17 Night Cruise sailing from Liverpool roundtrip aboard Borealis.

This unique and unforgettable 17-night voyage offers chances to marvel at amazing wildlife linking the contrasting islands of sub-Arctic Iceland and the subtropical Azores. In the deep blue Atlantic waters that surround these spectacular lands, various species of whale migrate to their summer feeding grounds in late spring, and from the comfort of smaller, friendlier Borealis – with the help and guidance of ORCA conservationists on board – you may get to see the world’s largest mammals living freely in their breathtaking natural habitat. Look out for Blue Whales, Humpback, Orca, Pilot Whales and more, learn of their nature and play a part in assisting with the conservation of these astonishing creatures.

Beyond the wildlife in their waters, unspoilt landscapes connects the Azores and Iceland, which await your discovery and exploration. Follow in the footsteps of artists and photographers, revelling in the Azorean wonderland of vibrant colours and black volcanic treasures, from the stunning craters lakes of São Miguel’s Sete Cidades volcano to the lush valleys of emerald-green Faial Island, and immersing yourself in the drama of awe-inspiring Icelandic scenery. You’ll see soaring mountains and sheer cliffs surrounding Ísafjörður, Akureyri and Eskifjörður – facing mighty Mount Holmatindur; and can tour from Reykjavík to uncover the gems of the fabled Golden Circle.

There’s rich history and culture to delve into during your time ashore too. Fascinating historic quarters and centuries-old fortifications – including the impressive 16th-century Fort of Santa Catarina – are yours to explore in the cosmopolitan Azorean towns of Praia da Vitoria and Ponta Delgada, while in Iceland there’s everything from traditional fishing ports and timber-clad town centres to the capital’s cool cafés, interesting museums, extraordinary architecture and world-famous attractions.

Highlights of this cruise:

Liverpool, United Kingdom
Liverpool is one of Britain's most iconic and interesting cities, and famously home to the Cavern Club and The Beatles.

Liverpool - a former European Capital of Culture - is globally-renowned for its music, arts, culture and diverse architecture, and attracts visitors from around the globe.

A busy port city, Liverpool is also known for its historic waterfront district and Albert Dock, where some of the city's best known galleries and museums can be found. The Tate Gallery, International Slavery Museum and 'The Beatles Story' exhibition are easily found on foot, and sit alongside the largest collection of Grade One listed buildings in the UK, including the iconic Liver Building and a number of structures associated with the ill-fated RMS Titanic.

Ponta Delgada, Portugal
Ponta Delgada, the main town on the island of São Miguel, is the capital of the Azores archipelago of Portugal. The town’s cosmopolitan atmosphere belies its 500 year history, and the surrounding island boasts beautiful lakes, mountains, sandy beaches and the stunning crater lakes of the extinct Sete Cidades volcano.

A fine collection of buildings, narrow cobbled streets and squares, are a firm reminder that this was once a key staging post between Europe and the Americas. Intermingled are cool parks, enchanting squares, a modern marina, restaurants and waterside cafés. Its lakeside, whitewashed houses with terracotta roofs look out to enchanting mountain plains.

The striking, three-arched city gates, Portas da Cidade – which once stood in the harbour and now reside in Gonçalo Velho Cabral Square, were dedicated to the Portuguese navigator who discovered the Azores. The Gothic Church of St. Sebastian and The Convent and Chapel of Our Lady of Hope, which is home to a revered image of Christ, are both worth uncovering. The Carlos Machado Museum offers diverse artefacts of Azorean culture, while Igreja Matriz Church, with its splendid clock tower, is one of many beautifully ornate towers to be found.

The ‘Green Island’ also offers canoeing and other sports activities on lakes located in the craters of its dormant volcanoes. The island’s beauty can also be enjoyed by horse riding or cycling.

Reykjavík, Iceland
Reykjavik – Iceland’s stunning coastal capital and cultural centre – is the world’s most northerly capital. The city combines colourful buildings, impulsive, creative people, extraordinary design, and some of the country’s most beautiful natural wonders.

The cosmopolitan city with big heart is home to the Althing – the world’s oldest parliament, and the National and Saga Museums, which trace Iceland’s Viking history. The impressive Hallgrímskirkja Church bell tower and the rotating Perlan glass dome offer panoramic views off island. Reykjavik’s galleries and exhibitions, including the outstanding Reykjavík Art Museum and National Gallery, feature radical Icelandic design, and there are many public art installations.

The capital has benefited from a surge in high-quality restaurant openings, offering a broad mix of creative cuisine. Daytime cafés switch to restaurants and bars at night – tapas, concept-dining and burger joints all sit comfortably together. And then there’s the wonderful nightlife.

Located in southwest Iceland – characterised by vast peninsulas, coves, straits and islands – Reykjavik is in easy reach of several must-see geological attractions. The iconic Golden Circle Trail includes the Blue Lagoon Spa, the Thingvellir National Park, the renowned Gullfoss Waterfall, and the incredible Geysir hot springs.

Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach – Reykjavik’s little bit of paradise – is also unmissable. The popular sandy beach and geothermal lagoon, where cold sea and hot geothermal waters meet to produce higher temperatures, offers hot-tubs, steam baths and various water sports to try.

Akureyri, Iceland
Located in Northern Iceland, Akureyri is a beautiful town best known for its spectacular landscapes, lush vegetation and its diverse wildlife. On your journey to Akureyri you’ll sail through the longest fjord in Iceland, Eyjafjordur, a wonderful prelude to your time on shore.

The perfect destination for nature lovers, the waters surrounding the town are teaming with rare, native species such as humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and porpoises to go in search of. Within reach on tours are incredible natural wonders too, such as the Godafoss ‘Waterfall of the Gods’ and Lake Myvatn.

In the town centre, there are many museums, galleries and exhibitions to discover and enjoy, offering an insight into the diverse culture of Akureyri and Iceland as a whole. ‘Arts Alley’ – the main street that runs directly through the town – is Akureyri’s cultural hub. Here you will find the very best galleries, exhibitions and restaurants that the town has to offer.