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.