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Discover the wildlife, remote islands and spectacular scenery on this full-board expedition cruise

The British coastline is one of the most rugged and spectacularly beautiful in the world, packed with quaint and charming port towns whose histories tell the fascinating tale of our island nation.

From battle and conquest to trade and industrialisation, there's so much to discover as you sail through its magnificent scenery, past cliffs and castles, and to the magical and remote islands scattered along the shores of the British Isles. Over 13 action-packed days, you'll experience the best of our wonderful natural landscapes and traditional towns and villages, with a brilliant array of onshore excursions included, exploring history, culture and nature.

As you visit these fantastic destinations, you'll be able to pick up tips and tricks for taking the best landscape and wildlife photos from a professional photographer on board your ship, the delightful MS Maud. Using the latest biofuel technology to cut emissions and make cruising more sustainable, MS Maud is the newest addition to Hurtigruten's fleet of specialist expedition vessels.

Equipped with three elegant dining venues, hot tubs, a sauna and gym, plus a science centre and knowledgeable Expedition Team, your ship has all the ingredients to make your holiday unforgettable.

After sailing through the English Channel from Dover, you'll make your way up to Wales, and picturesque Fishguard, where you can explore ancient woodland or walk the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. On Rathlin Island, you'll encounter the largest seabird colony in Northern Ireland, while a short ferry ride will transport you across to the breathtaking Giant's Causeway.

Next up are wild Scottish islands, including gorgeous beaches and ancient abbey on Iona, St Kilda - uninhabited by humans but home to thousands of majestic seabirds - and the whisky island and arts and craft hotspot Islay.

Making your way back south, you'll stop off at Douglas, the capital of the Isle of Man, with its impressive castle and nature trails. Motoring enthusiasts will love it here too - head to the Motor Museum and Motorcycle Museum to learn about the island's famous TT race.

Crossing to the Republic of Ireland, you'll call in at traditional Waterford, a site of Viking and Norman conquest, as well as lush rural scenery and some charming traditional Irish pubs. Nature-lovers will also be rewarded with amazing views on the Isles of Scilly, and should take time to visit the famed Tresco Abbey Gardens with its 20,000 plants, many of them subtropical species.

Your final stop before returning to Dover is pretty Dartmouth in Devon, where cute cobbled lanes are lined with pastel houses and Tudor buildings, and there's no shortage of quaint shops and cafes where you can try a classic cream tea.

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Price includes

  • 12-night expedition cruise on MS Maud
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner including drinks (house beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water) in Restaurant Aune and Fredheim
  • Fantastic range of included excursions
  • Services of an English-speaking Expedition Team who will organise and accompany activities on board and ashore
  • Landings using a fleet of small expedition boats
  • Loan of boots, trekking poles, and all equipment for activities
  • Onboard lectures and talks from experts
  • Advice from a professional onboard photographer
  • Complimentary wind and water-resistant expedition jacket and reusable water bottle
  • Teas and coffees on board
  • Free Wi-Fi for onboard browsing
  • Single supplement offer on 22 May and 3 June departures with savings of up to £4,160pp

Availability

Call now to book 02039934304
Quote ref: CL TST BRITISH ISLES CRUISE
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Itinerary

  1. Day
    1
    Embark in Dover
    Dover, United Kingdom

    Make your way to Dover, where your ship will depart around 6pm. Before boarding, you could take some time to explore this iconic coastal town and its imposing medieval Castle.

    After checking in on board MS Maud, you'll receive a complimentary wind and water-resistant expedition jacket. There'll be time to settle into your cabin and explore a bit of the ship before a pre-departure safety drill and a welcome talk from the Expedition Team.

    This evening you'll enjoy your first dinner aboard the ship and join the Captain and crew as they toast to your exciting expedition to come.

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  2. Day
    2
    At Sea
    Dover, United Kingdom

    Enjoy an idyllic day at sea with plenty of time to unwind and get to know your ship. Admire the views from the Observation Deck, settle into a good book with a freshly baked pastry from Fredheim, or have a relaxing soak in one of the hot tubs.

    You'll also be invited to talks hosted by the Expedition Team, experienced explorers who will happily share their extensive knowledge of the British Isles with you.

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  3. Day
    3
    Fishguard
    Fishguard, United Kingdom

    Our first port of call on our exploration of the British Isles, between the Preseli Hills and the Pembrokeshire coast, is the charming fishing village of Fishguard. Split in two by a steep, winding hill, Lower Town is home to the original hamlet and harbour, while the 'new' town sits on a clifftop, commanding spectacular views.

    From Lower Town, you can explore the ancient woodlands of the Gwaun Valley, on a walking trail that takes in the River Gwaun, medieval Llanychllwydog pillar stones, St Brynach's Church and the Dyffryn Arms pub, run by local legend Bessie. If you appreciate beautiful, landscaped gardens, then head towards the gardens at Dyffryn Fernant. For incredible views over the harbour, you could also walk up the hill to Castle Point and the ruins of Fishguard Fort, from where you can join a stretch of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

    Fishguard has the accolade of being the infamous site of the 'Last Invasion of Britain', by the French in 1797, and the local library houses a 100-foot-long 'Bayeux' style tapestry, depicting the invasion.

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  4. Day
    4
    Belfast
    Belfast, United Kingdom

    Today we sail into Belfast, an historic port city and famously wher the Titanic was built and began its infamous journey. Attractions include Ulster Museum, Belfast Castle and the Botanic Gardens.

    Explore the Cathedral Quarter, with its charming cobbled streets and majestic Victorian archiecture, and visit St Anne's Cathedral with its exquisite mosaics. Head to Donegall Square to see the City Hall and the impressive Grand Opera House.

    From Belfast it's possible to reach the Giant's Causeway and the striking northern coastline.

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  5. Day
    5
    Tobermory, Isle of Mull
    Tobermory, United Kingdom

    Tobermory is the Isle of Mull's principal town. You'll be welcomed by a row of cheerful brightly-coloured Georgian houses; alight and explore this charming town and its cafés, restaurants, craft stores and whisky distillery.

    If conditions allow, we'll visit Loch Sunart, a seawater loch that tourists rarely get to see. It's a Marine Protected Area with a rich ecosystem and is a stronghold for otters, plus you might even catch sight of dolphins and porpoises.

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  6. Day
    6
    St Kilda
    St Kilda, United Kingdom

    There's only one way to describe tiny, rocky St Kilda: wild. As such, your visit to this storm-tossed archipelago, with its breathtaking sea cliffs and boiling seas, is totally weather-dependent. Once home to Britain's most remote island community, in 1930, after 4,000 years of continuous habitation, the people living on St Kilda's Hirta Island were evacuated at their own request. The tiny museum that remains is a record of how hard life was on this exposed outcrop.

    The island is a UNESCO double World Heritage Site and the 'jewel in the crown' of the National Trust for Scotland, home to thousands of nesting seabirds and frequented by Minke whales. As well as 60,000 pairs of Northern Gannets, there's a good chance you'll spot Atlantic Puffins, Northern Fulmars, Common Guillemots or Black-legged Kittiwakes. An ancient breed of sheep - the Soay sheep - also live wild here, as do a number of other rare species including the St Kilda mouse and the St Kilda Wren.

    Explore the abandoned village and see the distinctive 'cleits' - circular stone buildings used to store peat, eggs and smoked puffins - before heading back to your ship and its rather less primitive dining options.

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  7. Day
    7
    Stornoway
    Stornoway, United Kingdom

    Stornoway is the capital of the Isle of Lewis & Harris, an island famed for the mysterious Callanish standing stones, as well as pristine sandy beaches its bustling waterfront parade. Check out Lews Castle, an impressive Gothic-revival style which overlooks Stornoway harbour. As well as visiting its museum, you can wander round the grounds and get unbeatable views of the inky blue seas. Or why not drop in for a wee dram in the castle's very own whisky bar.

    Harris is famed for its woollen tweed fabric, and you'll see jackets, trousers and hats for sale in shops all over the island - perfect for gifts or mementos. Of course, a visit to Lewis & Harris wouldn't be complete without seeing the Callanish standing stones (Calanaisin Gaelic), a magical ring of monoliths whose origins are shrouded in mystery. Another atmospheric site is the Blackhouse at Arnol, a completely restored thatched traditional dwelling which provides a fascinating glimpse into the past. As you explore the island, look out for red deer, eagles, otters, gannets and butterflies - the wild side of this peaceful island attracts nature lovers from around the world.

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  8. Day
    8
    Islay
    Islay, United Kingdom

    Islay isn't called 'whisky island' for nothing. There are nine working distilleries here, and you'll find their peaty single malts sold around the world. There's also 130 miles of coastline here, with plenty of quiet, sandy coves to explore, plus superb cliff-top walks.

    The island is a wildlife paradise too, with over 200 species of birds including oystercatchers, gannets, terns, and cormorants, as well as buzzards, Hen Harriers and even White-tailed Eagles. From the beaches, dolphins and basking sharks are sometimes spotted, and you might even see otters if you're patient.

    For cosy pubs and restaurants, visit the charming little town of Bowmore - it's probably the only place in the world you can grab a Hebridean pizza - or 'peat-za' - topped with crab and lobster. It's also got a strong crafting heritage, and you'll see potters, quilters and artists in their workshops. Islay Woollen Mill, near Bridgend, made tartan clothes for Mel Gibson in Braveheart, as well as Liam Neeson's kilt in Rob Roy.

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  9. Day
    9
    Douglas
    Douglas, United Kingdom

    Have your camera ready this morning, the scenic approach to the Isle of Man is not to be missed! In the capital Douglas, you can learn about the island's Celtic and Viking heritage through to its popularity as a Victorian tourist resort.

    The Isle of Man has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and its three Blueways Trails are a great way to get to know the geology, marine life and maritime history of its shoreline. Back in town, hop on board an historic steam train, a vintage electric tram, or horse-drawn tram, or visit the local Motor Museum and Motorcycle Museum to find out about the annual TT race.

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  10. Day
    10
    Waterford
    Waterford, United Kingdom

    Today you'll set foot in the oldest city in Ireland, Waterford. This well-preserved and walkable small city is famed for beautiful crystal glass production, artistic culture and charming old pubs. A visit to the House of Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre is a also must, and for a traditional drink, pubs like The Munster Bar or The Gingerman provide plenty of atmosphere.

    To get a sense of the city's history, take a walk around the Viking Triangle, so named for the three-sided shape made by the thousand-year-old walls that once surrounded the city. You could also explore Kilkenny Castle, one of the earliest Norman stone castles, nearby or take in the beautiful scenery with a cycle ride along the Waterford Greenway and at the Copper Coast UNESCO Geopark.

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  11. Day
    11
    Isles of Scilly
    Isles of Scilly, United Kingdom

    This enchanting archipelago 30 miles off the tip of Cornwall has been compared to a tropical paradise, and no wonder - it's home to some outstandingly beautiful, uncrowded and unspoilt islands and islets. Covered in heathland, with gorgeous sandy beaches, the islands are surrounded by turquoise waters and reefs and offer picturesque coastal walks.

    On Tresco, the famed Tresco Abbey Gardens offer a stunning array of 20,000 plants, many of them subtropical species. You may also choose to visit St Mary's - the largest of the islands - with its rocky coves, archaeological sites and charming Hugh Town. Explore the town and sample delicious freshly caught seafood, as well as enjoying delightful views of the island.

    Alternatively, join an optional landing for a trip around the islands, visiting shipwreck sites, spying seals lying on the rocks, as well as cruising around the bird sanctuary of Annet to observe the puffins and numerous other breeding seabirds

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  12. Day
    12
    Dartmouth
    Dartmouth, United Kingdom

    As the pretty banks of the River Dart come into view, you'll have arrived at the lovely waterfront town of Dartmouth, steeped in maritime history and culture. Stroll through the lanes and cobbled streets to browse quaint arts and crafts shops, pastel houses and atmospheric Tudor buildings, or relax by the busy harbour and watch the boats come in.

    You could also take a tour of the Britannia Royal Naval College and its 126 acres of landscaped gardens, or join part of the spectacular South West Coast Path, where you can enjoy the stunning scenery around the Dart Estuary or head inland for glorious countryside. Your visit isn't complete without sampling some of Devon's glorious dishes: seafood lovers should definitely get a taste of the delicious crab, while those with a sweet tooth can indulge in local fudge or a famous Devonshire cream tea.

    Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  13. Day
    13
    Disembark in Dover
    Dover, United Kingdom

    You'll pass the white cliffs of Dover during the early hours today and dock at the city's harbour. After breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to your ship and crew, before making your way home. (B, L, D)

    Meals - Breakfast

MS Maud

Overview

MS Maud is designed to take you on a cruise in maximum comfort, with newly designed cabins, wonderful food, insightful lectures, amazing excursions programme - and thanks to its biofuel technology, it is a more sustainable way to travel.

Style & Character

The interior of the ship features natural Scandinavian materials like granite, oak, birch and wool, to create a relaxed and stylish atmosphere. On deck 5, you can visit our Science Center, which is packed with state-of-the-art technology and interactive learning tools.

On deck 9, you can enjoy the spectacular views from the outdoor Observation deck, workout in the outdoor gym and soak in one of the hot tubs. And there´s no better way to enjoy the view than with a refreshment in the Explorer lounge & bar.

Services

Norway´s stunning scenery is reflected in the ship´s interior design, while its facilties are equally impressive.

  • Science Centre
  • Laundry
  • Gym
  • Hot tubs
  • Library
  • Observation lounge
  • Outdoor decks
  • Restaurant and cuisine
  • Room service
  • Shop
  • Artworks
  • Entertainment
  • Equipment rentals
  • Expedition Team
  • Lectures
  • Resident photographers
  • Wifi (browsing only)
  • Potable water

Rooms

Comfortable cabins and suites feature natural Scandinavian materials, such as granite, oak, birch and wool.
Expedition Suites (20-45m2 / Deck 6-8): 4 categories ranging from mini suites to owners' suite, these luxurious, spacious cabins include TV, seating area, balcony (not mini suite) coffee making facilities and minibar.
Arctic Superior (10-17m2 / Upper and Middle Decks) all have bathrooms with shower, WC, TV and kettle and double/twin beds
Polar outside (10-12m2 / Middle & Lower Decks) All have bathrooms with shower/WC/Kettle & TV and double/twin beds
Polar inside (9-15m2) / Decks 4,6,7) All have bathrooms with shower/WC/Kettle & TV and double/twin beds

Food & Drink

Welcome onboard to a culinary journey and our award-winning food sourcing program - Norway's Coastal Kitchen.

You will find ingredients from our local suppliers along the coast in all three restaurants. Restaurant Aune - our main dining room; Fredheim - with casual fast food and plant based alternatives; and our fine dining restaurant Lindstrøm, named after Polar Hero and Amundsen Chef Adolf Lindstrøm. Take a deep breath, relax and enjoy.

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This tour is operated solely by TS Tours
TS Tours is acting as agent for Hurtigruten. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Hurtigruten.

Founded in 1893, Hurtigruten are the world's leading experts in cruises along the Norwegian fjords. Hurtigruten is ABTA-bonded and all trips are ATOL-protected.
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Availability

Call now to book 02039934304
Quote ref: CL TST BRITISH ISLES CRUISE