Island Hopping in the British Isles

Portsmouth -> Saint Peter Port -> Belfast -> Holyhead -> Douglas -> Ullapool -> Kirkwall, Orkney Islands -> Dover
Nights
10
Departing
Portsmouth
Returning
Dover

Island Hopping in the British Isles

Saga Cruises invites adventurous explorers on a 10-night expedition aboard the Spirit of Discovery, departing from Portsmouth and culminating in Dover. This journey offers an exquisite blend of historical landscapes and cultural landmarks across the British Isles, capturing the essence of these iconic islands. The cruise begins in Portsmouth, a pivotal naval city, and sails to enchanting St Peter Port in Guernsey, famous for its vibrant floral displays and medieval Castle Cornet.

Further stops include Belfast with its rich Victorian past and continued rejuvenation since the 1994 ceasefire, Holyhead's ancient ruins, and the unique cultural tapestry of the Isle of Man, marked by Gaelic traditions and wildlife like the tailless Manx cats. In Scotland, the expedition traverses the scenic town of Ullapool, nestled by Loch Broom, and ends in Kirkwall on the Orkney Islands, where history echoes through winding streets and ancient architecture. Concluding in the iconic port of Dover, this saga encapsulates the diverse spirit and unparalleled heritage of the British Isles.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Portsmouth

Portsmouth, England: Portsmouth is one of the most densely populated cities in Southern England. It's unique as most of the city is located on Portsea Island, connected to the mainland by road and rail. From medieval times, Portsmouth developed significantly, gaining its first charter from King Richard I in 1194 and becoming a significant naval base thereafter. The world’s oldest dry dock is here, along with historical ships like HMS Victory and HMS Warrior. The Mary Rose, famously raised from the Solent in 1982, also resides here. The city is still an essential naval hub, and the Spinnaker Tower, its 560-foot landmark, stands out as the UK’s tallest building outside London. Attractions include the birthplace of Charles Dickens and the City Museum, dedicated to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

Day 2 - Saint Peter Port

Saint Peter Port, Guernsey: The picturesque harbour town of St Peter Port welcomes visitors with its cobblestone streets, vibrant floral displays, and quaint churches. As Guernsey's capital and main port, it offers easy access to the island’s lovely beaches and rich history. The imposing Castle Cornet, an 800-year-old Medieval fortress, provides breathtaking views of the harbour and nearby Channel Islands. The castle is home to four beautiful gardens and five museums, each telling a part of Guernsey's fascinating past.

Day 4 - Belfast

Belfast, Northern Ireland: Once a small village, Belfast grew phenomenally from the 1600s, thriving during the Victorian era as an industrial powerhouse. Known for its shipbuilding heritage, including the construction of the Titanic, Belfast has a deep, complex history. Today, the city has transformed with restored public buildings, new attractions like the Crown Bar, and thriving tourism. Belfast’s charming city centre, divided into three easily walkable districts, reflects its rich history and vibrant reinvention after the Troubles.

Day 5 - Holyhead

Holyhead, Wales: Originally a defence post against Irish raiders, Holyhead is renowned as a ferry port to Ireland. Despite its bustling docks, the town itself has a small population. Rich in history, the surrounding landscape offers the perfect opportunity for those wishing to explore ancient ruins and enjoy scenic hikes.

Day 6 - Douglas

Douglas, Isle of Man: The Isle of Man, situated in the Irish Sea, is a mountainous and breathtakingly beautiful island. With a long history dating back to Neolithic times, the Isle features a distinct cultural identity, including its own currency, laws, and the Tynwald, the oldest continuous parliament in the world. Known for its Manx cats and no income tax rule, the island is dominated by Mount Snaefell, from where one can marvel at the diverse landscape of moorlands, glens, castles, and ancient Celtic relics.

Day 8 - Ullapool

Ullapool, Scotland: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, Ullapool serves as a gateway to hiking in Sutherland and wildlife explorations around the Summer Isles. Founded in 1788 as a fishing station, the town draws a cosmopolitan crowd amid its fishing vessels and yachts. Ullapool's harbour buzzes with activity during ferry arrivals and departures.

Day 9 - Kirkwall

Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland: The lively town of Kirkwall, the Orkney Islands' main hub, offers visitors charming streets full of historic sites to explore. Some must-see highlights in the town's winding paths include its cathedral and various engaging museums.

Day 11 - Dover

Dover, England: Known as England's gateway, Dover is a bustling hub for travellers with its status as the world’s ferry capital and the second busiest cruise port in the UK. The legendary White Cliffs hold 2,000 years of rich history within the town’s iconic castle. Highlights include the town's museum, showcasing the world’s oldest seagoing vessel, the Dover Bronze Age Boat, and the historical significance of the cliffs as the Dunkirk evacuation control centre in 1940.

We endeavour to ensure that the information provided on our website regarding itineraries and schedules is accurate and up-to-date. Please be aware, however, that this information is offered in good faith and may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances or events beyond our control. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility in this regard.

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Island Hopping in the British Isles

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Spirit of Discovery

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Microsoft

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