No-Fly British Isles Cruise

Itinerary

1. Day

   1

   Embark in Dover

   Dover, United Kingdom

   

   Make your way to Dover, where your ship will depart around 6pm. Before boarding, you could take some time to explore this iconic coastal town and its imposing medieval Castle.

   After checking in on board MS Maud, you'll receive a complimentary wind and water-resistant expedition jacket. There'll be time to settle into your cabin and explore a bit of the ship before a pre-departure safety drill and a welcome talk from the Expedition Team.

   This evening you'll enjoy your first dinner aboard the ship and join the Captain and crew as they toast to your exciting expedition to come.

   Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
2. Day

   2

   At Sea

   Dover, United Kingdom

   

   Enjoy an idyllic day at sea with plenty of time to unwind and get to know your ship. Admire the views from the Observation Deck, settle into a good book with a freshly baked pastry from Fredheim, or have a relaxing soak in one of the hot tubs.

   You'll also be invited to talks hosted by the Expedition Team, experienced explorers who will happily share their extensive knowledge of the British Isles with you.

   Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
3. Day

   3

   Fishguard

   Fishguard, United Kingdom

   

   Our first port of call on our exploration of the British Isles, between the Preseli Hills and the Pembrokeshire coast, is the charming fishing village of Fishguard. Split in two by a steep, winding hill, Lower Town is home to the original hamlet and harbour, while the 'new' town sits on a clifftop, commanding spectacular views.

   From Lower Town, you can explore the ancient woodlands of the Gwaun Valley, on a walking trail that takes in the River Gwaun, medieval Llanychllwydog pillar stones, St Brynach's Church and the Dyffryn Arms pub, run by local legend Bessie. If you appreciate beautiful, landscaped gardens, then head towards the gardens at Dyffryn Fernant. For incredible views over the harbour, you could also walk up the hill to Castle Point and the ruins of Fishguard Fort, from where you can join a stretch of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

   Fishguard has the accolade of being the infamous site of the 'Last Invasion of Britain', by the French in 1797, and the local library houses a 100-foot-long 'Bayeux' style tapestry, depicting the invasion.

   Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
4. Day

   4

   Belfast

   Belfast, Ireland

   Today we sail into Belfast, an historic port city and famously wher the Titanic was built and began its infamous journey. Attractions include Ulster Museum, Belfast Castle and the Botanic Gardens.

   Explore the Cathedral Quarter, with its charming cobbled streets and majestic Victorian archiecture, and visit St Anne's Cathedral with its exquisite mosaics. Head to Donegall Square to see the City Hall and the impressive Grand Opera House.

   From Belfast it's possible to reach the Giant's Causeway and the striking northern coastline.

   Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
5. Day

   5

   Tobermory, Isle of Mull

   Tobermory, United Kingdom

   Tobermory is the Isle of Mull's principal town. You'll be welcomed by a row of cheerful brightly-coloured Georgian houses; alight and explore this charming town and its cafés, restaurants, craft stores and whisky distillery.

   If conditions allow, we'll visit Loch Sunart, a seawater loch that tourists rarely get to see. It's a Marine Protected Area with a rich ecosystem and is a stronghold for otters, plus you might even catch sight of dolphins and porpoises.

   Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6. Day

   6

   St Kilda

   St Kilda, United Kingdom

   

   There's only one way to describe tiny, rocky St Kilda: wild. As such, your visit to this storm-tossed archipelago, with its breathtaking sea cliffs and boiling seas, is totally weather-dependent. Once home to Britain's most remote island community, in 1930, after 4,000 years of continuous habitation, the people living on St Kilda's Hirta Island were evacuated at their own request. The tiny museum that remains is a record of how hard life was on this exposed outcrop.

   The island is a UNESCO double World Heritage Site and the 'jewel in the crown' of the National Trust for Scotland, home to thousands of nesting seabirds and frequented by Minke whales. As well as 60,000 pairs of Northern Gannets, there's a good chance you'll spot Atlantic Puffins, Northern Fulmars, Common Guillemots or Black-legged Kittiwakes. An ancient breed of sheep - the Soay sheep - also live wild here, as do a number of other rare species including the St Kilda mouse and the St Kilda Wren.

   Explore the abandoned village and see the distinctive 'cleits' - circular stone buildings used to store peat, eggs and smoked puffins - before heading back to your ship and its rather less primitive dining options.

   Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
7. Day

   7

   Stornoway

   Stornoway, United Kingdom

   

   Stornoway is the capital of the Isle of Lewis & Harris, an island famed for the mysterious Callanish standing stones, as well as pristine sandy beaches its bustling waterfront parade. Check out Lews Castle, an impressive Gothic-revival style which overlooks Stornoway harbour. As well as visiting its museum, you can wander round the grounds and get unbeatable views of the inky blue seas. Or why not drop in for a wee dram in the castle's very own whisky bar.

   Harris is famed for its woollen tweed fabric, and you'll see jackets, trousers and hats for sale in shops all over the island - perfect for gifts or mementos. Of course, a visit to Lewis & Harris wouldn't be complete without seeing the Callanish standing stones (Calanaisin Gaelic), a magical ring of monoliths whose origins are shrouded in mystery. Another atmospheric site is the Blackhouse at Arnol, a completely restored thatched traditional dwelling which provides a fascinating glimpse into the past. As you explore the island, look out for red deer, eagles, otters, gannets and butterflies - the wild side of this peaceful island attracts nature lovers from around the world.

   Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
8. Day

   8

   Islay

   Islay, United Kingdom

   

   Islay isn't called 'whisky island' for nothing. There are nine working distilleries here, and you'll find their peaty single malts sold around the world. There's also 130 miles of coastline here, with plenty of quiet, sandy coves to explore, plus superb cliff-top walks.

   The island is a wildlife paradise too, with over 200 species of birds including oystercatchers, gannets, terns, and cormorants, as well as buzzards, Hen Harriers and even White-tailed Eagles. From the beaches, dolphins and basking sharks are sometimes spotted, and you might even see otters if you're patient.

   For cosy pubs and restaurants, visit the charming little town of Bowmore - it's probably the only place in the world you can grab a Hebridean pizza - or 'peat-za' - topped with crab and lobster. It's also got a strong crafting heritage, and you'll see potters, quilters and artists in their workshops. Islay Woollen Mill, near Bridgend, made tartan clothes for Mel Gibson in Braveheart, as well as Liam Neeson's kilt in Rob Roy.

   Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
9. Day

   9

   Douglas

   Douglas, United Kingdom

   

   Have your camera ready this morning, the scenic approach to the Isle of Man is not to be missed! In the capital Douglas, you can learn about the island's Celtic and Viking heritage through to its popularity as a Victorian tourist resort.

   The Isle of Man has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and its three Blueways Trails are a great way to get to know the geology, marine life and maritime history of its shoreline. Back in town, hop on board an historic steam train, a vintage electric tram, or horse-drawn tram, or visit the local Motor Museum and Motorcycle Museum to find out about the annual TT race.

   Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
10. Day

    10

    Waterford

    Waterford, United Kingdom

    

    Today you'll set foot in the oldest city in Ireland, Waterford. This well-preserved and walkable small city is famed for beautiful crystal glass production, artistic culture and charming old pubs. A visit to the House of Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre is a also must, and for a traditional drink, pubs like The Munster Bar or The Gingerman provide plenty of atmosphere.

    To get a sense of the city's history, take a walk around the Viking Triangle, so named for the three-sided shape made by the thousand-year-old walls that once surrounded the city. You could also explore Kilkenny Castle, one of the earliest Norman stone castles, nearby or take in the beautiful scenery with a cycle ride along the Waterford Greenway and at the Copper Coast UNESCO Geopark.

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
11. Day

    11

    Isles of Scilly

    Isles of Scilly, United Kingdom

    

    This enchanting archipelago 30 miles off the tip of Cornwall has been compared to a tropical paradise, and no wonder - it's home to some outstandingly beautiful, uncrowded and unspoilt islands and islets. Covered in heathland, with gorgeous sandy beaches, the islands are surrounded by turquoise waters and reefs and offer picturesque coastal walks.

    On Tresco, the famed Tresco Abbey Gardens offer a stunning array of 20,000 plants, many of them subtropical species. You may also choose to visit St Mary's - the largest of the islands - with its rocky coves, archaeological sites and charming Hugh Town. Explore the town and sample delicious freshly caught seafood, as well as enjoying delightful views of the island.

    Alternatively, join an optional landing for a trip around the islands, visiting shipwreck sites, spying seals lying on the rocks, as well as cruising around the bird sanctuary of Annet to observe the puffins and numerous other breeding seabirds

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
12. Day

    12

    Dartmouth

    Dartmouth, United Kingdom

    

    As the pretty banks of the River Dart come into view, you'll have arrived at the lovely waterfront town of Dartmouth, steeped in maritime history and culture. Stroll through the lanes and cobbled streets to browse quaint arts and crafts shops, pastel houses and atmospheric Tudor buildings, or relax by the busy harbour and watch the boats come in.

    You could also take a tour of the Britannia Royal Naval College and its 126 acres of landscaped gardens, or join part of the spectacular South West Coast Path, where you can enjoy the stunning scenery around the Dart Estuary or head inland for glorious countryside. Your visit isn't complete without sampling some of Devon's glorious dishes: seafood lovers should definitely get a taste of the delicious crab, while those with a sweet tooth can indulge in local fudge or a famous Devonshire cream tea.

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
13. Day

    13

    Disembark in Dover

    Dover, United Kingdom

    

    You'll pass the white cliffs of Dover during the early hours today and dock at the city's harbour. After breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to your ship and crew, before making your way home. (B, L, D)

    Meals - Breakfast