Arrive in Reykjavík and transfer to your ship, Holland America Line’s MS Rotterdam.

Home to around 4,500 residents, Heimaey is the largest of Iceland’s Westman Islands, just off the country’s south coast. Steeped in saga history and once raided by pirates in the 17th century, the island is best known for the dramatic eruption of Eldfell in 1973. Awoken by earthquakes and ash clouds, locals were evacuated while a small group remained, famously pumping seawater onto advancing lava to protect the harbour. After almost six months, the eruption ended — the town was partly buried, yet the harbour survived, and most residents returned. Today, Heimaey offers a remarkable window into Iceland’s living geology. At the Eldheimar Museum, see a home preserved beneath ash, while a cruise around the island reveals rugged cliffs, sea caves and birdlife. Spend time exploring at your own pace or join an optional sightseeing tour (additional expense).

Enjoy a day on board. Take advantage of the ship’s superb amenities, from exquisite dining and onboard shopping to the fitness centre and pickleball courts. Be entertained by performances at the spectacular World Stage or unwind with live music.

Enjoy a special Insider Experience today. On the August departure of this tour, discover the ancient treasure of Kirkwall, journeying into the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a World Heritage Site home to the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar and the remarkably preserved village of Skara Brae.

Insider Experience – Essence of the Scottish Highlands Discover the spirit of the Scottish Highlands on an Insider Experience. Travel through sweeping glens to Loch Ness, arriving at Clansman Harbour for a scenic cruise across the loch’s deep, mysterious waters. After returning to shore, continue by coach to Inverness, regarded as the capital of the Highlands. Enjoy free time to explore at your own pace, perhaps strolling along the River Ness, browsing local shops or relaxing in a welcoming cafe.

Next, arrive at the elegant Kingsmills Hotel for a two-course lunch accompanied by a traditional Scottish dram. This afternoon, visit Glen Ord Distillery on the Black Isle, where a guided tour reveals the art of whisky-making, followed by a tasting of Glen Ord single malts.

Just across the Firth of Forth from Rosyth lies South Queensferry, a harbour steeped in history. Around 1071, the future Queen Margaret of Scotland landed here, establishing ‘Queen’s Ferry’ as a key arrival point for pilgrims travelling to St Andrews, Scotland’s medieval religious centre. Her legacy lives on nearby at Edinburgh Castle, where St Margaret’s Chapel — the oldest surviving part of the fortress — is believed to have been her place of worship. Beyond the castle, you’ll find world-class museums, galleries and grand Georgian streets to explore. From here, you may also choose to visit Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city. Enjoy the day at leisure to explore independently, or join one of the optional sightseeing tours available (additional expense).

Your day begins with a panoramic tour of Edinburgh. Admire the elegant Georgian architecture of the New Town and stroll along Princes Street before travelling part of the famous medieval Royal Mile, which stretches between Edinburgh Castle and the 17th-century Palace of Holyroodhouse. The palace was home to Mary, Queen of Scots. Today, it serves as the official residence of the monarch of the United Kingdom in Scotland.

Dominating the city skyline, Edinburgh Castle stands proudly atop an extinct volcanic rock and remains one of the nation’s most important historic landmarks. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old and New Towns, the fortress reveals layers of Scotland’s past through its varied architecture, with sections dating back to the 12th century. Inside, you’ll also have the opportunity to view the Honours of Scotland.

Enjoy time to relax on board your ship as you cruise to Rotterdam.

Today, you will transfer to your hotel in Amsterdam for the night. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, perhaps wandering beside the city’s canals or relaxing at a cafe.

After breakfast, transfer to your ship to board your river cruise.

With historic houses lining its banks and low bridges spanning its waterways, Amsterdam’s 17th-century canal network has earned it the nickname ‘Venice of the North’. Today, board a glass-top boat and cruise past the city’s waterside sights with a local guide. Later this evening, enjoy a special Welcome Dinner on board.

Learn how the twin spires of Cologne’s famous cathedral, the Kölner Dom, took over six centuries to complete as you cruise into this picturesque city. Disembark and take the short drive to Brühl for your Insider Experience. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the centre of Cologne at your leisure.

Insider Experience – Augustusburg Palace in Germany

Explore the former residence of Archbishop-Elector Clemens August, the World Heritage-listed Augustusburg Palace in Brühl. Listen to enthralling stories and enjoy a walk through the stunning landscaped parks and gardens between the palace and the Falkenlust hunting lodge. The palace and the lodge are some of the finest examples of rococo architecture from 18th century Germany.

Relax and enjoy the scenery as you cruise along one of the Moselle River’s most picturesque stretches. In Cochem, set out on a walking tour through narrow lanes lined with half-timbered houses, then visit magnificent Cochem Castle, perched high above the river like a scene from a fairy tale.

Cruise through the Rhine Gorge, widely regarded as the most scenic stretch of the Rhine River. In Rüdesheim, ride the Winzerexpress mini road train through the town to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum to view its remarkable collection of automated instruments. Afterwards, enjoy time to wander the Old Town and perhaps visit the famous Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas store.

Arrive in Strasbourg, the Alsatian city set on the border of France and Germany. Enjoy a special Insider Experience before returning to your river ship for a Farewell Dinner.

Insider Experience – Old Town Tour and Tasting

Join a guided walking tour through the historic centre of Strasbourg, admiring its medieval architecture, including the famous cathedral. Along the way, sample regional specialties such as local cheeses and sweet treats.

Disembark in Breisach and set out on a scenic journey into the enchanting Black Forest. Travel by coach through mountainsides cloaked in pine and birch forest, arriving in the picturesque village of Triberg.

After breakfast on board, disembark and be transferred to Basel airport for your onward flight.