Faroe Islands Cruises

The Faroe Islands, a stunning archipelago located in the North Atlantic, offer an extraordinary blend of dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and a serene way of life. Composed of 18 islands, known for their rugged cliffs, lush green valleys, and picturesque villages, this region provides a unique experience for modern travellers seeking adventure and tranquility. Fun fact: the Faroe Islands is home to one of the largest sea bird colonies in the world, attracting birdwatchers eager to see puffins, guillemots, and many more species! A cruise to the Faroe Islands allows you to traverse the beauty of this remote European destination while enjoying all the luxuries of a cruise ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to the Faroe Islands

• Holland America Line operates a fleet of 11 ships, with 1 dedicated to itineraries that include the Faroe Islands. The Nieuw Statendam is notable for its elegant design and culinary excellence, offering a range of dining venues that showcase local flavours. With activities like cooking demonstrations and cultural enrichment programs, guests can immerse themselves in the local heritage. Most cruises depart from London (Dover) or Rotterdam, ensuring easy embarkation for travellers seeking to explore this scenic archipelago.
• Norwegian Cruise Line has a fleet of 20 ships, with 1 focused on cruising in the Faroe Islands. The Norwegian Star is well-known for its freestyle cruising concept, giving guests the freedom to choose their dining and activity schedules. With exciting onboard entertainment and comfortable staterooms, this ship provides a pleasant cruising experience. Departures often occur from Oslo or Reykjavik, making it simple to access this magical region.
• MSC Cruises features a fleet of 23 ships, with 2 offering itineraries that highlight the Faroe Islands. The MSC Poesia and MSC Euribia are popular choices for their family-friendly amenities and engaging onboard activities. Guests can enjoy exciting shows and themed dining experiences, making every moment enjoyable. Departures most commonly happen from Genoa or Copenhagen, ensuring great access to this captivating destination.
• Carnival Cruise Line boasts a fleet of 27 ships, with routes that include the Faroe Islands on 1 ship. The Carnival Dream is known for its vibrant ambiance and various families-focused amenities, offering fun water park attractions and diverse dining options. Most departures occur from Miami or New York, allowing easy starts to your jaunt into the rugged beauty of the Faroe Islands.
• P&O Cruises has a fleet of 7 ships, with 1 featuring itineraries to the Faroe Islands. The Britannia is particularly acclaimed for its award-winning dining and relaxed atmosphere, catering to guests seeking a more charming cruising experience. Departures are commonly from Southampton, providing an easy access point for UK cruisers eager to explore the enchanting far reaches of the North Atlantic.

Luxury and Small Ship Options in the Faroe Islands

• Oceania Cruises operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 offering itineraries to the majestic Faroe Islands. The Regatta and Nautica are known for their luxurious atmosphere and gourmet dining experiences, giving a taste of local cuisine with a refined twist. Departures typically occur from Miami or Barcelona, enabling a lovely approach to exploring the breathtaking islands.
• Azamara Cruises has a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 dedicated to itineraries featuring the Faroe Islands. The Azamara Onward and Azamara Quest are praised for their intimate settings and immersive experiences. These ships often offer cultural enrichment opportunities and late-night port stays. Departures most frequently occur from Miami or Athens, enhancing your journey to the northern archipelago.
• Seabourn comprises a luxury fleet of 5 ships, with 2 offering itineraries to the Faroe Islands. The Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Sojourn are known for their high-end amenities and all-inclusive services, guaranteeing a sublime experience at sea. Departures usually happen from London or Reykjavik, setting a sophisticated tone for your adventure among these breathtaking islands.
• Explora Journeys operates a fleet of 2 ships, both featuring itineraries that include the Faroe Islands. The EXPLORA I and II focus on luxury and wellness, providing plush accommodations and an array of wellness programs. Departures typically occur from Barcelona or Miami, ensuring guests embark in style as they explore this stunning region.
• Fred Olsen operates a fleet of 3 ships, with 1 featuring itineraries to the Faroe Islands. The Bolette is cherished for its approachable cruising style and warm hospitality, making it ideal for personal engagement with the destinations. Departures typically occur from Newcastle upon Tyne or Liverpool, making it convenient for UK cruisers excited to discover this beautiful area.

Top Harbours to Discover in the Faroe Islands

• Tórshavn – The capital city of the Faroe Islands, Tórshavn is filled with charming streets and a rich cultural scene. Visitors can explore the historic Tinganes, home to the Faroese government, and enjoy vibrant local shops and cafés. Don’t forget to sample traditional Faroese dishes such as fermented lamb while soaking in the serene atmosphere of this quaint maritime town.
• Gøta – Renowned for its rich natural beauty, Gøta offers stunning landscapes and picturesque hiking trails. The iconic Slættaratindur mountain provides an excellent opportunity for hikes that reward you with breathtaking views over the surrounding area. Explore the local culture through traditional music and handicrafts, often found in the charming village shops.
• Ísafjördur – Although primarily part of Iceland, if your cruise includes Ísafjördur, it’s known for its excellent natural beauty and nearby hiking opportunities. Explore the scenic fjords, or visit local museums detailing the region’s rich maritime heritage. This area offers breathtaking perspectives on the vast wilderness.
• Runavik – A quaint village, Runavik is known for its beautiful scenery and cultural heritage. Walking trails provide stunning views of the mountains and contour the coast, perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll. Local cafes will welcome you with delicious coffee and pastries made from traditional recipes.
• Vágar – The island of Vágar features stunning landscapes and dramatic scenery, making it a must-visit destination. Take the chance to see the iconic Lake Sørvágsvatn which appears to hang suspended above the ocean due to a quirk of perspective. Engage with friendly locals and enjoy local delicacies at the charming village eateries dotted around.

The Best Times to Cruise to the Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands have a cool temperate oceanic climate, providing visitors with a unique experience during various seasons. From January to March, temperatures typically range from -1°C to 6°C, often creating a peaceful ambience with low tourist presence, but be prepared for the unpredictable weather. Spring (April to June) sees temperatures warming to around 4°C to 12°C, making it a wonderful time to witness the stunning landscapes come to life with vibrant greenery and blooming flora. Summer months (July to September) present the mildest climate with average temperatures of 10°C to 15°C, providing ideal conditions for hiking and enjoying the magnificent views. Autumn (October to December) will bring cooler temps of 3°C to 9°C, and it can often start showcasing beautiful fall colours in the landscape, adding to the charm of this unique region.

Costs of Cruising to the Faroe Islands

A one-week cruise to the Faroe Islands typically ranges from £900 to £1,800, depending on the cruise line and choice of accommodations. Luxury cruises usually start around £3,500 and can rise significantly based on service levels and amenities. For meals at local restaurants, budget about £10 to £25, with drinks typically costing around £4 to £10, allowing you to indulge in the delicious local cuisine during your visit.

The natural beauty, friendly locals, and rich culture of the Faroe Islands await your exploration. Now is the perfect time to book your cruise holiday through Cruise1st and embark on an enchanting journey across this stunning archipelago!