England & Ireland: Culture, Tradition & History Cruises

With its six royal palaces, numerous shops endorsed by royal charters, and a wealth of museums, galleries and vaults housing treasures from the Crown Jewels to King Charles III himself, London indisputably embodies the essence of the crown. From the iconic coronation chair at Westminster Abbey to the stately Royal Mews, and the expansive parklands of St James’s Park, to countless pubs bearing royal names, every corner of London resonates with regal history, ensuring any crown aficionado a right royal day out.

With an abundance of royal sites to explore, the choice is yours today when you use your hop-on-hop-off bus pass to uncover the city’s regal history. Whether you prefer the open-top or traditional inside seating, this popular mode of transport offers a fully guided tour with stops at all the significant sites. From Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral, you will have the opportunity to visit numerous iconic locations that showcase the city’s rich royal heritage.

This evening, join your fellow travelers and host at a right royal welcome reception.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before beginning your transfer to the naval city of Portsmouth. The journey takes you on a regal route with a visit to the town of Royal Windsor, where you’ll visit King Charles III’s weekend retreat; Windsor Castle.

Windsor Castle stands as an iconic symbol of British royalty, recognized as the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. Initially constructed by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it has been a royal residence for nearly a millennium. Its majestic architecture, profound historical significance and role as a functioning royal palace make it a dream for royal aficionados. Throughout history, it has witnessed pivotal events, including rebellions and reprisals, births and burials, weddings and divorces, while during World War II, Windsor Castle provided crucial refuge for the royal family, safeguarding them from the London bombings. In 1992, a devastating fire almost destroyed several galleries complete with artwork, prompting Queen Elizabeth II to famously describe the year as her “annus horribilis.”

Today, Windsor Castle remains an active royal residence. It continues to host state visits, ceremonial occasions and commemorations, perpetuating its legacy as an integral part of British heritage. Your visit includes exploring the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel and the extensive grounds, all of which showcase the castle’s rich history and grandeur.

For those looking to limit walking distances, Windsor itself offers plenty to enjoy at an easy, unhurried pace. This historic town is rich in heritage, with riverside restaurants, charming lanes and a car-free high street lined with some of Britain’s most iconic shops.

Continue your journey to Portsmouth, where your vessel awaits. In the late afternoon, embark the ship and settle into your cabins before mandatory safety briefings. This evening, meet your crew at an onboard welcome reception to celebrate the start of a journey to remember.

A mere 30 miles off the Normandy coast, the self-governing British Crown Dependency the Bailiwick of Guernsey is one of the eight permanently inhabited strongholds of the Channel Islands. Despite being closer to France, Guernsey holds to its distinctive British character. When William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, became King of England in 1066, the Channel Islands, including Guernsey, became possessions of the English Crown. They have remained British Crown Dependencies ever since.

Today’s morning ‘Your Choice’ experiences return to the ship for lunch, affording you an afternoon to wander the streets of St. Peters Port, with the ship berthed at the town’s centrally located port. Perhaps browse the shops, cake shops and quaint pubs, or tour Castle Cornet or visit Victor Hugo’s 19th century home, before setting sail in the early evening.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the Scenic Guernsey and the Sculptures of Sausmarez Manor driving tour, experience dramatic coastal scenery followed by time exploring the home the Seigneurs de Sausmarez, complete with sculpture gardens with over 150 contemporary works on display. Or choose Guernsey at War to take in Guernsey’s WWII sites plus visits to the German Occupation Museum and the La Valette Underground Military Museum.

Today, step ashore in a port steeped in maritime history and royal connections: Plymouth. This city’s rich legacy begins with the Mayflower, which set sail from Plymouth in 1620, carrying the first Pilgrims to America. Landing at Plymouth Bay, Massachusetts, this voyage marked a pivotal moment in Europe’s expansion to the New World, with over 30 million people today tracing their ancestry to its 102 passengers and crew from England and Leiden, Holland.

Plymouth’s maritime heritage extends to Sir Francis Drake, a celebrated naval commander and explorer. Famous for circumnavigating the globe and defeating the Spanish Armada in 1588, Drake was knighted by Queen Elizabeth I aboard his ship, the Golden Hind, in Plymouth harbor. Over the centuries, Plymouth’s naval significance has deepened royal ties, with the late Duke of Edinburgh serving as Commodore-in-Chief for Plymouth. This enduring connection underscores Plymouth’s pivotal role in British naval history and its global influence.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Experience Devon’s Legendary Moors for a taste of Dartmoor National Park and the High Moorland Visitor Center, with a stop for a traditional cream tea tasting and pauses at scenic points along the way. Or, on the Story of Plymouth, join a local guide to view the historical Barbican (where the Pilgrim Father embarked), Plymouth Hoe (where the Spanish Armada approached), and the Royal William Naval Yard (now with restaurants, galleries and shops).

Sailing west, arrive early morning at the quintessential British county of Cornwall. The seafaring folk of Cornwall have traditionally lived around the crags and coves of the county’s coastline in small villages that hug bays and cling to clifftops. Falmouth, with its rich maritime heritage, was established in the 17th century and played a crucial role in naval history, serving as a base for packet ships that carried mail across the British Empire. The town’s natural harbor facilitated its development as a significant maritime center. Today, Falmouth is a vibrant community known for its maritime activities, including shipbuilding and fishing.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Visit The Cornish Coastal Village of St Mawes for a ferry ride along wooded creeks, quiet coves and WWII sites, with free time in the laidback village of St Mawes. Experience Scenic Cornwall for a scenic coastal drive along an estuary and through key cities with striking cathedrals, granite cottages, tree-lined lanes, and historic chapels, plus a visit to the overlook of St. Michael’s Mount. Or select The Surprising Story of Trebah Gardens for exotic subtropical plants and WWII history.

Following the Cornish coastline, spend the day relaxing onboard the ship. Enjoy a regal presentation by your master storyteller, catch up on some royal gossip in the ship’s library, or enjoy a Dubonnet, the royal family’s favorite tipple, on this right royal day at sea.

Located on the Isle of Anglesey in Wales, Holyhead is a port town steeped in maritime heritage. Today, it serves as a gateway to the stunning hinterland of Snowdonia, renowned for its rustic castles and quaint Welsh villages scattered along the rugged coastline and amid the interior’s rugged national parks. Your excursion options today offer an opportunity to experience your choice of two UNESCO World Heritage listed royal sites, or stretch your legs on an escorted hike in Wales’ Snowdonia National Park. Both are considered to be national treasures.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Choose the excursion to the battlements, courtyards and the iconic Eagle Tower of Prince of Wales’ Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with  architectural grandeur and royal connections. Or opt for A Scenic Journey in Snowdonia National Park to drive in Wale’s largest national park, taking in towering peaks and green valleys created by glaciers.

This afternoon you are in for a real treat: an onboard performance from a Welsh choir. Welsh male mining choirs are a powerful symbol of Wales’ cultural heritage. Originating in the coal-mining communities, these choirs embody the resilience and camaraderie of the miners. Their harmonies, rich and resonant, reflect the soul of the Welsh landscape and its history. Singing traditional hymns and contemporary pieces, these choirs preserve a unique musical tradition. Attending a performance is a moving experience, showcasing the strength and spirit of Welsh communities through song.

The village of Heysham, located on the northwest coast of England, serves as your gateway to the historical town of Lancaster and the ever-popular Lake District, today. Situated near Morecambe Bay in Lancashire, Heysham has been a vital port for fishing and maritime trade since the Viking era. Its working harbor and historical lighthouses reflect its rich seafaring heritage. Nearby, Lancaster Castle, a medieval fortress steeped in history, overlooks the city of Lancaster, just a short distance from Heysham. The castle’s imposing presence highlights the region’s historical significance, serving as a symbol of power and authority through centuries of English history. Heysham’s proximity to the Lake District National Park adds to its allure, offering visitors easy access to the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures of one of England’s most beloved natural reserves.

Follow in the footsteps of many a royal holidaymaker today, by spending time in that quintessentially British icon, the Lake District. Dotted with 16 lakes, meres and waterways, the region of Derwentwater, collectively known as the Lake District, is beloved for its green rolling hills, slate valleys and quaint towns, with Windermere standing as its crown jewel. Stretching over 10 miles in length, Windermere has attracted tourists for centuries and inspired generations of poets and authors, including William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge and Beatrix Potter.

This region holds a special place in the Victorian history of England. Queen Victoria’s visits to the Lake District, particularly to Windermere, were significant in popularizing the area as a holiday destination. Her first visit in 1835 marked the beginning of the Lake District’s reputation as a scenic retreat for the British aristocracy and later, for tourists from around the world. The Cockermouth–Keswick–Penrith Railway, which opened for passenger traffic in 1865, brought even more visitors to the Lake District. A flurry of hotels and B&Bs were built, and steamers began to sail the waterways, showcasing a Victorian ambience that remains today.

Queen Victoria returned to the Lake District several times throughout her reign, staying at various estates. Subsequent visits by monarchs such as King George V and Queen Elizabeth II have maintained its allure. Today, follow in their wake with a boat cruise on the waters of Windermere, a drive through its rolling hills and valleys, and time to explore a village on its shores at your own pace, before returning to Heysham.

It is fair to say Belfast has had its share of turbulent times. Famines, disease, invasions and recessions paint a picture of a tough town, but it is in the city’s more recent times, known aptly as ‘The Troubles’, which tarred it with the brush of division. Images of barbed wire, armed soldiers and constant searches for bombs kept tourists away. Today, thanks to open political dialogue and foreign investment, Belfast has a new air about it. It appears lighter somehow, as if a heavy burden has been lifted from its shoulders.

Spend your morning on a guided tour of the iconic Dockyard of Belfast to experience the story of the city’s most famous production: HMS Titanic or enjoy an introductory driving tour of Belfast’s famous quarters. Yor small ship status affords a berth in town with time to explore Belfast independently this afternoon using your complimentary shuttle.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the Welcome to Belfast tour, enjoy a scenic drive through its lively streets for music, murals, shipbuilding relics, gardens, Victorian architecture and quirky pubs, with free time to explore prior to lunch. Or choose The Queen of All Ships-The Titanic Experience for a local guide’s insights into the experience of those who built the Titanic, followed by a self-guided Titanic Experience.

An overnight sailing allows you to delve deeper into the story of Northern Ireland and the fascinating city of Londonderry~Derry. Simply known as Derry to the Nationalist (Catholic) population but still referred to as Londonderry by the Unionist (Protestant) population, this border town has seen it all. The sectarian ‘Troubles’ of this predominantly Nationalist city may have blemished its reputation, but in recent years these tensions have eased, and although some suburbs retain their sense of division, strolling the streets is safe and the general population are happy to share stories of their stormy past and ambitious future. Come alongside on the river Foyle, the now open, natural border between the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. Your location affords the chance to visit the Giants Causeway or take a locally guided tour of Londonderry~Derry, with a shuttle ship to town, this afternoon for those who would enjoy exploring the city at their own pace.

You can choose from a selection of morning or half-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). In the morning, explore Londonderry-Derry for a combo walking and coach bus tour of the city’s troubled past. Or for a half-day option, visit Giant’s Causeway for the region’s most famous natural attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take in the interlocking basalt columns that create steps into the ocean.

Arrive in the coastal town of Troon, where you bid farewell to your crew, disembark the vessel, and board your coach for the scenic drive north to Inverness.

Pack your camera this morning, as you may encounter an elusive creature. Not men in kilts, but something nearly as Scottish. Undoubtedly Scotland’s most famous freshwater lake, Loch Ness forms part of the Caledonian Canal, which connects the east and west coasts of Scotland. Extending 23 miles (37km) in length and dropping to a depth of 141 miles (227km), its dark, deep waters are the perfect hiding place for its most mysterious resident. The legend of the Loch Ness Monster, or Nessie, dates to the 6th century, when Irish monk St Columba reportedly encountered a large beast in the River Ness. But it wasn’t until the 19th century that the tale took hold globally, with a series of reported sightings capturing imaginations and inspiring countless expeditions. Despite photos, sonar scans and endless speculation, Nessie has remained stubbornly out of reach, her story growing larger with every passing decade. Even without a monster sighting, the loch’s brooding beauty and sweeping Highland backdrop make it an unforgettable stop. Drive along the loch’s edge, pausing for a brief lakeside stop, for your own chance to scan the dark waters for a ripple, a shape, or perhaps a glimpse of Scotland’s most famous mystery, before finding yourself at Inverness.

Your overnight stop is in Inverness, the Highland capital and a place deeply tied to Scotland’s clan heritage. Home to clans like the MacDonalds, MacLeods and Frasers, Inverness played a key role in shaping the region’s identity. These clans lived by a feudal code, fiercely loyal to their ‘laird’ and often involved in historic battles and alliances.

Once a vital clan stronghold, Inverness hosted gatherings that helped define Highland life. Traditions like clan reunions and the Highland Games, with their unique mix of sport and music, still celebrate this proud legacy.

This evening, gather for dinner, ready to head to Scotland’s capital tomorrow.

Lingering in the Highlands this morning, gain an insight into the clash between the clans and their British rulers, brought vividly to life by your local guides on the battlefield of Culloden.

Scottish clans played a major role in the country’s history and politics, their relationship with the British crown marked by both alliances and fierce conflict. Many clans supported rival factions during the Jacobite uprisings of the 17th and 18th centuries, backing the Stuart claim to the throne. The decisive defeat of the Jacobites at Culloden in 1746 marked the end of clan power. Afterward, British policies dismantled the clan system, banning tartan, Gaelic, bagpipes and communal living. These measures aimed to integrate Scotland fully into Britain and diminish clan influence.

Today, the clans’ legacy thrives in Scottish culture, celebrated worldwide through gatherings and tartans. Your guided visit to the Culloden Battlefield offers a poignant reminder of this bitter feud. Here, Jacobite forces under Bonnie Prince Charlie suffered a crushing defeat, with heavy casualties and harsh reprisals. Standing on this ground reveals the brutal reality of 18th-century warfare and its lasting impact.

Continue south to arrive in the capital city of Edinburgh in the late afternoon and check in to the group hotel. Enjoy your evening at leisure.

Scotland’s capital, is more than just a city of castles and royal connections; it is a place where the stories of saints and heroes who saved Scotland echo through its ancient streets. Perched dramatically on volcanic hills and dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the city has been a strategic stronghold for centuries. Renowned for its connections to Scottish heroes like Robert the Bruce, Mary Queen of Scots, who took up residence at Holyrood Palace as a widow at 18 years of age; and St Giles, the patron saint of Edinburgh; the city holds secrets including hidden underground tunnels beneath the Royal Mile, and tales of ghostly apparitions that haunt the ancient closes and wynds.

Beyond its imposing fortifications, Edinburgh was a center of political intrigue, and a gathering place where clan leaders negotiated, celebrated, and sometimes clashed, leading to dangerous liaisons and hidden nooks and crannies scattered throughout the city. Today, visitors are encouraged to explore Edinburgh’s royal residences, museums and galleries to uncover these stories and witness firsthand the secrets that have shaped its unique identity. Edinburgh stands as a living testament to Scotland’s resilience and spirit, where the legacies of saints and national heroes merge with the city’s enduring royal heritage in a puzzle of history and legend.

Your experiences this morning showcase a myriad of classic sites, allowing you an afternoon to enjoy the city independently, before gathering this evening for a farewell reception.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Opt for the Introducing Edinburgh tour for a locally guided drive through the city’s historic heart and elegant Georgian avenues. Tour the Royal Mile & Edinburgh Castle for a UNESCO World Heritage Site including St Giles’ Cathedral, Parliament Square and the storied John Knox House, plus see the castle’s collection of the oldest Crown jewels in Britain. Last option is an audio-guided tour of the decks of the Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia, one of the world’s most famous ships with many royal functions and residencies.

After breakfast, take your leave. An airport transfer shared with your fellow explorers is included for your onward flight.

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is more than just a city of castles and royal connections; it is a place where the stories of saints and heroes who saved Scotland echo through its ancient streets. Perched dramatically on volcanic hills and dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the city has been a strategic stronghold for centuries. Renowned for its connections to Scottish heroes like Robert the Bruce, Mary Queen of Scots, who took up residence at Holyrood Palace as a widow at 18 years of age; and St Giles, the patron saint of Edinburgh; the city holds secrets including hidden underground tunnels beneath the Royal Mile, and tales of ghostly apparitions that haunt the ancient vaults.

Beyond its imposing fortifications, Edinburgh was a center of political intrigue, and a gathering place where clan leaders negotiated, celebrated, and sometimes clashed, leading to dangerous liaisons and hidden nooks and crannies scattered throughout the city. Today, visitors are encouraged to explore Edinburgh’s royal residences, museums and galleries to uncover these stories and witness firsthand the secrets that have shaped its unique identity. Edinburgh stands as a living testament to Scotland’s resilience and spirit, where the legacies of saints and national heroes merge with the city’s enduring royal heritage in a puzzle of history and legend.

Your excursions this morning showcase a myriad of classic sites, gifting you an afternoon to enjoy the city independently, before gathering this evening for a welcome reception.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Opt for the Introducing Edinburgh tour for a locally guided drive through the city’s historic heart and elegant Georgian avenues. Tour the Royal Mile & Edinburgh Castle for a UNESCO World Heritage Site including St Giles’ Cathedral, Parliament Square and the storied John Knox House, plus see the castle’s collection of the oldest Crown jewels in Britain. Last option is an audio-guided tour of the decks of the Royal Yacht Britannia, one of the world’s most famous ships with many royal functions and residencies.

A 1.5-hour drive offers a taste of royal life this morning with a visit to Glamis Castle, en route to Aberdeen.

When speaking of kin, one cannot possibly overlook the most famous family in the United Kingdom, the Royal Family, led today by King Charles III and shaped in part by the strength and grace of his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother. Today, encounter her legacy at Glamis Castle, the ancestral home of the Bowes-Lyon family. Steeped in history and legend, Glamis was not only the Queen Mother’s childhood home, but also a place where she first developed the compassion for which she became famous during WWII. During the First World War, the castle served as a convalescent home for wounded soldiers and it was here, as a young girl, that Queen Elizabeth helped care for them, an experience that deeply influenced her lifelong sense of duty.

Choose to join a guided tour of the castle’s opulent rooms and rich history, enjoy its celebrated gardens, or perhaps relax with a royal inspired tea and a treat at the café, before continuing north to the Slate City of Aberdeen where the ship awaits.

This evening, we meet your guide team and crew at an onboard welcome dinner, while you sail north to the Scottish Highlands.

Welcome to Invergordon, gateway to the Scottish Highlands. This picturesque stop gifts you the chance to meet two of the Highlands’ most iconic identities—its legendary clans and the mysterious Loch Ness Monster. From ancient loyalties and fierce battles to enduring folklore and deep, dark waters, today’s ‘Your Choice’ experiences promise a captivating blend of history and myth set against some of Scotland’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. There’s time this afternoon to explore the town of Invergordon, using your complimentary ship-to-shore shuttle, before following in the wake of the Vikings to the lands known as the Orkneys.

You can choose from a selection of morning and half-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). In the morning, The Jacobite’s Story-Culloden excursion gain insight into the clash between the clans and their British rulers, brought vividly to life by local guides on the battlefield of Culloden and its neighboring museum. Or choose the half-day In Search of Nessie driving tour, to search for the legendary ‘Nessie’ along Loch Ness, Scotland’s most famous freshwater lake, plus a visit to the iconic ruins of Urquhart Castle.

Arrive at the Orkney Islands, a rugged archipelago of around 70 islands, 20 of which are inhabited by a close-knit population of around 22,000. Though most Orcadians proudly trace their heritage back to the Vikings, they have consistently voted to remain part of the United Kingdom. This small but strategic group of islands has played an outsized role in world history, from ancient Neolithic settlements that predate the Egyptian pyramids to pivotal naval events during both World Wars. Orkney’s rich heritage and resilient community continue to shape Scotland’s story today.

The capital, Kirkwall, welcomes you today with two iconic ‘Your Choice’ experiences to enjoy this morning, followed by some free time to explore its charming streets, shops, or historic sites at your leisure. Mid-afternoon, sail southward toward Scotland’s Isle of Lewis.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Learn about the Scapa Flow at War to hear how this natural harbor became the strategic heart of the British naval fleet during both World Wars, followed by a visit to the island of Lamb Holm, home of the poignant Italian Chapel, hand-crafted by WWII prisoners of war, and a visit to the tranquil village of St. Margaret’s Hope on South Ronaldsay. Or opt for The Ancient Lands of the Orkneys to experience the UNESCO World Heritage-listed heartland of Neolithic, Norse and medieval history.

Spend your day on the Isle of Lewis, one of largest islands in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides. Known for its dramatic landscapes, strong Gaelic identity and lengthy inhabited history, Lewis offers a striking introduction to Scotland’s remote Atlantic edge. From sweeping moorlands and rugged coastlines to ancient stone circles and traditional crofting villages, the island tells stories shaped by nature, resilience and time. It’s little wonder National Geographic named the Outer Hebrides one of its ‘Best of the World’ destinations for 2025.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Choose Cultural Lewis for a visit to Lewis Castle’s gardens and Museum Tasglann nan Eilean’s interactive journey through the islands’ rich history, followed by a weaving demonstration and free time back in Stornoway. Or choose The Story of Lewis for a scenic drive (with a local guide narrating) through windswept moorlands and a coastline shaped by centuries of hardship and resilience, including stops at the haunting Calanais Standing Stones and a restored crofting settlement.

Navigate the Scottish Isles as you sail south towards Glasgow. Join your host’s presentation to uncover the stories of this captivating region, unwind in the rejuvenating sauna, or lose yourself in a good book from the ship’s well-stocked library. As evening falls, watch the sunset over the horizon before settling in for a peaceful night’s rest.

Once a gritty, working-class town built on shipbuilding and heavy industry, Glasgow has redefined itself as one of Britain’s most creative and dynamic cities. Today, it’s a place where grand Victorian buildings sit alongside bold street art and vibrant cultural spaces. Begin with a panoramic drive to take in the city’s striking mix of heritage and modern energy, before heading to a local distillery to explore one of Scotland’s proudest traditions, whisky.

Scotch is more than a national drink; it’s a craft rooted in centuries of history. You’ll discover how pure Highland water, malted barley and time in oak casks come together through distillation and ageing to create whisky’s signature flavors. As you tour the distillery, the warm scent of malt fills the air, and each barrel holds the character of the region: smoky, sweet or peaty. A tasting brings those flavors to life, offering a deeper appreciation of why whisky is such a cultural emblem.

Continue your time in Glasgow with free time for you to enjoy the shops, galleries and streetscapes at your own pace before returning to the ship, moored at the seaside outer suburb of Troon.

Dublin, the vibrant capital of Ireland, is a city brimming with energy and resilience. Once under British rule, Dublin has emerged with a distinct sense of identity, leading Ireland as a proud member of the European Union and reflecting its evolving role in modern Europe. The city has been home to some of the world’s most influential literary figures, including Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, W.B. Yeats and George Bernard Shaw. Iconic landmarks such as Trinity College, home to the esteemed Book of Kells, highlight its storied past, while the city also serves as a hub of artistic and cultural expression, with global musicians like U2, whose impact resonates from their Dublin roots, having invigorated its creative scene. Dublin’s vibrant pub culture offers a lively social fabric, where traditional and contemporary influences merge to create a city to explore both day and night.

You can choose from a selection of morning excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details), with time to explore Dublin this afternoon before gathering for a welcome event this evening. On the Walking Dublin tour, hear stories of Ireland’s emotional past while visiting iconic sites like St Stephens Green, Trinity College and the historic Huguenot cemetery. On the EPIC Tale of Emigration take a self-guided tour of the Irish Emigration Museum. Or choose The Spiritual Center of Dublin excursion for a locally guided tour of Glasnevin Cemetery, to see the final resting place of notable Irish politicians, playwrights and poets.

Located on the Isle of Anglesey in Wales, Holyhead is a port town steeped in maritime heritage. Today, it serves as a gateway to the stunning hinterland of Snowdonia, renowned for its rustic castles and quaint Welsh villages scattered along the rugged coastline and amid the interior’s rugged national parks. Your excursion options today offer an opportunity to experience your choice of two UNESCO World Heritage listed royal sites, or stretch your legs on an escorted hike in Wales’ Snowdonia National Park. Both are considered to be national treasures.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Choose the excursion to the battlements, courtyards and the iconic Eagle Tower of Prince of Wales’ Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with  architectural grandeur and royal connections. Or opt for A Scenic Journey in Snowdonia National Park to drive in Wale’s largest national park, taking in towering peaks and green valleys created by glaciers.

This afternoon you are in for a real treat: an onboard performance from a Welsh choir. Welsh male mining choirs are a powerful symbol of Wales’ cultural heritage. Originating in the coal-mining communities, these choirs embody the resilience and camaraderie of the miners. Their harmonies, rich and resonant, reflect the soul of the Welsh landscape and its history. Singing traditional hymns and contemporary pieces, these choirs preserve a unique musical tradition. Attending a performance is a moving experience, showcasing the strength and spirit of Welsh communities through song.

Returning to Ireland, arrive at the popular riverside city of Waterford. Known as the city where culture meets the ‘craic’ (that is Irish for a good time), Waterford is a modern city with a layered history. Invaded by the Norsemen in 914 CE, Waterford became a Viking settlement, which is reflected in its people even today. It emerged from the Middle Ages as a trading port with the wealth from goods that came from as far away as Newfoundland, the profits of which funded the construction of the many Georgian mansions that line the city’s streets. A town for those who enjoy a good stroll, Waterford is easy on the eye, offers plenty to see and as its reputation suggests, is full of fun.

Today’s ‘Your Choice’ excursions let you dive into some intriguing regal encounters. Discover the Kennedy family’s ancestral stronghold in Wexford, where the Kennedys are considered American royalty; travel to Kilkenny Castle for an intriguing story of nobility gone wrong; or enjoy a visit to every royal family’s favorite crystal producer; Waterford Crystal. The ship will dock at the Port of Waterford, only a handy 10-minute coach shuttle into town, affording you an afternoon exploring Waterford should you wish, before setting sail in the early evening.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the Introducing Waterford & Waterford Crystal tour, explore the Viking-linked city and its famed crystal factory and glassworks. Or take in The Kennedy Family Heritage in the town of Wexford, home to JFK’s ancestral family homestead with its exhibits detailing the Catholic president’s ties to Ireland.

Sailing west, arrive at the quintessential British county of Cornwall around noon.

The seafaring folk of Cornwall have traditionally lived around the crags and coves of the county’s coastline in small villages that hug bays and cling to clifftops. Falmouth, with its rich maritime heritage, was established in the 17th century and played a crucial role in naval history, serving as a base for packet ships that carried mail across the British Empire. The town’s natural harbor facilitated its development as a significant maritime center. Today, Falmouth is a vibrant community known for its maritime activities, including shipbuilding and fishing.

Savour one of today’s ‘Your Choice’ experiences to immerse yourself in the charm of Cornwall, or simply stroll the streets of historic Falmouth, before the ship sails into the English Channel in the early evening.

You can choose from a selection of morning or afternoon shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Visit The Cornish Coastal Village of St Mawes for a ferry ride along wooded creeks, quiet coves and WWII sites, with free time in the laidback village of St Mawes. Or experience Scenic Cornwall for a scenic coastal drive along an estuary and through key cities with striking cathedrals, granite cottages, tree-lined lanes, and historic chapels, plus a visit to the overlook of St. Michael’s Mount.

A mere 30 miles off the Normandy coast, the self-governing British Crown Dependency the Bailiwick of Guernsey is one of the eight permanently inhabited strongholds of the Channel Islands. Despite being closer to France, Guernsey holds to its distinctive British character. When William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, became King of England in 1066, the Channel Islands, including Guernsey, became possessions of the English Crown. They have remained British Crown Dependencies ever since.

Today’s morning ‘Your Choice’ experiences return to the ship for lunch, affording you an afternoon to wander the streets of St. Peters Port, with the ship berthed at the town’s centrally located port. Perhaps browse the shops, cake shops and quaint pubs, or tour Castle Cornet or visit Victor Hugo’s 19th century home, before setting sail in the early evening.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the Scenic Guernsey and the Sculptures of Sausmarez Manor driving tour, experience dramatic coastal scenery followed by time exploring the home the Seigneurs de Sausmarez, complete with sculpture gardens with over 150 contemporary works on display. Or choose Guernsey at War to take in Guernsey’s WWII sites plus visits to the German Occupation Museum and the La Valette Underground Military Museum.

After breakfast on board, disembark and begin your journey to London. A two-hour drive takes you to the royal town of Windsor, where you’ll visit King Charles III’s weekend retreat; Windsor Castle.

Windsor Castle stands as an iconic symbol of British royalty, recognized as the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. Initially constructed by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it has been a royal residence for nearly a millennium. Its majestic architecture, profound historical significance and role as a functioning royal palace make it a dream for royal aficionados. Throughout history, it has witnessed pivotal events, including rebellions and reprisals, births and burials, weddings and divorces, while during World War II, Windsor Castle provided crucial refuge for the royal family, safeguarding them from the London bombings. In 1992, a devastating fire almost destroyed several galleries complete with artwork, prompting Queen Elizabeth II to famously describe the year as her “annus horribilis.”

Today, Windsor Castle remains an active royal residence. It continues to host state visits, ceremonial occasions and commemorations, perpetuating its legacy as an integral part of British heritage. Today’s self-guided tour explores the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel and the extensive grounds, all of which showcase the castle’s rich history and grandeur.

For those looking to limit walking distances, Windsor itself offers plenty to enjoy at an easy, unhurried pace. This historic town is rich in heritage, with riverside restaurants, charming lanes and a car-free high street lined with some of Britain’s most iconic shops. After your royal visit, continue your journey to London for a two-night stay. Your evening is at leisure to enjoy England’s capital city.

With its six royal palaces, numerous shops endorsed by royal charters, and a wealth of museums, galleries and vaults housing treasures from the Crown Jewels to King Charles III himself, London indisputably embodies the essence of ‘the crown.’ From the iconic coronation chair at Westminster Abbey to the stately Royal Mews, and the expansive parklands of St James’s Park, to countless pubs bearing royal names, every corner of London resonates with regal history, ensuring any ‘crown aficionado’ a right royal day out.

With an abundance of royal sites to explore, the choice is yours today, with your hop-on-hop-off bus pass uncovering the city’s regal history. Whether you prefer the open-top or traditional inside seating, this popular mode of transport offers a fully guided tour with stops at all the significant sites. From Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral, you will have the opportunity to visit numerous iconic locations that showcase the city’s rich royal heritage.

This evening, join your fellow travelers and host at a right royal farewell reception.

After breakfast, bid farewell to London with a shared transfer to Heathrow Airport alongside your fellow travelers.