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Cruising Scotland's Highlands and Islands
Day 1 - Edinburgh (Scotland)
Embark your ship in Leith, near Edinburgh
Day 2 - Aberdeen
Spend today exploring the historic port of Aberdeen. This morning’s visit has a royal seal of approval, as you visit the breathtaking Balmoral Castle, famously owned by Queen Elizabeth II. Relax and take in the views as we travel by coach through Cairngorms National Park, a haven for spectacular British wildlife. Enjoy a self-guided visit of Balmoral Castle to learn more about its fascinating past, before returning to the ship for lunch on board. (Note that if the Queen is visiting, there is no access to the public and there will be an alternative activity planned). This afternoon enjoy a guided tour of Aberdeen, Scotland’s third largest city located on the mouths of the River Dee and River Don.
Day 3 - Invergordon
Today dock in Invergordon, a town and port in Easter Ross proud of its naval heritage. Nestled in the Cromarty Firth, this charming port is one which larger ships wouldn’t ordinarily be able to access, making it the perfect stop to effortlessly explore Inverness and the famous Loch Ness. Begin with a guided tour of Inverness, home to castles and cathedrals is perfect for exploring on foot. On your walking tour you will visit the main sights of this capital of the Highlands. Get ready to see the Inverness Town House, a stunning baronial house, plus Inverness Castle with its magnificent views over the city. The Victorian Market, another of your stops, is full of quaint boutique shops, as well as the Old High Church and graveyard, as mentioned in the Outlander series of books and the majestic St Andrews Cathedral, built in 1158. Next, take a scenic drive along Scotland's most famous waters, Loch Ness. Loch Ness is the second largest loch by surface area and the largest by volume in the British Isles and is most associated with sightings of the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Uncover stories of a bygone era on a picturesque drive around parts of the loch, stopping to enjoy spectacular views with commentary from your knowledgeable guide. A favourite calling point for many will be the stop overlooking Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland's most iconic castle ruins. We return to the ship for a late lunch, with the afternoon free to enjoy as you wish before our early evening departure.
Day 4 - Kirkwall
Arrive in Kirkwall, the largest town in the Orkney archipelago. Begin with a scenic tour of UNESCO-listed Neolithic Orkney, including visits to Skara Brae and Skaill House. Then head west and visit the Standing Stones of Stennes, before visiting the Ring of Brodgar, the mystical stones which form one of the most fascinating prehistoricmonuments in the British Isles. Continue on to Maeshowe, where you will enjoy a guided tour of the finest chambered tomb in northwest Europe, more than a staggering 5,000 years old. There will be time to explore Kirkwall, after a late lunch on the ship.
Day 5 - Stornoway
This morning awake to the sights of the Isle of Lewis & Harris, as the ship docks in Stornoway. Discover the wild scenery of the Outer Hebrides and learn about the region’s history from the Vikings to World War II. During this half day tour, you will enjoy a visit to Lews Castle, a Victorian-era castle designed by Glaswegian architect Charles Wilson. There will also be a chance to step back in time in the museum here before heading to the Neolithic Callanish Standing Stones. There’s natural beauty at every turn: admire the wild scenery with visit to Carloway Beach and the striking white sand of Bosta Beach. This afternoon explore Stornoway at leisure.
Day 6 - Oban
Early morning the ship cruises through the Sound of Mull on the way to Oban. Surrounded by a balance of shorelines and lush countryside, this coastal spot makes for a popular fishing bay. This morning uncover more about this fantastic town, translating as ‘little bay’, on a walking tour. With a local guide, you might spot the likes of the North Pier and Esplanade, Oban War & Peace Museum, the War Memorial, Oban Lighthouse and Dunollie Castle in the distance.
Day 7 - Belfast (Northern Ireland)
Enjoy a guided waking tour of Belfast taking in Belfast City Hall and the 19th-century Albert Memorial Clock. For lunch you may return to the ship or stay in Belfast and seek out a local restaurant or cafe at your leisure. Perhaps treat yourself to a drink in the spectacular surroundings of The Merchant Hotel or wander around St George's Market, a Victorian covered market, for a bite to eat.
Day 8 - Greenock (Scotland)
Disembark in Greenock.
The Captain reserves the right to alter the itinerary if weather conditions prevent the ship from calling at a scheduled port of call. *Please note: 12 and 26 July 2021 departures operate in reverse order. You will experience the same tours and visits.