Itinerary: Cruise from Southampton – Dover – Edinburgh (South Queensferry) – Aberdeen – Invergordon – Stornoway, Isle of Lewis – Portree, Isle of Skye – Greencastle – Greenock (tours to Glasgow) – Douglas – Belfast – Return to Southampton.
Ports of Call
Cruise from Southampton
- Dover: A major ferry port in Kent, known for its iconic White Cliffs. Dover Castle, one of the largest castles in England, overlooks the port. It serves as a gateway to the English Channel and has a long history of maritime defence.
- Edinburgh (South Queensferry): Scotland’s capital, accessed via the port of South Queensferry. Key landmarks include Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Arthur’s Seat. The city is a centre for culture and history, known for its festivals.
- Aberdeen: A port city in northeast Scotland, often called the ‘Granite City’ due to its grey-stone buildings. It has a rich maritime history, closely tied to the fishing and oil industries. Visitors can explore the old fishing village of Footdee (Fittie).
- Invergordon: A town in the Scottish Highlands, on the Cromarty Firth. It is a popular cruise port and a base for exploring the surrounding area, including Loch Ness. The town is known for the murals painted on its buildings.
- Stornoway, Isle of Lewis: The main town of the Western Isles and the capital of Lewis and Harris. It has a busy harbour, and from here visitors can explore the Callanish Standing Stones and traditional blackhouse villages. The town is a centre for Gaelic culture.
- Portree, Isle of Skye: The main town on the Isle of Skye, set around a natural harbour. It is known for its colourful houses and serves as a base for exploring the island’s dramatic landscapes. The area offers opportunities for walking and wildlife spotting.
- Greencastle: A fishing port in County Donegal, Ireland, at the entrance to Lough Foyle. It offers access to the Inishowen Peninsula and its coastal scenery. The area is renowned for its tranquil beaches and scenic walking routes.
- Greenock (tours to Glasgow): A port town on the River Clyde, serving as a gateway to Glasgow. Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city, known for its Victorian architecture, shopping, and vibrant arts scene. Greenock itself has a history of shipbuilding.
- Douglas: The capital and largest town of the Isle of Man. Its promenade is lined with Victorian buildings, and the town is home to the Manx Museum. The Douglas Bay Horse Tramway is a notable local attraction.
- Belfast: The capital of Northern Ireland, with a history centred on shipbuilding. Key attractions include the Titanic Belfast museum and the political murals along the Falls and Shankill Roads. The city offers a direct glimpse into the region’s industrial and political past.
Return to Southampton