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British Isles Cruise - Expedition Around the Irish Sea

Journey around the Irish Sea and discover rugged coastal landscapes, historic seaports, and culture-soaked cities. You’ll visit the Irish cities of Belfast and Dublin, set foot in Wales and on the Isle of Man, and return to stylish Glasgow.

Cruise Only
6 nights

Expedition Holiday
Dublin
Douglas
Belfast
Blarney Castle Of Ireland

Call us now on 01756 706500 to secure your cabin!

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NE

Discover natural wonders around the Irish Sea from the Giant’s Causeway to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of the Isle of Man.

From the cultural centre of Glasgow, we'll sail to Portrush, to visit the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway and the magnificent ruins of Dunluce Castle. Then on to Belfast, where you’ll have the chance to explore its shipbuilding heritage and cultural highlights.

Learn about the Celtic and Viking roots of the Isle of Man, and explore its capital, Douglas. The next day we'll visit the Welsh town of Fishguard, a great place to discover more about the Iron Age. Our final stop before returning to Glasgow is the lively and welcoming city of Dublin, where you can sample a Guinness fresh from the brewery.

NE596 Operated by Hurtigruten Expeditions

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British Isles Cruise – Expedition Around the Irish Sea Itinerary

Day 1 - Glasgow (Scotland)

A former industrial powerhouse, Glasgow has reinvented itself as a cultural hotspot, packed with museums, galleries and parks. You can spend some time exploring the city, and discover the splendid Art Nouveau architecture of Charles Macintosh, before your expedition cruise. You can extend your stay here with our Pre-Programme, which also includes a night in Edinburgh and the opportunity to see its magnificent castle. MS Spitsbergen, one of our smaller ships built for close exploration, will be waiting. Settle in to your cabin and explore the ship, before meeting your Expedition Team who will be your guides on your Irish Sea adventure.

Day 2 - Portrush (Northern Ireland)

Portrush is a small resort town that's been popular since Victorian times. The long sandy beaches here are perfect for a scenic stroll. And birders will want to head north to Ramore Head. Your first included excursion of the day is to the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway, around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns rising from the coast. The sights don't end there. The ruins of Dunluce Castle provide a stunning backdrop to this region's wild beauty. You'll also have the opportunity to visit a working sheep farm up in the mountain peaks of the Glenshane Pass as your other included trip.

Day 3 - Belfast

Famed as the birthplace of the Titanic, Belfast is a city of industry and elegance. Wander the Titanic Quarter and walk the Maritime Mile showcasing the city’s seafaring history. Elegant Victorian architecture abounds here. Admire the detailed mosaics of St Anne’s Cathedral, and the majestic façade of the Grand Opera House. Climb Cave Hill, near Belfast Castle, for great views. You’ll find tasty treats and great handicrafts at St George’s Market, and the Ulster Museum will delight history buffs. Nature lovers can enjoy an included excursion to Castle Espie Wetlands Centre – a 60-acre wildlife kingdom.

Day 4 - Douglas

Your Irish Sea cruise continues to fascinating Douglas, part of the Isle of Man UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, thanks to its diverse marine and coastal ecosystems. You can help protect it by joining an included beach clean up alongside local volunteers. There’s so much to pack into your day here. Visit the Manx Museum and learn about the island's Celtic and Viking history or visit its motor museums. Check out the murals in St Thomas’s Church and discover Peel Castle, originally a Viking stronghold and now said to be haunted.

Day 5 - Fishguard (Wales)

Nestled between the Preseli Hills and the Pembrokeshire coast is the Welsh town of Fishguard. You’ll find the original hamlet and harbour in Lower Fishguard, and spectacular sea views from the ‘Main Town’ above. Explore the ruins of Fishguard Fort at Castle Point, and spot marine life on a coastal walk along the Pencaer Peninsula. A short drive away is the UK’s smallest city, St Davids. More a village than a city, it owes its city status to its 12th century cathedral. You can explore this conservation area as part of an included excursion. The dramatic headland nearby is the most westerly point in Wales.

Day 6 - Dublin (Ireland)

Founded by Vikings, and later becoming the Kingdom of Dublin, Ireland’s capital has a remarkable past. But as one of Europe’s most youthful cities, ‘Dubs’ is also a bustling cultural centre and a very modern tech hub. History lovers will want to head straight for Trinity College, the oldest university in Ireland, and see the medieval manuscript, the 'Book of Kells' from c.800 CE. Then onto 13th century Dublin Castle – perhaps stopping to enjoy a pint of local Guinness on the way. Your included excursion today takes you to the coastal area of Dublin to join forces with the Clean Coasts volunteers. You'll help them on a beach, river, or canal clean and see how their work protects the local environment.

Day 7 - Glasgow (Scotland)

Your Irish Sea expedition cruise comes full circle back in Glasgow. In the harbour, you'll find the striking Riverside Museum and the tall ship Glenlee. Admire the Gothic architecture of Glasgow Cathedral and view the eclectic art and natural history at Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum. It's a wonderful way to round off your Scottish adventure. Why not extend your stay here with our Post-Programme, which includes a night in Edinburgh? As well as the main sights of Glasgow, you'll see the magnificent Edinburgh Castle.

Price Includes

  • 6-night full-board cruise
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages (house beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water) in restaurant Aune
  • Complimentary tea and coffee
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi on board. Be aware that we sail in remote areas with very limited connection. Streaming is not supported.
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle to use at water refill stations on board
  • English-speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore
  • Range of included activities
  • Experts on the Expedition Team deliver in-depth lectures on a variety of topics
  • Use of the ship’s Science Centre which has an extensive library and advanced biological and geological microscopes
  • Citizen Science programme allows guests to assist with live scientific research
  • Professional onboard photographer gives top tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
  • Use of the ship’s hot tubs, panoramic sauna and indoor gym
  • Informal gatherings with the crew such as daily recaps and preparation for the day to come
  • Escorted landings with small expedition boats
  • Loan of boots, trekking poles, and all equipment for activities
  • Complimentary wind and water-resistant expedition jacket
  • Expedition Photographers help with your camera settings
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