SIGNATURE MOMENT

Visiting Britain’s highest sea cliff at St. Kilda

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Cruising to Staffa’s world-famous Fingal’s Cave

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Soaking in the landscapes and history of the Shetlands

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Watching for otters, dolphins, and seals along the coasts

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Strolling through a village in the Outer Hebrides

Wild Scotland Expedition'26

May 07-18, 2026

12 days | Scotland | Expedition Cruise

This tour is presented by the alumni associations of the University of Guelph and McGill University. All are welcome!

The fringes of Scotland enjoy a reputation for their wildness, where rugged people and equally tenacious wildlife have been able to establish a foothold and thrive in a seemingly forbidding environment. On this riveting voyage of discovery, intrepid travellers discover the “wild isles” of Scotland and follow the trail of the brave Gaels and Vikings to discover stark landscapes cloaked in a long history and an even longer occupation by wildlife.

After meeting in capital Edinburgh and boarding the state-of-the-art M/V Greg Mortimer, we sail north to several Scottish Islands, including the Inner and Outer Hebrides, the Shetlands (including Fair Isle), and the Orkneys. Known for their rich tapestry of culture and rugged natural beauty, these dramatic coastlines are broken by the occasional fishing village and quaint seaside communities. Each day we disembark our vessel to explore, cruise in Zodiacs, and enjoy walks along the coast. We see sea-sculpted coastlines, watching for dolphins and whales cavorting in the water and marvelling at the hundreds of thousands of seabirds that occupy impressive colonies. We meet the friendly locals and maybe even sample a wee dram of Scotland’s finest. We visit impressive archaeological sites that take us back to the early establishment of people here. Fresh air is never in short supply! Expert expedition staff complement our sightings and experiences onboard and on land with their insights that lead us to a fuller understanding of this magical place. All along, enjoy the amenities of the M/V Greg Mortimer, our perfect vehicle for accessing Scotland’s remote shores.

Join us aboard in 2026 to enjoy a true insider’s experience of Scotland!

Special Offer

Book now to save 20%!

Tour Cost (per person):

US$13,995 - 17,195 depending on the cabin (incl. taxes)

Group Size:

12 - 17 participants

What’s included: Airport transfers on tour start and end dates; double occupancy accommodations on board the M/V Greg Mortimer, including daily cabin service; one pre-expedition night in Edinburgh; meals as specified as well as snacks, tea, and coffee during the voyage; beer, house wine, and soft drinks with dinner; all shore excursions and Zodiac cruises; educational lectures and guiding services from the vessel expedition team; services of vessel guides and your study leader (with 12 participants); complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consult); all entrance fees to monuments, park fees, and local taxes; A 3-in-1 waterproof polar expedition jacket; complimentary use of Muck boots during the voyage; port surcharges, permits, and landing fees.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day	Activity
1	Arrive in Edinburgh
2	To Troon / Embark the M/V Greg Mortimer
3 - 4	The Inner Hebrides
5 - 7	The Outer Hebrides and Fair Isle
8 - 11	The Shetlands and Orkneys
12	Disembark at Aberdeen

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Ship Information

The first passenger ship to feature the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW®, the Greg Mortimer is able to cross oceans comfortably and efficiently. It accommodates an average of 132 expeditioners per voyage within 79 cozy, comfortable cabins, all of which have a view of the ocean; 85% of cabins have their own balcony. The ship also features a modern lecture lounge, multiple observation areas, zodiac launching platforms, a restaurant serving excellent meals, a gym, sauna, jacuzzis, a mudroom and many other amenities.

Your Tour Leader

Kevin James is Professor of History, Director of the Centre for Scottish Studies, and holder of the Scottish Studies Foundation Chair at the University of Guelph. A graduate of McGill and Edinburgh Universities, he publishes widely on Scottish tourism history, and has appeared in print, radio, and on television, including on BBC Scotland's hit tv show 'Grand Tours of Scotland.'

Book now

Special Offer

Book now to save 20%!

Book now

Tour Cost (per person):

US$13,995 - 17,195 depending on the cabin (incl. taxes)

Group Size:

12 - 17 participants

What You'll See: