Belfast to Edinburgh (Leith)

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

The Isle of Man, nestled in the Irish Sea, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and folklore. This island captivates with its rugged coastline, medieval castles, and quaint villages. Although famed for the TT motorcycle race, there’s much more to explore here, from the ancient Celtic and Viking heritage at sites like Peel Castle to the tranquil beauty of the Manx countryside.

The island's extensive network of heritage railways provides a unique perspective on its scenic landscapes, while the Manx Museum in Douglas offers insights into the island's 10,000-year history. With its commitment to preserving its natural and historical sites, the Isle of Man offers a blend of adventure and tranquility that will charm and delight.

Port St Mary is a picturesque harbour village. Ships anchor offshore, requiring a tender to reach the port. The village is a short, leisurely walk from the tender drop-off point, and exudes charm right away. With no dedicated cruise terminal, the experience feels uniquely intimate and local. The historic Castle Rushen in Castletown is only approximately 10km (6 miles) away, while the Laxey Wheel, the world's largest working waterwheel, presents a marvel of Victorian engineering.

Spirits are always high on Islay, famously known as ‘The Whisky Island’ thanks to its distinguished collection of heritage-rich distilleries. World-renowned for its exceptional whiskies, Islay - the southernmost of the Inner Hebrides - forms one of Scotland’s historically protected and distinct whisky regions and is the perfect place to savour the unique flavours and nuanced tasting notes of a drink that is emblematic of Scotland. As you arrive in Port Ellen, a charming village nestled around Leodamais Bay, you’ll be waved ashore by Frederick Crescent - a picturesque row of whitewashed houses lining the beachfront. The island’s iconic distilleries, often painted gleaming white with bold signage, invite you to indulge in the typically peaty delights of this flavourful destination. Swirl your glass and admire the prized drams glowing beautifully in the light, before savouring smoky flavours and subtle hints of salty sea air.

Don’t worry if whisky isn’t your tipple, Islay’s rugged shores are perfect for walking - though admittedly you may find yourself wandering between coastal distilleries. Landmarks like the uniquely boxy Carraig Fhada Lighthouse provide charming focal points, while the dramatic cliffs of the Oa Peninsula reveal the American Monument at the Mull of Oa, a poignant tribute to those lost in the sinking of the SS Tuscania during World War I. With its crystal-clear waters, playful seals, and breathtaking windswept scenery, Islay and Port Ellen’s charms linger long on the palate and in the heart.

Known as the 'cradle of Christianity', Iona has an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity, enhanced by green fields and sandy beaches fringed with intense blue-green seas that look more Mediterranean than Scottish. 

The island's main attraction is its medieval abbey, established by Saint Columba when he arrived from Ireland in 563. The abbey is a fine example of ecclesiastical architecture dating from the Middle Ages and it also serves as an important site of spiritual pilgrimage. Many kings of Scotland, including the legendary Macbeth, are buried in the nearby cemetery.

The stunning Isle of Lunga is the largest island in the Treshnish archipelago. With volcanic origin the isle was populated until the 19th Century, and remains of black houses can be seen around this magnificent coastal jewel. Abundant plant life and exotic birdlife are now the main inhabitants of the area. Fortunate visitors view the magnificent array of birds, especially the great puffins that breed on the islands plateau. One can sit within just a few feet away without disturbing the avian ambassador’s peace. The 81 hectare island is home to many rare and endangered plants such as, primroses and orchids. Views over the landscape and across the ocean can be seen from the 300 foot high cliffs.

Gloriously remote, the archipelago of St. Kilda towers out of the storm tossed waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The islands are the UK's only dual UNESCO World Heritage Site. They have some of the highest cliffs in Europe, which have large colonies of rare and endangered species of birds, especially puffins and gannets.

Uninhabited since 1930, the islands bear the evidence of more than 2,000 years of human occupation in the extreme conditions prevalent to the area. Human vestiges include built structures and field systems, the cleits and the traditional Highland stone houses.

Boreray Island, part of Scotland's remote St Kilda archipelago, stands as a sentinel in the Atlantic, its sheer cliffs rising dramatically from the sea.

This uninhabited island, known for its rugged landscapes and significant bird populations, is a sanctuary for myriad seabird species, including the northern gannet and puffins, which nest on its steep cliffs.

Boreray's archaeological importance is highlighted by ancient stone structures and cleitean, small stone storage huts used by St Kilda's former inhabitants.

Journey back in time and encounter the overwhelming power of the natural elements as you cruise by one of the most isolated parts of the British Isles.

The Shiant Islands of Scotland, located in the Minch between the Isle of Lewis and the mainland, are a secluded cluster of rugged isles famed for their dramatic cliffs and abundant birdlife. This uninhabited archipelago is an important breeding ground for seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Visitors are greeted by the raw beauty of steep rock faces and grassy slopes, with the islands' geology providing a fascinating insight into volcanic activity from millions of years ago. Accessible only by boat, the Shiant Islands offer a serene escape into the wild, untouched nature of Scotland's coastal wonders.

Loch Ewe, situated on the northwest coast of Scotland, is renowned for its scenic beauty and historical significance. This sea loch, surrounded by rugged hills and charming villages, offers breathtaking views and tranquil waters. The area played a crucial role during World War II as a gathering point for Arctic convoys, adding a rich historical dimension to its natural allure.

Visitors can explore Inverewe Garden, a stunning botanical garden featuring exotic plants from around the world, thanks to the region's mild climate. The loch is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot seals, otters, and a variety of bird species. Loch Ewe's blend of history, nature, and serene landscapes makes it a captivating destination in the Scottish Highlands.

Kirkwall is the capital of the Orkney Islands, it is considered one of the most charming and well preserved small towns in Scotland. The islands offer dramatic landscapes with cliffs rearing 1,000 feet above the waves to sweeping white sand beaches. Small ships will dock at this port, while larger ships will anchor offshore.

Top Things to Do in Kirkwall:

• explore Skara Brae, a Neolithic village
• admire the St. Magnus Cathedral
• visit the Ring of Brodgar
• ponder the Standing Stones of Stenness
• stroll the Viking Capital Walking Trail

Surrounded to the north and southwest by towering mountains with dramatic landscapes, Tórshavn is a picturesque port steeped in Viking history. Enjoy the colourfully painted wooden houses of the old town, some with turfed roofs, alongside modern counterparts such as the Norse House, built with gleaming glass.

Top Things to Do in Tórshavn:

• enjoy a boat tour of the Tórshavn fjords
• join a tour to see the Vestmanna Sea Cliffs
• hike up Streymoy mountain
• visit the nearby town of Saksun
• explore the island of Vagar

Lying midway between Shetland and the Orkney islands, Fair Isle is a tiny jewel in the sea, known for its birds, knitwear, and historic shipwrecks. With a population of around 70, the island offers a warm and friendly welcome to visitors. Turquoise waters surround the breathtaking Sheep Rock, which rises over 100 metres - almost an isle of its own.

Fair Isle's oceanic climate brings stormy yet mild winters, while summer sees rapid weather changes from sparkling sunshine to thick mist and fog. Named the island of peace by Norse settlers, it has been a landmark for shipping, but the storms and fog have contributed to over 100 shipwrecks, including the Spanish Armada flagship "El Gran Grifon."

Located off the east coast of Scotland, the Isle of May is a wildlife haven renowned for its bustling seabird colonies and rich marine life. A short ferry ride from Anstruther, this small island offers visitors a unique glimpse into the lives of puffins, razorbills, and seals. The island’s rugged landscape is dotted with historic sites, including the remains of a medieval monastery and the Isle of May Lighthouse, Scotland’s oldest operational lighthouse.

Nestled between the Highlands and the Border Hills, Edinburgh is a gracious city noted for its superb skyline, its impressive collection of architecture and its beautiful parks. Here you'll find the best of central eastern Scotland: spectacular views, rolling hills and castles. Ships will dock at the Port of Leith Cruise Liner Terminal.

Top Things to Do in Edinburgh:

• explore the Edinburgh Castle
• visit the Holyroodhouse
• wander down the Royal Mile
• play a round at the worlds oldest golf course