Scattered sheep graze on bright green hillsides above a white-sand beach by calm turquoise water on a sunny day.
Red double-decker bus drives across a bridge in London with Big Ben & Victoria Tower in the distance on a sunny day.
Small boats moored in a calm bay by homes & dark green trees, seen on a Treasures of Ireland & The British Archipelagoes trip.
Sunset over the sea by tan circular rock columns on shore, seen on the Treasures of Ireland & The British Archipelagoes trip.
Puffin bird takes off out of choppy water in the rain, seen during the Treasures of Ireland & The British Archipelagoes trip.
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Europe Northern Europe Cruise

Celtic Voyage: the Hebrides & the Irish Sea

On these cruises that go to England, Scotland and Ireland, explore charming port towns. Experience the romance of gardens and lush landscapes, colorful houses made of timber and slate, and rich cultural and historic heritage.

The Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides & the Irish Sea offers unique departures from a collection of Ponant sailings operated in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys. Uniquely visit Holyhead, Wales, with its seabirds and historic landmarks; and Kinsale, Ireland, offering colorful houses, art galleries and theaters as well as a 17th century fort. This itinerary is tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. These PONANT voyages in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys uniquely include transfers to and from the ship on embarkation and disembarkation days, talks and discussions aboard ship by world-class experts from Smithsonian Journeys, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of the local environment and culture.

These cruises that go to England, Ireland and Scotland are aboard 184-guest Le Bellot. Enjoy refined and attentive service, a plethora of onboard activities and unrivaled elegance. Appreciate understated sophistication, an international feel and top-notch guides aboard this ship. Identical ships Le Bellot features 100% private balconies or terraces, innovative equipment, elegantly designed guest accommodations, welcoming lounge areas that open to the outside and the Blue Eye underwater lounge–a multi-sensory space in the ship’s hull featuring hydrophones, expansive underwater views and other amenities that create the feeling of being underwater beside the marine life that the ship is sailing past. A variety of onboard activities engage guests while underway.

Read on for details about these cruises that go to England, Scotland and Ireland, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s small ship cruises in Northern Europe



Itinerary

Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides & the Irish Sea Itinerary

The Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides & the Irish Sea operates from London, England to Glasgow, Scotland. Cruise both the English Channel and the Irish Sea, with unique visits to Holyhead, Wales, and Kinsale, Ireland.

Route map of Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides & The Irish Sea - with Smithsonian Journeys cruise from London to Fairlie, with visits along England, Ireland & Scotland.
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Day 1
Embark London, England

The main residence of the British monarch, financial hub and seat of British government, London is the economic and cultural heart of the country. A city of contrasts, attached to its traditions while buzzing with modernity, the capital of the United Kingdom has countless historic districts and notable sites to explore. From Hyde Park to the City through Westminster and Trafalgar Square, get ready to take on London’s frenetic tempo. In between a visit to the National Gallery, a stroll through Covent Garden and a trip to Tower Bridge, take a quiet breather in one of London’s many beautiful parks and gardens.

Accommodations

Le Bellot

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Dover

Located in Kent County on the edge of the English Channel, 22 miles away from the French coast and Cap Gris-Nez, Dover is the United Kingdom town nearest to France. As the main transit port between the two sides of the English Channel, it is the gateway to England. Dover is famous for its impressive white cliffs, which have inspired many a poet and playwright. Majestically facing mainland Europe, they offer the possibility of a spectacular clifftop walk. Impregnable and perched on a hill overlooking the Channel in the city’s northeast, Dover Castle dominates the city. Find its network of underground tunnels very interesting.

Accommodations

Le Bellot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
Cowes

Located on the north coast of the Isle of Wight, across from the shores of the port cities of Portsmouth and Southampton, Cowes features an easy lifestyle, plus heritage, verdant landscapes, craggy cliffs and the crystal-clear waters of the Solent, the stretch of sea separating the island from mainland England. Many have succumbed to the charms of this pristine jewel. This includes Queen Victoria, who, captivated by this natural and authentic setting, had her summer residence built there in 1847: Osborne House, an architectural gem that is now one of the symbols of the town. A shipbuilding center and the cradle of sailing, Cowes welcomes one of the largest regattas in the world every year during Cowes Week, an event gathering some 10,000 skippers and more than a thousand boats.

Accommodations

Le Bellot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
Isles of Scilly

Nestling in the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, at the south west tip of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly form a small British island chain whose climate, landscapes and lifestyle are unlike any other and seem to have come straight from an Enid Blyton story. Here, everything resembles a tropical paradise. The long sandy beaches run alongside lush green meadows teeming with semi-exotic flowers, whilst the ruins of ancient castles loom from the tops of the hills. Veritable havens of peace that inspired the legendary Avalon of King Arthur, they are today listed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the rugged coastline plays host to wildlife that is as varied as it is exceptional, including the very rare Atlantic grey seal.

Accommodations

Le Bellot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
Kinsale, Ireland

Considered Ireland’s most beautiful village, Kinsale captivates with its sublime natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Located at the mouth of the Bandon River in County Cork, this charming little port is home to picturesque streets lined with colorful houses, art galleries and theaters, as well as a 17th-century fort. Not far away, perched on a rocky promontory, stands the Old Head of Kinsale Lighthouse; still in operation today, it has magnificent views over the Atlantic Ocean.

Accommodations

Le Bellot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
Holyhead, Wales

In the north of Wales and in the west of the captivating Isle of Anglesey, succumb to the charms of the enchanting small port town of Holyhead. Often called the mother of Wales due to its importance in history, Holyhead is a paradise for anyone with a passion for natural landscapes and heritage. Explore the town’s many historical landmarks, among other sites. Among these is Holyhead’s 13th-century church, St Cybi’s Church, nestling right in the middle of the Roman citadel. Finally, admire one of the symbols of the town: South Stack Lighthouse, built in 1809. While passing near the lighthouse, possibly have the chance to marvel at numerous species of seabirds, including guillemots and razorbills.

Accommodations

Le Bellot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
Belfast, Northern Ireland

The capital city of Northern Ireland is located on the very tip of Belfast Lough, in the northeast of the Emerald Isle. Along the waterfront, the building shaped like a fragmented liner is none other than the Titanic Belfast, a homage to the famous transatlantic liner, with full-scale reconstructions making for an insightful experience of the Belle Epoque. In the historical center, travel back in time upon seeing the majestic Edwardian columns of the City Hall, and the imposing neo-gothic towers of Queen’s University. The carved wooden façades of the Victorian pubs will certainly entice you in for a pint of beer or chilled cider.

Accommodations

Le Bellot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
Tobermory, Isle of Mull & Iona, Hebrides, Scotland

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. Be won over by the row of many-storied houses on the hillside, illuminating the harbor with their vibrant colors. Although the real spectacle is outdoors, no less interesting are the Mull Museum dedicated to the local history and the exhibitions at the An Tobar Art Gallery.

Of all the islands in the Inner Hebrides, Iona is by far the most conducive to contemplation and meditation. And for good reason… it is here that St Columba landed from Ireland in 563 and undertook to establish Christianity in Scotland. Now an abbey, the island’s true spiritual center stands where the ancient monastery founded by the Irish missionary was built. Many kings of Scotland, including the legendary Macbeth, are buried in the nearby cemetery. In sunny weather, arriving on the Isle of Iona is a stunningly beautiful experience.

Accommodations

Le Bellot

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 9
Disembark Fairlie (Glasgow), Scotland

The village of Fairlie can be found less than an hour away from lively Glasgow. In the north of Ayrshire county, on the western Scottish coast, this charming little town faces the Isle of Arran. The originality of Kelburn Castle, built in the 12th century, stems from its façade covered in graffiti by four famous Brazilian graffiti artists. This artistic statement as well as the castle’s estate and gardens, which can be discovered during a pleasant walk, are well worth a visit.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All meals while on board the ship; captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner; “open bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands); evening entertainment and events; room service; highly qualified bilingual French/English expedition team; lectures presented by the expedition team; Zodiac and shore excursions; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities.

Exclusions

Optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise; visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – $250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea – with Smithsonian Journeys cruise begins in London, England (LHR) and ends in Glasgow, Scotland (GLA). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Included activities on your Celtic Voyage: the Hebrides and the Irish Sea cruise are onboard lectures and discussions with subject matter experts from Smithsonian Journeys, the travel component of the Smithsonian Institution. Also included is an excursion in every port of call such as Zodiac cruising; hiking; and guided explorations of cities, museums, monuments, and archeological sites. You will have the opportunity to choose your included excursions prior to departure. Onboard your ship a multitude of onboard activities keep guests engaged, including live music, dance and theater; optional spa treatments; exercise and stretching classes; specialty food, wine and cocktail tastings; organized games; and more.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining capacity per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

Children 1 year and older at time of travel are welcomed on this cruise. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

May 04 - May 12, 2025
Le Bellot • 9 days
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From $7880USD
Per Person
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May 07 - May 15, 2026
Le Bellot • 9 days
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From $7070USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About The Luxury Small Ship On Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
Le Bellot

The 184-guest Le Bellot is a modern, luxury expedition ship cruising the Arctic and Caribbean. She offers an upscale onboard ambiance, impressive service, and an engaging expedition program of both onboard lectures and off-ship excursions.

Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

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Celtic Voyage: the Hebrides & the Irish Sea

Aboard 184-guest Le Bellot, cruise to England, Scotland and Ireland to explore charming port towns, romantic gardens, lush landscapes, colorful houses made of timber and slate, and rich cultural and historic heritage.

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Celtic Voyage: the Hebrides & the Irish Sea