Fred. Olsen – Scenic Islands & Dramatic Coastlines of Scotland – May 2026
Sails from Liverpool
Embark on a five-night voyage around Scotland’s scenic islands aboard Bolette, diverting from the usual tourist route into picturesque lochs and past remarkable sites. Marvel at the mystique of the Isle of Staffa, where the hexagonal basalt columns form Fingal’s Cave. You’ll also sail past the bonnet-shaped island of Bac Mòr, and the diverse landscapes of the Small Isles. Immerse yourself in Gaelic traditions with Ceilidh dancing, sample local whisky, cheeses and fudge in Orkney and engage with centuries-old folklore tales. Enrich your journey as you uncover legendary Neolithic landmarks such as Skara Brae and the standing Stones of Callanish.
Click to view Ship Information of the Bolette
Dates
Friday 22nd May -
Cruise Itinerary
Friday 22 May 2026
Departure from Liverpool, United Kingdom
Board the ship late afternoon before you set sail.
Saturday 23 May 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Sunday 24 May 2026
Kirkwall, Scotland
The Orkneys archipelago, around 70 islands in the far north of Scotland, were once the centre of innovation in the British Isles, where farmers in the Stones Ages brought various cattle, pigs and sheep, thus establishing farmsteads on the islands. Today, Skara Brae is a preserved settlement, along with excavated burial and ceremonial sites. Kirkwall stands as the capital of the islands, and is the perfect starting point for exploring Orkney’s fascinating historical sites.
Monday 25 May 2026
Stornoway, Scotland
Located on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, Stornoway is a thriving town with a busy port, best seen from the top of ‘Gallow’s Hill’ – reached by the impressive grounds of Lews Castle. Originally built in 1847, the castle has had some well-known owners, including Lord Leverhume, who founded the company now known as Unilever. He gave the castle to the people of Stornoway, where it served as a naval hospital and college, but is now a noteworthy museum.
Tuesday 26 May 2026
Cruising by the Small Isles, Scotland
Part of the Inner Hebrides, lying just south of the Isle of Skye, are the Small Isles. Comprised of four beautiful islands; Eigg, Rum, Canna and Muck, they are all famed for their dramatic scenery, variety of wildlife and natural wonders. Mighty volcanic peaks surround Kinlock Castle on the largest island, Rum. The basalt cliffs of Canna, charming villages of Eigg, and Muck’s fertile lowlands and beautiful beaches make this archipelago the perfect scenic cruising destination.
Tuesday 26 May 2026
Cruising by Dutchman’s Cap, Scotland
Bac Mòr is one of the most striking and iconic Scottish Treshnish Isles near Mull and is located a few miles west of Staffa and Iona. Affectionately referred to as The Dutchman’s Cap due to its unusual shape, Bac Mòr has a height of 283 feet, and its flat surroundings resemble glassy lava fields. The Treshnish Isles were formed 60 million years ago when volcanic eruptions on the nearby island of Mull caused lava to flow into the sea.
Tuesday 26 May 2026
Cruising by Fingal’s Cave, Scotland
Created around 60 million years ago, and said to be the corresponding piece of road built by the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill, to the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, Fingal’s Cave is a basalt sea-cave with distinctive columns and a remarkable symmetry. Looming 69 metres out of the ocean, it appears to look like a piece of contemporary art, but is completely shaped by nature. Often, the cliffs and ledges are covered with native seabirds, including guillemots, razorbills and puffins.
Wednesday 27 May 2026
Arrival at Liverpool, United Kingdom
After an early breakfast, disembark the ship for your journey home.
Bolette Ship Information
Proudly bearing the name of the wife of one of the original founding brothers – Petter Olsen, Bolette harbours an historic connection to the Olsen family. Exuding classic, elegant style in her exterior and interior design, and featuring spacious and comfortable public areas, as well as just 690 cabins, Fred. Olsen’s flagship leads our fleet of smaller ships by example.
She can travel at high speeds, enabling the ship to reach destinations quicker, meaning our journey planners can craft itineraries that include more visits to ports and places on even our shorter cruises, and more time sailing the most scenic routes.
Bolette provides guests with plenty of space to relax within the bars, lounges, theatres and out on the open decks. The Observatory is where you can enjoy the scenic cruising through large panoramic windows. The Auditorium hosts cooking demonstrations as well as specialist enrichment talks and evening movie nights. Up on deck eight, you’ll find our Lido Bar and swimming pool. The retractable roof means you can enjoy a swim year-round, wherever you’re cruising. And of course, with friendly staff providing the typical level of personal, attentive service, there’s an intimate feel to the on board experience too.
Date | Arrival | Departure |
Fri 22 May 2026 | Late PM | |
Sat 23 May 2026 | ||
Sun 24 May 2026 | Early AM | Early PM |
Mon 25 May 2026 | Early AM | Late PM |
Tue 26 May 2026 | Early AM | Early PM |
Wed 27 May 2026 | Early AM |