information - National Trust for Scotland
Transcription
information - National Trust for Scotland
CULTURAL CRUISING SUMMER 2017 CULTURAL CRUISING SUMMER 2017 MV Berlin NORTHERN DELIGHTS Page 4 SUNDAY 4 TO SUNDAY 11 JUNE 2017 A cruise to Orkney and Shetland INSPIRATIONAL ISLANDS AND FJORDS Page 12 SUNDAY 11 TO SUNDAY 25 JUNE 2017 A cruise along the west coast of Norway INFORMATION ABOUT MV BERLIN Page 22 Learn all about the ship 1 ‘Everything has been done to make this a fun, relaxing, stress-free, enjoyable cruise – from recognising and accommodating everyone’s needs and capabilities to having National Trust for Scotland staff on excursions to add their knowledge and be accessible for questions. No detail was overlooked.’ 2 Cultural Cruising Summer 2017 For over 60 years the National Trust for Scotland has transported cruise passengers to Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes and isolated islands. In that time, we have carried over 30,000 people on ten different ships to dozens of different ports, from undiscovered Scottish treasures to littleknown European gems. The cruises have not only become a celebrated event in the Trust’s calendar, but also a wonderful way to support our valuable conservation work, including projects connected to Scotland’s islands and coastlines. Although this will be our first year chartering MV Berlin, those who cruised with us on Spirit of Adventure will recognise the same vessel but now under new ownership, management and name. Over 60% of our passengers return to cruise with us year after year, so we like to keep our itineraries new and imaginative; we never offer exactly the same cruise twice. Our cruises travel to rarely visited ports as well as renowned and popular destinations; we combine imaginative routes with an impeccable, friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere. Sophisticated entertainment, absorbing lectures and high-quality shore excursions have become our trademarks. The 3-star ship carries just 330 passengers, all of whom will be friends of the National Trust for Scotland. There is a warm, club-like atmosphere on board with everyone sharing similar interests. ‘I enjoyed the warm and friendly atmosphere on board and the possibility to get to know so many interesting people.’ Our small, dedicated cruise team are based in Edinburgh and will oversee all aspects of your holiday, from the initial enquiry through to departure. We will also be on board to look after you throughout the cruise, providing a personal service unrivalled in today’s holiday market. We will be accompanied by a team of experts and guest lecturers, all acknowledged leaders in their fields. Their stimulating illustrated talks reveal fascinating facts and insights about each port and are perfect for passengers with enquiring minds and an appetite for knowledge. In addition, our lecturers accompany trips ashore to add their specialist angle to tours, and when on board they are always happy to engage in discussions. Our cruises are also renowned for their fine concerts and ceilidhs, featuring some of Scotland’s best-loved classical and traditional musicians. ‘Having been on several cruises, I rate this cruise as the best I have ever done – because of the friendliness of fellow passengers, the helpfulness of the National Trust for Scotland and the programme of tours, lectures and evening entertainment.’ ‘The National Trust for Scotland staff were very knowledgeable, interesting and friendly – a great team! We enjoyed the lectures, the entertainment and the casual interaction.’ We personally research and design a wide selection of shore excursions at each of our ports. These specially selected trips are tailor-made to meet the needs and interests of our passengers. A choice of full- and half-day outings at each port will include visits to the best sites for archaeology, history, architecture, natural history and landscape, offering new experiences to even the most frequent traveller. For those who prefer to explore by themselves, the shore excursion brochure gives suggestions for independently discovering each port as well as lots of useful local information. Watch our online video at www.culturalcruising.com to get a flavour of life on board. Listen to our passengers describe what makes our cruises an experience like no other and has them returning year after year to sail with us. 3 A cruise to Orkney and Shetland Red-throated diver 4 Maeshowe Italian Chapel Shetland ponies St Kilda NORTHERN DELIGHTS SUNDAY 4 TO SUNDAY 11 JUNE 2017 The Ripple Stone, Fetlar 5 NORTHERN DELIGHTS Fetlar Lerwick Kirkwall Hoy St Kilda Peterhead Abundant wildlife, rich archaeology, traditional music, intricate craftwork and breath-taking scenery are just some of the draws of Scotland’s Northern Isles. With their Viking heritage and strong links to Norway, Orkney and Shetland have unique cultural identities. This itinerary offers the chance to explore two islands in each archipelago as well as take a cruise out to the remote St Kilda and make a call at the northeast corner of mainland Scotland. Leith ARRIVE DEPART Sunday 4 June Leith Monday 5 June Hoy, Orkney 12.00 23.00 Tuesday 6 June Kirkwall, Orkney 08.00 14.30 Wednesday 7 June Hirta, St Kilda 18.00 08.00 13.00 Thursday 8 June Fetlar, Shetland 14.00 23.00 Friday 9 June Lerwick, Shetland 06.00 16.00 Saturday 10 June Peterhead, Aberdeenshire 06.00 17.00 Sunday 11 June Leith 07.00 = ship will be at anchor and landing will be via ship’s boats Orkney Ring of Brodgar 6 Skara Brae Old Man of Hoy St Magnus Cathedral Hoy is the second largest of Orkney’s islands and takes its name from the Old Norse for ‘high island’. It is home to the highest point in Orkney, Ward Hill (479m/1,572ft), as well as a spectacular western coastline with dramatic cliffs and the famous sea stack, the Old Man of Hoy. With mountainous moorland and glacial valleys, the island has a dramatic highland landscape unlike anywhere else in Orkney. To the east lies Scapa Flow, the main British naval base during both world wars. The vast majority of Hoy is a designated Important Bird Area, and the northern part of the island is home to a 4,000ha RSPB reserve where great skuas, puffins and red-throated divers can often be seen. Other highlights on Hoy include the Arts and Crafts-era Melsetter House, Rackwick Valley, Hackness Martello Tower and Battery, Longhope Lifeboat Museum and the Scapa Flow Visitor Centre. Our second day is spent in Kirkwall, Orkney’s capital, on the Mainland. A local saying states that if you scratch the surface of Orkney, it bleeds archaeology! The Mainland is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, which includes the prehistoric settlement of Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar stone circle. In addition, there are many other archaeological sites to explore, including Pictish, Iron Age and Stone Age gems. More recent history can be seen at the Churchill Barriers and Ness Battery as well as at the Italian Chapel on the island of Lamb Holm. Nature lovers are drawn to Orkney because of the profusion of birds and marine wildlife: oystercatchers wade in the wetland meadows; grey and common seals bask on the skerries; whales, dolphins and porpoises can be spotted in the coastal waters; and hundreds of thousands of breeding seabirds can be seen congregating on the islands’ vertical cliffs. 7 The next day brings us to the most westerly part of the British Isles, the St Kilda archipelago. St Kilda is one of only 32 dual World Heritage Sites worldwide, in recognition of its immense cultural and natural significance. It is home to one of the largest colony of seabirds in northern Europe, including nearly a quarter of the world’s population of northern gannets. We hope to be able to visit Hirta, the largest of the islands, and if weather and sea conditions are in our favour we shall come ashore at Village Bay. The current village dates from the early 19th century and work continues to restore the traditional blackhouses here. Hirta is scattered with around 1,260 stone cleitean – these small stone buildings were used to store eggs, seabird meat, hay and peat, keeping them dry throughout the winter. Village Bay 8 St Kilda Puffins Brough Lodge Tower Lerwick Fetlar is known as the Garden of Shetland and this will be our maiden call to the island. Its moorland, hills and wetlands provide a home for a host of wading birds such as golden plover, redshank and whimbrel; Fetlar is also the best place in Britain to see the red-necked phalarope. The small island has a strong cultural identity, expressed through its folklore and music. Some of Fetlar’s fiddle tunes are amongst the oldest in Shetland and legend tells that they were learned from the trows (little people who live in small hills). The Brough Lodge Trust hope to secure sufficient funding to convert the abandoned 19th-century Brough Lodge into a place to conserve and promote Shetland’s rich musical and textile heritage. A little way from the house stands an ostentatious mid-19th-century folly, built on the site of an Iron Age broch. The bustling fishing port of Peterhead provides a gateway to Aberdeenshire, Scotland’s ‘Castle Country’. With over 300 castles, stately homes and ruins dotting the landscape, there are more castles per acre here than anywhere else in the UK. These include the National Trust for Scotland’s Fyvie Castle, Castle Fraser and Craigievar Castle, who all look forward to welcoming us. We will also have the chance to visit two more local Trust properties: the stately Haddo House designed by William Adam, and the formal parterres and herbaceous borders of Pitmedden Garden. On Aberdeenshire’s northern coastline we find the Kinnaird Head Lighthouse (the oldest lighthouse built on mainland Scotland) and the neighbouring Museum of Scottish Lighthouses; the charming village of Pennan where much of Local Hero was filmed in 1982; and Duff House with its fine collection of paintings on loan from the National Galleries of Scotland. Our next call is to Lerwick, the capital of the Shetland Islands. Beginning life as a temporary settlement for the Dutch herring fleet in the 17th century, Lerwick grew to become a major fishing centre with whaling ships often calling to pick up crews. There is much to see in the town including an Iron Age broch, the 18thcentury lodberries (merchants’ houses with their own piers) and the 5-star Shetland Museum and Archives. Excursions will take us to the Iron Age and Viking ruins at Jarlshof, to the island of Mousa to see the tallest and best-preserved of Britain’s remaining brochs, and to the idyllic St Ninian’s Isle. This tiny island is joined to the Mainland by a tombolo (a concave strip of sand) – with Atlantic breakers crashing on either side, it is the best example of its kind in Britain. On the islet lies a ruined 12th-century chapel, where a hoard of Pictish silver was discovered in the 1950s. For bird lovers, no trip to Shetland is complete without a trip to Sumburgh Head to watch the cheeky puffins and other seabirds that make their homes on the spectacular cliffs here. Fyvie Castle Pennan 9 INFORMATION NORTHERN DELIGHTS A cruise to Orkney and Shetland SUNDAY 4 TO SUNDAY 11 JUNE 2017 Lecturers Artistes Professor Donna Heddle is Director of the Centre for Nordic Studies (at the University of the Highlands and Islands), an interdisciplinary centre that is based in Kirkwall and Lerwick. Her research interests are the creation of new paradigms in Scottish and Northern Isles studies, Scottish and Northern Isles cultural history, small island studies, language and literature, and Old Norse. She has published widely in these areas. She is currently leading several national and international research projects involving Northern studies. Donna led the very successful Research Excellence Framework submission in Area Studies, placed first in Scotland for research impact (particularly in tourism) and 5th equal with the University of Oxford for research environment for the whole UK. Donna was awarded a Personal Chair by UHI in June 2013. The National Trust for Scotland is proud to present our own special entertainment team as part of the unique appeal of our cruises. These performers are some of Scotland’s most popular and highly acclaimed entertainers, bringing a wealth of talent to the evening concerts. There will be the usual mix of variety shows, solo concerts, ceilidhs and Scottish dancing, and we are sure that there is something that everyone will enjoy within this great team. Duncan Stevenson has worked for the Trust for 27 years, first as a Volunteer then as a Ranger and Senior Ranger at several Trust properties, including Killiecrankie and Crathes. This led to Countryside Management positions with responsibility for projects at numerous sites. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience of Scotland’s landscapes and natural heritage, with a particular interest in ornithology. A keen hill walker and runner, Duncan became a member of the local mountain rescue team during his eight years on Arran. Duncan now lives near Biggar with his wife and three children. Gordon Cree is an extraordinarily talented musician and allround entertainer. He is a pianist, singer, organist, trumpeter, arranger, xylophonist, conductor and composer! Gordon’s many skills very often mean that his abilities as a singer have been overlooked, but over a long career he has worked both as a serious classical singer and as a cabaret artist. Dr Carol Christiansen received her doctorate in archaeology from the University of Manchester, specialising in textiles. She has worked on projects in Britain and Scandinavia related to early textile production, including medieval sailcloth and early modern clothing. She is Curator and Community Museums Officer at Shetland Museum & Archives, where she is in charge of the Textiles Collection, a Recognised Collection of National Significance in Scotland. Her widely published research is focused on textiles and textile equipment from Shetland and the Nordic Countries, and she recently published Taatit Rugs: the pile bedcovers of Shetland. She has a special interest in wools of early sheep breeds and historical methods of processing wools for textiles. 10 Robert Lovie is the entertainment manager and has brought this team together. Robert comperes the shows each evening and is himself a well-known and respected public speaker and singer. Robert also works full time with the Trust as the property manager at Fyvie Castle, Garden & Estate, making him our perfect cruise host. Cheryl Forbes is an award-winning mezzo-soprano who has enjoyed a brilliant career at home and abroad. She has worked with leading UK orchestras and has sung with many great fellow Scottish celebrities, ranging from Moira Anderson to Jack Milroy. During the cruise Cheryl will share with us her amazing repertoire, from opera to popular musicals. The Rhona MacKay Trio features Rhona MacKay on concert harp and clarsach, Eddie McGuire on flute and whistle and David Munn on cello. This group come together especially for the Trust cruises and perform a relaxing blend of music specifically arranged for their fine instruments. Bryan Gear is regarded as the finest fiddler in Shetland today. His amazing playing style holds dear all that is great and traditional about Shetland fiddle music whilst simultaneously encompassing a fine modern flair. Alastair McDonald, one of Scotland’s favourite musical personalities, is a highly talented international performer, singer, songwriter, recording artist and broadcaster. His special blend of music and song ranges from traditional Scottish to jazz, and will add an exciting variety of styles to the cruise entertainment programme. Leonard Brown is a versatile accordionist from South Shields who was crowned the All-Scotland Senior Traditional Accordion Champion 2012, making him only the second Englishman in history to win the prestigious Jimmy Shand Shield. In addition to traditional Scottish and Irish music, Leonard’s range of styles includes Latin, continental and country. INFORMATION NORTHERN DELIGHTS CABIN A cruise to Orkney and Shetland SUNDAY 4 TO SUNDAY 11 JUNE 2017 Brough Lodge Otters Ring of Brodgar PASSPORT AND VISA REQUIREMENTS As this cruise takes place solely in UK waters, UK nationals do not need a passport. However, they must bring a form of valid photographic identification issued by the government, ideally a driving licence or passport. All other passengers must be in possession of a current passport, valid for at least 6 months from the end of the cruise. PRICING See pages 26-28 for deck plans and descriptions of cabins. * All prices are per person and inclusive of gratuities. Book before 1 November 2016 to receive a 5% discount. DEPOSIT A deposit of £150 per person is required to confirm your booking. BALANCE OF FARE Primula scotica 1D 2T 2S 3D 3T 3S 4D 4T 5D 5T 5S 6D 6T 6S 7D 7T 7S 8T 9D 9T 9S 10D 10T 10S 11D 11T 11S 11(3) PRICES (£)* £3,700 £3,100 £3,720 £2,700 £2,700 £3,300 £2,400 £2,400 £2,350 £2,350 £2,850 £2,300 £2,300 £2,800 £2,100 £2,100 £2,600 £1,900 £1,850 £1,850 £2,200 £1,800 £1,800 £2,160 £1,750 £1,750 £2,100 £1,400 This should be paid by 24 March 2017. 11 A cruise along the west coast of Norway Hopperstad Stave Church 12 Eidfjord Rauma Line Fridtjov the Bold Geirangerfjord INSPIRATIONAL ISLANDS AND FJORDS SUNDAY 11 TO SUNDAY 25 JUNE 2017 Lofoten Islands 13 INSPIRATIONAL ISLANDS AND FJORDS Svolvær Moskenesøya Rørvik Trondheim Åndalsnes Geiranger Olden Vik Eidfjord Flåm Narvik This two-week cruise focuses on the western seaboard of Norway, sailing along many of its iconic fjords to bring us to small villages amid some of the most dramatic scenery you will ever witness. There will be the chance to take rail journeys over the mountains, boat trips along the inner reaches of small fjords, and cable car rides high above the land. Our voyage also crosses the Arctic Circle and visits some of the small islands that pepper Norway’s coastline. Leith ARRIVE DEPART Sunday 11 June Leith 14.00 Monday 12 June At sea Tuesday 13 June Eidfjord 08.00 12.30 Wednesday 14 June Flåm 08.30 13.00 Vik 16.30 17.30 Thursday 15 June Åndalsnes 12.30 18.30 Friday 16 June At sea Saturday 17 June Narvik 08.00 21.00 Sunday 18 June Svolvær (Lofoten) 07.00 18.00 Monday 19 June Moskenesøya (Lofoten) 07.00 15.00 Tuesday 20 June Rørvik 08.00 19.00 Wednesday 21 June Trondheim 07.00 13.00 Thursday 22 June Olden 09.30 16.00 Friday 23 June Geiranger 07.00 12.30 Saturday 24 June At sea Sunday 25 June Leith 07.00 = ship will be at anchor and landing will be via ship’s boats 14 Nærøyfjord After a day at sea we arrive at the Hardangerfjord, where a picturesque cruise of around 100 miles along Norway’s second longest fjord brings us to the village of Eidfjord. Here we will be surrounded by the dramatic scenery for which Norway’s west coast is so rightly famed: deep valleys, high mountains, glaciers, mountain lakes, rivers and waterfalls. The village is situated within the Hardangervidda National Park, and tours will take in the outstanding landscapes of the largest mountain plateau in Europe as well as discover the area’s natural and cultural heritage. There will also be the chance to admire the 145-metre sheer drop of the Vøringsfossen. The next day we head for the Sognefjord where we will call at the charming village of Flåm. There will be the opportunity to take a cruise along the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord or a drive up into the mountains to the Stalheim viewing platform. The world-famous Flåm Railway is one of the steepest railway lines in the world, with a gradient of 1:18; in less than an hour you will ascend 863m (2,831ft) against a spectacular backdrop of precipitous mountains and foaming waterfalls. In 2014 Lonely Planet named it as the most beautiful train journey in the world. To really immerse yourself in the fjordland countryside, there will be the option of a full-day tour through the mountains by train and coach, rejoining the ship in the late afternoon in the village of Vik. The next morning will see us cruising deep into the county of Møre & Romsdal. We will head along a series of fjords to the town of Åndalsnes, where we will spend the afternoon amongst the steep and jagged mountains. From here there is the chance to take a train journey along the Rauma Line, which follows the River Rauma with its collection of thundering waterfalls in the shade of the Romsdalen valley. Åndalsnes Rauma Line Stalheim 15 A day at sea will follow, giving us the chance to relax as we cruise along Norway’s stunning western coastline via the Inside Passage. We will pass a myriad of small islands and skerries and cross the Arctic Circle. The next morning we arrive at Narvik, where we will have a full day to spend in the town and surrounding area. The Battle of Narvik was an early victory for the Allies in World War II. This is commemorated in the fascinating War Memorial Museum, which contains an original Enigma machine amongst its collection. An Arctic wildlife park, a thrilling cable car ride, challenging hikes and RIB adventures are amongst other activities on offer nearby. There will also be the option to take a train journey along the spectacular Ofoten railway, completed in 1902, through rugged mountains into Sweden. Lofotr Viking Museum Cable car, Narvik We will spend the next two days in the Lofoten Islands. Their glacier-carved peaks rise straight from the sea. Between the mountains, which are composed of some of the oldest rocks in the world, are stretches of fertile farmland, fjords and deep ravines, while the coastline is sprinkled with fishing villages. We will call first at the town of Svolvær in the north of the islands. The stunning scenery and Arctic light have long attracted artists here. There is a wealth of small art galleries to explore, with exhibitions of paintings, photography and even ice sculptures. Tours outside of the town will let us discover the islands’ Viking heritage and wonderful wildlife. Polar Park, Narvik 16 Lofoten Islands 17 Bakklandet, Trondheim After an evening cruise along the spectacular Trollfjord, we will head towards the south of the Lofoten archipelago and visit the island of Moskenesøya. Here we find the traditional fishing village of Å, home to the Lofoten Stockfish Museum and the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum, both offering an insight into the traditional fishing methods of the islands. Lofoten is famous for the annual cod fishing event which, in its heyday, involved up to 6,000 boats and almost 30,000 fishermen. The unsalted cod is still dried in the traditional method on outdoor wooden racks, and the resulting stockfish has been Lofoten’s main export since the Middle Ages. Nearby is Reine, often voted the ‘most picturesque village in Norway’ and named by Time magazine as having the ‘most beautiful view in the world’. Continuing south we come to the Vikna archipelago where we will call at the village of Rørvik. The archipelago is made up of nearly 6,000 islands, many of which form a conservation area where we can see nesting birds as well as otters, porpoises and several species of seal. The village is home to the excellent Norveg coastal museum, which explores the Norwegian maritime history and culture through the centuries. Nidaros Cathedral 18 Eagle Road Trondheim We will spend the following morning in the historical capital of Trondheim. The medieval Nidaros Cathedral, the picturesque streets of Bakklandet, the old wharves and wooden town bridge and the botanical gardens are just some of the sightseeing highlights. The afternoon will see us cruise along the Trondheimsfjord as we make our way back to the coastline and continue our journey south. Our next day will be spent at the head of the Nordfjord in the village of Olden. The Jostedal Glacier, the largest in continental Europe, is nearby: the National Park Centre and the Briksdal and Kjenndal glacial arms all make interesting excursions. For our final day in Norway, we will awake in the Geirangerfjord, the well-known branch of the Storfjord. Green water snakes its way to the village of Geiranger, surrounded by cascading waterfalls and precipitous mountains with farms perched on the slopes. This archetypal fjord landscape has been placed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in recognition of its outstanding natural beauty. We will come ashore at the village, from where the famed Eagle Road travels through 11 hairpin bends to reach 620m (2,034ft) above sea level for spectacular views of the area. After a busy morning of scenic tours and hikes to see the mountains, gorges and waterfalls, we will spend a relaxing afternoon cruising along 70 miles of fjords to reach the open sea. Briksdal Glacier 19 INFORMATION INSPIRATIONAL ISLANDS AND FJORDS A cruise along the west coast of Norway SUNDAY 11 TO SUNDAY 25 JUNE 2017 Lecturers Susan Bain is the National Trust for Scotland’s Western Isles Manager and is responsible for St Kilda as well as Mingulay, Berneray & Pabbay. After studying at Glasgow University she worked as an archaeologist in Scotland and also in the USA, Europe and the Middle East. She began working for the Trust at Mar Lodge Estate, before moving to St Kilda, first as the archaeologist and then as manager. Her interest in traditional buildings took her to the Faroe Islands, Iceland and Norway on a Churchill Fellowship to investigate the use of turf as a traditional roofing material. Bob Elliot is the Head of Investigations for the RSPB – his team attempts to protect some of the UK’s rarest birds both in the UK and abroad. Bob is originally from North Yorkshire and started his conservation career as the National Trust’s Head Warden on the Farne Islands in Northumberland. A move to Scotland in 1993 led to a career in Countryside Rangering with the National Trust for Scotland, and as Countryside Manager he moved to Inverness to manage the Highlands & Islands properties. Bob is passionate about helping people enjoy the countryside. Widely travelled and a skilled field naturalist, he has led expeditions to Peru, Iceland, the Arctic, Antarctica, Africa and the Scottish islands. In 2016 Bob spent a month working in Morocco, studying the stop-over locations of the endangered turtle dove on its annual migration from southern Africa to its northern breeding grounds in Europe. Kenneth Steven has had a passion for the north since early childhood; he first visited Norway with his parents as a boy and has been returning as often as possible ever since. He has spent 2 academic years in the country (during which time he became fluent in the language) and has translated a number of books from Norwegian, notably the Nordic Prize for Literature-winning novel The Half Brother. His second year of study was spent north of the Arctic Circle, and it was here he first started to explore the story of the Sami people in earnest. Now he and Kristina Hayward (who is accompanying him on the cruise) have brought out their book, Beneath the Ice: In search of the Sami, telling something of the cultural history of the Sami. Kenneth is first and foremost a poet – his newest collection is entitled Letting in the Light – but he is also very much a Scottish novelist. The Well of the North Wind was published in 2016 and is set on Iona during the time of Columba. 20 Professor David Munro MBE is a geographer with a passion for exploring landscapes, who has lectured on cruises ranging from Arctic to Antarctic waters. As a research fellow of the University of Edinburgh he led a series of expeditions to Central America that focused on environmental conservation and resource management. He also compiled a number of geographical reference books including The Oxford Dictionary of the World and Scotland: An Encyclopedia of Places & Landscape. For 12 years he served as Director of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society and for a decade he chaired UK government and United Nations geographical advisory bodies. Currently David is an Honorary Professor of the University of Dundee, a heritage adviser to the Duke of Buccleuch and an adviser to the publishers of The Times Atlas of the World. In 2015 he was invested with the rank of Knight Officer of the Order of St Charles by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco for services to the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation. Artistes The National Trust for Scotland is proud to present our own special entertainment team as part of the unique appeal of our cruises. These performers are some of Scotland’s most popular and highly acclaimed entertainers, bringing a wealth of talent to the evening concerts. There will be the usual mix of variety shows, solo concerts, ceilidhs and Scottish dancing, and we are sure that there is something that everyone will enjoy within this great team. Robert Lovie is the entertainment manager and has brought this team together. Robert comperes the shows each evening and is himself a well-known and respected public speaker and singer. Robert also works full time with the Trust as the property manager at Fyvie Castle, Garden & Estate, making him our perfect cruise host. Gordon Cree is an extraordinarily talented musician and allround entertainer from Ayrshire. He is a pianist, singer, organist, trumpeter, arranger, conductor and composer! Gordon’s many skills very often mean that his abilities as a singer have been overlooked, but over a long career he has worked both as a serious classical singer and as a cabaret artist. Cheryl Forbes is an award-winning mezzo-soprano who has enjoyed a brilliant career at home and abroad. She has worked with leading UK orchestras and has sung with many great fellow Scottish celebrities, ranging from Moira Anderson to Jack Milroy. During the cruise Cheryl will share with us her amazing repertoire, from opera to popular musicals. The Rhona MacKay Trio features Rhona MacKay on concert harp and clarsach, Eddie McGuire on flute and whistle and David Munn on cello. This group come together especially for the Trust cruises and perform a relaxing blend of music specifically arranged for their fine instruments. Jamie MacDougall has established himself as one of the country’s most versatile singers and performers. He is a regular presenter with BBC Scotland on both radio and television, and in concert has worked with some of the world’s top baroque, chamber and symphony orchestras. Siobhan Miller is one of the foremost singers in Scotland. Her range includes Scottish traditional, contemporary and self-penned material. In 2011 and 2013 she was voted ‘Scots Singer of the Year’ in the Scots Trad Music Awards. Steven Carcary is a leading accordionist and Scottish dance band leader. Steven’s wide-ranging style of playing, from Scottish reels to jazz, is a true inspiration to both listeners and dancers alike. Raemond Jappy, from Buckie on the Moray Firth, is one of Scotland’s finest fiddle players. His playing is in the great traditional Scottish style and he won the highly prestigious Glenfiddich Fiddle Championship award at Blair Castle in 2008. INFORMATION INSPIRATIONAL ISLANDS AND FJORDS A cruise along the west coast of Norway SUNDAY 11 TO SUNDAY 25 JUNE 2017 Åndalsnes Nordfjord Trondheim PASSPORT REQUIREMENTS Passports, valid for at least 3 months after return, are required by all passengers. Visas for Norway are not required by most nationalities, but non-EU passport holders should check any requirements. PRICING See pages 26-28 for deck plans and descriptions of cabins. * All prices are per person and inclusive of gratuities. Book before 1 November 2016 to receive a 5% discount. DEPOSIT A deposit of £200 per person is required to confirm your booking. BALANCE OF FARE This should be paid by 31 March 2017. Geirangerfjord CABIN 1D 2T 2S 3D 3T 3S 4D 4T 5D 5T 5S 6D 6T 6S 7D 7T 7S 8T 9D 9T 9S 10D 10T 10S 11D 11T 11S 11(3) PRICES (£)* £6,600 £5,800 £6,700 £5,200 £5,200 £5,900 £4,700 £4,700 £4,600 £4,600 £5,520 £4,500 £4,500 £5,400 £4,200 £4,200 £5,040 £3,650 £3,600 £3,600 £4,250 £3,550 £3,550 £4,200 £3,500 £3,500 £4,150 £2,500 21 MV BERLIN INFORMATION ABOUT THE SHIP 22 MV BERLIN Library Other facilities The spacious library on Berlin has a wide collection of books as well as a selection of jigsaws and board games. The comfortable sofas and writing desks make it a great place to relax with a book or write your postcards. There are also computers in the library that offer internet access via a satellite connection (chargeable). The ship’s leisure facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, sauna and fitness equipment. There is a gift shop, hairdresser and beauty salon offering a range of spa treatments. There is also a small medical centre and the private doctor on board makes standard charges for his services. Lounges Cabins Lectures and concerts take place in the elegant and comfortable Sirocco Lounge, while the Yacht Club on the Promenade Deck is the perfect place in which to relax and watch the world go by. Up on the Sun Deck the Berlin Lounge offers a place to enjoy a drink in the open air (weather permitting). The friendly environment of our cruises makes them very popular with single travellers. We have designated a quarter of the cabins on Berlin to be single cabins. Alternatively, we would be pleased to match like-minded travelling companions with whom you could share a twin or 3-berth cabin. Dining Meals are served in a single sitting with no fixed seating plans, so you can dine with new friends every night at a time to suit you. Choose between the informal yet elegant Verandah restaurant, with the option to dine al fresco if the weather permits, or be looked after with waiter service in the more formal Dining Room. In addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner are afternoon tea, late-night snacks and 24-hour self-service tea and coffee; all are included in your fare. There are a variety of inside and outside cabins to choose from. Cabins are graded depending on their size and location on the ship. All cabins are air-conditioned and have a private shower and WC. The cabins are equipped with a television, DVD player, minibar (chargeable), telephone, hairdryer, bathrobes and complimentary toiletries. Outside cabins have a double window or double porthole, letting the light flood in and allowing you to enjoy the passing scenery while you are in your cabin. Inside cabins are bright and well lit, offering comfort and value for money. Special dietary requirements can be catered for, so please advise us of your needs at the time of booking. 23 CABIN GRADES All cabins have an en suite shower room with a walk-in shower, hand basin and WC. Grade 1 – Grand Suites (Bridge Deck) Grades 4, 5 and 6 – Standard Outside Cabins (Promenade, Main and A Decks) The Grand Suites are two-roomed cabins with a spacious lounge and dining area and a separate double bedroom with an en suite shower room. The total area is around 37m2. There is no lift access to the Bridge Deck – these cabins are reached by a set of 7 fairly steep, open steps. There are twin, double and single cabins available within these grades. The cabins have large double windows. The single cabins have a standard single bed and a sofa bed in them. The cabins measure about 13m2 and the price difference between grades reflects their position on the ship. Grade 2 – Junior Suites (Promenade Deck) These spacious cabins have either twin beds (2T) or a large single bed (2S) and a seating area with a sofa, coffee table and chairs next to the large forward-facing windows. The cabins are 15–21m2 in area. Grade 3 – Superior Cabins (Bridge Deck) These wood-panelled cabins are desirably situated on the Bridge Deck, offering easy access to the outside decks. The cabins have twin, double or large single beds and are approximately 15m2 in area. There is no lift access to the Bridge Deck – these cabins are reached by a set of 7 fairly steep, open steps. 24 Grade 7 – Standard Outside Cabins (B Deck) Situated on the B Deck, these cabins have a double porthole, which may have to be covered for safety reasons in heavy seas. There are twin, double and single cabins available within this grade. The single cabins have a standard single bed and a sofa bed in them. The cabins are about 13m2 in area. Grades 8, 9, 10 and 11 – Standard Inside Cabins (Promenade, Main, A and B Decks) These inside cabins offer an economical option for cruising and are bright and well lit. There are twin, double and single cabins available within these grades. The single cabins have a standard single bed and a sofa bed in them. The cabins measure about 13m2 and the price difference between grades reflects their position on the ship. Grade 11(3) – Standard Inside 3-berth Cabins (A and B Deck) These cabins have two lower beds and an upper berth and measure around 13m2. Evening entertainment 25 MV Berlin Fact File PORT OF REGISTRY Malta QUALITY RATING ★★★ TONNAGE 9,570 DRAUGHT 4.98m LENGTH 139.3m WIDTH 17.5m AIR-CONDITIONED AND STABILISED Yes MAIDEN VOYAGE 1980 LAST PARTIAL REFURBISHMENT 2016 PASSENGER CAPACITY 350 OFFICERS AND CREW 188 PASSENGER DECKS 7 PASSENGER LIFTS 1 (serving 4 decks only) Sun Deck Berlin Lounge Berlin Lounge Bridge Deck GRADE 26 1D Owner’s suite (double) 3D Superior outside (double) 3T Superior outside (twin) 3S Superior outside (single) Promenade Deck GRADE Promenade stage Beauty Salon dance floor Verandah Verandah Restaurant Pool Bar Yacht Club stage dance floor Main Deck Sirocco Lounge Library Shop 2T Junior suite (twin) 2S Junior suite (single) 4D Outside double 4T Outside twin 8T Inside twin GRADE Foyer 5D Outside double 5T Outside twin 5S Outside single 9D Inside double 9T Inside twin 9S Inside single GRADE 6D A Deck Dining Room NTS office Reception Outside double 6T Outside twin 6S Outside single 10D Inside double 10T Inside twin 10S Inside single 11(3) Inside 3-berth 27 B Deck GRADE Medical centre Treatment room Gymnasium Sauna D Deck 28 PLEASE NOTE: The Bridge Deck, Sun Deck and D Deck can only be reached by stairway. 7D Outside double 7T Outside twin 7S Outside single 11D Inside double 11T Inside twin 11S Inside single 11(3) Inside 3-berth CULTURAL CRUISING SUMMER 2017 NORTHERN DELIGHTS INSPIRATIONAL ISLANDS AND FJORDS CONDITIONS OF BOOKING INSURANCE All passengers must have adequate and valid travel insurance including cover for cancellation, medical expenses and repatriation. Please provide us with details of your cover, including the name of the insurance company, policy number and 24-hour emergency telephone number. Although the National Trust for Scotland is unable to arrange insurance for you, we can provide contact details of a few companies recommended by previous passengers. DEPOSIT A deposit of £200 per person for the 2-week cruise and £150 per person for the 1-week cruise should be sent with the booking form. Remittances should be in favour of The National Trust for Scotland Enterprises Ltd Trust A/C. If you decide to cancel your cruise before the balance of fare is due, we will return your deposit, less a £50 per person cancellation fee. CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING Applications will be dealt with and reservations confirmed in order of receipt. Confirmation of booking is subject to the General Cruise Booking Conditions sent out with this brochure. WHAT’S INCLUDED The cruise fare includes your accommodation, on-board meals and gratuities. The ship is one class, and fares are graded according to cabin and facilities available. All passengers, irrespective of fare, can enjoy the public rooms and decks. Extras that are not included in the cost of your cruise are on-board purchases (drinks, cigarettes, beauty salon, etc), shore excursions, transport to/from the ship, parking and insurance. The balance of fare for the 1-week Scottish cruise must be paid on or before 24 March 2017, and on or before 31 March 2017 for the 2-week cruise. After these dates, if the balance is not received, we reserve the right to retain the deposit paid and, further, to claim the balance of fare. If you wish to cancel your booking you must immediately write to The National Trust for Scotland Enterprises Ltd. For cancellations made after the balance of fare due date, we reserve the right to retain any deposit or full fare received and passengers will be expected to claim from their travel insurance. MEALS Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and late-night snacks are served on board for your pleasure. Meals throughout the cruise, including meals taken on board while the ship is in port, are included in the cruise fare. However, meals not taken on board cannot be refunded. Packed lunches can be requested free of charge with 48 hours notice. Cabin service is available at an extra cost during restaurant opening times. The completion of the booking form shall constitute an offer only and no contract shall exist until the relevant deposit (or where required the full amount due) has been received by The National Trust for Scotland Enterprises Ltd and the Trust has issued a written confirmation of the booking to the passenger. SHORE EXCURSIONS Details of shore excursions, with costs, will be sent to passengers approximately 12 weeks prior to the cruise. We offer a wide range of excursions at each port where transport and guides are available. Excursions range greatly in duration, cost, theme and activity level – our aim is to have a tour to suit everyone. The shore excursion brochure will have full details of all the tours along with information about our ports of call and ideas for exploring on your own. Tours are offered at cost price; for guidance, a standard half-day excursion usually costs between £40 and £50. All bookings are accepted, and the conveyance of passengers, their baggage and personal property is made, subject to the terms of the said General Cruise Booking Conditions. The National Trust for Scotland Enterprises Ltd reserves the right to cancel the cruise, in which case the passage money will be refunded. We reserve the right to vary, without notice, the advertised itinerary of the cruises, to cancel landings and shore excursions, and otherwise vary arrangements previously advertised, in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Prices quoted are based on the operating costs and prevailing rate of exchange when this brochure was printed and the right is reserved to alter the prices at any time prior to sailing as circumstances dictate. While every effort has been made to determine an accurate fare structure, we reserve the right to implement a fuel surcharge should world fuel prices escalate beyond those predicted. EARLY-BIRD SCHEME We do not give last-minute discounts on our holidays. We feel that benefits should go to our early bookers, so if you book before 1 November 2016 you will qualify for a 5% discount. HOW TO BOOK We are happy to accept provisional bookings by telephone or email. For reservations please telephone 0131 458 0234 or email [email protected] during normal office hours (Monday to Friday). To confirm your booking please complete and return the booking form, with deposit, to The National Trust for Scotland, Cruise Department, Hermiston Quay, 5 Cultins Road, Edinburgh EH11 4DF. TRANSPORT & PARKING Transport will be arranged for passengers from central Edinburgh (Charlotte Square), central Glasgow (Buchanan Bus Station) and Edinburgh and Glasgow airports. Passengers will be asked to book and pay for transport when paying the balance of fare. Secure parking will be available at Leith docks. JOINING INSTRUCTIONS These will be issued about 3 weeks prior to the date of embarkation, together with all tickets, luggage labels and confirmation of transport timings to and from the ship. FINANCIAL PEACE OF MIND All monies paid to the National Trust for Scotland for the cruise and associated transport, shore excursions and car parking are held in a bonded trust account and will not be released to the National Trust for Scotland until after the cruise has taken place. ‘The National Trust for Scotland staff were very knowledgeable, interesting and informative – a great team! We enjoyed the lectures, the entertainment and the friendly interaction.’ The National Trust for Scotland, Hermiston Quay, 5 Cultins Road, Edinburgh EH11 4DF Tel: 0131 458 0234 The National Trust for Scotland for Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty is a charity registered in Scotland, Charity Number SC 007410 www.nts.org.uk and www.culturalcruising.com PHOTOGRAPHIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Cover Image – Lofoten Islands – Shutterstock Inside front cover: Shetland – Elaine Bruges/NTS; Lofoten – CH/VisitNorway.com; Briksdal Glacier – Shutterstock; Wine – Acromas Shipping Ltd; Skara Brae – VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint; Brough Lodge Tower – Kevin Serginson, Moder-Dye; Dining Room – FTI Cruises Page 1: Berlin – FTI Cruises Pages 2 & 3: Geiranger Fjord – Shutterstock; St Kilda – John Sikorski; Piper – Roger Crofts; Berlin – FTI Cruises; Dancing – Elaine Bruges/NTS Pages 4 & 5: Red-throated Diver – Malcolm Smith; Maeshowe – P Tomkins/VisitScotland/ Scottish Viewpoint; Italian Chapel – Robin Cook; Shetland Ponies – Elaine Bruges/NTS; St Kilda – NTS Photo Library; Ripple Stone – Maurice Henderson Pages 6 & 7: Ring of Brodgar, St Magnus Cathedral – P Tomkins/VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint; Orkney, Old Man of Hoy – Charles Tait/Visit Orkney; Skara Brae – Shutterstock Pages 8 & 9: Village Bay, St Kilda, Fyvie Castle – NTS Photo Library; Puffins – Faroe Island Tourist Board; Brough Lodge Tower – Kevin Serginson, Moder-Dye; Lerwick – Visit Shetland; Pennan – Shutterstock Page 11: Brough Lodge – Kevin Serginson, Moder-Dye; Otters – Brydon Thomason/Shetland Nature; Ring of Brodgar – P Tomkins/VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint; Primula scotica – Elaine Bruges/NTS Pages 12 & 13: Hopperstad Stave Church, Rauma Line – Leif Olav Bjordal/VisitNorway.com; Eidfjord – Agurtxane Concellon/CDH; Fridtjov the Bold – Darek Handerowicz; Geiranger Fjord – Per Eide/VisitNorway.com; Lofoten Islands – Shutterstock Pages 14 & 15: Næroyfjord – Kyrre Wangen/Visit Flåm; Åndalsnes – Matti Bernitz/ VisitNorway.com; Rauma Line – Leif Johnny Olestad/VisitNorway.com; Stalheim – Shutterstock Pages 16 & 17: Cable Car – Nicola Mulryan/Destination Narvik; Lofotr Viking Museum – CH/VisitNorway.com; Polar Park – Polar Park; Lofoten Islands – Mattias Fredriksson Photography AB/VisitNorway.com Pages 18 & 19: Bakklandet, Trondheim – CH/VisitNorway.com; Nidaros Cathedral – Terje Rakke/Nordic Life/VisitNorway.com; Eagle Road – Shutterstock; Briksdal Glacier – Thomas Bickhardt/BickFoto Page 21: Åndalsnes – Leif J Olestad/VisitNorway.com; Nordfjord – Briksdal Adventure; Trondheim – Sven-Erik Knoff/VisitNorway.com; Geiranger Fjord – Terje Rakke/Nordic Life/VisitNorway.com Pages 22 & 28: Berlin – Roger Schlaepfer/FTI Cruises Pages 23, 24 & 26: All images – FTI Cruises 4074 GPS 9m 3/16