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British Archipelagos and Celtic Shores

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 Cruise Length
8 Days
 Cruise Starts
Saint-Malo
 Cruise Finishes
Dublin
8 Day British Archipelagos and Celtic Shores Itinerary (Ponant)
Countries Explored: France, England, Ireland
Cruise Line
Ponant
Ship
Passengers
264
Crew
140
Launched
2015
Refurbished
2021
Cruise Code
0FRDUB7.2

Overview

From the coast of Brittany to the shores of Ireland, Ponant invites you to spend unique moments where the English Channel meets the Celtic Sea. This 8-day interlude between Saint-Malo and Dublin aboard Le Lyrial will take you to the heart of landscapes of wild and melancholic beauty. Between lush meadows, craggy cliffs, small colourful villages, peat bogs and moors, succumb to the charms of these lands steeped in mystery. You will set sail from Saint-Malo, a town famous for the legendary Route du Rhum yacht race. The city of privateers, the diversity of its heritage and its rampart walks will not...read more fail to delight you. Le Lyrial will then make its way north-west to reach the Channel Islands. Here, nature reigns and offers the perfect getaway.

In Guernsey, fall in love with this island that is as captivating as it is mystical. Numerous dolmens and menhirs dot the island, bearing witness to its long history and rich heritage. Next, edged with verdant plains and rocky cliffs, Herm, the smallest of the Channel Islands, will surprise you with its wild, unexplored and untouched quality. Then, you will make your way to Dartmouth, a charming town tucked away in the heart of the stunning décor formed by the mouth of the Dart.

You will discover its old pastel-coloured fishermen's houses and some half-timbered buildings. Then, mythical Cornwall will reveal itself. In Fowey, you will marvel at Mother Nature's masterpieces. There, you will discover a spellbinding environment of majestic cliffs and vast natural spaces, conducive to escape and tranquillity. Your ship will then sail towards the Isles of Scilly, a strange little archipelago whose landscapes seem to have come straight out of Enid Blyton's famous story, The Rockingdown Mystery. Here, long sandy beaches lie alongside green fields, while ruins of old castles stand proud on hilltops.

After a unique stop in Bantry, between spectacular cliffs, a fascinating bay, and vast stretches of orange-tinged moors, you will call at Cork. This iconic Irish city has a perfect blend of lively atmosphere and long history, which reveals itself on every street corner. Your cruise will end in Dublin, the Irish capital brimming with convivial atmosphere and authentic charm.

Cruise Itinerary

Departs: 18:40

Located on the Brittany Coast and built on a rock at the mouth of the River Rance, Saint-Malo's roots go back to before Roman times. Surrounded by tall granite walls, this fortified city was superbly rebuilt to its original style after 80% of it was destroyed in WWII. Small ships can dock at the this port, while large ships will anchor offshore.

Top Things to Do in Saint-Malo:

  • walk the beach to Fort National
  • visit the UNESCO listed Mont Saint-Michel
  • tour the medieval village of Dinan
  • stroll along the cities ramparts

St. Peter Port, the capital of Guernsey and the main port of the island, is home to over 800 years of history. The town overlooks the harbour, with cobblestone streets, rows of brightly painted houses and terraced gardens. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to Albert Pier.

Top Things to Do in St. Peter Port:

  • shop at the National Trust of Guernsey
  • visit Victor Hugo’s home
  • explore the royal fortress of Castle Cornet
  • visit the German Occupation Museum and Underground Hospital

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 22:00

Situated on the south-west coast of England, it seems that Dartmouth is a town that time forgot. Pretty pastel painted houses dating from the medieval times flank the idyllic port, while the enchanting jumble of streets only add to the quiet authenticity of this, very English, seaside town. Ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to dock.

Top Things to Do in Dartmouth:

  • visit Greenway, Agatha Christie's mansion
  • hike the Dart Valley Trail system
  • cruise up the River Dart
  • visit Slapton Sands and the WWII memorial

Arrives: 07:30 Departs: 18:00

Fowey, nestled on the Cornish coast of England, is a picturesque harbour town steeped in maritime history. Known for its deep-water harbour, Fowey has been a significant trading port since the Middle Ages and continues to charm visitors with its narrow, winding streets and medieval buildings. The town's literary connections, notably to author Daphne du Maurier, add a layer of cultural depth, with the Fowey Aquarium and St. Fimbarrus Church also popular with visitors.

A stroll along the esplanade reveals stunning views of the estuary and the surrounding hills, with nearby beaches, like Readymoney Cove, offering a tranquil spot for relaxation. Fowey also acts as a gateway to explore the South West Coast Path, providing ample opportunities for scenic walks with breathtaking coastal scenery.

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 18:00

Scattered 30 miles offshore from England’s most south-westerly point, the Isles of Scilly are home to rich wildlife, and green land sloping to powdery white beaches.

St. Mary's is the biggest of the isles and is one of only five occupied islands. Isolated and serene, life here hums along at its own pace and the locals enjoy the UK’s mildest climate, and some of its most spectacular beaches.

Look our for Atlantic seals and seabirds like puffins and fulmars along the coastline. Visitors can also spot the ghostly shipwrecks strewn around the island's waters.

Arrives: 12:00 Departs: 23:00

Bantry is situated at the head of ancient Bantry Bay, which is renowned for being one of the most breathtaking vistas along Ireland’s coast. The picturesque town’s narrow lanes are filled with old-fashioned shops and restaurants that offer a taste of the region’s history and culture. Ships will anchor in Bantry Harbour and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Top Things to Do in Bantry:

  • visit Bantry House
  • hike up to the Kealkill Stone Circle
  • explore the Ring of Kerry
  • stroll through the gardens on Garnish Island

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 16:00

Cheerful Cork is set in one of Ireland's most stunning settings, the city sprawls about the River Lee with bridges crisscrossing the city and leading to landmarks like St. Anne's Church and the Old City Gaol. Large ships will dock in nearby Cobh, (pronounced Cove), while smaller ships may dock in the heart of Cork city.

Stroll along the scenic River Lee to reach St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, an impressive Gothic Revival masterpiece with stunning stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings. For a unique experience, visit the Cork City Gaol, a former prison turned museum, offering fascinating insights into 19th-century prison life.

Arrives: 07:00

Start your exploration of Dublin with a visit to Trinity College, home to the ancient Book of Kells. A stroll through the cobbled streets of Temple Bar reveals an array of lively pubs, quirky shops, and the fascinating Irish Film Institute.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the solemn beauty of Dublin Castle and the poignant exhibits at Kilmainham Gaol. For a taste of local flavor, visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's famous stout. End your day with a leisurely walk along the River Liffey, enjoying views of the Ha'penny Bridge and the city's charming Georgian architecture.

Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.

Life Onboard Le Lyrial

Le Lyrial
Le Lyrial

Enjoy the luxury and sophistication of mega yacht cruising when you explore the seas on Le Lyrial. Read more

Luxury Staterooms and Suites
Luxury Staterooms and Suites

Relax in the comfort of chic decor and luxury in your ocean facing accommodation. Read more

Exquisite French Dining
Exquisite French Dining

Exquisite French gastronomy is the highlight of every meal you will savour in the restaurant and grill. Read more

Nightlife and Entertainment
Nightlife and Entertainment

Applaud a live show in the theatre or enjoy the social life and dancing in the main lounge. Read more

Renowned Service Excellence
Renowned Service Excellence

It doesnt matter where you are cruising, you will be well looked after from the moment you embark. Read more

Ponant Wellness Spa
Ponant Wellness Spa

Using on the best French products, a treatment in the spa will revive and rejuvenate. Read more

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Availability USD USD Port charges, taxes and fees included.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Ponant. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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