I finally had the opportunity to visit remote Scotland! Growing up in England, my only experience with Scotland had been a brief visit to Edinburgh. But now, I was set to explore the Orkneys and the Shetland Islands, and I was beyond excited.

Leaving the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh, it quickly became apparent just how far removed we were from the millions of people living in the UK. The serene landscapes unfolded as we sailed away, and the sense of tranquillity was profound.

Our voyage began aboard the Sea Spirit, a beautiful ship perfectly suited for navigating the rugged coastlines of these remote islands. Despite its small size, the ship was incredibly stable, often giving the impression that we were sailing on a tranquil lake rather than the open sea. Here are some highlights of my trip:

Fair Isle, Scotland

Fair Isle, the most remote inhabited island in the UK, was our first stop. Having grown up in England, setting foot on this isolated gem felt like stepping into another world. Fair Isle is renowned for its rich birdlife, serving as a breeding ground for seabirds and a crucial stopover for migratory species.

The island is also famous for its knitwear, and it was easy to see why, with sheep dotting the landscape everywhere. Wonderful walks through stunning scenery and a beautiful blue beach greeted us as we arrived by zodiac. The untouched beauty of the place was truly mesmerising.

The Faroe Islands: My First Taste of Scandinavia

Next, we sailed to the Faroe Islands, my first encounter with the wonders of Scandinavia. Comprising 18 small islands, the Faroes are a marvel of steep cliffs, towering mountains, and narrow fjords. The landscapes were breathtaking, offering a visual feast of natural beauty.

Funningur, Faroe Islands

Funningur was my favourite stop in the Faroe Islands. The warmth and hospitality of the locals were immediately apparent. We were only the first of only three cruise ships to visit this year, and you could really see their excitement at our arrival. The tour guides took us around, and with only about 50 residents, we often saw the same friendly faces in different locations, each eager to share their unique perspectives on this special place.

The locals opened their school for us, where we had the pleasure of learning a traditional Faroese dance. They even treated us to their special fish soup for lunch. The hospitality we experienced was truly heartwarming, making our visit to this tiny community unforgettable.

Evenings on the Sea Spirit

Our evenings aboard the Sea Spirit were equally delightful. The expedition staff provided engaging recaps of our daily adventures, filled with laughter and camaraderie. It was a joy to recount the day’s sights and experiences with fellow travellers.

We were treated to the sight of numerous bird species, with the famous puffins stealing the show. Their endearing presence topped off what was already a remarkable journey.

Ellen travelled to Scotland, British Isles & Faroe Islands aboard Sea Spirit in 2024. You can read more about this itinerary, Wild Islands and Lands of Legends here