Lochs & Legends of Scotland

Cruise from Liverpool to Scotland and back on this fascinating no-fly British Isles cruise.

Sailing the Scottish lochs on Fred. Olsen’s smaller ships is the best way to experience their beauty and tranquillity, and as you explore this astonishing part of the world you’ll create memories that last a lifetime.

From Borealis, witness the majesty of mighty Ben Nevis – Britain’s highest mountain – while cruising Loch Linnhe; the twin-topped ridge of Beinn Ghobhlach, towering over the pretty shores of Little Loch Broom; and the Loch Eriboll’s unspoilt highland scenery.

You’ll also see the intriguing Dutchman’s Cap and hear the echo of Atlantic Ocean waves crashing against Fingal’s Cave’s remarkable basalt columns.

Throughout your journey, memorable experiences await you ashore too.

Fort William is your gateway to the beautiful Highland landscapes of Glencoe and magnificent Ben Nevis.

Meanwhile, there are many famous sites of rich history and ancient legends to uncover.

You could visit the 18th century Inveraray Castle from Tarbert, situated in beautiful Loch Fyne; take in Orkney’s UNESCO-listed Neolithic treasures on tour from Kirkwall; and explore the pretty grounds of Cawdor Castle on tour from Invergordon.

Day 1: Liverpool

This expedition cruise begins from Liverpool.

Today you will board your Borealis Cruise and depart for Scotland.

Day 2: Tarbert, Scotland

Renowned for its impressive castle, charming architecture, beautiful still waters and delicious seafood, the idyllic village of Tarbert attracts visitors from around the globe and serves as a gateway to the Scottish whisky islands and the picturesque Kintyre peninsula.

A quaint Scottish village, Tarbert is a joy to explore, with its pretty houses, busy local fisheries and stunning surroundings.

Whether you choose to explore the village or venture out into the rolling hills and rocky cliffs, there are plenty of places to enjoy the captivating beauty and traditional delights of this stunning area of the UK.

Make time to visit the ruins of the 14^th century castle that overlooks the town or relax on the small, but beautiful shell beach and look across the gorgeous blue water of the yacht-filled natural harbour.

Day 3: Corran Narrows, Loch Linnhe, Fort William

In the morning pass through the Corran Narrows, the narrowest point of Loch Linnhe which reduces the width of the loch from over a mile to less than 200 metres.

Flanked by Corran Point and Nether Lochaber, you’ll enjoy views of mountainous lush-green landscapes as you sail through en route to Fort William – a feat only smaller-size ships such as those in the Fred. Olsen fleet can achieve. Be on the lookout for the Corran Lighthouse, which was built by the father and uncle of Robert Louis Stevenson in 1860.

Cruise through Loch Linnhe.

Flanked by rolling hills, magnificent mountains and rugged woodland, Loch Linnhe offers incredible views, anytime of the day, anytime of the year. 

Whether you cruise along it on a misty winter morning, or on a late summer evening when the sun is setting, you’re guaranteed to see some truly breathtaking sights as you make your way into the heart of the glens.

Keep your eyes on the skies and be on the look-out for golden eagles; look across the horizon and spot Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain; and watch native wildlife including porpoises and seals as they glide alongside the ship, through the motionless waters of the Loch.

Late in the evening reach Fort William.

Known as the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’, Fort William is one of the most popular destinations in the breath-taking Scottish Highlands.

Situated on the shore of Loch Linnhe, the town is the gateway to Ben Nevis – Britain’s highest mountain, and Glen Nevis, home to Steall Falls.

The stunning surroundings attract visitors from around the globe and many visit the town to take advantage of the fantastic skiing, snowboarding and mountain bike riding.

The glen has proved popular with movie makers, with Braveheart, Rob Roy and Harry Potter movies filmed there.

The town itself has plenty to reward visitors too, including beautiful centuries-old churches, the historic Old Fort – first built by Cromwell in 1654 – traditional pubs and fine restaurants that serve locally-sourced seafood.

In nearby Corpach, the Treasures of the Earth Museum offers one of Europe’s finest collections of crystals, gemstones and fossils.

The historic Neptune's Staircase is a lock system comprising eight locks on the delightful Caledonian Canal, and a popular attraction.

Day 4: Little Loch Broom, Loch Eriboll

While not quite as well-known as some of the waterways nearby, such as magnificent Loch Broom, Little Loch Broom is a delight to discovery on a cruise exploration of the beautiful Scottish lochs.

Separated from Loch Broom by the rugged Scoraig Peninsula, this 9.5 mile stretch of still, glass-like waters is flanked by scenes of picturesque heathland countryside and gently sloping peaks that created wonderful, typically postcard perfect loch views to take in from the comfort of your smaller ship.

Scotland’s rugged north coast is dotted with islands, lochs and estuaries, as well as dramatic hills and secluded beaches, making it one of the most stunning areas of the country. On the western side of the north coast is Loch Eriboll, a 10-mile long sea loch which is one of the deepest in the country.

The small village of Eriboll, which gave the loch its name, sits on the eastern shore of the loch, while the western side is home to small townships including Portnancon and Laid.

About MS Borealis

Borealis, like her sister ship Bolette, has capacity for fewer than 1,400 guests, but is larger in overall size than the other vessels in the Fred. Olsen fleet.

This means when you come on board for a memorable cruise holiday, to relax and enjoy a premium level of comfort – as well as Fred Olsen's renowned personal service – in the elegant public areas, lounges, bars and dining venues, you have even more space in which to do so.

With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and timeless style, and classic open deck spaces providing a place to fully immerse yourself in the magic of ocean cruising.

Borealis is very much in keeping with what guests have come to expect from a Fred. Olsen ship.

Bearing a name that previously bestowed an Olsen-owned vessel in the 1940's, and inspires thoughts of the Aurora Borealis, elegant Borealis proudly connects with, and represents, the founding family’s history and Norwegian heritage.

Stylish, spacious and comfortable, with capacity for fewer than 1,400 guests, she’s in keeping with a commitment to offering a more traditional style of cruising.

But while Borealis’ capacity is smaller than many cruise vessels, she’s still one of the largest ships by size, in Fred. Olsen's fleet.

On board Borealis you’ll find you’re never overcrowded. There is always ample room in which to indulge yourself in the stylish dining venues, enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple and fantastic entertainment at the bars, lounges and theatres, and while away the hours by the all-season pool.

And of course, with the friendly staff providing the typical level of personal, attentive service, there’s an intimate feel to the on board experience too.