Be the first to knowWould you like to receive the latest updates, special offers and promotions from Radio Times?Sign up to our newsletter
By proceeding, you agree to our Terms and Conditions. To find out what personal data we collect and how we use it, please visit our Privacy Policy.
At a glance
Visiting:
Scotland
Length:
Cruise
Make your own way
no flight
Request Brochure - Scenic Isles of Scotland
To book or for more information please call: 0330 341 1117 and quote RTA
Scenic Isles of Scotland
An unforgettable way to experience the true beauty of Scotland, this cruise sails along Scottish waters, stopping at notable ports on the way. Passing striking rock formations like The Needle, Fingal’s Cave, the Old Man of Hoy, and Dutchman’s Cap, Balmoral will allow you to witness the wonders of nature from a different angle. You’ll then travel to Orkney, Shetland, the Isle of Skye, and the Isle of Lewis, spotting seabirds, whales, dolphins, and porpoise.
Excursions on the various islands mean you can get up close to the wildlife. Shetland’s RSPB Sumburgh Head is home to a diverse array of bird species, including puffins and fulmars. At the northernmost point of Shetland, you can view the striking coastline and the ancient sites of the Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae and Stenness. You’ll also get a chance to explore the coastline of Skye, lined with castles, as well as the countryside on the Isle of Lewis.
Holiday Highlights
See the remarkable rock formations of Dutchman’s Cap and Fingal’s Cave
Capture the coastal scenes of Northmavine, the Shetlands’ northernmost point
Perhaps visit the famous site of Loch Ness from Invergordon
What's Included
Comfortable, stylish cabins and suites equipped with a Smart TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities, a fridge and individually controlled air conditioning
A tempting choice of cuisine every day throughout your cruise – with five-course à la carte dinners, casual breakfast and lunch buffets, late-night snacks and much more
Unlimited, self-service tea and coffee available 24hrs at selected venues, complimentary afternoon tea* with sandwiches and cakes, and in-room sandwiches and snacks
A full programme of evening entertainment, including cabaret shows, comedy, dancing and live music
Full use of on board leisure facilities, including swimming pools, Jacuzzis and gym
A wide choice of engaging on board activities and lectures throughout the day
All UK port taxes (where collectable in advance)
Luggage porterage between your cabin and the drop-off/pick-up point
Formal welcome and/or Captain’s Drinks Party and Gala Buffet
Itinerary
1
Wednesday 3 May 2023 Departs Southampton
Depart: Late PM
2
Thursday 4 May 2023 Cruising
3
Friday 5 May 2023 Invergordon
Arrive: Early PM
Depart: Late Night
4
Saturday 6 May 2023 Kirkwall
Arrive: Early AM
Depart: Late PM
5
Sunday 7 May 2023 Cruising by The Small Isles
Arrive: Early AM
Depart: Early PM
6
Sunday 7 May 2023 Cruising Loch Hourn
Arrive: Early PM
Depart: Early PM
7
Sunday 7 May 2023 Cruising by Dutchman's Cap (Bac Mòr)
Arrive: Late PM
Depart: Late PM
8
Sunday 7 May 2023 Cruising Fingal's Cave
Arrive: Late PM
Depart: Late PM
9
Monday 8 May 2023 Stornoway
Arrive: Early AM
Depart: Late PM
10
Tuesday 9 May 2023 Lerwick
Arrive: Early AM
Depart: Late PM
11
Wednesday 10 May 2023 Cruising
12
Thursday 11 May 2023 Cruising
13
Friday 12 May 2023 Arrive back at Southampton
Arrive: Early AM
Balmoral
With departures from Dover, Southampton, Newcastle and Rosyth, Balmoral cruises offer the chance to explore some of the world's most spectacular destinations. What's more, despite being one of the largest Fred Olsen ships, Balmoral is small enough to take advantage of the tighter waterways along each route, so guests do not miss out on remarkable sights along the way, such as the Norwegian fjords or Germany's Kiel Canal.
As well as incredible scenery, Balmoral cruises provide the very best in amenities and dining experiences, as well as stylish and comfortable accommodation. With fewer than 1,400 guests, there is ample room for every passenger to enjoy the spacious venues and public areas, while still having plenty of chances to enjoy the company of others. Whether you're travelling around the culture-filled Americas or the Scottish Lochs, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience on board Balmoral.
Chargeable Extras
Cruise descriptions include optional, chargeable experiences that may be enjoyed independently and/or with optional Fred. Olsen Shore Tours.Â
*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.
Travelling to Europe
Rules may have changed since you last travelled to European Union countries as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. The following are useful guidelines which will help you prepare for your next adventure. You do require government issued passport to travel.
Names - It is very important that all passenger names are exactly as per your passport although we do not require middle names.
Passport - Your passport must meet two requirements to travel to an EU country and to Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. It must be: Less than 10 years old on the day you return home (please check the "date of issue") and valid for at least 3 months after the day you return home (please check the "expiry date").
Visa - You do not need a visa for short trips to most EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. You’ll be able to stay for up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period.
European Travel Information & Authorisation System (ETIAS) - Commencing in late 2023 or 2024, all citizens of the United Kingdom will require a ETIAS electronic form completed prior to their arrival into the EU and Schengen member countries. The cost for this travel authorisation will be €7.00 per person with exceptions for under 18’s and over 70’s. The latest information and further details can be found at www.etias.com.