Description
Join us to go deep into Scottish and English history, touring from Dublin to London via Scotland by sea and by train. We will sail from capital to capital, Dublin to London, over 12 days, starting in vibrant Dublin and heading first to the Isle of Lunga for birdwatching (mainly for the iconic Atlantic Puffin) and then to Iona Abbey, one of Scotland’s most sacred and historical sites. We’ll go ashore at the incredible Orkey archipelago to see prehistoric (Neolithic and Mesolithic), Norse and medieval architectural elements, evidence of civilization dating back 10,000 years. We will ride across the picturesque Scottish Highlands on the train that inspired Harry Potter’s Hogwarts Express and visit Aberdeen, gateway to the Royal Deeside and five spectacular castles. You can look forward to arriving at St. Kilda, Scotland, a rare dual UNESCO World Heritage Site to see many bird species (including thousands of northern gannets) and prehistoric (Neolithic) ruins. In England, we will visit the majestic York Minster, one of the largest and most ornate examples of Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Canterbury Cathedral of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. Throughout the voyage, learn about the geology, wildlife and botany of these naturally beautiful locations from lecture presentations offered by your knowledgeable on-board Expedition Team.