Wild British Isles & Irish Shores

Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital, is a city of hills, history, and stunning views. Start your day at the iconic Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a glimpse into Portugal’s maritime past. Nearby, visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, where you can admire its intricate designs.

In the afternoon, explore the historic Alfama district, with its narrow, winding streets and traditional Fado music echoing from cozy taverns. Ride the famous Tram 28 to see landmarks like the Lisbon Cathedral and the São Jorge Castle. For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte viewpoint.

Make yourself at home with delightful daily diversions that add to our fleet’s private yacht-like atmosphere. Embrace this moment and indulge – spending the day pampering yourself in the spa or soaking in a Pure Pampering ℠ bath drawn by your attentive suite host. Meditate upon the vast views that surround you from a yoga mat, the ship’s bow, or your private veranda.

Cherbourg is a thriving port steeped in seafaring history. It has a busy, cheerful and international atmosphere, with easily navigable streets dotted with inviting restaurants and charming cafés. Beyond the port, the region of Normandy brims with scenery and history in every direction. Ships will dock at either Quai de Normandie or Quai de France.

Top Things to Do in Cherbourg:

• tour the D-Day landing beaches
• visit the American Cemetery & Memorial
• explore Mont Saint Michel
• view the Bayeux Tapestry

Devon’s largest city is packed with seafaring heritage and quintessential britishness. The city is of course most famous for its role in the launching of the Mayflower but it is also know for its historic Barbican district with narrow, cobbled streets. Small ships will dock at the Port of Plymouth, while larger ships will anchor offshore.

Top Things to Do in Plymouth:

• explore Dartmoor National Park
• tour the Plymouth Gin Distillery
• stand on the site where the Mayflower left
• stroll through Plymouth Hoe park

Located off the Pembrokeshire coast, Skomer Island is part of a Marine Conservation Zone with some of the richest waters for wildlife off the British Isles.

Well known for its Puffins, the island is home to many more animals including Manx Shearwaters, Dolphins, Harbour Porpoises, Atlantic Grey Seal, Razorbills, Gannets, Fulmars and the unique Skomer Vole.

Spring on Skomer Island is a colourful affair with bluebells and pink campion carpeting most of the island. The colours are so vivid they can easily be seen from the mainland.

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

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.

The Calf of Man, a small island off the southwest coast of the Isle of Man, is a nature lover's paradise. This uninhabited islet is a bird sanctuary home to puffins, Manx shearwaters, and other seabirds, making it a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. The rugged landscape, with its dramatic cliffs and secluded coves, invites exploration and photography. Visitors can also witness the iconic Calf Sound, a narrow waterway with strong tidal currents and playful seals. The island's rich maritime history is visible in its lighthouses and remnants of ancient buildings.

Northern Ireland's capital, Belfast, enjoys a wonderful setting of high hills, sea lough and river valley. Reborn as a cool, modern city, it has successfully left its troubles behind, emerging as a hotbed of culture and architecture, where the comfort of a cosy pub is never far away. Ships will dock in Belfast Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Belfast:

• visit the Titanic Belfast Museum
• see the basalt columns of Giant's Causeway
• explore the Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
• take a famous Black Taxi Tour
• travel along Ards Peninsula to Grey Abbey