Dublin to Dublin

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.

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.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Located on the Búlandsnes peninsula, Djupivogur is a small Icelandic fishing village with a slow and easy-going approach to life. Nestled by the picturesque fjord of Hamarsfjörður, the scenery moves from gently sweeping beaches to jagged cliffs. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Top Things to Do in Djupivogur:

• cruise the Jökulsárlón Lagoon
• enjoy a scenic drive to Höfn
• view the Vatnajökull Ice Cap
• take a 4x4 tour to Hvannagil canyon

Tumavík, located on Iceland's remote Westfjords, is a hidden gem known for its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere. The village is surrounded by dramatic fjords and mountains, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil environment. Visitors can enjoy scenic hikes, where they might spot puffins and other seabirds nesting along the cliffs.

The area is rich in history, with nearby sites like the Icelandic Sea Monster Museum in Bíldudalur, which explores local folklore and legends. The surrounding waters are ideal for kayaking and whale watching, providing close encounters with marine life.

Raufarhofn, located in the far northeast of Iceland, is a remote village known for its stark beauty and unique cultural attractions. The village is home to the Arctic Henge, a modern monument inspired by ancient Norse mythology, designed to align with the Midnight Sun. This impressive structure offers stunning views and a fascinating glimpse into Icelandic folklore.

Nature enthusiasts can explore the surrounding rugged landscapes, which are perfect for hiking and birdwatching. The nearby Melrakkaslétta Peninsula is renowned for its diverse bird species. Raufarhofn’s tranquil atmosphere and striking scenery make it an intriguing destination for those seeking a unique Icelandic experience.

Hofsos, a quaint village in northern Iceland, is a hidden treasure known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich history. Overlooking the Skagafjörður fjord, the village offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. The Hofsos Swimming Pool is a must-visit, renowned for its infinity-edge design that seemingly blends into the fjord.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the Icelandic Emigration Center, which tells the story of Icelandic emigrants to North America. Wander through the village to find traditional turf houses and scenic viewpoints. Nearby, you can explore the basalt columns at the shore or enjoy a boat trip to the Drangey Island bird sanctuary. Hofsos combines natural beauty and cultural heritage for a memorable Icelandic experience.

Malmey Island, located off the northern coast of Iceland, is a hidden gem known for its rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife. This uninhabited island offers stunning views of the surrounding waters and is a sanctuary for seabirds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Puffins, guillemots, and Arctic terns are among the species that nest here.

Accessible by boat, Malmey Island is ideal for a day trip filled with nature exploration and tranquility. The island's dramatic cliffs and rocky shores provide a perfect backdrop for photography and hiking. Malmey's pristine environment and serene atmosphere offer a peaceful retreat for those looking to experience Iceland's natural beauty in its purest form.

Drangey Island, a stark and imposing basalt sea stack in the middle of Skagafjörður in Iceland, is steeped in Viking lore and birdwatching opportunities. Legend has it that the notorious Viking, Grettir the Strong, used the island as a fortress until his demise. Today, it's a haven for numerous bird species, particularly puffins and guillemots, which thrive on the cliffs undisturbed by predators.

Accessible only by boat, the journey to Drangey is as exhilarating as the destination itself, with stunning views of the surrounding fjord. Once ashore, visitors can trek to the top of the island for breathtaking panoramic views. This rugged natural fortress offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and wildlife, making it a memorable stop for those exploring the mystic landscapes of Iceland.

Djupavik, nestled in the remote Westfjords of Iceland, is a tiny village with a compelling blend of stark natural beauty and poignant history. Once a thriving herring fishing hub, it is now known for its striking abandoned herring factory, which stands as a silent testament to the boom and bust of the early 20th century fishing industry in Iceland. This haunting structure, against the backdrop of dramatic cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean, invites exploration and photography.

Visitors to Djupavik can also hike the rugged trails around the village, offering panoramic views of the fjord and the chance to spot diverse birdlife. The village exudes a quiet charm, with its few inhabitants providing a warm welcome to travelers seeking solitude and a touch of Icelandic history.

Tucked away on the northern coast of Iceland along the picturesque shores of Skjálfandi Bay is Husavik, a small fishing community that has garnered a well-deserved reputation as one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Top Things to Do in Husavik:

• visit the Whale Museum
• see the Húsavíkurkirkja church
• go on a whale watching boat tour
• visit Godafoss waterfall
• explore Jokulsargljúfur National Park

Eskifjordur greets you with a meandering river, waterfalls and a jaw-dropping mountain. Located on one of Iceland’s magnificent fjords, this quaint fishing village offers spectacular scenery, an outdoor, geothermal-heated pool, a calcite mine that dates to the 17th century and a maritime museum housed in an 1816 building.

Top Things to Do in Eskifjordur:

• visit Auroras Iceland, a museum of Northern Lights photography
• journey to Brekka, Iceland's tiniest town
• view the Klifbrekkufossar waterfall
• enjoy the view from Hólmanes peninsula

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Stromness, a serene harbor town in Orkney, Scotland, is a haven of maritime history and artistic allure. Its labyrinthine streets lead to the Pier Arts Centre, where modern art connects with Orkney's heritage.

The town's architecture, with traditional stone houses, whispers tales of seafarers and explorers.

A stone's throw away, ancient mysteries of the Neolithic Orkney UNESCO sites, including the Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae, await. These sites offer a peek into life 5,000 years ago. Stromness is not just a gateway to the past; its cozy pubs and local shops offer a warm welcome, making it a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation for any visitor.

The Isle of Mull, situated off Scotland's west coast, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and charming villages. Nature lovers will be captivated by the island's diverse wildlife, including eagles, otters, and whales. Explore the island’s rich history by viewing Duart Castle, the ancestral home of Clan Maclean, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Sound of Mull.

Duart Castle, proudly perched on the Isle of Mull in the Scottish Hebrides, stands as a sentinel at the intersection of three sea lochs. This imposing fortress, with its origins stretching back to the 13th century, is the ancestral home of Clan MacLean. Its strategic position offers expansive views that have surveyed the comings and goings of seafarers for centuries. Visitors are drawn to its grandeur, historical significance, and the tales of clan battles and legends that echo through its halls.

Exploring Duart Castle provides a deep dive into Scottish history and architecture. The restored interior, including the Banqueting Hall and the Duke's Room, along with exhibitions detailing clan history, offer insights into the life and times of the Scottish Highlands. The surrounding rugged coastline and the castle’s dramatic silhouette against the sky make for spectacular photo opportunities.

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.

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

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.