If, like us, you've been at home itching to plan that next adventure, then look no further than the Tradewind Voyages Golden Horizon, the world's largest square-rigged sailing ship.
On this unique voyage you will find all the creature comforts of a luxury sailing vessel combined with the romance of a classic sailing experience. What's more, by sailing from the UK and back using the currents and prevailing winds, Golden Horizon has sustainability at its heart.
There are some 30 amazing voyages to choose from, but the Iceland itinerary designed for our readers is extra-special. Not only will you explore the best of this land of ice and fire, but you'll be joined by Kate Humble, one of our favourite presenters.
In Reykjavík, Kate will join you at the state-of-the-art LAVA Centre, where you will discover more about this incredible volcanic island. You will also see Eyjafjallajökull, Katla and Hekla volcanoes, and get the chance to step inside a real lava tunnel. And that's just for starters.
On this 15-day voyage, beginning and finishing in Scotland, you can do as much or as little as you want with a range of exciting optional excursions†. From bathing in restorative geothermal pools to riding Icelandic horses and sailing through beautiful fjords, there is plenty to enjoy.
Golden Horizon offers the chance to sail in real luxury. Its spectacular two-tier restaurant serves classic dishes made with locally sourced fresh produce and there are five bars, a library, spa, lounge and gym, while all the spacious en suite cabins enjoy sea views and come with complimentary room service and Wi-Fi.
Kate is one of Britain's most popular wildlife presenters. She has travelled to all parts of the globe, including filming an acclaimed series in Iceland along with Volcano Live.
Iceland showcases nature at its extremes. Glaciers tumble from ice caps, lava fields spew spirals of steam and volcanoes rumble from the Earth's core. It's an environment that's both inviting and awe-inspiring
Kate Humble
Relax in superb accommodation in a choice of three cabins (all with outside views).
* Prices are based on two sharing a D2 cabin. Subject to availability. Deposit: 15% at time of booking. All cabins have outside view. Upgrades are available at a supplement. Single supplement applies. **For full deposit and cancellation information, visit tstours.co.uk/assets/tandc.pdf. †Optional excursions are available at a supplement. Always check the FCO travel advice, as it includes the very latest information on safety, security, travel warnings and health. For more information, visit gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
Arrive in Greenock at your leisure before checking-in to Golden Horizon and settling in before she sets sail this evening
Relax on-board the magnificent Golden Horizon, walk around the beautiful deck, find a quiet corner in the stylish library, book in for a treatment in the spa and enjoy the on-board entertainment.
Welcome to Iceland's modern capital, Reykjavík.
Optional Evening Excursion: The Blue Lagoon
The Lagoon has been named one of the world's top 25 wonders by
National Geographic and is completely powered by clean, geothermal
energy and is environmentally certified. Located in the middle of a
rugged lava field, spend approximately two and a half hours
relaxing in the waters of the Lagoon.
Included Excursion: LAVA Centre with Kate
Humble
Join Kate Humble as we visit the LAVA Centre. LAVA - Iceland
Volcano and Earthquake Centre is a state of the art museum
consisting of interactive exhibitions that illustrate the birth and
development of one of the largest volcanic islands in the world,
Iceland. On this educational experience explore the museum and take
in "360° views" of Eyjafjallajökull, Katla and Hekla volcanoes.
After lunch, continue to Raufarhólshellir lava cave, one of the
longest accessible lava tunnels in Iceland. This unique experience
will reveal the inner workings of a volcanic eruption.
Optional Exursions:
Optional excursions today include the jewel of the Westfjords, the
Dynjandi waterfall on an express tour, a Hesteyri village visit by
boat, Vigur Island bird watching and a whale watching trip.
Located in the beautiful Arnarfjörður fjord, 100 metres tall,
Dynjandi waterfall cascades down a mountainside. Driving from
Ísafjörður, admire the glacier carved region in the oldest part of
Iceland. Upon arrival you will have plenty of opportunity to
explore and take pictures. Admire the views of the majestic
waterfall as well as the surrounding landscape.
Optional Exursions:
Optional excursions today include a driving adventure to discover
the highlights of northern Iceland, visiting Námaskarð, a striking
geothermal field, the dramatic lava landscape Dimmuborgir,
Skútustaðir pseudo-craters and the Goðafoss Waterfall, "Waterfall
of the Gods". You could alternatively choose to go whale watching,
go horseriding in the Icelandic wilderness, see the Geosea Baths
and Goðafoss Waterfall, or go Glacial Canyon River Rafting.
Optional Exursions:
Today you can choose to visit Vök Baths, which boasts a collection
of serene geothermal floating pools located on the gorgeous Lake
Urriðavatn in East Iceland. Vök Baths is Iceland's newest
geothermal destination and boasts the country's first and only
series of floating pools, allowing guests to soak in the hot water,
within and surrounded by the lake. Alternatively, choose to go
hiking in Vestdalur Valley or visit Skalanes Nature Reserve.
Optional Exursions:
Today, join an optional excursion to Jökulsárlón for a cruise and a
scenic drive around this natural wonder of Iceland: the 100-metre
deep glacial river lagoon Jökulsárlón. On this otherworldly
excursion start with a scenic drive. Upon arrival, board a boat and
begin exploring the pristine waters of the lagoon. Watch the
free-flowing icebergs carved from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier.
Make sure to look out for the occasional seal that may emerge from
the natural ice-cold waters. On our way back to the ship stop at a
local restaurant for lunch and also make a short stop at the serene
and beautiful village of Höfn.
Relax on-board the magnificent Golden Horizon, try your hand at the sailing experience, enjoy shows from talented local performers and taste the world's finest whisky & gin in Debeljak's premium onboard bar.
Welcome to Tórshavn, the capital city of the Faroe Islands, located on Streymoy Island, Tórshavn is known for Tinganes, the old town, dotted with wooden houses and local boutiques. Why not visit Tórshavn Cathedral or the Nordic House cultural center, which offers theater, dance and music performances?
Relax on-board the magnificent Golden Horizon, enjoying meals on board or even complimentary room service* for lazy mornings with breakfast in bed or a private dinner on your own balcony. You can organise optional culinary activities on request, such as wine tastings, or perhaps a themed movie under the stars.
*selected cabin grades.
Wandering the streets of Ullapool, Scotland, you'll see old fishery houses and churches. Outside the village are remanants of the iron age history and farmlands. Guests enjoy visiting Ardmair beach and bay, Rhue Point Lighthouse, Leckmelm Gardens and Lael Forest Gardens, as well as Corrieshalloch Falls.
On board, you can choose from a selection of insightful talks from experts on maritime history, astronomy and geography in addition to the engaging insights you can pick up from resident destination speakers, related to the voyage and ports of call. To make the most of the activities on offer before the end of your cruise, why not enjoy a day experiencing the selection of included water sports from the floating marina? You'll find pico sailboats, kayaks, windsurfing equipment, stand up paddle boards, snorkel gear, and a floating island and trampoline.
Arrive back in Greenock today after a fantastic cruise.
The world's largest square-rigged sailing vessel, Golden Horizon. A near replica of the 1913-built ocean vessel, France II, she retains the charm, adventure and romance of an historic ship.
Discover iconic and remote locations of the world, on board a ship which perfectly marries rich sailing heritage and modern luxury, with a sustainable twist.
All 140 cabins are outside facing, so guests can enjoy the breath-taking views. Cabins evoke the luxury and facilities expected of a boutique cruise ship, whilst retaining the charm, adventure and romance of a truly historic sailing vessel.
Golden Horizon attracts like-minded adventure seekers for a sailing experience which allows guests to connect with the elements of the natural world.
The ambience on board is relaxed, casual, elegant and without unnecessary formality. We have created an environment which will encourage our guests to return to time and time again, and to share their stories and experiences.
With grace and beauty, the Golden Horizon is a sailing ship first and foremost, sailing to share adventures with our friends, our guests.
Guests can unwind in our on-board spa which boasts a Sauna, Hamman, Snow Room and Jacuzzi. The spa offers a range of treatments including massages, facials, wraps and scrubs. There is also beauty salon, which offers an assortment of treatments including manicures, pedicures and blow-dries and there is a well-stocked library and complimentary wifi.
There are three pools to choose from,a gym, plus a Marina from which you can enjoy a variety of watersports and diving.
Our destination speakers will provide guests with engaging insights, specifically related to the voyage and ports of call.The on-board cruise team offers a full programme of activities including wine tasting and cooking demonstrations.
All 140 cabins and suites enjoy a sea view, as well as twice daily housekeeping and luxury amenities. Cabin interiors offer contemporary luxury, with traditional features and furnishings - a tribute to the nautical heritage of a tall ship.
Owner's Suite: Double or twin beds, living
& dining area, balcony, en suite (shower & bath), sofa bed
& guest bathroom, walk-in wardrobe, complimentary mini bar and
canapes.
Deluxe Balcony Room: Balcony, double or twin beds,
sofa bed, en suite with shower over bath, complimentary mini
bar.
Cabin: Double bed or twin beds, two portholes,
deluxe bathroom with a shower, complimentary water.
Breakfast, lunch and daytime offerings can be traditional or light and fresh and include dishes with a local flavour.
Our full-service dinner is served over two levels in our spectacular main dining room. A selection of wines and beers are complimentary in the main dining room.
There are five bars including two outside bars and a piano bar which is perfect for enjoying a drink with new friends. Elsewhere, our premium beverage bar, Debeljak's, is stocked with some of the world's finest spirits.
Our resident pianist and musical duo will entertain guests and, as we travel the world, local shows, dancers and singers will help to immerse our guests in the local culture.
Our philosophy is simple but unique - we will follow the sun, using the winds and the currents, to take us to magical beaches and port destinations.
Our aim is to be powered by nature whenever possible and we intend to sail, without using propulsion, for around 70% of each season.
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* Prices are based on two sharing a D2 cabin. Subject to availability. Deposit: 15% at time of booking. All cabins have outside view. Upgrades are available at a supplement. Single supplement applies. **For full deposit and cancellation information, visit tstours.co.uk/assets/tandc.pdf. †Optional excursions are available at a supplement. Always check the FCO travel advice, as it includes the very latest information on safety, security, travel warnings and health. For more information, visit gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.