Embark in Glasgow

Begin your cruise in Scotland's stylish city of culture

A former industrial powerhouse, Glasgow has reinvented itself as a cultural hotspot, packed with museums, galleries and parks. You can spend some time exploring the city, and discover the splendid Art Nouveau architecture of Charles Macintosh, before your expedition cruise.

You can extend your stay here with our Pre-Programme, which also includes a night in Edinburgh and the opportunity to see its magnificent castle.

MS Spitsbergen, one of our smaller ships built for close exploration, will be waiting. Settle in to your cabin and explore the ship, before meeting your Expedition Team who will be your guides on your Irish Sea adventure.

See the Giant’s Causeway

Step into little Portrush to see a giant natural wonder 

Portrush is a small resort town that's been popular since Victorian times. The long sandy beaches here are perfect for a scenic stroll. And birders will want to head north to Ramore Head.

Your first included excursion of the day is to the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway, around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns rising from the coast. The sights don't end there. The ruins of Dunluce Castle provide a stunning backdrop to this region's wild beauty.

You'll also have the opportunity to visit a working sheep farm up in the mountain peaks of the Glenshane Pass as your other included trip.

Elegant Belfast

Discover Northern Ireland’s capital

Famed as the birthplace of the Titanic, Belfast is a city of industry and elegance. Wander the Titanic Quarter and walk the Maritime Mile showcasing the city’s seafaring history.     Elegant Victorian architecture abounds here. Admire the detailed mosaics of St Anne’s Cathedral, and the majestic façade of the Grand Opera House. Climb Cave Hill, near Belfast Castle, for great views.  

You’ll find tasty treats and great handicrafts at St George’s Market, and the Ulster Museum will delight history buffs. Nature lovers can enjoy an included excursion to Castle Espie Wetlands Centre–a 60-acre wildlife kingdom.

Scenic Isle of Man

Learn about the Manx and join a beach clean up

Your Irish Sea cruise continues to fascinating Douglas, part of the Isle of Man UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, thanks to its diverse marine and coastal ecosystems. You can help protect it by joining an included beach clean up alongside local volunteers.

There’s so much to pack into your day here. Visit the Manx Museum and learn about the island's Celtic and Viking history or visit its motor museums. Check out the murals in St Thomas’s Church and discover Peel Castle, originally a Viking stronghold and now said to be haunted. 

The Pembrokeshire coast

Explore scenic coastlines and the UK's smallest city

Nestled between the Preseli Hills and the Pembrokeshire coast is the Welsh town of Fishguard. You’ll find the original hamlet and harbour in Lower Fishguard, and spectacular sea views from the ‘Main Town’ above. Explore the ruins of Fishguard Fort at Castle Point, and spot marine life on a coastal walk along the Pencaer Peninsula. 

A short drive away is the UK’s smallest city, St Davids. More a village than a city, it owes its city status to its 12th century cathedral. You can explore this conservation area as part of an included excursion. The dramatic headland nearby is the most westerly point in Wales.

Conservation in Dublin

Discover this lively city on the River Liffey

Founded by Vikings, and later to become the Kingdom of Dublin, Ireland’s capital has a remarkable past. But as one of Europe’s most youthful cities, ‘Dubs’ is also a bustling cultural centre and a very modern tech hub.  

History lovers will want to head straight for Trinity College, the oldest university in Ireland, and see the medieval manuscript, the 'Book of Kells' from c.800 CE. Then onto 13th century Dublin Castle–perhaps stopping to enjoy a pint of local Guinness on the way.

Your included excursion today takes you to the coastal area of Dublin to join forces with the Clean Coasts volunteers. You'll help them on a beach, river or canal clean and see how their work protects the local environment.

Glasgow, Alongside, Full day

Set sail from Scotland’s stylish city of culture and get to know your expedition ship and crew.  

Glasgow is an elegant city filled with splendid architecture in the Victorian and Art Nouveau styles. If you have any time prior to embarkation you’ll discover its museums, galleries, and lively spots to eat, drink and shop.   

When you’re done, your comfortable expedition ship MS Spitsbergen will be waiting for you. You’ll be greeted by your friendly Expedition Team and after attending a safety briefing and settling in, you’ll sit down to a welcome dinner to mark the start of the cruise.  

Pre-Program  Want to really explore Glasgow and Edinburgh? Then we recommend extending your stay by booking our optional Pre-Program that includes an overnight in Edinburgh. You’ll be able to see the main sights of Glasgow as well as the beautiful Edinburgh Castle.

A microcosm of Scotland

See dramatic mountains and wild landscapes on beautiful Arran.

Warmed by the North Atlantic Drift, the sheltered isle of Arran is a haven for wildlife. As you travel around the island, see if you can spot Scotland’s ‘Big Five’ wildlife draws: the Golden Eagle, red deer, red squirrel, otter and seal.  

Fancy some walking? Try the popular Goat Fell hiking trail, and visit Brodick Castle to get a sense of the aristocratic life of yesteryear. Discover Neolithic treasures across Machrie Moor, and sample the distinctive malt whiskey of the local distillery.

Colorful fishing port

Explore colorful Tobermory and discover its many modest delights.

Tobermory is the main town on the Isle of Mull. As you get close to the waterfront, you'll be greeted by a row of distinctive brightly-colored Georgian houses. Explore this small town, packed with cafés, restaurants and craft stores–it even has its own whiskey distillery.   

If conditions allow, we’ll go to Loch Sunart, a beautiful seawater loch that few others visit. As a Marine Protected Area, the clear waters shelter a rich ecosystem and are a stronghold for otters. It’s also a great place for spotting dolphins and porpoises.

Scottish Highlands adventure town

Visit Scotland’s outdoor adventure hub and take in the surrounding beauty.

After sailing into Loch Linnhe we arrive at Fort William. The town is known as ‘Britain’s Outdoor Capital’ and is a magnet for hikers, bikers, climbers and skiers. As you’ll see, it’s set amidst some spectacular Highland scenery.  

The town’s whiskey distillery offers its take on the national tipple, and a scenic short walk awaits at Glen Nevis. You can also visit Glen Coe, a valley formed from volcanic activity, sculpted by glaciers and designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Gateway to the Isles

Set foot on Scotland’s west coast in this small and charming town. 

The ‘Gateway to the Isles’, the little town of Oban reached its heyday when the railway arrived, adding to its life as a busy fishing port. Victorian buildings cluster round the port while ferries come and go, heading out to the distant Hebrides.   

A 20-minute walk from town goes past beaches and through woodland to the castle Dunollie, ancient seat of the Clan Chiefs. Fancy a wee dram? The tiny Oban Distillery is one of the smallest and one of the oldest in Scotland.

Scottish island life, distilled

Idyllic Islay is an island paradise of wildlife, whiskey and woolen garments.

Islay (pronounced eye-la) isn’t called ‘Whiskey Island’ for nothing. There are nine working distilleries here, and you’ll find their peaty single malts sold around the world. One of the larger isles, there’s 130 miles of coastline, and numerous quiet sandy beaches. 

Islay is also an island of wildlife, with over 200 species of birds including Golden Eagles, oystercatchers, gannets and Hen Harriers. What’s more, the mystical past is present here, with ancient monoliths, Celtic crosses and a stone circle all visible.

Return to Glasgow

Finish off where you started–but why not stay a bit longer?  

Our island-hopping expedition ends where we started out, in Glasgow. We know you’ll have had some wonderful experiences on your expedition, but why not linger a while and see some of the things you may have missed before you set sail.  

Post-Program If you want to fully explore Glasgow and Edinburgh, we recommend extending your stay by booking our optional Post-Program. With an overnight in Edinburgh, you’ll be able to see the main sights of Glasgow as well as the majestic Edinburgh Castle.