-TOURISM-IRELAND.jpg?language=en&auto=format&w={width}&fit=cover)
Welcome to Dublin. On arrival at Dublin airport make your way to the arrivals hall to meet our representative, followed by a transfer to our group hotel. At the hotel, visit our hospitality desk in the lobby to meet our team who will provide you with useful information regarding pre-embarkation procedures and about your time in Dublin. You will also receive cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and your cabin number on the ship.
This evening offers time to relax in preparation for our ‘day out in Dublin’ tomorrow. Our group hotel has a popular restaurant and is close to plenty of corner pubs and cosy restaurants should you wish to ‘share a jar’ or try some local cuisine.
Accommodation: Dublin Hotel
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.
Choose your favourite ‘Your Choice’ experience this morning to meet Dublin’s saints, spirits and saviours. This afternoon there's time to explore Dublin independently, before joining us for a celebration of all things Irish as we kick up our heels at an authentic Irish dancing evening.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.
Option 1 – Morning experience: Dublin Walking Tour
The size of Dublin makes it an ideal one for a leisurely walking tour. This morning, our local guides entertain us with tales of the city’s character-filled history. We will hear stories of Ireland’s emotional past through the eyes of its many artists, manic lord mayors and rebellious citizens whilst following the park-side alleys of Dublin’s ‘backyard’, St Stephen’s Green, to the grand Georgian buildings of Ireland’s first university, Trinity College. Founded by Queen Elizabeth I, the grounds of the college offer 40 acres of academic seclusion from the hustle and bustle of downtown Dublin.
Option 2 – Morning experience: The Dead Centre of Dublin
Join a locally guided tour of Glasnevin Cemetery, where the stories of 1.6 million souls are meticulously preserved. This historical Victorian cemetery, adorned with statues of shamrocks, high crosses, and harps, offers a window into Ireland’s rich past and psyche. Discover the final resting places of notable figures such as Michael Collins, a leader in the struggle for Irish independence, and Éamon de Valera, a key political figure and former president of Ireland. You may also visit the graves of Brendan Behan, the influential playwright, and Thomas Kinsella, a celebrated poet. Look out for final resting places of Countess Markievicz, a revolutionary and the first woman elected to the British Parliament, and Daniel O’Connell, the great emancipator.
Glasnevin is a testament to Ireland’s deep-rooted belief in spirits and saints, reflecting the nation’s spiritual heritage. Each monument and grave not only tells the story of its occupant, but also offers insights into the Irish psyche, where reverence for historical figures and a connection to the spiritual world are intertwined.
Option 3 – Morning experience: The Lock Up – Kilmainham Gaol
Your morning begins with a visit to Kilmainham Gaol, a historical prison in Dublin now serving as a museum. One of the largest unoccupied gaols in Europe, Kilmainham opened in 1796 and closed as a prison in 1924. It played a crucial role in Ireland’s struggle for independence, housing leaders from numerous rebellions, as well as prominent figures from the Irish War of Independence.
The gaol’s history is marked by harsh conditions and notable executions. Leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising, including James Connolly and Patrick Pearse, were executed here, symbolising the dire costs of Ireland’s fight for freedom. The prison also housed many political prisoners under severe conditions, highlighting the brutal treatment they endured. The guided tour provides a detailed look into the prison’s dark past, including its role in shaping Ireland’s path to independence. You’ll see the stark cells and hear poignant stories of sacrifice and struggle, offering a profound insight into the nation’s history and the personal stories of those who fought for its freedom.
Accommodation: Dublin Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Welcome Event - dinner show
Spend your morning soaking up the charm of Dublin at your own pace, with free time to explore independently.
In the afternoon, dive into the story behind Ireland’s most iconic brew with a self-guided tour of the Guinness Storehouse, culminating in a tasting at the stunning 360-degree glass-fronted Gravity Bar, or discover your Irish heritage at Dublin’s EPIC Museum.
Whichever ‘Your Choice’ experience you select, we’ll reunite in the late afternoon aboard our home for the next 10 days, the Douglas Mawson and set sail along the Irish coast toward Waterford. This evening, we enjoy a ‘Welcome Aboard Dinner’, where we meet our crew and Vantage Explorations team.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.
Option 1 – Afternoon experience: The Guinness Story
The Guinness brewery opened on this spot over 250 years ago, when Arthur Guinness signed a 900-year lease – there’s only 650 years to go. We will see, hear and smell the secret ingredients as we travel through a series of vast machines, before our self-guided tour ends in the circular panoramic Gravity Bar, with its sweeping views across the city of Dublin. Here, we will enjoy a complimentary pint of ‘the black stuff’ while viewing Dublin from above.
Option 2 – Afternoon experience: EPIC Emigration Museum
Adjacent to the Customs House Quay (CHQ) building’s restaurants, cafes and shops, the award-winning EPIC Emigration Museum is a highlight of any visit to Dublin, and a convenient place to grab a bite to eat, do some souvenir shopping or trace your own Irish roots at EPIC's Irish Family History Centre. The museum’s self-guided tour allows us to meet one of Ireland’s greatest exports; its people. Discover what it means to hold Irish heritage, as you meet poets and presidents, singers and suffragettes. You will meet famous folk and families, from Ned Kelly to the Kennedys, as you follow your souvenir-passport to find out where they came from, why they left, and the differences they have made to our everyday lives.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner onboard
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, 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.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences
Option 1 - Morning experience: Viking Waterford and the House of Waterford
It is not a coincidence that Waterford's city centre is known locally as the Viking Triangle. Those infamous invaders from across the North Sea settled here 1,100 years ago, bringing with them the wealth of their wares. Our introductory guided walk takes us past Reginald's Tower, the strongpoint of the medieval defensive walls that enclosed the city until the 18th century and the Medieval Museum whose building is also the only one on the island to incorporate two medieval chambers; the 1st century Choristers' Hall and 15th century Mayor's Wine Vault.
After our walk we join a tour of the Waterford Crystal Factory – The House of Waterford. The House of Waterford is the factory of the famous glass creations named after their hometown. Opened in 1783, this fine-cut glass is exported worldwide and beloved in every Irish home. We will watch the master blowers, crystal cutters and engravers in action as we follow the story of the crystal masterpieces from the initial design right up to the final engraving.
Option 2- Full day experience: Kilkenny Castle
Kilkenny, often hailed as Ireland’s best-preserved medieval city, blends small-town charm with a lively urban energy. Once the seat of the medieval Irish parliament, it rivalled Dublin in influence—a legacy still visible in its grand Norman architecture and marble façades. At its heart stands Kilkenny Castle, continuously occupied for over 800 years and deeply entwined with the rise and fall of the Marshal and Butler families. The Butlers, who rose from Earls to Dukes, were known for high-profile marriages, including Winston Churchill’s cousin and American heiress Ellen Stager. By 1922, the castle was caught in political turmoil, occupied by Republicans and besieged by Free State forces. In 1967, the family sold it to the Kilkenny Castle Restoration Committee for just £50. Today, the castle stands as a symbol of shifting fortunes—a riches-to-rags tale that mirrors the city’s own dramatic history.
Once a port town, always a port town, Cork sits proudly on an island in the middle of the Lee River. Surrounded by water, the city’s salty air tells the story of Irish emigration, with its historical harbour of Cobh and shores of Kinsale, famed as the port of boarding for the Irish who left for foreign lands. If your ancestors are Irish, there is a high chance they came through Cork. Today, the city has a flair for great gigs and modernised traditional dishes and is considered an Irish food mecca that is centred around its restored 18th-century English Market.
Our 'Your Choice’ experiences today offer you the opportunity to ‘get the gift of the gab’ or follow those Irish who left their homeland for foreign shores. Return to the Douglas Mawson for lunch onboard, with your afternoon free to explore Cork independently at your own pace before we set sail to Bantry, late afternoon.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.
Option 1 – Morning experience: The Colourful Enclave of Kinsale
We drive to the coast and the picture-perfect town of Kinsale, where we hear stories of naval battles, foreign invasions and shipwrecks. Once a garrison town embroiled with invading navies, Kinsale became the natural landfall for ships sailing from the continent and the Americas. It is in these waters where two of the world’s greatest ocean liners were last seen. In the early hours of 7 May 1915, the Cunard liner Lusitania was struck, only a mere 11 nautical miles off the coast of Kinsale, by a single torpedo shot from a German U-Boat. The people of Kinsale rallied to assist, but within 18 minutes she sank, with only 764 of the 1959 souls on board surviving. This afternoon there is time to enjoy a stroll around this colourful coastal enclave before returning to Cork.
Option 2 – Morning experience: The Queenstown story
A half-hour drive brings us to Cork’s second port at Cobh. We join a tailormade guided walking tour tracing the story of Irish emigration, with a self-guided audio tour of ‘The Queenstown Story’ at the Cobh Heritage Centre. Seeking a better life, or simply hoping to survive starvation, hundreds of thousands boarded vessels bound for foreign lands at Cobh including Annie Moore, a teenager who was the first immigrant to be processed at the newly opened Ellis Island in New York City. Sadly, in 1912, Cobh, known as Queenstown at that time, also boarded passengers on the ill-fated Titanic.
This port town, a crucial departure point for over 3 million Irish people, tells the poignant story of their quest for a better life. The ‘Queenstown Story’ traces Irish emigration since the 1600s, including the transportation of convicts to Australia and the impact of disasters like the Titanic and the Lusitania. The exhibition, housed in Cobh’s restored Victorian railway station, features personal tales, such as Jeremiah Burke’s message in a bottle from the Titanic and Margaret Drury’s convict voyage to Australia. Discover these moving stories and more, reflecting the hardships and hopes of Irish emigrants across the globe.
Option 3 – Morning experience: Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone
If every myth, legend and limerick associated with Blarney Castle’s indomitable ‘stone’ were true, the world would be asking it to solve all our problems. Where the stone came from and how its modern-day reputation was conceived is a matter of contention, but regardless, thousands of travellers come to kiss it every week, hoping to be bestowed with ‘the gift of eloquence’. Was it a witch who was saved from drowning that revealed its power?
Was it the Lord of Blarneys eloquent reply to the land title demands of Queen Elizabeth I? Was it the Goddess Cliodhna’s hinted reply to a love-lost Cormac McCarthy? Today, we hope to find out.
We arrive at Bantry Bay and tender to shore. The harbourside town of Bantry is the gateway to the touring route known as the Wild Atlantic Way. It is easy to see why Ireland’s colour of choice for everything is green, from its national sporting uniforms to its flag, as we drive the famed Ring of Kerry, tread the trails of Whiddy Island or explore the Beara Peninsula, surrounded by the lush grass-covered hills and dales of the Emerald Isle. For those choosing a morning excursion, Bantry itself is small enough for a comfortable stroll in the afternoon, with artisan shops, friendly cafes and, of course, plenty of pubs to try a local brew.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.
Option 1 – Morning experience: Meet the Mayor of Whiddy Island
A 15-minute ferry crossing takes us to one of Ireland’s 80 islands – Whiddy Island, with a population of 30. A former World War I US Navy seaplane base known as Bantry Bay Station; Whiddy Island offers an insight into ‘island life in Ireland’. At just 3 x 1.5 miles in size, it is an island that is ideal for walking. It is famous for its red and purple hue provided in summer by an extensive planting of fuchsias and birdlife, as Whiddy is also home to kingfishers, little egrets and shags. But it is the story of its people that we have come to hear about, and we could not ask for a more local guide to show us around. He is the local publican, local postal worker, and he is locally known as the King of Whiddy Island. We learn about traditional baking and mussel farming and, of course, we wash it down at his pub with a local brew.
Option 2 – Half day experience: The Beara Peninsula
The Ring of Beara, located on Bantry’s neighbour, the Beara Peninsula, is one of the region’s top three scenic drives, known for its rugged and less touristy charm. This 85-mile route, including the renowned Beara Way, offers a journey through some of Ireland’s most striking landscapes. We encounter a dramatic coastline where the Atlantic Ocean crashes against steep cliffs, creating breathtaking views. The route is flanked by sharp-featured mountains and intricate rock formations, with exposed and contorted strata presenting a geologist’s dream. Scenic detours lead to hidden gems such as ancient stone circles, secluded beaches, and picturesque villages like Eyeries, known for its brightly painted houses. Time permitting, we visit the quaint village of Allihies, famous for its copper-mining history, offering stunning vistas of Beara’s lakes and valleys. With its wild beauty and diverse scenery, the Ring of Beara promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking a truly authentic and rugged Irish experience.
Option 3 – Full-day experience: The Kingdom of Kerry
A day spent driving through the Kingdom of Kerry is the touchstone against which all other beauty spots in Ireland are measured. The Iveragh Peninsula is a magical place full of myths and legends. This landscape of sandstone hills, wooded valleys and pristine lakes has inspired poets and authors to pen many a lament. A photographer’s dream, the region is dotted with quaint towns and villages. Its lands have been carved into a series of mountain passes that whisper their story as we follow the trail of the Kingdom of Kerry.
Once described by National Geographic Traveller as ‘the most beautiful place on earth’, Dingle is away from the general ‘tourist route’, affording us exclusive access to the wild west coast. Traditionally a fishing port, Dingle Harbour is where we anchor and tender into town. Known for its rugged scenery, dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches, the surrounding promontory is the coastal heart of County Kerry, while Dingle itself has a bohemian flair and is famous for its hardware pubs where you can enjoy a brew and buy wares.
Our ‘Your Choice’ experiences today showcase the relationship between the people and this rugged stretch of coast. Their triumphs and tragedies. Theirs time to browse Dingle before we sail north towards Galway.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.
Option 1 – Morning experience: The Saintly Sites of the Dingle Peninsula
Journey today to the Dingle Peninsula, the northernmost of the five fingers projecting into the Atlantic Ocean. This area is steeped in Christian heritage, with numerous sites dedicated to Saint Brendan the Navigator, who was born nearby in Tralee in c. 484. Saint Brendan is celebrated for his legendary sea voyages and is a significant figure in Irish spirituality.
Our drive takes us along the scenic coast road, past Inch to Slea Head, the most westerly point in Europe. We follow in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims and visit the 12th-century church at Kilmalkedar, a traditional assembly site for those who journeyed along Saint Brendan’s Road northeast to Mount Brandon.
We also visit the renowned Gallarus Oratory, the most impressive early Christian monument on the Dingle Peninsula. This oratory, built in the shape of an upturned boat, has withstood the test of time for over 1,200 years. It was part of a larger monastic site and served as a place of prayer and reflection. The Irish cherish visiting these saintly sites, finding solace and inspiration in their deep spiritual and historical significance.
Option 2 – Morning experience: Life on the Land – Past and Present
We hear tales of ‘life on the land’ this morning as we visit ‘famine cottages’ and meet the shepherds and the sheep dogs of the Dingle Peninsula. Our scenic drive follows a route along the dramatic cliffs of the promontory, before heading inland to the farmlands of Dingle.
This land is sheep country. Generations of farmers have survived here through wild weather, outbreaks of disease and, of course, famine. The Kavanagh family is one of them. In the 19th century, the densely populated, western counties of Ireland were poverty stricken. The people in these areas were hugely dependent on the potato crop, and when the potato blight arrived in the 1840s, West Kerry experienced severe hardship. Neglected by the ruling classes, people endured horrific conditions, forcing many to emigrate, while those who remained, starved. We hear tales of extreme poverty and struggle for survival as we visit the family’s 19th-century cottages, which remain as they were during the great famine. The story of this land continues in a lighter vein as we enjoy a sheepdog demonstration. The shepherds’ ‘best friends’ take instructions in native Irish as they show off their skills and win our hearts with their cunning ability to herd even the most determined of sheep.
Option 3 – Half day experience: Dingle Peninsula with the Blasket Centre
As the Atlantic carves the coast, we watch its waves from our clifftop drive to Slea Head. Our route weaves and twists as we follow the peninsula, with stops to take in its dramatic scenery as the road narrows, and we literally drive to the edge of the ocean. An unforgiving land, this peninsula attracted medieval monks, who lived in beehive-shaped, stone clocháns, which we visit at the Fahan Beehive. On the horizon we see the deserted Blasket Islands; an unenviable place to live. The islands were evacuated in 1953 due to a dwindling, ageing population, but the islanders’ stories live on, thanks to the Blasket Centre. This interactive museum tells tales of the islanders who survived in often unliveable conditions. We hear their stories, learn some ‘real Irish’ and marvel at their tenacity.
We sail north past the famed Cliffs of Moher to Ireland’s favourite seaside town; Galway. Arriving at Galway, we anchor in its natural bay and tender ashore. This popular holiday resort Galway attracts a steady flow of local visitors. The Irish come here to walk its mile-long promenade and as tradition dictates, kick the walls end for good luck, enjoy fish and chips straight from the newspaper and, of course, ‘go on the gargle’ in its cosy pubs.
Join our morning experience to spend more time in Galway independently and hear stories varying from poverty to excess, fame and fortune to famine and despair, before we sail for Killybegs in the late afternoon.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.
Option 1 – Morning experience: Getting to Know Galway
Experience the spirit of Galway on this guided city tour led by a local expert. This panoramic journey blends driving and walking to showcase the city’s most recognised landmarks and lesser-known treasures. We visit the Claddagh Ring Museum, where you’ll discover the origins of this traditional Irish symbol. According to legend, the first Claddagh ring was crafted by a Galway goldsmith who was captured by pirates and sold into slavery. He created the ring for his beloved back home, with its hands, heart, and crown representing friendship, love, and loyalty. Today, it holds deep meaning for generations of young Irish women. As our tour ends, enjoy free time to explore Galway at your own pace. Sample local food, browse shops for unique souvenirs, or wander the lively streets of Ireland’s favourite seaside town.
Option 2 – Morning Experience: Cruising the Connemara
Today’s journey takes us through the wild beauty of Connemara, as we drive from Galway to Lisloughrey along winding roads flanked by quiet lakes, peat bogs, and dramatic mountain views. This rugged landscape sets the tone for what’s to come.
At Lisloughrey, we board a scenic cruise on Lough Corrib, the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland, famously said to hold 365 islands, one for each day of the year. As we glide across its still waters, our guide tells tales of Viking raids, sunken castles, and ancient monastic sites bringing this uniquely Irish region to life. Rising from the treeline, you’ll spot sites like Ashford Castle, once a medieval fortress, later transformed into a Victorian estate by the Guinness family, and now one of Ireland’s most celebrated hotels, The Old Steamers Quay and Lord Ardilaun’s Obelisk.
Returning to Galway, in time for lunch, choose to tender to the ship, or linger longer in Irelands’ favourite seaside resort.
The fishing village of Killybegs is the gateway to the rugged beauty of Slieve League Cliffs and the dramatic backdrop of Ireland’s own Table Mountain, Ben Bulben. Jutting out of Sligo’s northern edge, the peninsula of Mullaghmore pokes into the North Atlantic. Land and sea meet in confluence along the coast of County Sligo, a landscape of jagged mountain peaks that inspired the work of Nobel-winning poet William Butler Yeats.
We arrive in Killybegs around noon and enjoy lunch onboard, before either exploring the dramatic cliffs on a scenic cliffside walk or delve into sustainable whiskey production at the family-owned Adara Distillery. Farewelling Killybegs in the early evening, we sail for the shores of Northern Ireland.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.
Option 1 – Afternoon experience: Slieve League Cliffs
Slieve League is Ireland’s ultimate sea cliff experience and a signature point on the Wild Atlantic Way. Believed to be Europe’s highest accessible sea cliffs, they rise 2,000 feet from the ocean below. The lookouts here offer unspoiled views of the Atlantic as it slams the coastline of Donegal. Slieve League boasts a raw landscape and challenging lifestyle for those who call County Sligo home. We meet some of these stoic characters at the Tí Linn café and craft shop for a hot drink and scones. The Slieve League Cliffs Centre supports local artisans by selling their handmade specialties including items from the Donegal Tweed company and Triona, a company located only a few miles away at Adara.
Option 2 – Afternoon experience: Ardara and the Ardara Whiskey Distillery
For those who would prefer to hear about the most popular ‘spirits’ of the region, we visit the friendly folk of Ardara. One of the five designated heritage towns in County Donegal, Ardara has built itself a reputation as a village of craftsmen and women. The movement towards uniquely Irish goods is a growth market for the villages scattered throughout Ireland’s isolated peninsulas. It provides work for young people and whole families are typically involved in the production. As home to the popular Triona Design, visitors enjoy weaving demonstrations based on traditional methods. Steeped in tradition the Ardara Distillery operations produce An Dúlamán Irish Maritime Gin and Sliabh Liag Whiskeys. Established by two ‘scatterlings’, James and Moira Doherty, who returned to the Sliabh Liag peninsula to build a legacy, the distillery employs 30 people in the village of 700. We tour the distillery to appreciate a sustainable, boutique side of Irish whiskey making. One inspired by the almost lost tradition for a smoky style of spirit, brought up to date with the best distillation know-how. We’ll learn about the history of Donegal’s distilling heritage and see skilled workers breathing new life into it — sampling this unique brew throughout the tour.
Arriving in Northern Ireland, we find the fascinating city of Londonderry. 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. We come alongside on the river Foyle, the now open, natural border between the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.
Option 1 – Morning experience: Londonderry~Derry – Past, Present, Future
Our local guides interpret the story of Londonderry~Derry in this excursion, which is a combination of short walks and coach touring. Having lived through the tumultuous times of ‘The Troubles’ as the locals refer to it, their first-hand experiences immerse us in the era when a word to the wrong person, a stroll on the wrong side of the street, or a misplaced glance, could cost you your life. In recent years, the artists and youth of Londonderry~Derry have painted emotive murals on walls around the city. We pass several of these as our guides explain the city’s tumultuous past. Several monuments in the Bogside neighbourhood shed even more light on key events, such as the hunger strikes that marred the city. Remain in the city centre to explore at your own pace or return to the ship for a relaxing lunch.
Option 2 – Full-day experience: Dunluce Castle, Giant’s Causeway
Northern Ireland is blessed with impressive natural scenery: vast valleys, glittering lakes and cliffs hoisted up from the Atlantic. We visit its most famous natural attraction, the Giant’s Causeway. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant’s Causeway consists of some 40,000 interlocking basalt columns lifted from the ocean by volcanic activity over 60 million years ago. Of course, according to legend, giants strode across columns over the sea from Scotland, creating what looks like a giant pathway of stepping-stones that start on land and disappear into the ocean. After lunch at a local restaurant, we follow the Scenic Causeway Road to Dunluce Castle. Once the headquarters of the MacDonnell clan, the castle fell victim to a violent storm and was abandoned. Its ruins and spectacular backdrop have been popular recently, after it was used as the Castle of Pyke in the famous series Game of Thrones. Returning to Londonderry~Derry, we enjoy a short driving tour before returning to the ship.
It is fair to say Belfast has endured its share of turbulent times. Famines, disease, invasions and recessions have painted a picture of a resilient city, but it was the more recent period known as ‘The Troubles’ that defined its image of division. Barbed wire, armed soldiers, and constant bomb searches kept tourists away. Today, however, Belfast has transformed, thanks to open political dialogue and foreign investment. The city feels lighter, as if a heavy burden has been lifted from its shoulders.
Spend your morning at the iconic Dockyard of Belfast to experience the story of the city’s most famous production: HMS Titanic at the Titanic Experience or enjoy an introductory driving tour of Belfast’s famous ‘quarters.
Our small ship status affords us a berth ‘in town’ with time to explore Belfast independently this afternoon using our complimentary ship to shore shuttle, before we sail for Scotland.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.
Option 1 – Morning experience: Welcome to Belfast
Welcome to Belfast, a city shaped by stories, creativity, and resilience. This morning, enjoy a scenic drive through its lively streets where you’ll notice the city isn’t divided by north, south, east, or west, but by cultural “quarters,” each with its own unique character.
In the Cathedral Quarter, cobbled lanes echo with live music and colourful murals, while the Titanic Quarter stretches along the waterfront, where shipbuilding once ruled the skyline. Over in the Queen’s Quarter, elegant gardens and striking university buildings reflect Belfast’s academic heart, and the Gaeltacht Quarter adds a vibrant dose of Irish language and tradition. Belfast is full of surprises, from its Victorian architecture and quirky pubs to the humour and warmth of its people. After this relaxed introduction, you’ll enjoy free time to explore the city at your own pace, whether shopping, sightseeing, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, before returning to the ship in time for lunch.
Option 2 – Morning experience: The Queen of all ships – The Titanic Experience
This interesting tour is filled with stories of the workers who toiled 14-hour days to build the world’s most glamorous ships. Did their haste affect the fate of the Titanic? The dockyard’s Titanic Experience, located where the ship was built, may provide some answers. Guided by a local, you will hear why and how the ship was constructed and what happened in its final hours, walking in the footsteps of the designers and shipbuilders. Discover the world-famous story through their eyes. In the self-guided Titanic Experience, uncover the sights, sounds, and stories of the ship, the city, and the people who built her. Learn about the sinking, the aftermath, the quest to find Titanic, and her final resting place, through unique artefacts and replicas of staterooms and social areas. After our tour, we return to the ship for lunch, with our afternoon free for further independent exploration of Northen Ireland’s capital city.
After breakfast, we disembark the Douglas Mawson in the port town of Troon and start our journey from coast to coast, ending in Edinburgh. En route we enjoy an introductory tour of Glasgow, before taking time to explore the city at your own pace.
Scotland’s largest city is bold, gritty, and unpredictable. Once a sleepy medieval settlement, it exploded into life during the Industrial Revolution, becoming a global heavyweight in shipbuilding, engineering, and trade. The River Clyde was its lifeblood, carrying tobacco, textiles, and dreams of empire. Victorian Glasgow was a city of grand architecture, smoky skies, and a booming population with big ambitions, but Glasgow's post-industrial decline hit hard giving it a reputation as a ‘troubled’ town. In recent years, regeneration projects, cultural revolutions, and a fierce embrace of creativity has made Glasgow, a haven for artists, tech innovators, and foodies alike. From shipyards to street art, Glasgow has reinvented itself without losing its soul. Grit meets wit here, and the result is pure Glasgow magic.
Mid-afternoon, we depart Glasgow and drive to Edinburgh, with your evening free to enjoy this vibrant city. Edinburgh boasts more pubs, restaurants and whisky-tasting venues than anywhere else in the United Kingdom, guaranteeing an eventful night out.
Accommodation: Edinburgh Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast onboard
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 centre 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.
Our experiences this morning showcase a myriad of classic sites. This afternoon, enjoy the city independently, before we gather this evening for a Farewell reception.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.
Option 1 – Morning experience: The Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle
Scotland’s most famous mile awaits us this morning, promising a fascinating journey as our guide shares quirky tales and local gems. Immerse yourself in the rich Scottish history woven into the medieval labyrinth of cobblestone alleyways and tenements. Along the Royal Mile, discover the captivating St. Giles’ Cathedral, the historical Parliament Square, and the storied John Knox House. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is brimming with secrets and unforgettable stories, offering an experience you won’t want to miss.
At the pinnacle of the Royal Mile, follow in the footsteps of kings, queens, soldiers and prisoners as you explore the historical Edinburgh Castle. This former royal residence is brimming with fascinating stories from its past. Perched high on a volcanic rock, the castle had a strategic advantage over invaders and has witnessed many sieges, often switching hands between Britain and Scotland. An iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, Edinburgh Castle holds many historical treasures, including the Honours of Scotland – the oldest Crown jewels in Britain. Created during the reigns of James IV and James V, these jewels were first used together for the coronation of Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1543. During World War II, the Crown of Scotland was cleverly hidden in a medieval latrine closet in David’s Tower! Our audio tour of the castle is stacked with fascinating facts about this stoic fortress, making it both factual and enjoyable.
Option 2 – Morning experience: The Underground World of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle
Uncover a hidden side of Edinburgh on our exclusive tour of the city’s underground world. Beneath the cobbled streets of the Old Town lies a maze of 18th-century vaults and passages, originally built for storage and trade. Over time, these spaces took on darker roles—housing taverns and, for a time, sheltering some of the city’s poorest residents.
As you navigate these shadowy chambers, your guide will share the stories of those who lived and worked here, revealing how these underground spaces reflected Edinburgh’s social struggles and growth. Learn why the vaults were built and how they evolved over the centuries.
Back above ground, your visit continues at the top of the Royal Mile with a tour of Edinburgh Castle. This former royal residence, perched atop volcanic rock, has seen centuries of conflict, switching hands between Scotland and England. Today, it houses priceless artefacts, including the Honours of Scotland—the oldest Crown jewels in Britain. Once hidden in a medieval latrine during WWII, these treasures are just one part of the castle’s rich story, explored in our engaging audio tour.
Option 3 – Morning experience: Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia
A Royal residence for over 40 years, the HMY Britannia enchants us with an audio tour of her decks, apartments, bridge and engine room. Launched on 16 April 1953 from the John Brown & Company shipyard in Clydebank, Scotland, the Royal Yacht HMY Britannia served the royal family for over 44 years. It sailed more than a million nautical miles, becoming one of the world’s most famous ships. To Queen Elizabeth II, HMY Britannia was the ideal royal residence for state visits, official receptions, royal honeymoons, and family holidays. For Great Britain, it was a symbol of the Commonwealth and a proud ambassador, generating billions in trade deals. For the royal family and its 220 dedicated crew members, HMY Britannia was a cherished home. When she was decommissioned in 1997, it marked the end of a long tradition of British royal yachts dating back to 1660 and the reign of Charles II.
Accommodation: Edinburgh Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Reception (drinks and canapés)
After breakfast, we take our leave, carrying with us tales of Ireland’s and Scotland’s saints, saviours and uncovered secrets. A transfer to Edinburgh airport shared with your fellow travellers is included for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast
