Exploring Viking Trails and Celtic Origins with Holland America

Kickstarting the Journey from Reykjavik

I was thrilled to embark on the Viking Trails and Celtic Origins cruise. It wasn't just the majestic landscapes and remote communities of the North Atlantic that drew me in; it was also the chance to delve into my own ancestry. According to family lore, my ancestors sailed from Scandinavia to Yorkshire on Viking ships, and my last name is just one consonant away from the legendary Norwegian footballer Erling Haaland. My adventure began aboard Holland America Line's flagship, the Rotterdam, in Reykjavik.

A Colorful Journey

Along the way, we would stop at two locations in southern Iceland before heading to the Faroe Islands, South Queensferry near Edinburgh, and finally to Rotterdam, the home port of Holland America. Iceland and the Faroe Islands were settled in the 9th century by Norse settlers, many of whom brought along Celtic slaves and wives from Ireland and Scotland. Their stories are captured in the Icelandic Sagas, and today, the languages of both nations bear significant influences from the Old Norse of their ancestors.

Discovering Reykjavik

This was my third visit to Reykjavik, but many fellow passengers extended their stay to explore the capital or join geothermal landscape tours. Summer activities here include whale watching, puffin birdwatching cruises, and riding Icelandic horses, known for their unique five-gaited abilities. However, it was the southern coastline of the island that truly captivated me.

A Visit to Heimaey

We made a stop at Heimaey, the only inhabited island in the Westman Islands, a volcanic archipelago south of Iceland. This bustling fishing community has become a popular tourist destination, dubbed the 'Pompeii of the North' after a sudden eruption in January 1973 buried many homes under 10 meters of lava. Thankfully, everyone survived.

Stunning Natural Scenery

We strolled from the port through lava fields over 50 years old, adorned with the purple hues of wild lupines in summer. Visitors can hike up the Eldfell volcano, join a cruise, or take a hop-on bus tour to see the puffin nesting cliffs, or visit the Beluga Whale Conservation Center.

Scenery in Djupivogur

Our next stop was Djupivogur, a quaint fishing village with only about 500 residents in southeastern Iceland. Here, I joined a nature walk with panoramic views of the sea, lakes, and mountains, before wandering along the harbor to admire 34 giant sculptures of eggs representing local bird species. Why not?

A Tour of Gjogv

After a morning of exploring along a natural trail from the port, our guided tour took us through stunning mountain landscapes, passing through Funningur, the first Viking settlement. In the beautiful village of Gjogv, we strolled among colorful houses overlooking a small fishing harbor nestled in a deep canyon. Our guide pointed out that across the water, the distant cliffs were where 007 James Bond met his tragic end in 'No Time to Die'!

Discovering Edinburgh

On the second day at sea, we arrived at the Firth of Forth, catching sight of Edinburgh's iconic landmarks before traveling by ship to South Queensferry. Here, two cheerful ladies with drums and bagpipes greeted us with a traditional Scottish welcome.

Tour Options

As we were familiar with the Scottish capital, an alternative option was to meet local friends and enjoy a leisurely stroll and lunch by the water. However, first-timers could choose from a variety of classic tours, including the Castle and Royal Mile, or hop on a bus from the dock to experience the Celtic atmosphere of Scotland's capital.

Life on the Rotterdam

The Rotterdam is the largest ship in the Holland America fleet, accommodating up to 2,680 guests with a range of room options. We stayed in a Verandah room on Deck 4, which included a sitting area, a queen-size bed, and an extremely efficient shower with Elemis toiletries and a robe.

Diverse Culinary Offerings

Gourmet dining at The Dining Room is included in the cruise fare, but for a special experience, you can pay extra to try some specialty restaurants. We particularly enjoyed the steak and seafood at Pinnacle Grill, Mediterranean dishes at Sel de Mer, and Pan-Asian flavors at Tamarind. For casual dining, options include international favorites at Lido Market, pizza at New York Deli, or beer, snacks, and pastries at Grand Dutch Café.

Culinary Exploration Tours

Curious about how the menu is created, how food is sourced and prepared, and how food waste is handled? Ask about the ship's behind-the-scenes tours. Executive Chef Darren Yardley-Salisbury leads a team of 200 staff, including 141 chefs, and reveals that while guests sleep, a team of bakers and pastry chefs work through the night, along with a team preparing fruit.

Onboard Activities and Entertainment

People don’t come to the North Atlantic for the weather, except to escape the summer heat, but the main pool is available year-round thanks to a retractable roof. A smaller pool at the back of the ship is adults-only. You won’t be short of daily creative activities, live music, and sports competitions, as well as two gala performances each evening on the World Stage, dancing at the Rolling Stone Lounge, and live Rhythm & Blues shows.

Essential Information

Itineraries will change each year, but Holland America Line will continue to offer similar voyages in 2027. Prices start from £1,049 for an inside cabin, on May 29. Add the 'Have It All' package for $100 per person per day, which includes $100 shore excursion credit, the Signature Beverage Package, one special dining night, and the Surf Wi-Fi package. For more information, visit www.hollandamerica.com.

This article is adapted and edited from: The Travel Magazine