A glacially eroded volcanic plug...

provides the foundation for the historic Edinburgh Castle, looming high above the city of the same name (click to enlarge):

Today's excursion had us climbing the long uphill approach on cobblestone roads that were constructed centuries ago, well before America was discovered:

After the fascinating tour of the ancient fortress we made our way by bus to the Port of Montrose, Scotland, and boarded the Clipper Odyssey. Shortly thereafter we heaved anchor and set an eastward course across the North Sea toward Germany:

Off we go, as the adventure has just begun!