2017 - APT Small Ships

46 Northern Europe From remote coastal ports of the Baltic and tiny islands of Great Britain to Scandinavia's verdant archipelagos and pristine fjords, experience Northern Europe's most evocative landscapes. The natural diversity and iconic historical wonders make Northern Europe the perfect choice for a small ship cruise. Venture out on a Zodiac to get up close and go ashore to uncover even more. Best of the Baltics From the medieval charm of Tallinn to the canal-lined capital of Riga and the historic port city of Klaipeda, the Baltic region reveals itself as an enticing destination filled with historical attractions and great beauty during this amazing small ship cruise. Fairytale Fjords Pristine waters and lush countryside abound on these adventures. Cruise through Norway's impressive fjords and experience Scandinavian culture on an accompanying land journey. Venture ashore into quaint historic villages along the way and visit the home of composer Edvard Grieg. Bewildering British Isles Experience the sheer beauty of the British Isles, from to the Isles of Scilly. Delve into Scottish history on the Isle of Skye and see where Victor Hugo penned his enduring novels in Guernsey. Encounter unique wildlife and learn about the incredible history of the region. Island Life... Early morning, we docked in the harbour of Lerwick, on the mainland for our visit to Jarlshof, an historic archaeological site. A rather fanciful Viking name given by Sir Walter Scott in his novel The Pirate, it was surprising to learn the site covers at least five distinct archaeological periods over a span of some 3,000 years. Our guides unfolded the complex history from Mesolithic and Neolithic times, through Bronze Age huts, round-houses and broch from the Iron Age. We heard from our guides about the abundant wealth the oil industry has brought to the Shetland Islands and how the revenue is spent on building schools, better roads and the general upkeep of the islands. We also visited the impressive Shetland Museum, which was opened by Her Majesty the Queen of Norway and the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay. We re-boarded the MS Hebridean Sky and sailed to Fair Isle. Along the way, we passed by the impressive Broch of Mousa, one of the most remote inhabited islands in the British Isles. Since 1954, Fair Isle has been owned by the National Trust for Scotland and much of it has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Many seabirds breed here and it is a magical place, full of colour and contrasts – largely due to the geological base of its old red sandstone. Everyone enjoyed their time on the island in the calm and warm conditions. The Zodiac ride on the way back to the ship took us past some of the dramatic cliffs on the island. We arrived in time for dinner, where many chose to dine on the Lido Deck as the island faded astern. – Eloise Piper (Small Ship Guest) Britain & Ireland Explorer (NOBHLL15) www.aptouring.com.au

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