Majestic Britain & Ireland with Normandy and Gems of the Seine

Start your journey in the heart of Dublin, Ireland’s vibrant capital, with a two-night Special Stay. Set on the banks of the River Liffey, Dublin was founded by the Vikings who named the city Dubh Linn, which means ‘Black Pool’ after the tidal pool that formed where the River Poddle met the Liffey. The city is magnificent with Georgian architecture, grand squares and historic monuments, and is steeped in culture and oozes charisma with a touch of hedonism.

This morning your local guide will help you discover the history and charm of Dublin on a walking tour. See The Mansion House, the official residence of Dublin’s Lord Mayor, Dublin Castle, which was constructed in the 13th century on the site of a Viking settlement, and the old Post Office, the heart of Dublin’s history and culture for more than 800 years. You will also see 19th century Fitzwilliam Square, St. Stephen’s Green Park, the Molly Malone statue, the Old Parliament House and City Hall.

Scenic Freechoice: Choose from these captivating Freechoice activities.

• Guinness Storehouse: Visit the Guinness Storehouse and factory to learn how this famous brew is made. After your guided tour, learn how to pull the perfect pint and enjoy a tasting from the 7th floor, which has a spectacular vantage point overlooking the city of Dublin.
• Tour of Kilmainham Gaol: Journey through some of Ireland’s most fascinating history at Kilmainham Gaol Museum. Your local guide will regale you with tales from the gaol’s nearly 200-year history, including those who were held here while fighting for Irish independence. (B/D)

Today, you’ll visit the 600-year-old Blarney Castle. Explore the historic castle and see the legendary ‘Stone of Eloquence’, more commonly known as the Blarney Stone. Legend says if you kiss it, you will receive the ‘gift of the gab’. Over the years, famous people such as Sir Winston Churchill, Ronald Reagan and Mick Jagger have puckered up to the ancient stone.

Afterwards, continue to Killarney, a charming town nestled in a valley surrounded by Ireland’s highest mountain range, the McGillycuddy Reeks, for a two-night Special Stay. (B/D)

Today you will experience the breathtaking scenery of the Ring of Kerry, renowned as one of the most picturesque landscapes in Ireland. Here, the Iveragh Mountains dramatically drop into the Atlantic Ocean, where rolling green hills dotted with cows and sheep, are punctuated by sparkling lakes, grand houses and ancient castles. Watch as tiny fishing villages and off-shore islands come in and out of view as you wind along this 100-kilometre route, which will captivate you at every bend. (B)

Today, you will drive along the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way to the Cliffs of Moher, a wind-whipped geological wonder that stretch for eight kilometres and soar to 214 metres above the crashing sea below.

Arrive in the vibrant city of Galway for an overnight Special Stay. The only city along the entire 2,500-kilometre Wild Atlantic Way, Galway is a remote, bohemian city that is rich in creative culture. Its cobbled streets are lined with candy-coloured shopfronts, cafes and bars, which serve exceptional Irish food and are alive with traditional music. (B)

Today you will be making your way to Northern Ireland, stopping enroute to visit the Monastery of Clonmacnoise. Dating to the 6th century, the relics offer a rare insight into life in this period. The site includes the remnants of a cathedral and one of the largest collection of early Christian graves.

Continue to Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, for a two-night Special Stay. Set on the shores of the Belfast Lough and overlooked by rugged Cave Hill, this lively city is the gateway to the dramatic Causeway Coastal Route and is where the Titanic was built. (B/D)

Belfast is a port city with a fascinating history. Learn about its troubled past during a guided tour. Afterwards discover the story of Titanic, from its design and build to its fateful ending. You will have the opportunity to hear some fascinating facts about the great ship and learn about the architectural design from the spot where the ship was launched. (B)

This morning, cross the Irish Sea by ferry to Scotland, where you will travel to Loch Lomond, one of Scotland’s best-known lakes (loch means lake in Scotland) and the largest in Great Britain by surface area. This evening, check into your hotel for a two-night Special Stay. (B/D)

Loch Lomond may be known for its breathtaking waterway, but Stirling Castle is one of the region’s most iconic castles. Home to multiple generations of Scottish royalty, including the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots, its the ancient halls of this castle which possesses a rich storied history. You will see the Great Hall, the largest Medieval banqueting hall ever built in Scotland, and the elaborate Royal Chapel. (B)

Journey to Loch Ness, a corner of the Scottish Highlands that is known for its dramatic scenery and the fabled Loch Ness monster. Keep an eye out for this elusive creature, also known as ‘Nessie’, a large prehistoric reptile believed to be living in the loch. There have been thousands of alleged sightings since the 1930s, including photographs emerging all the time, though there is no scientific evidence that Nessie exists. Nonetheless, the great folklore of the Loch Ness continues to draw in visitors far and wide. Tonight, you’ll enjoy the first of a two-night stay. (B/D)

Known as Scotland’s Highland Capital, Inverness sits where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth, an inlet of the North Sea.

Today you will visit the Battle of Culloden Visitors Centre, where you will learn about the 1745 Jacobite rising and hear tales of the battle that is often described as one of the most brutal in Scottish history. Then you will discover 14th century Cawdor Castle, which is still inhabited by the Cawdor family and comprises a moat, drawbridge, turrets and turnpike stairs. (B)

This morning you will depart the highlands bound for Edinburgh via Scone Palace, the seat of parliaments and the crowning place of Scottish kings including Macbeth, and the capital of the Pict kingdom. Their name is thought to mean ‘the painted ones’, and there is suggestion that they decorated themselves with tattoos and dyed their skin blue.

Scenic Enrich:

• Falconry Display: In the palace grounds you will be treated to a delicious morning tea accompanied by an impressive demonstration of Falconry. Known as the 'sport of Kings' this ancient art has a history that dates back almost 4,000 years.

Afterwards, continue to Edinburgh, on arrival visit a local distillery to learn how famous Scottish Whiskey is produced. One of the most architecturally beautiful cities in the world, Edinburgh has been Scotland’s capital since the 15th century. (B/D)

Explore Edinburgh’s ancient, cobbled streets and well-preserved Medieval and classical architecture today during a guided tour. This historic city was founded upon volcanic Castle Rock, where Edinburgh Castle – one of the oldest fortified castles in Europe – sits today. You will visit this impressive castle, as well as Royal Yacht Britannia, the former royal yacht of Queen Elizabeth II.

Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Perhaps, wander down the city’s Royal Mile, which is buzzing with stores, cafes, bars, and often street performers. This road connects the two royal residences, stretching from Holyrood Palace to Edinburgh Castle. (B)

This morning you’ll depart Edinburgh on a scenic drive to Alnwick Castle. There, you’ll discover an incredible history that dates back over 950 years to the Norman period. Learn about the family that has resided in the castle for over 700 years and hear about the movies that have used Alnwick as a filming location, including Harry Potter and Downton Abbey.

Arrive in York this afternoon. This fascinating Medieval city is nestled within ancient city walls and has Roman and Viking roots. Tonight, check in for a two-night Special Stay. (B)

This morning you will meet a local guide who will escort you through this delightful city seeing all the Roman and Viking heritage that is on offer. Walk along The Shambles, the narrow medieval street lined with half-timbered houses and traditional shop fronts and see the impressive York Minster, said to be one of the most beautiful gothic churches in the world. (B)

Enroute to the Roman city of Bath, you will stop in the charming town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Enjoy an orientation tour to see where the famous Bard was born, learn about his life and see his final resting place.

This afternoon you’ll arrive in Bath and check into your hotel for a two-night Special Stay. The city of Bath has been a spa town since Roman times thanks to the mineral waters with restorative properties that bubble beneath its surface. It was also the home of Jane Austen and was frequented by Charles Dickens. (B)

Discover beautiful Bath on a guided walking tour. The UK’s only World Heritage-listed city, the town is resplendent in honey-coloured Georgian architecture, stately Palladian townhouses and the renowned Roman Baths, constructed in 70AD.

This afternoon is at leisure to explore the city at your own pace. Perhaps you would like to pack your swimsuit and make your way to the contemporary Thermae Bath Spa to experience the therapeutic waters that make this city world famous or climb the 212 steps to the top of Abbey Tower for a panoramic view over the ancient city and surrounding countryside. (B)

On your way to London, you’ll discover the mystical wonders of Stonehenge. It is estimated that this World Heritage site is around 5,000 years old. See the Stone Circle, neolithic villages and learn more at the exhibition.

Afterwards, continue to the English capital, London, for a two-night Special Stay. The city features some of the most recognisable historic landmarks in the world, including Big Ben, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. Among London’s 2,000-year history, you’ll find bustling pubs, the West End theatre district and the glorious River Thames at its heart. (B)

Today, explore London with a local guide, seeing highlights such as Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace, the King’s official London residence. You’ll also visit the Tower of London, a fortress built by William the Conqueror in 1070 and now the home of the Crown Jewels.

This afternoon, perhaps take a cruise along the River Thames, visit one of the city’s art galleries or step inside Westminster Abbey, where some of the most important events in Royal history have occurred.

London is famous for its pubs, so tonight enjoy dinner in a modern upscale pub near your hotel. (B/D)

Today, travel to Paris, the City of Lights. The French capital is home to some of the world’s most famous monuments, from the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe; museums that contain masterpieces such as Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and Van Gogh’s Self Portrait; and iconic public spaces from elegant tree-lined Champs-Elysee to its urban oasis Jardin des Tuileries. Whether it’s your first or fiftieth time to this romantic city, there is always something new to discover. Your journey will also culminate in Paris where you’ll have the opportunity to scratch the surface a little more.

Upon arrival, transfer to your Scenic Space-Ship where your friendly crew await to welcome you on board. Relax in your luxurious suite or take a beverage to the Sun Deck. (B/D)

Enjoy a relaxed morning on board as you cruise gently along the Seine to Les Andelys, arriving just after lunch. This pretty, waterside village dates back almost 900 years and is resplendent with well-preserved Norman-era houses and exquisite public buildings and overlooked by the imposing ruins of King Richard the Lionheart’s castle, Château Gaillard. Take a stroll alongside the river, admiring the striking limestone cliffs rising from it, or through the charming centre of town where the buildings are a living catalogue through time.

Scenic Freechoice: Choose from this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Hike to Château Gaillard with 'Richard the Lionheart': Step back to the age of Robin Hood on this Medieval-themed walking tour. Uncover the historical secrets of Les Andelys and venture up to Lionheart’s castle, Château Gaillard, to wander among the remnants.
• Tour of Les Andelys with Château Gaillard: Explore the picturesque Norman town of Les Andelys on the banks of the River Seine with your local guide before reaching the Château that looks over the city.
• Cider farm visit: Normandy’s cider production embodies the essence of artisanal craftsmanship and rural charm. Visit a local farm to see the process in action and taste this distinctive effervescent drink.
• Renaissance-era Château Gaillon: Explore the extraordinary 16th-century Château Gaillon, one of the earliest Renaissance-style châteaux in France. Admire the remnants of its lavish interior as you learn about its importance to French history. (B/L/D)

Normandy’s capital, Rouen, has a history that spans over 2,000 years, from Viking legends to its significant role in both World Wars. It was also the place where Richard the Lionheart was crowned Duke of Normandy and Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake. A considerable amount of Rouen was sadly destroyed in World War II, but much of the city has been faithfully restored, including the exquisite Old Town. It’s an engaging and historically rich destination, packed with museums, stylish bistros and coffee shops, and a wealth of churches, including the famed 12th century Rouen Cathedral.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore your way with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Rouen city tour: See why Victor Hugo once described Rouen as ‘the city of a hundred spires’ on this guided tour. Visit the cathedral district, old marketplace and Saint-Maclou Quarter. Step into a fairytale of Medieval alleys and half-timbered houses. Learn about Joan of Arc and see where she was put to death in 1431. Enjoy free time afterwards.
• Guided tour of Rouen with Rollo the Viking: Authentically dressed as Viking warlord Rollo the Walker – who was famously too tall to ride a horse – your guide will take you around the city to learn about the Viking raiders who made Rouen their capital. This tour focuses on the city’s Medieval past and you will enjoy some free time afterwards to explore.
• Photography discovery: Join a local photographer to learn the secret of this century's old art form. Use Rouen as the landscape of your digital portrait like a modern impressionist artist.

Back on board this evening, listen to a fascinating expert lecture. WWI Lecture – Day in the life of a Tommy: During this interactive evening, you will gain an understanding into the life of a soldier on the Western Front and learn why this was known as ‘the Great War’. From the curious 1914 Christmas armistice football match to the horrors of trench warfare involving machine guns, tanks, mining and the deadly flamethrower, you will experience the war through the eyes of an Allied soldier, ‘a Tommy’. Try on his equipment and weapons and taste his rations. This immersive experience will bring the history of war to life. (B/L/D)

With another full day in Rouen today, you can uncover some of the region’s fascinating military history or sample local delicacies on a gourmet tour.

Scenic Freechoice: Choose to explore your way with today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Tastes of Normandy: The abundant region of Normandy is famed for its high quality dairy industry and fruit orchards. On this tour, visit local producers to taste some of the delicious soft cheeses, cider and calvados.
• Excursion to the Somme Battlefields including Newfoundland Memorial Park: Take a full day excursion to the site of the WWI Battle of the Somme, which claimed the lives of more than 150,000 soldiers from Britain and the Commonwealth. Visit the Australian National Memorial (Sir John Monash Centre), the Franco-Australian Museum, Lochnagar Crater and Newfoundland Memorial Park, one of the largest areas on the Western Front where you can still see shell holes and trenches.
• Excursion to the Somme Battlefields Including Thiepval: This full-day excursion will follow the same itinerary as the tour above, visiting the Somme Battlefields, the Australian National Memorial (Sir John Monash Centre) and the Franco-Australian Museum. After lunch, travel to Caterpillar Valley Cemetery, which contains more than 5,500 Commonwealth graves, then visit Thiepval Memorial to the Missing, and Lochnagar Crater.

Please note: The Sir John Monash Centre is a state-of-the-art immersive sensory experience that uses technology to tell the story. In order to maximise your experience, we suggest you download the Sir John Monash Centre app on your phone prior to embarking on your cruise. (B/L/D)

Enjoy another relaxed morning on board as we cruise west to Honfleur, a colourful port city on the edge of the English Channel. Over the years the town has captured the imaginations of countless artists and was the birthplace of Impressionism. The bustling harbour and cobbled streets are a confection of half-timbered houses, restaurants, gourmet shops and art galleries. Scenic’s purpose built ship cruises further into the harbour, providing an easy walk from the ship to explore the harbour area and network of laneways beyond.

A guided walking tour of the city will show you its charming Inner Harbour, the Church of Sainte-Catherine and the Garden of Personalities, before you can explore on your own with some free time. Tonight, history comes a live with an engaging on board lecture about Operation Fortitude and the daily life of Honfleur’s citizens during the D-Day campaign. (B/L/D)

With a full day in Honfleur, this is your chance to learn more about the important role this region played in WWII.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore your way with one of these excursions:

• Excursion to the Normandy Beaches including Omaha Beach (US history focused): Start at the memorial on Utah Beach, where more than 20,000 US troops landed on June 6, 1944, before a visit of Sainte-Mère-Église, the town where 30 US Paratroopers landed during the Normandy Invasion. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Visitor Centre before a short stop at the Omaha Beach Memorial. Omaha Beach is often referred to as ‘Bloody Omaha’, as it resulted in the most casualties during the operation, with 2,400 paying the ultimate sacrifice.
• Excursion to the Normandy Beaches including British Normandy Memorial (UK history focused): The small town of Bayeux was the first town to be liberated after the D-Day Landings and became the French capital for the summer of 1944, until the liberation of Paris. Visit the Bayeux War Cemetery and the Museum of the Battle of Normandy, which describes the chronological events from D-Day in detail. Then explore the state-of-the-art Landing Museum at Arromanches, located across the artificial harbour that was built to dispatch reinforcements. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the British Normandy Memorial, the Pegasus Bridge & Museum, and stop at the Ranville War Cemetery.
• Excursion to the Normandy Beaches including Juno Beach Centre (Canadian history focused): Begin at Abbey d’Ardenne, which was founded in the 11th century and is now a memorial to the Canadian Prisoners of War from the D-Day landings. Next you will head to Juno Beach Centre, a memorial to where 20,000 Canadian troops landed on that day. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Bény-sur-Mer Canadian Cemetery where the 335 Canadian men who were killed in the D-Day Landings and the early stages of the campaign are buried. You’ll also visit Pegasus Bridge & Museum, which is a site of an important battle.
• Bayeux tour: If your interest sits in a different era of history, join a guided tour of Bayeux, including the Notre Dame Cathedral of Bayeux, built between the 11th and 14th centuries and considered a masterpiece of Norman Romanesque and Gothic architecture. You will have free time afterward to explore the town of Bayeux. (B/L/D)

Begin cruising inland early this morning to the small town of Caudebec-en-Caux. Set on a curve of the Seine, the riverfront is lined with handsome homes, stately gardens and crumbling stone walls. Caudebec-eCaux dates back to the Middle Ages and a handful of historic buildings survived the bombardments of WWII, including the ornate 15th century Notre Dame Caudebec-e-Caux.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore more of the region on one of these Freechoice excursions:

• Cycle to Villequier with Victor Hugo Museum: Enjoy an active biking tour to the charming village of Villequier, cycling on an e-bike along the banks of the River Seine, following a flat eight-kilometre each way route. Visit the museum dedicated to Victor Hugo, the famous French poet, playwright and novelist before returning to the ship.
• Fecamp and Bénédictine Palace: Take a coach transfer to Fecamp, an historic seaside town surrounded by some of the tallest cliffs in Normandy. Join a guided tour of the Bénédictine Palace, a 19th-century architectural masterpiece, famous for producing Bénédictine liquor, said to contain 27 plants and spices. Enjoy a tasting during your visit.
• Tales of the French Resistance: Set off on a walking tour and learn stories of the French Resistance, who fought against the Nazi Occupation of France during World War II. Hear local stories of heroism and daring missions as you explore the historic city.
• Normandy Abbey Road: Spiritual health and wealth have been important in Normandy since the Middle Ages. Explore this fascinating history with a local guide on the Abbey Road, where many grand abbeys sit on the banks of the River Seine. (B/L/D)

Historically a border town between the Duchy of Normandy and the Kingdom of France, Vernon has a rich heritage and many distinctive buildings. Nearby Giverny was the home of Impressionist artist Claude Monet for more than 40 years.

Scenic Freechoice: Discover more on one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Monet's House and Garden: Journey to Giverny to tour the town and visit the home of the founder of Impressionism. Built by Monet, the gardens comprise a Japanese-inspired water garden with lilies, which inspired his most famous works. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore at your own leisure.
• Self-guided cycle from Vernon to Giverny: Take a self-guided biking tour from the ship in Vernon to Giverny (approximately five kilometres each way). When you arrive, you may wish to visit Monet’s House and Garden or wander about this charming town, before returning to the ship.

After exploring these beautiful gardens during this morning’s touring, you may feel inspired to create a masterpiece of your own during an on board painting class.

This afternoon your Scenic Space-Ship will cruise towards La Roche-Guyon, where this evening’s exclusive Scenic Enrich experience will take place.

Scenic Enrich:

• Take a short walk from the ship to Château de La Roche-Guyon, which is built into a chalk hillside and dates to the 16th century. Walk through the manicured orchard and vegetable gardens producing fresh juices, then admire the decorative walls, ceilings and tapestries. On arrival you’ll enjoy a drink and sit for a splendid classical concert that focuses on music by French composers. (B/L/D)

Wake this morning in Conflans-Saint-Honorine, a Medieval town located at the confluence of the River Seine and Oise. Though it’s just a short distance from the centre of the city, it feels a world away. A castle was built here by monks in the 9th century to protect the relics of Saint Honorine, from whom the town gets its name. It became a popular pilgrimage site in the 11th century, a practice which lasted for more than 700 years. Wander the quiet streets and the riverside pathway, sip coffee at an open-air café, and admire the beautiful ancient church.

Scenic Freechoice: Today, choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities:

• Visit to Auvers-Sur-Oise: Travel to the village where Vincent Van Gogh painted his final masterpieces. See landmarks that were immortalised in his works, such as the famous Notre Dame de l'Assomption church. The tour includes entry to Van Gogh’s room, an attic that he rented during his final months and which has sat empty since 1890. Enjoy free time afterwards to wander through the village.
• Château de Chantilly: Take a guided tour of the castle, a magnificent tribute to France’s cultural heritage, built by Henri d'Orléans, the son of the last King of France. See the fine collections he amassed in his lifetime, explore the gardens and enjoy some free time. (Please note: Chantilly Castle is closed on a Tuesday, and will be replaced with a visit to Versailles Palace and Garden instead)
• Musée de la Batellerie (inland water transport museum): Join this active tour in Conflans-Sainte-Honorine to visit the Inland Water Transport Museum. Conflans, sometimes called the barge capital of the world, is located on the confluence of Oise and Seine rivers, and water has played a very important role in the lives of its residents.
• Château de Malmaison: This historic estate was once the residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and his first wife, Josephine de Beauharnais. Renowned for its elegant neoclassical architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens, the château reflects Josephine's refined taste and passion for botany. Today, it houses a museum showcasing furniture, artwork, and personal items from the Napoleonic era, providing a glimpse into the private lives of one of history's most famous couples.

This afternoon you’ll spend time on board as your Scenic Space-Ship cruises back to Paris. (B/L/D)

Welcome back to Paris, where you will spend the day exploring this iconic city. First timers will love the highlights tour, which allows you to tick off bucket-list items such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, while return visitors may want to discover the trendy Marais District or Opera Garnier, an opulent architectural masterpiece built in the 19th century. Or take a tour south-east of the city to an exquisite château.

Scenic Freechoice: Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice options:

• Trendy Marais with a local Parisian: Enjoy a guided walking tour of the Marais district with a Parisian guide. A melting pot of cultures, fascinating history, opulent architecture, an eclectic arts scene and high-end fashion, the Marais is one of the most diverse districts in Paris.
• Highlights of Paris city tour: Join a local guide on a coach tour of the city to see some of its most famous sites, from the Eiffel Tower to the Champs Elysee, the Arc de Triomphe and Concorde Square. You will also view the 1163-built Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, which recently reopened after a devastating fire in 2019.
• Opera Garnier: Located in the theatrical heart of Paris, the spectacular Opera Garnier is resplendent with ornately decorated rooms, grand staircases, and glistening chandeliers. Tour this opera house and learn about the magnificent building that was commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III.
• Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte: Take a coach to the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, located an hour’s drive from Paris. This château is credited as the founding French formal garden that was the inspiration for Versailles. The property is laid out in a typical symmetrical fashion with its stunning gardens creating a theatrical setting.

This afternoon is free to explore Paris at your own leisure. Perhaps you’d like to people-watch on the Champs-Elysee from a sidewalk café, head to the top of the Eiffel Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city, or venture to Montmartre, the artist’s district and where the famed Moulin Rouge is located. Alternatively, relax back on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship. (B/L/D)

Your journey concludes this morning. Disembark after breakfast, taking with you many wonderful memories of this unique part of France. Transfer to Paris airport or train station for your onward journey.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions. (B)