The city of Hamburg looks back on a long trading tradition, which is also reflected in the local architecture. The impressive office houses from the beginning of the 20th century as well as the “Speicherstadt”, the century-old and the world's largest contiguous warehouse complex, recently were appointed UNESCO-World Cultural Heritage Site. From the tower of “St. Michaelis Church” enjoy panoramic city views. The Ocean Diamond awaits you in the harbor where the afternoon voyage sets sail towards the North Sea.

Relax on board while the Ocean Diamond sails north. You may opt to listen in on destination presentations prepared by our Expedition Team.

The Tyne seaport in the mouth of River Thyne belongs to South Shields, a popular resort destination and historically interesting city. The surrounds include an archeological excavation where Romans founded Arbeia base in 80 AD. The textile company “Barbour” known for its wax jackets is also located in South Shields.

Kirkwall is the largest town and capital of the Orkney Islands, situated off the coast of mainland Scotland and dominated by the famous St. Magnus Cathedral. This ancient settlement is first mentioned in a saga from 1046. Kirkwall derives its name from Old Norse meaning “Church Bay.” Today Kirkwall hosts a population of 8,500 inhabitants and is one of the most well-preserved villages in Scotland.

Lerwick is the main port of the Shetland Islands and the northernmost town in Scotland. Founded in the 17th century as a fishing port, the town still relies on fishing as a main industry. Lerwick is a bustling, cosmopolitan seaport with services and amenities normally found in much larger places on the British mainland. In the surrounding area we find some of the Shetland's most attractive scenery and an extraordinary concentration of archaeological sites, including Europe's best-preserved broch (a special type of tower architecture) and two remarkable Iron Age villages.

The Faroe Islands are a group of 18 islands in the middle of the North Atlantic, halfway between the Shetland Islands and Iceland. Thorshavn is one of the smallest capitals in the world, with only 15.000 inhabitants. The charming town is a perfect blend of old and new world with tiny houses in a vibrant array of colors.

Slightly north of Vestmanna, the country’s second largest town, are the cliffs of Vestmannabjørgini which are perfect for bird watching. Not far away are impressive grottoes which are accessible by small boats (weather permitting).

The most western island of the Faroe Islands is a wildlife habitat filled with countless puffins and 1200 sheep, but less than 20 citizens. According to local legend the island’s basalt columns are a forest that became fossilized.

To explore Iceland’s East Fjords, the Ocean Diamond will dock in the impossibly picturesque port of Seydisfjördur. This fishing village is nestled between steep mountain slopes and panoramic sea views. Activities to enjoy include seal spotting, horseback riding, kayaking amongst idyllic fjords and guided hikes of the scenic and historical Vestadalur area.

Early morning the ship will set anchor in the community of Husavik, also known as “The Whale Capital of Iceland.” In Skjalfandi Bay you can spot 15 different whale species, as well as dolphins and 30 varieties of bird. Catching a glimpse of these graceful ocean giants in their Arctic habitat is an unforgettable experience.

Today you will reach Iceland’s lovable second city of Akureyri in North Iceland. Get a feel for the town’s Arctic charms with a stroll through the compact city centre and world’s northernmost botanical gardens which host every flower native to Iceland.

The next morning you reach the fjord town of Siglufjördur which was once the centre of the world’s herring industry and is enjoying a recent rebirth in popularity. Learn about the golden herring age at the award-winning Herring Museum located on the vibrant harbor-front. The uninhabited Hedinsfjördur inlet provides a breathtaking backdrop surrounded by majestic mountains of the Tröllaskagi Peninsula. The small island of Grimsey is the only point in Iceland that straddles the Arctic Circle. This northerly latitude allows for spectacular picture taking of summer’s Midnight Sun.

Today‘s destination is Isafjördur, honorary capital of the Westfjords. This secluded peninsula is connected to the mainland by only a narrow strip of land and includes areas where cars have never been. The landscape provides jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer table mountains plunging into the ocean and untouched vegetation. Enjoy the rarity of true silence and the tranquility of nature while sea-fishing or watching thousands of puffins on the tiny island of Vigur, or visiting the massive cascade of Dynjandi waterfall.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the Ocean Diamond and greet your final destination of Reykjavik.