Welcome to Road Scholar’s Floating Campus Voyages!
What’s filled with learning, comfortable amenities, interesting people … and floats? If you answered Road Scholar’s Floating Campus voyages, you’re right! Road Scholar’s Floating Campus voyages are unique educational adventures that take place on waterways around the world, on board ships that are perfect for exploring each region. Think of these voyages like college campuses on the water, where you might sit down for lunch with your instructor or meet other Road Scholars during a book club.
Along the way, you’ll explore some of the world’s most fascinating places and enjoy cultural experiences that help you learn more about the people who live there. You’ll pack and unpack only once as you live on board beautiful ships that also serve as your classrooms.
Why Should I Choose a Floating Campus?
If you love the feel of a college reunion, Floating Campus voyages emulate that experience. On these journeys, you get to know your fellow Road Scholars in a laid-back atmosphere that is filled with discovery.
Each learning adventure will be enhanced by instructors who stay with you onboard throughout the voyage and join you on land for field trips. You can join onboard book clubs, meet up with an activity director for a photography class or simply check out the ship’s library and enjoy an opportunity to chat with other learners like yourself.
On all of these voyages, you’ll enjoy free airfare from most cities and all port taxes, fees and ship staff tips are included — making the value extraordinary and the details convenient! Many voyages also offer the chance to choose your pace, so you can feel comfortable at the activity level that’s right for you.
Find the Floating Campus That’s Right For You
Now that you’re excited about Road Scholar’s Floating Campus voyages, the only thing left to do is find the learning adventure that’s right for you! Join us in Scotland, Iceland or Italy, or set sail on a multi-country voyage around the U.K. or from Lisbon to London. New voyages are regularly added, so be sure to check back frequently for updates!
Experience Scotland’s Northern Coastline
Scotland’s Northern Coast is a place of incredible beauty and wild geographic wonders. Begin your journey in the capital city of Edinburgh with a coach-led exploration, then make your way to Aberdeen where you’ll board the brand-new expedition ship, Ocean Albatros. From here, you’ll explore Scotland’s northern coastline and islands, where average travelers often don’t get to visit.
Voyage to Caithness to learn about royal history at the Castle of Mey, purchased and restored by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. Then, continue on to discover Scotland’s prehistoric landmarks during field trips to the Callanish Standing Stones and the Ring of Brogdar in the Orkney Isles, both sites thought to have been constructed for astronomical observations. You’ll even delight in the beauty of Scotland’s remote islands as you explore the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. Hop on a Zodiac for a thrilling ride along Loch Torridon!
Walk on the “Wild” Side in Iceland
If you don’t get a chance to sail along the Ocean Albatros with us in Scotland, you can still enjoy this incredible Floating Classroom in Iceland! On a journey that begins and ends in Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik, sail along the country’s coastline, stopping to explore the nature-filled landscapes of the Westman Islands, Grimsey and Husavik.
This voyage is incredible for anyone who loves geology — the volcanic activity and stunning fjords of Iceland are nothing if not riveting. If you’re an animal lover, you’ll be enthralled by the world’s largest colony of Atlantic Puffins who gently make their home along the Westman Islands. And if you simply want to learn more about the warm people, beautiful landscapes and Viking history that Iceland is famous for, you’ll be enchanted around every bend as you explore quaint villages and stunning country sides that feel otherworldly.
Say “Salve” to Italy
Set out for warmer waters and ancient history on this Floating Campus along the southern coast of Italy! Explore Sicily and Malta aboard the Variety Voyager, a mega yacht whose features offer ample opportunities to view the stunning Mediterranean surroundings while dining and relaxing.
Fans of mythology and antiquity will love exploring sites like Herculaneum and Taormina’s Greek Theatre. The city of Syracuse will also fascinate, and you can walk its streets while learning about its role in ancient history, including serving as the birthplace of the Greek astronomer and physicist Archimedes. Take a break from stories of the past and relish the natural wonders of the gardens of Villa San Michelle on Capri and Mt. Etna. All the while, the Variety Voyager will guide you from port to port as you learn on and off this elegant ship.
The Ultimate U.K. Voyage
It’s the best way to step foot in all of the countries of the U.K. on one trip! For this Floating Campus voyage, you’re back on the Ocean Albatros and setting sail for England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
From the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Giant’s Causeway to the storied waters of Loch Ness, experience the mystery and beauty of the U.K.’s natural wonders and learn about ecology from onboard experts. You’ll also have opportunities to explore the U.K.’s cities, including London and Edinburgh, and walk through the same sites as medieval figures and contemporary leaders. With stops at the Isle of Skye, Windsor Castle and the ancient Ring of Brodgar, it will be impossible to pick one highlight from this voyage!
Set Sail Through European History
In addition to the northern seas, the Ocean Albatros also goes south as it brings you from Lisbon to London and from prehistory to modern day on this unforgettable voyage. Overnights in both cities allow for ample exploration, and each port in between will bring a new understanding of western Europe’s history and culture.
Delve into examples of Romanesque, Baroque and Gothic art at sites like the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela and the Quimper Cathedral, located in the oldest city in Brittany. After exploring Portugal, Spain and France, come into port in England and experience the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stonehenge. There will also be a chance to access England’s Isles of Scilly by Zodiac, offering a unique look at life in these remote landscapes. Throughout the journey, history buffs will love learning on shore and onboard with exclusive access to experts.
Wherever you want to learn, we have a Floating Campus voyage that’s right for you! Learn more and enroll today for your next adventure.