval hospital and college, but is now a noteworthy museum.
Arrival - early morning
Departure - early evening
Capital of the Shetland Islands, Lerwick is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its stunning coastlines. Close by are the soaring cliffs of Sumburgh Head, which are perfect for spotting various examples of marine life, such as minke whales, orcas and dolphins; and as an RSPB nature reserve - guillemots, shags and fulmars. In the town, the An Tuireann Arts Centre celebrates the Gaelic heritage of this fascinating seaport.
Arrival - early morning
What's included?
Chargeable extras
Cruise descriptions include optional, chargeable experiences that may be enjoyed independently and/or with optional Fred. Olsen Shore Tours. *Premium Traditional Afternoon Tea not included. Upgrade to All Inclusive Drinks Package is available as a chargeable optional extra and can be added to your booking up to six days prior to your cruise departing.
Great value offers
Great value offers on selected fares and cabin grades available on this cruise. Please contact our Reservations team for further details.
Please note, rooms 8057 and 8059 on Lido deck are equipped for use by disabled passengers.
*Rooms 8073, 8075, 8084 and 8086 on the Lido Deck are wheelchair accessible and have a fully restricted view.
*Please note, rooms 9048, 9056 and 9095 on Bridge Deck have been adapted for use by disabled passengers.
