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Islands and Wonders of the British Isles
Day 1 - Dover (England)
Embark MS Maud in Dover.
Day 2 - At sea
Enjoy the ship's facilities on a relaxing day at sea. Meet the expedition team who will prepare you for the exciting adventures ahead.
Day 3 - Fishguard (Wales)
Fishguard is a small fishing village, which appears to have stood still in time. Fishguard lies between the Preseli Hills and the coast of Pembrokeshire. It's split in two by a steep, winding hill and the 'new' town sits on the clifftop. Fishguard's history steeps back as far as the 10th Century and has been part of Viking raids and Norse settlements. The local library houses 'The Last Invasion Tapestry' a 100-foot long masterpiece which records the scenes of the invasion by the French in 1797. Explore the surroundings with walks through ancient woodlands and the nearby Gwaun Valley. There is plenty of wildlife to discover and prehistoric sites to explore.
Day 4 - Rathlin Island (Northern Ireland)
Sitting just off the north coast, with its rugged cliffs, several lakes and vast grasslands, Rathlin Island boasts Northern Ireland's largest seabird colony. It's just six miles long and one mile wild, ideal for exploring. Perhaps visit the Seabird centre and the lighthouse, a unique and fully operational 'upside-down' lighthouse for fantastic views of seabird colonies and you may even see seals relaxing. Thousands of seabirds congregate to breed from late April to July including puffin, guillemot, razorbill and fulmar.
Day 5 - Isle of Iona - Staffa (Scotland)
World-famous for its religious connections, Iona was settled in 563 AD by the Irish missionary, St Colomba. The much-restored Abbey is one of Scotland's most historic and sacred sites and still remains a place of pilgrimage. Views from Iona's beaches stretch west rowards the Outer Hebrides. Early afternoon, subject to conditions, spend time scenic cruising of the cave-riddled island of Staffa. The uninhabited island is home to the cathedral-like Fingal's Cave, immortalised by Mendelssohn's glorious 'Hebrides Overture'. The basalt columns here are a northern extensions of the Giant's Causeway. Staffa has been visited by Queen Victoria, Sir Walter Scott and Samuel Johnson. (Please note on 29 May, the ship will pas Staffa Island in the morning and call into Iona in the afternoon).
Day 6 - St Kilda
A visit to the distant and wild archipelago of Hirta Island where St Kilda lies in very much weather-dependent. As a UNESCO double World Heritage Site and the 'jewel of the crown' of the National Trust for Scotland, it is an unforgettable experience. The outlying islands are remains of a volcanic crater and provide ledges for nesting seabirds. Minke whales are also frequently seen around the waters of the archipelago. Once home to Britain's most remote island community, it was evacuated in 1930.
Day 7 - Stornoway
Originally a Viking settlement, Stornoway is the capital of the Isle of Lewis which is the largest and most northerly of the Outer Hebrides. A bustling harbour and waterfront museums are overlooked by Lews Castle. Further afield are mills where hard-wearing Harris Tweed is woven.
Day 8 - Islay
Pronounced 'Eye-la', Islay was once the seat of the MacDonalds, Lord of the Isles. This is 'whisky island', world-famous for its peaty single-malt whiskies and its many local distilleries. Islay offers a diverse landscape with ancient Celtic ruins and is an ideal stop-off for migrating birds, making it ideal for seabird spotting.
Day 9 - Douglas (Isle of Man)
With its rural landscape and rugged coastline, the Isle of Man became a designated Biosphere Reserve in recognition of its marine and coastal ecosystems. With more than 100 miles of stunning coastline, it's an ideal place to explore. The islands has a strong Celtic and Viking heritage. Visit the museums, or board a historic steam train, or perhaps discover the castle of the island. Nearby Douglas Head is a rocky outcrop overlooking Douglas Harbour. On previous calls to the Isle of Man, guests have joined the local community and taken part in a beach clean-up as well as engaging in a tree-planting ceremony.
Day 10 - Waterford (Ireland)
The oldest city in Ireland, founded by the Vikings in the start of the 10th Century, Waterford and its surrounding areas are a short drive away. With its strong Norse roots, explore the Viking Triangle, so named for the 1,000 year old Viking walls once surrounding the area and an integral part in the heritage of Waterford City. It is renowned for its archaeological treasures including a medieval abbey and ancient monasteries. Nearby is 12th Century Kilkenny Castle, one of the earliest Norman stone castles. Please note the ship may dock at a nearby port with a free shuttlebus to the city.
Day 11 - Isles of Scilly (England)
This enchanting archipelago off the coast of Cornwall is home to outstanding natural beauty, uncrowded islands and around 140 islets. Ideal for exploring by foot, Tresco Abbey Garden has around 20,000 plants from 80 different countries. Perhaps also explore the castle ruins or Valhalla Museum. Time will be split on the island and you may also choose to visit St Mary's or join an optional trip around the islands looking for nature.
Day 12 - Dartmouth (England)
Arrive at the delightful waterfront of Dartmouth, set of the banks of the River Dart. This enchanting town is steeped in maritime history and has a rich culture. With a commanding location above the town, dating back to 1863, the magnificent building of Britannia Royal Naval College trains the finest officers in the world, and is set in 126 acres of landscaped gardens offering views over the river, the town and out to sea. Buckfast Abbey, historic castles, steam train rides and magnificent walking trails are just a few of the many compelling attractions waiting to be explored during the visit. MS Maud will be anchored in the centre of the town with a short tender ride ashore, allowing easy access to visit the town on your own to stroll through the lanes and enjoy the quaint shops. Or join one of our impressive excursions to learn more about this fascinating town and the scenic Devonshire surrounds.
Day 13 - Dover
Disembark MS Maud in Dover after breakfast
For weather and navigational reasons, the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary.