Abercrombie & Kent
Cruising the British Isles: England, Ireland & Scotland
Cruising the British Isles: England, Ireland & Scotland
Voyage beyond mainland England, Ireland
and Scotland for a completely unique
experience exploring spectacular coastlines,
natural landscapes and historic treasures.
Joined by A&K’s famed Expedition Team,
discover the ravishing cliffs of Donegal and
Moher, the wild Hebrides, and the velvet-green
Orkney archipelago. Then, enjoy a
luxurious post-cruise stay at The Balmoral, a
long-celebrated Edinburgh landmark.
| Day 1 |
London is among the world's most visited cities, with countless attractions and a history stretching back two millennia. Visitors will discover historic iconic structures like Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge, as well as recent marvels such as London Eye, a giant observation wheel that offers breathtaking views of the whole city.
This truly global city (over 300 languages are spoken here) offers World Heritage Sites, royal fascination with Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum, which contains nearly 8 million pieces. There's theater in the West End, a world-class dining scene and inviting pubs dotting every quarter of the city. A cosmopolitan, multicultural metropolis, London enchants travelers young and old, and is one of the world's most unforgettable destinations. |
| Day 2 |
Enjoy this day at sea as you travel to your next port of call. This is an opportunity to swim, catch some sun on deck or take advantage of the many activities that are onboard your ship. Eat heartily, take a nap and get ready for the next port of call ! This is what makes cruising so great. |
| Day 3 |
The Irish Republic's second largest city is a surprisingly appealing place - you'll find time passes effortlessly during the day, and by night the pub scene is lively. The town center is uniquely situated on an island between two channels of the Lee River. North of the river, in the Shandon area, is an interesting historic part of the city, if a bit run down today. Sights to the south include Protestant St Finbarr's Cathedral, the Cork Museum (largely given over to the nationalist struggle in which Cork played an important role), the 19th century Cork Jail, the City Hall and numerous churches, breweries and chapels.
Cork prides itself on its cultural pursuits, and apart from a heap of cozy pubs, the Cork Opera House, Crawford Art Gallery and Firkin Crane Centre offer both traditional and mainstream fare. A popular day trip from Cork is to Blarney Castle, where even the most un-touristy visitor may feel compelled to kiss the Blarney Stone. Cork is around five hours to the south of Dublin by bus. |
| Day 4 |
Galway, on Ireland's picturesque west coast, offers a vibrant blend of culture, history, and natural beauty that enchants visitors from around the world. This historic city, often referred to as the "City of the Tribes," was shaped by the seven tribes that dominated it during the medieval period. The city's lively atmosphere is a fusion of traditional Irish charm and modern creativity, evident in its colorful streets and dynamic cultural scene. Stroll through the bustling Quay Street and discover an array of charming shops, lively pubs, and cozy restaurants. The area's vibrant market and street performers add to its festive ambiance, making it a perfect spot to soak up Galway's unique spirit. Nearby, the Galway Cathedral, a stunning example of neo-Romanesque architecture, stands majestically on the banks of the River Corrib. Its interior, adorned with colorful mosaics and intricate stonework, is a testament to the city's rich artistic heritage. Galway is also renowned for its proximity to the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic natural landmarks. These dramatic cliffs rise over 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views and thrilling walks along the edge. Additionally, the nearby Connemara National Park presents a rugged landscape of mountains, lakes, and wild boglands, ideal for hiking and exploring. Fun Fact: Galway is known for its vibrant arts scene and is home to the annual Galway International Arts Festival, which attracts performers and artists from around the globe. The festival’s eclectic mix of theater, music, and visual arts underscores Galway’s status as a cultural hub in Ireland. |
| Day 5 |
Donegal, a picturesque town nestled in the northwest of Ireland, offers a perfect blend of rich history, rugged landscapes, and a warm Irish welcome. Known for its dramatic coastline along the Wild Atlantic Way, Donegal is a haven for nature lovers, history buffs, and those seeking an authentic slice of Irish life. The town's centerpiece, Donegal Castle, built by the O'Donnell clan in the 15th century, provides a fascinating glimpse into the region's Gaelic heritage. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored castle rooms, complete with period furnishings and informative displays about Donegal’s turbulent past, from Gaelic nobility to the English conquest. Wandering through the town of Donegal, visitors can immerse themselves in a lively atmosphere filled with traditional pubs, local craft shops, and charming cafes. The Diamond, Donegal’s central square, is a vibrant hub where both locals and tourists converge. It is a great starting point to discover Donegal Abbey, a Franciscan friary founded in the 15th century that offers picturesque views of Donegal Bay. History enthusiasts will appreciate the guided tours that unravel tales of rebellion, battles, and the rich cultural fabric of this area. A trip to Donegal would not be complete without venturing into its stunning natural surroundings. The nearby Bluestack Mountains offer scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views, while the rugged cliffs of Slieve League, among the highest in Europe, provide a spectacular coastal panorama. A short drive from town, the serene Glenveagh National Park beckons with its vast landscapes, wooded glens, and the stunning Glenveagh Castle, surrounded by pristine gardens. Donegal is also famed for its traditional music scene; visitors can experience lively sessions in pubs where local musicians play the fiddle, tin whistle, and bodhrán, creating a quintessential Irish experience. Fun fact: Donegal is often referred to as "the forgotten county" because it is geographically cut off from the rest of Ireland by Northern Ireland. This relative isolation has allowed it to retain a unique and untouched charm, with many areas still speaking Irish as a first language. Whether you are exploring ancient castles, hiking rugged cliffs, or enjoying a pint of Guinness to the sound of traditional music, Donegal promises an unforgettable journey through one of Ireland's most captivating regions. |
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| Day 7 |
Oban is located in the northern part of the Scottish Highlands. Renowned for the beauty of the land and the excellent scotch made there, Oban is an indisputable treasure of nature. |
| Day 8 |
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| Day 9 |
The Orkney Islands are located in Northern Scotland and are stunning in their scenery and culture. |
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| Day 11 |
In Edinburgh, an ancient fortress looms, the hills are steep, and travelers delight in the hidden charms of the Old Town and New Town. Hike to find spectacular views on Arthur's Seat, shop the downhill streets of the Royal Mile, and visit Edinburgh Castle, an imposing royal fortress that defines this city's skyline. Distillery tours celebrating Scotland's famous national drink (scotch) are also quite popular. |
| Day 12 |
In Edinburgh, an ancient fortress looms, the hills are steep, and travelers delight in the hidden charms of the Old Town and New Town. Hike to find spectacular views on Arthur's Seat, shop the downhill streets of the Royal Mile, and visit Edinburgh Castle, an imposing royal fortress that defines this city's skyline. Distillery tours celebrating Scotland's famous national drink (scotch) are also quite popular. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
05/21/25 - 06/01/25 |
Starting At $20,995 |
Get A Quote | |
|
05/26/26 - 06/06/26 |
Starting At $20,995 |
Get A Quote |
Prices are per person, double occupancy and include internal air where applicable. Holiday surcharge may apply. Departure dates, prices and availability may change at any time. Some restrictions may apply.
