Lisbon to Belfast

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.

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.

For many visitors Tresco is the most attractive of the Isles of Scilly. This is especially due to its Abbey Garden, which is home to thousands of exotic plant species from around 80 different countries. Plant collector Augustus Smith began the gardens in the 1830s on the site of an old Benedictine Abbey by channelling the weather up and over a network of walled enclosures built around the Priory ruins. He had three terraces carved from the rocky south slope and maximised Tresco’s mild Gulf Stream climate. Even in mid-winter there still are hundreds of plants flowering here. Another surprising attraction at the Abbey Garden is the collection of figureheads from ships that wrecked among the Isles of Scilly.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Located at the northernmost tip of the lovely Isle of Mull, Tobermory has to be one of the most beautiful natural seaports on Scotland’s West Coast. Founded in 1788, this ancient fishing village has been converted to a leisure port highly appreciated today for its surroundings and the quiet charm it exudes.

Visitors will be won over by the row of many-storied houses on the hillside, illuminating the harbour with their vibrant colours. The town offers a museum dedicated to the local history, an art gallery, a 9-hole golf course and a whiskey distillery.

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.

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.

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