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British Isles Quest (Caledonian Sky)

British Isles Quest (Caledonian Sky)

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Description

British Isles Quest – 9 day Small Ship Cruise from Edinburgh to London aboard Caledonian Sky.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
These once-in-a-lifetime moments allow you to experience an unforgettable world of exclusive moments, incredible cultures and charming surprises

FREEDOM OF CHOICE™
Give your holiday a personal touch with a choice of included sightseeing or dining options

Trip Name
British Isles Quest (Caledonian Sky)
Days
9
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Length: 90 metres Passenger Capacity: 114 (in 57 suites) Built: 1991 / refurbished 2012 The MS Caledonian Sky accommodates a maximum of 114 passengers in 57 spacious outside suites. Many have walk-in wardrobes and some feature tub baths. There will be seven categories of suites and sixteen suites will have private balconies. For those familiar with the MS Island Sky she will feel like a second home, although there are some differences. The dining room, lounge, Lido Deck and bar are all similar. However, the ‘Club’ on the MS Caledonian Sky has been transported to the very top deck. Here, there is a library and bar which leads out on to a lovely forward deck. The ‘Club’ has wonderful views with ceiling to floor windows. If you like the MS Island Sky, we are sure you will also approve of her sister. And, of course it is important that we offer the very best of facilities. However, equally as important are the staff on board whether they are the vessel’s crew or our own expedition staff. Noble Caledonia’s reputation has been built on providing the very best in all areas. Their crew of 74 not only offer an excellent service they are also noted for their kindness and attention to detail. A well run ship with a warm atmosphere is what we are known for, and it is because most of our crew have been with us for many years that we are able to engender such an atmosphere. Your Suite Onboard there are 57 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. The passenger accommodation is arranged over four decks and all suites have outside views. All feature a sitting room area and some have private balconies. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring a country style wash basin, hot towel rack and vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower and/or bath tub. Facilities in the suites also include walk-in or spacious wardrobes, dressing table with large mirror and stool or desk, mini-fridge, flat screen television, telephone, programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted toiletries, air-conditioning and heating. Bottled water, towelling dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Your space The spacious and finely decorated public rooms include a large lounge where daily briefings and talks will be provided throughout the voyage and an elegant bar where a pianist plays periodically throughout the day. The bar also features a 24-hour tea and coffee station. In addition there is the Club Lounge on the Panoramic Deck which features a bar. The onboard travel library is the perfect place to relax with a book and is stocked with reference books pertaining to the places the vessel is visiting along with a selection of games and two computers with internet access. Daily newspapers and magazines are also placed in the library depending on local availability. Outside there is a rear Lido deck where meals are served in warm weather under shade. On the top deck there is a further observation and sun deck with bar service and comfortable deck furniture for sun bathing or relaxing with a book. There is also a small gymnasium onboard and hairdressers with appointments made on request. Your dining With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the quality of cuisine will be of a consistent superior quality. Where possible and when it meets his high standards, our accomplished chef will obtain local produce in markets or buy the catch of the day from a passing fishing boat. Such purchases enhance the well stocked larders and bring a local touch to the varied menus. In the main elegant dining room, breakfast is served buffet-style, with certain items cooked to order and lunch and dinner is à la carte. When weather permits, breakfast, a buffet-style lunch and dinner are also served on deck. To enhance your dining experience even further a selection of wines are included with lunch and dinner. Afternoon tea is served in the lounge and tea and coffee are available 24 hours. With sufficient notice, most diets can be catered for on board. For your comfort, safety and security The vessel is equipped with the latest safety, navigation and communications equipment along with roll stabilisers to minimise the ship’s motion. The Captain and officers operate an open-bridge policy that allows passengers onto the bridge at most times with the exception of arrival and departure from port and during times of complicated navigation. Here you can check the ship’s progress by charts and learn more from the officers about your journey. There is also a dedicated channel on your television in your suite showing the routing of the vessel along with technical information and estimated times of arrival and departure from port. On board you will also find a clinic and doctor and a lift that serves all decks. Smoking on board is restricted to outside decks only. Gratuities Unlike many other cruise vessels, onboard the MS Caledonian Sky you do not need to worry about tipping staff as we have included them in your holiday price. In addition we tip all their guides and drivers along the way, thereby taking away the hassle of always having to remember to have some small change with you.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Arrive Edinburgh, Oban, Embark Ship
Following your transfer from Edinburgh, you’ll arrive in the historic seaside town of Oban, where you’ll board your ship. Take some time to settle into your spacious suite or head out on deck to watch the scenery drift by. This evening, gather with your crew and fellow travellers to celebrate the journey ahead with a welcome dinner.Stay: Eight Nights, MS Caledonian Sky
Day 2 - Day 2 Lunga, Iona, Staffa
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCEWeather permitting, your ship docks as close to shore as possible so you can hop into a Zodiac for a closer inspection of the famous Fingal’s Cave. Here, you’ll see the curious hexagonal rock formations of the cave which open up to a 70-metre-tall cavern.Early this morning, arrive on the Isle of Lunga, off the western coast of Scotland. You’ll discover a wildlife haven, home to grey seals, razorbills, kittiwakes and puffins before lunch back on board, as you cruise to Iona. More than 40 Scottish kings, as well as kings from around the world, are buried here amid the island’s tranquillity and natural beauty. You might like to visit Iona Abbey, one of the oldest Christian religious centres in western Europe or go for a wander along the local beach before setting out again, this time for the Isle of Staffa. Here, enjoy a Signature Experience.
Day 3 - Day 3 Londonderry
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™Perhaps learn the history and artistry behind concocting the perfect Irish coffee with a connoisseur. Alternatively, why not simply take time to explore Derry independently?Arriving in Northern Ireland this morning, your ship berths in Londonderry, coined by locals as Derry. Here, you’ll disembark to explore the famous walls which wrap around the city. These are the only ones in Ireland which still remain intact. Afterwards, it’s time to head out to the Giant’s Causeway, which is a World Heritage-listed natural wonder. You’ll find over 40,000 basalt columns create rugged stepping stones into the Atlantic Sea. You are then free to craft your own afternoon.
Day 4 - Day 4 Belfast
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™Perhaps discover Belfast’s history on a guided Black Cab tour of its many sites, including the city’s peace wall and political murals. Or, join a guided walk to discover the streets of Dublin and the city’s many highlights, at an easy pace.After breakfast this morning, spend the day exploring Northern Ireland’s capital Belfast. Step back in time with a visit to the Titanic Museum, to learn the history of the RMS Titanic’s creation in the early 1900s, and the story behind this ocean liner’s maiden voyage. After lunch back on board, the afternoon is yours to shape as you like. This evening, start cruising to the Isle of Man with dinner back on board.
Day 5 - Day 5 Isle of Man
Arrive on the Isle of Man this morning, a tiny island in the Irish sea, steeped in Viking and Celtic heritage. Travel to Tynwald Hill in the little village of St John’s, to see this symbol of the island’s independence as a self-governing crown dependency. Then it’s onwards to the west coast port of Peel, where we’ve set aside time for you to explore on your own. Discover Peel’s castle ruins and enjoy a wander before heading back to the island’s capital, Douglas, where your ship is stationed. Perhaps join a local guide on a walking tour or explore Douglas independently. Walk along the town’s sweeping promenade or visit the Manx Museum. This evening, set sail for Ireland.
Day 6 - Day 6 Dublin
FREEDOM OF CHOICE™Perhaps visit the world-famous Guinness Storehouse which has been brewing Guinness since 1759, or join a guide and explore the city if you’re keen to see ancient castles. Then head for Malahide Castle and Gardens, parts of which date back to the 12th century. Alternatively, visit Trinity College and see the ninth-century Book of Kells in the Old Library.Cobbled streets, classic pubs, medieval castles and cathedrals, Dublin has it all, and we’re making a beeline for it during a full day’s discovery. Enjoy a choice of activities.
Day 7 - Day 7 Waterford, Kilkenny
Set your sights on Ireland’s south-eastern coast this morning. We dock in Waterford, a city which is famous for Waterford Crystal, world-renowned flint glass. Afterwards, hop on a coach to Kilkenny, the heart and soul of medieval Ireland, which is yours to enjoy with free time. Walk along cobbled lanes and discover hidden passage. Perhaps explore Kilkenny Castle, built over a millennium ago. Alternatively, delve into the town’s famous craft scene and peruse ceramics, jewellery, candles, stone carvings and more, all lovingly made by hand. Return to your ship for lunch, before your exploration continues. It’s time to visit the House of Waterford Crystal, and learn about the process and history of glass making which began in 1783.
Day 8 - Day 8 Isles of Scilly
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCEYou’ll visit Abbey Gardens with a guide, where you’ll discover more than 20,000 species of exotic plants, which flourish in this historic garden that was established back in the 1830s.Wake to the aquamarine waters and white-sand beaches of the Isles of Scilly, an unexpected tropical delight in the middle of the Celtic Sea. Within this archipelago off the coast of Cornwall you’ll find Tresco Island. Aboard Zodiacs, set out to explore. There’s no shortage of picture-perfect landscapes, from rocky outcrops to pristine beaches, while you’re here.
Day 9 - Day 9 Plymouth, Disembark Ship, Depart London
Disembark after breakfast in Plymouth, from where we’ll transfer you to London for your onward flight.
Day 10 - Please Note:
Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type

Inclusions

    • Discover the subtropical Abbey Garden on Tresco Island
    • A Zodiac gets you up close to the unique rock formations of Fingal’s Cave

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