This mini cruise combines coastal scenery with fascinating history. Orkney boasts pristine beaches and dramatic seas crashing against towering cliffs. The island’s attractions include standing stones known as the Ring of Brodgar, the harbour of Stromness, and Skara Brae – a Stone Age settlement that predates the Pyramids. Shetland has a craggy coastline peppered with arches and caves. Lerwick is the county town and the isle boasts Bronze Age, Viking and Medieval settlements as well as Jarlshof – one of the most remarkable archaeological sites ever excavated. We include an overnight hotel stay in the highlands before returning home.