Explore remote islands, go puffin spotting, get personal butler service onboard: Northern Europe’s hidden gems await on intimate luxury cruise

JAGGED CLIFFS RISE DRAMATICALLY FROM the Atlantic, their surfaces marked by deep cracks and jutting ledges. This is your first glimpse of the St Kilda archipelago, a remote cluster of islands 65km west of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides. Home to the remains of a Bronze Age human settlement, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is so remote that it’s been described as the edge of the world.

Stepping ashore its largest island, Hirta, you’re greeted by the haunting remnants of a once-thriving community. For over 2,000 years, the islands were home to hardy islanders, whose population dwindled until their evacuation in 1930. Immerse yourself in this coastal haven, where stone structures known as cleitean, which served as storage huts, dot the landscape. They tell stories of resilience and survival in this harsh environment.

As you explore the rugged terrain, hike along the cliffs or gaze out at the endless ocean, you observe colonies of seabirds – puffins, gannets and fulmars – soaring and nesting on the cliffs. It’s a reminder that St Kilda is one of northern Europe’s most important seabird breeding stations. 

Few travellers have had the opportunity to set foot on St Kilda’s shores, making your journey here a rare and exclusive experience. Silversea, with its small expedition ships and expert guides, provides a unique opportunity to discover this breathtaking location, allowing you to witness its raw beauty up close. It’s just one of the many extraordinary shore excursions you’ll undertake as your sail on the cruise line’s expeditions to Northern Europe and the British Isles.

Go on expert-led shore excursions 

Silversea’s itineraries are meticulously crafted to optimise your experience, with a chance to explore each shore excursion destination in depth. 

The expedition team is made up of experts in fields such as geology, biology and history. Providing engaging lectures and guided trips to shore, they ensure you are equipped with a deeper understanding of each destination’s unique ecosystem and cultural heritage as you embark on your extraordinary wilderness adventures. 

Additionally, the use of Zodiac inflatable boats gives you access to remote locations that even the expedition ships cannot reach, providing an intimate connection with the surrounding environment.

Other outdoor-centric shore excursion activities include hiking and kayaking. And the expedition ships are equipped with mud rooms that allow you to easily transition from outdoor activities to onboard comfort, without tracking in dirt or debris. On these expedition ships, all shore excursions are complimentary. 

Unwind in luxurious suites and indulge in gourmet fare 

Onboard, you can expect a level of luxury that rivals the most exclusive resorts. With a capacity of only 220 to 270 guests, these ships foster a sense of unparallelled exclusivity and personal attention. You can expect only the highest level of service. 

Both expedition ships that sail to Northern Europe and the British Isles feature sumptuous suites with private verandas, offering stunning views of the passing landscapes. Picture waking up to glorious sunrises, or enjoying cool sea breezes while watching the sun set. Personal butlers are assigned to each suite to fulfil your every whim – from, say, providing you with a pair of binoculars to admire the scenery, or a bottle of champagne to toast the end of an exciting shore excursion. 

The ships’ dining experiences are equally impressive, with restaurants showcasing a variety of gastronomic delights. From hearty Italian cuisine at Il Terrazzino to indulgent six-course food and wine pairing menus at La Dame, restaurants on Silversea’s expedition ships take you on a culinary journey that complements the remarkable destinations.

Explore the secluded coasts of Northern Europe and the British Isles 

Aside from the expedition ships, Silversea also operates classic ships like the Silver Spirit and Silver Shadow, which also sail to Northern Europe and the British Isles. With a capacity of 600 passengers, these vessels offer a more relaxed yet equally refined cruising experience. Onboard, these ships still provide you with an exclusive and luxurious experience; the difference being that shore excursions focus more on immersive cultural experiences and deep historical insights. 

For example, in Narvik, Norway, you can delve into the town’s wartime history and learn about its strategic role during World War II. The excursion includes a visit to the Narvik War Museum, where interactive exhibits and historical artefacts bring the past to life.

Across the Scandinavian peninsula, in the town of Mariehamn, Finland, you’ll be transported back in time as you stroll through charming streets lined with 19th-century wooden buildings. Founded in 1861 when Åland and Finland were part of the Russian Empire, Mariehamn is a testament to the region’s complex history. Visit the Åland Maritime Museum, which showcases the island’s seafaring heritage, or explore the picturesque harbour and its surrounding parks.

Over in Scotland, the island of Iona offers a different kind of history, with its stunning coastline and historic abbey dating back to 563 CE. Join a guided tour of the abbey, and learn about its role as a centre of early Christianity and its influence on the spread of monasticism throughout Europe. The island’s natural beauty is also a highlight, where you’ll have opportunities for hiking and photography along rugged cliffs and sandy beaches.

Dunvegan Castle, on the Isle of Skye, is another must-see destination. As the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, it has been the seat of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years. Explore the castle’s grand halls and staterooms, admire the impressive collection of artefacts and artwork, before venturing out into the surrounding gardens and grounds.

Whether you’re exploring rugged landscapes or wandering through historic towns, each stop on Silversea’s Northern Europe voyage offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich heritage and diverse culture. 

Visit here to book your cruise to Northern Europe and the British Isles.