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Price Guide
12 Nights - £3,175pp

Full Board

Tour Info
  • 13 day Cruise
  • Full Board
  • Range of Included Excursions
  • On Board Lectures
  • Travel Trust Protection
  • Based on 2021 - 22 Prices

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Remote Islands & Coasts

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Remote Islands, Natural Wonders, Diverse Coastline

Discover the true British Isles on this small ship British Isles cruise with Hurtigruten aboard the MS Maud.

From Dover, sail along the south coast of England and up the west coast of the British Isles to the Hebrides before returning to Dover via different ports.

This expedition is crammed full of discovery, taking in England, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, Republic of Ireland, Scotland and the Hebridean islands.

See how nature and heritage have distinctly shaped the culture of each destination. Alongside picturesque towns and historical landmarks, encounter wild landscapes, scenic coastal paths and impressive natural landforms.

The cruise begins and ends in Dover, meaning no flights and no overseas travel.

From Dover you'll cruise up the Atlantic coast of England and Wales stopping at Fishguard en-route to the Scottish isles.

Pay visits to Rathlin Island, Islay, the Isle of Iona and Stornaway and St.Kilda in the outer Hebrides.

The MS Maud is a refitted boutique expedition cruiser and on board is a knowledgeable Expedition team including experienced Ornithologists.

Return to Dover with stops at Holyhead, the Isle of Man, the Scilly Isles and Falmouth, to complete a remarkable coastal voyage.

Inclusions

  • 12 night Hurtigruten Cruise
  • All Meals
  • Shore Excursion Program
  • Travel Trust Protection

2021 Departure Dates:

18 May 2021

08 Aug 2021

13 Sep 2021

2022 Departure Dates:

12 Apr 2022

18 May 2022

08 Aug 2022

03 Sep 2022

 

Day 1: Dover

This expedition cruise begins from Dover, heading along the south coast of England.

Before joining your ship today, perhaps take time to explore the coastal town of Dover with the magnificent, medieval Castle.

As the MS Maud heads out to sea, passing the famous white cliffs of Dover, stretch your sea legs and get to know the ship. Find the amenities you like best – the Science Centre, the Explorer lounge, or maybe your favourite spot out on deck.

Day 2: At Sea

Enjoy an idyllic day at sea with plenty to do.

Meet the Expedition Team, who will prepare you for exciting adventures ahead. Listen in on talks by these experienced explorers who share their extensive knowledge, or maybe you just want to kick back and relax.

Admire the views, try some of the ship’s cuisine that caught your eye on the menu, or settle into a good book while enjoying this day at sea.

Day 3: Fishguard

This small, typical fishing village, seems to have stood still in time.

With its charming main street and lush green surroundings, Fishguard lies between the Preseli Hills and the coast of Pembrokeshire. Split in two by a steep, winding hill, the “new” town sits on a clifftop commanding spectacular views.

Steeped in history dating back as far as the 10th Century, Fishguards past includes Viking raids and Norse settlements, and has the dubious accolade as the site of “last invasion of Britain”, by the French in 1797.

The local library houses ‘The Last Invasion Tapestry’, a 100-foot long masterpiece which took 4 years to complete, and records the scenes of the invasion. The town offers insight into this fascinating history as well as being charming with local shops, cafes and restaurants to enjoy.

Explore the surrounding areas with walks through the ancient woodlands and the nearby Gwaun Valley which flows between Fishguard and the Preseli Mountains.

With its unique atmosphere, there is plenty of wildlife and prehistoric sites to explore, the valley is listed as one of the most important meltwater channels in Britain and dates from the last Ice Age.

At a more sedate pace, wander the gardens of Dyffryn Fernant or Penlan Uchaf, with lovely views across the valley.

Day 4: Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland

Sitting just off the north coast, with its rugged cliffs, several lakes and vast, natural grasslands, Rathlin Island boasts Northern Ireland’s largest seabird colony.

At just six miles long and one mile wide, it is ideal for exploring by bike or on foot on one of the many walks in the area. Cliff-top walks are waiting, or choose from many rambling cross-island trails.

Visit the Seabird centre and lighthouse -a unique and fully operational “upside-down” lighthouse. Here, close-up views of the seabird colonies are enjoyed, as well as spectacular panoramic coastal views. Or stroll to Mill Bay where you can watch the frisky seals either at play or just relaxing in the sunshine.

Thousands of seabirds congregate on the island to breed from late April to July, including puffin, guillemot, kittiwake, razorbill and fulmar. Rathlin Island is also home to Northern Ireland's only pair of breeding choughs, and, more recently, calls by the secretive corncrake have been heard here for the first time in 30 years.

Located on the mainland, the World Heritage site of the Giant’s Causeway is just a short ferry ride and drive away.

Day 5: Isle of Iona

World famous for its religious connections, Iona was settled in 563 AD by the Irish missionary, St Colomba.

The much-restored Abbey is one of Scotland’s most historic and sacred sites, and still remains a place of pilgrimage and peace. Spend time exploring the Abbey and learn about its fascinating history, visit the ancient graveyard where 48 of Scotland’s kings are buried or take a short walk to the highest point on Iona offering spectacular 360 degree views.

Views from Iona’s beaches stretch west towards the Outer Hebrides, resulting in places bearing emotive names such as ‘The Bay at the Back of the Ocean’.

Early afternoon, if conditions allow, we will spend time doing a ‘scenic sail by’ of the cave-riddled island of Staffa.

The uninhabited island is home to the cathedral-like Fingal’s Cave, immortalised by Mendelssohn’s glorious ‘Hebrides Overture’. The basalt columns here are a northern extension of the Giant’s Causeway.

Named by the Vikings from the old Norse for pillar or column, Staffa has been visited by Queen Victoria, Sir Walter Scott and Samuel Johnson, and is one of Scotland’s most famous islands.

Fingal’s Cave is best viewed from the sea where the colour of the waters within the cave and its rising columns are at their most impressive.

Day 6: St. Kilda, Hirta Island

Any visit to this distant and wild archipelago, with its breathtaking sea cliffs, is totally weather-dependent. As a UNESCO double World Heritage Site and the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the National Trust for Scotland, it is an unforgettable experience.

The outlying stacs and islands, which are the remains of a volcanic crater, provide ledges for thousands of nesting seabirds. Minke whales are frequently seen around the swirling waters of the archipelago.

Once home to Britain’s most remote island community, it was evacuated in 1930 at their own request after 5,000 years of continuous habitation. The tiny museum that remains is a record of how hard life was on this exposed island.

Spend time ashore exploring this remote, uninhabited island and take in the magnificent rugged scenery.

Day 7: Stornaway, Isle of Lewis, Outer Hebrides

Originally a Viking settlement, Stornoway is the main town of the Western Isles and the capital of the Isle of Lewis, which is the largest and most northerly of the Outer Hebrides.

A bustling harbour and waterfront with museums and art galleries are overlooked by the handsome Lews Castle.

Further afield are mills and cottages where hard-wearing Harris Tweed is woven.

There are tiny folk museums, the world-famous Callanish Standing Stones, described as Scotland’s Stonehenge from around 3000BC, and the mysterious Carloway Broch - the best preserved fort in Scotland dating back more than 2,000 years.

Day 8: Islay, Scotland

Pronounced “EYE-la” was once the seat of the MacDonalds, Lords of the Isles. This is ‘whisky island’, world famous for its peaty single-malt whiskies and its many local distilleries is one of the largest Hebridean islands.

Offering a diverse landscape, together with ancient Celtic ruins, Islay is a stop-off for migrating birds, making it ideal for seabird spotting along its many superb cliff-top walks.

In the charming little town of Bowmore, there are a handful of small shops, a round church housing no corners, and some say the locals are the friendliest in Britain.

Day 9: Douglas, Isle of Man

With a rural landscape and rugged coastline, the Isle of Man became a designated Biosphere Reserve in recognition of its marine and coastal ecosystems.

With more than 100 miles of stunning coastline and rugged cliffs, the island has a spectacular landscape of rolling hills, moorland and heath, waterfalls, pebble-dash beaches and coastal paths – an ideal destination for exploring.

The location in Douglas enables easy exploration of the island which has a strong Celtic and Viking heritage. There are Viking museums to visit, or board a historic steam train, or discover the castles of the island, or just enjoy strolling through the town and local surrounds at your leisure.

Nearby Douglas Head is a rocky outcrop overlooking Douglas harbour, which has some of the best views on the Isle of Man. Pass through the ornate gate, visit the unique Grand Union Camera Obscura and continue on to the Douglas Head Lighthouse, built in 1857.

Visit the delightful harbour community of Peel with the impressive Peel Castle, originally constructed by the Viking King of Mann, and dating back to the 11th Century as the original place of worship and stronghold.

On previous calls to the Isle of Man, crew and customers have joined the local community and taken part in a beach clean-up as well as engaging in a tree-planting ceremony along with the Department of Forestry who have identified a site where they intend planting 84,000 trees as a national forest.

The famous TT races are held on the island from late May to early June.

Day 10: Holyhead, Anglesey

Holyhead is an ideal destination for exploring the charm and history of North Wales.

Enjoy a visit to Holyhead Breakwater Country Park with its wildlife and industrial exhibitions, lake Llyn Llwynog and explore the Rocky Coast. Renowned for its lighthouse and large colonies of seabirds South Stack island is also home to the RSPB visitor centre in Ellins Tower.

Why not walk part of the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path exploring the sea cliffs and enjoying magnificent views stretching across to Ireland.

Head back into the ancient town centre, built around Saint Cybi’s Church which dates back to 550AD and stands on the site of a Roman fort with the original fort wall still surrounding it.

Holyhead Maritime Museum, located at the oldest lifeboat station (dating back to 1858), showcases an enthralling maritime history and is amongst just some of the historical interest in this charming town.

Before heading back to the ship take a stroll around the town and be sure to enjoy some traditional Welsh cakes at one of the many local cafés.

Day 11: Isles of Scilly

This enchanting archipelago off the coast of Cornwall is home to outstandingly beautiful, uncrowded and unspoilt islands and around 140 islets.

Covered in heathland, with magnificent sandy beaches, these islands are surrounded by rocks and reefs and offer picturesque coastal walks.

Ideal for exploring on foot, the small town of Tresco is home to the world famous Tresco Abbey Garden with its 20,000 plants from 80 different countries.

You can also explore the castle ruins, the Valhalla Museum or stroll along the tropical-like white beaches. Should conditions allow, we aim to do a beach clean-up on this charming island.

Split the time in the area and you may also choose to visit St. Mary’s - the largest of the islands – with its rocky coves, archaeological sites and charming Hugh Town. Explore the town and sample some of the freshly caught seafood whilst enjoying the delightful views of the island.

Alternatively, join one of the optional excursions for a trip around the islands, visiting shipwreck sites, spotting seals basking on the rocks and cruising around the bird sanctuary of Annet to observe the puffins and numerous other breeding seabirds.

Day 12: Dartmouth

A picturesque sail-in marks our arrival into the delightful waterfront town of Dartmouth. Set on the banks of the River Dart, this enchanting town is steeped in maritime history along with a rich cultural history.

With a commanding location above the town, dating back to 1863, the magnificent building of Britannia Royal Naval College trains the finest officers in the world, and is set in 126 acres of landscaped gardens offering views over the river, the town and out to sea.

Buckfast Abbey, historic castles, steam train rides and magnificent walking trails are just a few of the many compelling attractions waiting to be explored during our visit.

We will be anchored in the centre of the town with a short tender ride ashore, allowing you easy access to visit the town on your own to stroll through the lanes and enjoy the quaint shops. Or join one of our impressive excursions to learn more about this fascinating town and the scenic Devonshire surrounds.

Day 13: Dover

Pass the white cliffs of Dover during the early morning hours and dock at the city’s harbour.

After breakfast, it’s time to leave your home for the past 13 days.

The MS Maud

MS Maud, previously MS Midnatsol, is named after one of the most famous polar vessels of all time, Roald Amundsens “Maud” from 1917.

The original “Maud” got her name from the first Queen of modern-day Norway. She also had her namesake in Hurtigruten’s 1925 flagship DS Dronning Maud (“DS Queen Maud”).

Today´s MS Maud is equipped with advanced technology that makes her exceptionally well-suited for expedition cruises in Norway and the British Isles.

Her bright interiors are appointed in a classic Art Deco style. Colours are inspired by the Midnight Sun, allowing you to relax in warm vibes every day of the year.

Channel your inner scientist in the advanced Science Center and enjoy daily lectures in the lecture hall or in the comfort of your cabin with our new streaming service, sample delicious Dishes from local suppliers in the restaurants and enjoy beverages in the Explorer lounge & bar.

On deck 9, you can enjoy the spectacular views from the outdoor Observation deck, and soak in one of the hot tubs. And there´s no better way to enjoy the view than with a drink in the Explorer lounge & bar.

There’s also a gym and a sauna with beautiful views.

Sustainability

Sustainability is the core of every detail of your Hurtigruten adventure. Hurtigruten is constantly pushing boundaries, and aim to become completely emission free.

The ship is powered with Biofuel, mixed in with Marine gasoil, to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides and sulphur oxides.

Furthermore, the Biofuel used is environmentally certified and made from waste produce from other industries such as fishing, meaning no palm oil used in its production and no negative effects on rainforests.

As the rest of the Hurtigruten fleet, single-use plastic is banned on MS Maud. This ship is also equipped for shore power, completely eliminating emissions when docked in ports with shore power facilities.

On Board Facilities

MS Maud is well-suited for expedition cruising, with a décor inspired by Norway’s stunning nature, reflected in many of the pieces of Norwegian modern art on board. Our suites and cabins are fitted out with comfortable and modern furniture.

The hub of onboard learning is the Science Center, an edutainment venue where guests and crew meet to create a deeper understanding of the areas we explore. Lectures are streamed to cabins.

Each expedition voyage is accompanied by a hand-picked team of specialists and modern-day explorers. Highly experienced, passionate and knowledgeable, the Expedition Team will be your guides on your cruise, instructing you on safety, sustainability and science.

The team will present lectures and lead activities during the cruise to help you learn more about the natural and cultural treasures of Norway and British Isles.

They will also introduce you to the uniquely Norwegian notion of `friluftsliv’ (outdoor life) and encourage you to join in exciting activities during the expedition. We provide all the gear you will need.

Fishguard

This small, typical fishing village, seems to have stood still in time.

With its charming main street and lush green surroundings, Fishguard lies between the Preseli Hills and the coast of Pembrokeshire. Split in two by a steep, winding hill, the “new” town sits on a clifftop commanding spectacular views.

Steeped in history dating back as far as the 10th Century, Fishguards past includes Viking raids and Norse settlements, and has the dubious accolade as the site of “last invasion of Britain”, by the French in 1797.

The local library houses ‘The Last Invasion Tapestry’, a 100-foot long masterpiece which took 4 years to complete, and records the scenes of the invasion. The town offers insight into this fascinating history as well as being charming with local shops, cafes and restaurants to enjoy.

Rathlin Island

Sitting just off the north coast, with its rugged cliffs, several lakes and vast, natural grasslands, Rathlin Island boasts Northern Ireland’s largest seabird colony.

At just six miles long and one mile wide, it is ideal for exploring by bike or on foot on one of the many walks in the area. Cliff-top walks are waiting, or choose from many rambling cross-island trails.

Isle of Iona

World famous for its religious connections, Iona was settled in 563 AD by the Irish missionary, St Colomba.

The much-restored Abbey is one of Scotland’s most historic and sacred sites, and still remains a place of pilgrimage and peace. Spend time exploring the Abbey and learn about its fascinating history, visit the ancient graveyard where 48 of Scotland’s kings are buried or take a short walk to the highest point on Iona offering spectacular 360 degree views.

Views from Iona’s beaches stretch west towards the Outer Hebrides, resulting in places bearing emotive names such as ‘The Bay at the Back of the Ocean’.

St. Kilda

Any visit to this distant and wild archipelago, with its breathtaking sea cliffs, is totally weather-dependent. As a UNESCO double World Heritage Site and the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the National Trust for Scotland, it is an unforgettable experience.

The outlying stacs and islands, which are the remains of a volcanic crater, provide ledges for thousands of nesting seabirds. Minke whales are frequently seen around the swirling waters of the archipelago.

Once home to Britain’s most remote island community, it was evacuated in 1930 at their own request after 5,000 years of continuous habitation. The tiny museum that remains is a record of how hard life was on this exposed island.

Isle of Lewis

Originally a Viking settlement, Stornoway is the main town of the Western Isles and the capital of the Isle of Lewis, which is the largest and most northerly of the Outer Hebrides.

A bustling harbour and waterfront with museums and art galleries are overlooked by the handsome Lews Castle.

Further afield are mills and cottages where hard-wearing Harris Tweed is woven.

There are tiny folk museums, the world-famous Callanish Standing Stones, described as Scotland’s Stonehenge from around 3000BC, and the mysterious Carloway Broch - the best preserved fort in Scotland dating back more than 2,000 years.

Islay, Scotland

Pronounced “EYE-la” was once the seat of the MacDonalds, Lords of the Isles. This is ‘whisky island’, world famous for its peaty single-malt whiskies and its many local distilleries is one of the largest Hebridean islands.

Offering a diverse landscape, together with ancient Celtic ruins, Islay is a stop-off for migrating birds, making it ideal for seabird spotting along its many superb cliff-top walks.

In the charming little town of Bowmore, there are a handful of small shops, a round church housing no corners, and some say the locals are the friendliest in Britain.

Douglas, Isle of Man

With a rural landscape and rugged coastline, the Isle of Man became a designated Biosphere Reserve in recognition of its marine and coastal ecosystems.

With more than 100 miles of stunning coastline and rugged cliffs, the island has a spectacular landscape of rolling hills, moorland and heath, waterfalls, pebble-dash beaches and coastal paths – an ideal destination for exploring.

The location in Douglas enables easy exploration of the island which has a strong Celtic and Viking heritage. There are Viking museums to visit, or board a historic steam train, or discover the castles of the island, or just enjoy strolling through the town and local surrounds at your leisure.

Nearby Douglas Head is a rocky outcrop overlooking Douglas harbour, which has some of the best views on the Isle of Man. Pass through the ornate gate, visit the unique Grand Union Camera Obscura and continue on to the Douglas Head Lighthouse, built in 1857.

Visit the delightful harbour community of Peel with the impressive Peel Castle, originally constructed by the Viking King of Mann, and dating back to the 11th Century as the original place of worship and stronghold.

Holyhead, Anglesey

Holyhead is an ideal destination for exploring the charm and history of North Wales.

Enjoy a visit to Holyhead Breakwater Country Park with its wildlife and industrial exhibitions, lake Llyn Llwynog and explore the Rocky Coast. Renowned for its lighthouse and large colonies of seabirds South Stack island is also home to the RSPB visitor centre in Ellins Tower.

Why not walk part of the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path exploring the sea cliffs and enjoying magnificent views stretching across to Ireland.

Head back into the ancient town centre, built around Saint Cybi’s Church which dates back to 550AD and stands on the site of a Roman fort with the original fort wall still surrounding it.

Holyhead Maritime Museum, located at the oldest lifeboat station (dating back to 1858), showcases an enthralling maritime history and is amongst just some of the historical interest in this charming town.

Isles of Scilly

Lying just off the tip of Cornwall in England, the Isles of Scilly include five inhabited islands and around 140 more home to only birds and wildlife.

This archipelago boasts unspoilt nature, phenomenal ancient history, and an array of activities for all visitors.

Striking rugged coastlines are dotted with stunningly photogenic beaches and historic but tourist-ready towns.

Active travellers can look forward to excellent sailing, diving, hiking, and cycling opportunities, as well as the chance to join the locals for the ‘Scillonian national sport’ of gig racing.

There is plenty of heritage to discover here, including numerous archaeological sites, scatterings of shipwrecks, and the Old Man of Gugh statue at St. Agnes, enshrined in Bronze Age ritual legend.

Culinary enthusiasts will delight in the locally produced wines and artisanal goods on St. Martin’s Island (which also features a gorgeous flower farm).

Dartmouth

A picturesque sail-in marks our arrival into the delightful waterfront town of Dartmouth. Set on the banks of the River Dart, this enchanting town is steeped in maritime history along with a rich cultural history.

With a commanding location above the town, dating back to 1863, the magnificent building of Britannia Royal Naval College trains the finest officers in the world, and is set in 126 acres of landscaped gardens offering views over the river, the town and out to sea.

Buckfast Abbey, historic castles, steam train rides and magnificent walking trails are just a few of the many compelling attractions waiting to be explored during our visit.

2021 Departure Dates:

18 May 2021

08 Aug 2021

13 Sep 2021

2022 Departure Dates:

12 Apr 2022

18 May 2022

08 Aug 2022

03 Sep 2022

12 nights British Isles Cruise:

  • Price from £3,175 pp

Contact Us:

Call us now to speak to us about securing your place on this British Isles cruise.

Call us now on 0333 7000 747

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