- Ullapool’s rugged coastline
This hidden gem is tucked away on the edge of Loch Broom.
- Journey through the Isle of Man
What better way to see the scenery than aboard a vintage steam train?
- Scottish bagpipes
Perhaps try your hand at this typically Scottish instrument.
- Views across Edinburgh
Scotland’s hilly capital has an elegant New Town and medieval Old Town.

Saga Cruises
A Taste of the British Isles
Spirit of Discovery departing Southampton
2 passengers 2nd August 2021
-
All Inclusive
Circumnavigate the British Isles
This is a voyage of contrasts that offers a taste of the British Isles.
Take in the whole of the British Isles from north to south and discover new places close to home on this 13-night summer cruise.
This scenic cruise around the British Isles is a fantastic way to uncover hidden coastal gems, explore thriving seaside resorts and step ashore in tiny remote ports – and what better time to sail than at the height of summer? A highlight is sure to be when Spirit of Discovery sails into the Firth of Forth estuary and anchors within sight of the UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge, so that you can hop off and discover Edinburgh. From the ancient sights of the Orkney Islands, to the industrial heritage of Newcastle and Belfast, this is a voyage of contrasts that showcases the best of the British Isles.
Look forward to strolling through the welcoming streets of Dublin where you’ll experience true Irish craic and a taste of the city’s staple food, hearty soda bread. Do a spot of window shopping in Grafton Street or head to the arts and entertainment district of Temple Bar, where you could sup on a pint of Ireland’s beloved dry stout, Guinness. One of the lesser visited gems on your itinerary, Ullapool, is tucked away on the edge of Loch Broom, amid the beautiful scenery of the Scottish Highlands. While here, perhaps seek out some of the most spectacular, untouched scenery the British Isles has to offer in Scotland’s first geopark or at Corrieshalloch Gorge.
Included sightseeing tours
- Newcastle, England
- Edinburgh, Scotland
- Belfast, Northern Ireland
- Dublin, Ireland
View Full Itinerary
A Taste of the British Isles
02/08/2021 Southampton
Southampton
Embark Spirit of Discovery.
Depart 1800.

03/08/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
04/08/2021 Newcastle, England
Newcastle, England
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Your first port of call sits on the north bank of the River Tyne and is sure to delight you with its variety of sights and experiences, and an included tour is the perfect introduction.
Within the city centre, you'll find the Grade I-listed Theatre Royal, regional home to the Royal Shakespeare Company, and one of the world's oldest working Victorian theatres, the Tyne Theatre. Its Victorian city centre is home to the Castle Keep, one of Britain's finest examples of surviving Norman keeps, and in the Grainger Town district, you'll find many quirky boutiques and galleries. The city's Quayside houses several landmark buildings and is where you'll see the impressive seven bridges, including Gateshead Millennium Bridge.

05/08/2021 Edinburgh (Newhaven) ⚓, Scotland
Edinburgh (Newhaven) ⚓, Scotland
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Once a bustling fishing village, Newhaven is a quiet suburb of Edinburgh whose past is recorded in its street names, and the narrow wynds and closes of its historic core. Look forward to an included panoramic tour, revealing some of the key sights of the area.
After, perhaps walk the length of the Royal Mile, pay a visit to Holyrood Palace – the Queen's official Scottish residence – and explore the halls of Edinburgh Castle, famously situated on top of an extinct volcano.

06/08/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
07/08/2021 Kirkwall ⚓, Orkney Islands
Kirkwall ⚓, Orkney Islands
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Kirkwall is set on the largest of the Orkney Islands, Mainland. Despite the remote location, prehistoric man made a home here and there are several Stone Age sites scattered across the island.
Perhaps go in search of the highlights of this UNESCO-listed ensemble which includes the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae, a stone village which lay hidden beneath the sand until its foundations were revealed by a fierce storm in 1850.
⚓ Land by launch or tender

08/08/2021 Ullapool ⚓, Scotland
Ullapool ⚓, Scotland
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
The charming fishing town of Ullapool is situated on the shores of Loch Broom and is the gateway to the Western Isles.
Explore the town with its harbour, quaint whitewashed cottages, museum with displays on crofting, fishing and more, and famous town clock. Perhaps head out of the town to Rhue, home to a four-acre Bronze-Age settlement, with the remains of ancient roundhouses.
⚓ Land by launch or tender

09/08/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
10/08/2021 Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
From beautiful coastlines to a fascinating industrial heritage, Northern Ireland’s capital, Belfast, is a modern, vibrant and stylish city. As you cruise into port, you’ll notice the bright-yellow gantry cranes, Samson and Goliath, which remind visitors of the city’s shipbuilding industry. Begin your exploration with an included panoramic tour which reveals more of Belfast’s rich and varied past.
Explore the revived city centre which is packed with a superb selection of shops, restaurants and bars, as well as outstanding landmarks such as the grand City Hall in the centre of Donegall Square, the 19th-century Opera House and Queen’s University. Belfast is also perfectly placed to discover the stunning Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland's only UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. This incredible coastal rock formation of interlocking basalt pillars is steeped in myths and legends.

08/08/2021 Douglas ⚓, Isle of Man
Douglas ⚓, Isle of Man
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Located in the middle of the Irish Sea is the Isle of Man, a self-governing kingdom designated a biosphere reserve by UNESCO. Along its seafront promenade, the clip-clopping sound of horse-drawn trams can be heard and nearby is the ‘Manx Museum’, telling the island’ story using an extensive collection of curious artefacts.
Perhaps take a trip to the ruined 11th-century Peel Castle on the island’s west coast or travel north to the Isle of Man Motor Museum: after all, each year throughout May and June, the island transforms into a motorbike racetrack for the Isle of Man TT.
⚓ Land by launch or tender

12/08/2021 Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, Ireland
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Ireland's compact capital is famed for its spirited nature. After an included tour, perhaps discover the renowned Temple Bar district or enjoy a peaceful cruise along the River Liffey which intersects the city. The city’s highlights include the handsome Georgian terraces of Merrion Square, walled Phoenix Park, busy O’Connell Street and St Patrick’s Cathedral.

13/08/2021 At Sea
Spend the day at sea.
14/08/2021 Portland, England
Portland, England
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Today you'll arrive at the ‘Isle of Portland’, which is connected to Dorset's mainland by Chesil Beach. It’s an ideal base from which to discover the attractions of the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast and beyond, from prehistoric sites and medieval towns to delightful country houses and beautiful gardens.
Perhaps unearth the secrets of Old Sarum, an Iron Age hill fort, and its newer counterpart, Salisbury, as well as ponder the enduring mysteries surrounding Stonehenge. Alternatively, seek out Benedictine ruins in Abbotsbury or visit 15th-century Athelhampton, a private home since Tudor times.

15/08/2021 Southampton
Southampton
Arrive 0800.
Disembark Spirit of Discovery after breakfast.
Please note: Some of the highlights detailed may only be seen on optional excursions, at an additional cost, or by exploring independently.

-
2nd August
Southampton
1Southampton
Embark Spirit of Discovery.
Depart 1800.
-
3rd August
At Sea
-
4th August
Newcastle, England
3Newcastle, England
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Your first port of call sits on the north bank of the River Tyne and is sure to delight you with its variety of sights and experiences, and an included tour is the perfect introduction.
Within the city centre, you'll find the Grade I-listed Theatre Royal, regional home to the Royal Shakespeare Company, and one of the world's oldest working Victorian theatres, the Tyne Theatre. Its Victorian city centre is home to the Castle Keep, one of Britain's finest examples of surviving Norman keeps, and in the Grainger Town district, you'll find many quirky boutiques and galleries. The city's Quayside houses several landmark buildings and is where you'll see the impressive seven bridges, including Gateshead Millennium Bridge.
-
5th August
Edinburgh (Newhaven) ⚓, Scotland
4Edinburgh (Newhaven) ⚓, Scotland
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Once a bustling fishing village, Newhaven is a quiet suburb of Edinburgh whose past is recorded in its street names, and the narrow wynds and closes of its historic core. Look forward to an included panoramic tour, revealing some of the key sights of the area.
After, perhaps walk the length of the Royal Mile, pay a visit to Holyrood Palace – the Queen's official Scottish residence – and explore the halls of Edinburgh Castle, famously situated on top of an extinct volcano.
-
6th August
At Sea
-
7th August
Kirkwall ⚓, Orkney Islands
6Kirkwall ⚓, Orkney Islands
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Kirkwall is set on the largest of the Orkney Islands, Mainland. Despite the remote location, prehistoric man made a home here and there are several Stone Age sites scattered across the island.
Perhaps go in search of the highlights of this UNESCO-listed ensemble which includes the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae, a stone village which lay hidden beneath the sand until its foundations were revealed by a fierce storm in 1850.
⚓ Land by launch or tender
-
8th August
Ullapool ⚓, Scotland
7Ullapool ⚓, Scotland
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
The charming fishing town of Ullapool is situated on the shores of Loch Broom and is the gateway to the Western Isles.
Explore the town with its harbour, quaint whitewashed cottages, museum with displays on crofting, fishing and more, and famous town clock. Perhaps head out of the town to Rhue, home to a four-acre Bronze-Age settlement, with the remains of ancient roundhouses.
⚓ Land by launch or tender
-
9th August
At Sea
-
10th August
Belfast, Northern Ireland
9Belfast, Northern Ireland
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
From beautiful coastlines to a fascinating industrial heritage, Northern Ireland’s capital, Belfast, is a modern, vibrant and stylish city. As you cruise into port, you’ll notice the bright-yellow gantry cranes, Samson and Goliath, which remind visitors of the city’s shipbuilding industry. Begin your exploration with an included panoramic tour which reveals more of Belfast’s rich and varied past.
Explore the revived city centre which is packed with a superb selection of shops, restaurants and bars, as well as outstanding landmarks such as the grand City Hall in the centre of Donegall Square, the 19th-century Opera House and Queen’s University. Belfast is also perfectly placed to discover the stunning Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland's only UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. This incredible coastal rock formation of interlocking basalt pillars is steeped in myths and legends.
-
8th August
Douglas ⚓, Isle of Man
7Douglas ⚓, Isle of Man
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Located in the middle of the Irish Sea is the Isle of Man, a self-governing kingdom designated a biosphere reserve by UNESCO. Along its seafront promenade, the clip-clopping sound of horse-drawn trams can be heard and nearby is the ‘Manx Museum’, telling the island’ story using an extensive collection of curious artefacts.
Perhaps take a trip to the ruined 11th-century Peel Castle on the island’s west coast or travel north to the Isle of Man Motor Museum: after all, each year throughout May and June, the island transforms into a motorbike racetrack for the Isle of Man TT.
⚓ Land by launch or tender
-
12th August
Dublin, Ireland
11Dublin, Ireland
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Ireland's compact capital is famed for its spirited nature. After an included tour, perhaps discover the renowned Temple Bar district or enjoy a peaceful cruise along the River Liffey which intersects the city. The city’s highlights include the handsome Georgian terraces of Merrion Square, walled Phoenix Park, busy O’Connell Street and St Patrick’s Cathedral.
-
13th August
At Sea
-
14th August
Portland, England
13Portland, England
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Today you'll arrive at the ‘Isle of Portland’, which is connected to Dorset's mainland by Chesil Beach. It’s an ideal base from which to discover the attractions of the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast and beyond, from prehistoric sites and medieval towns to delightful country houses and beautiful gardens.
Perhaps unearth the secrets of Old Sarum, an Iron Age hill fort, and its newer counterpart, Salisbury, as well as ponder the enduring mysteries surrounding Stonehenge. Alternatively, seek out Benedictine ruins in Abbotsbury or visit 15th-century Athelhampton, a private home since Tudor times.
-
15th August
Southampton
14Southampton
Arrive 0800.
Disembark Spirit of Discovery after breakfast.
Please note: Some of the highlights detailed may only be seen on optional excursions, at an additional cost, or by exploring independently.
Itinerary map for A Taste of the British Isles
Spirit of Discovery
Inspired by the world's finest boutique hotels

Learn more about Spirit of Discovery

Chauffeur service up to 250 miles
Chauffeur service up to 250 miles
This service is a private chauffeur for distances up to 75 miles each way, and a shared chauffeur service from 76-250 miles each way.
Don't want to chauffeur? No problem. We'll also be happy to arrange complimentary car parking near the port, or can provide included rail/coach tickets, or even free flights from your local airport, subject to availability.

Travel insurance
Travel insurance
Optional comprehensive travel insurance, underwritten by Great Lakes Insurance SE, UK Branch, and additional cancellation rights. If you have your own insurance, we will offer you the holiday at a lower price.

All meals
All meals
All meals and snacks on board.

Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea
Daily afternoon tea.

A Choice of wines
A Choice of wines
A choice of wines at lunch and dinner.

All Inclusive
All Inclusive
Includes selected wines at lunch and dinner, Saga house-branded spirits, cocktails containing house-branded spirits, draught beer and lager, non-alcoholic cocktails, all mixers and soft drinks.

Gratuities
Gratuities
All on-board 'tips' and bar service charges.

Entertainment and Activities
Entertainment and Activities
A full programme of live music, entertainment and talks.

Gym, sauna & exercise classes
Gym, sauna & exercise classes
Gym, sauna and exercise classes.

24-hour room service
24-hour room service
24-hour room service is available at no extra charge.

Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi

Welcome cocktail party
Welcome cocktail party
Welcome cocktail party and Captain’s dinner.

Porterage of luggage
Porterage of luggage
When you arrive at the port in Dover or Southampton we’ll even carry the bags, with included porterage right to your cabin.

Shuttle bus
Shuttle bus
Free shuttle bus at most ports wherever possible, and when the ship is berthed at least 500 yards away from the nearest town centre.

Sightseeing Tours
Sightseeing Tours
Four sightseeing tours in:
Newcastle, England
Edinburgh, Scotland
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Dublin, Ireland
- Looking out for whales with ORCA
You'll be joined by wildlife experts from ORCA, the foremost European whale and dolphin conservation charity, who are devoted to studying marine wildlife and protecting it for future generations. Look forward to the chance to spot whales, dolphins and seabirds and an array of other wildlife out on deck throughout your voyage, the perfect vantage point to view and learn more about wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Britannia Lounge
Relax in comfort with a drink, and admire the spectacular panoramic views.
- Enjoy fine dining
Enjoy world-class cuisine at no extra cost in a choice of four restaurants.
- Spa
Indulge yourself with a spa treatment in one of our six treatment rooms.
- The Library
A booklover’s paradise combined with an artisanal coffee-shop, it's the perfect spot to research your next port of call.
- Time for you
Take advantage of tailored exercise regimes and bespoke one-to-one fitness sessions with our health and wellbeing expert.
- Daily afternoon tea
Indulge with a sumptuous selection of sweet treats at the daily afternoon tea.
- The Terrace
This elegant ‘secret’ garden area is the perfect setting to enjoy the fresh air any time of the day.
Explore Ashore
Highlights of Edinburgh
Look forward to an included panoramic city tour through both modern and historic parts of Edinburgh. Pass the spectacular castle and take in the sights along Princes Street and the famous Royal Mile. Following your tour, you’re sure to enjoy the opportunity to try your hand at playing the bagpipes under the tuition of a professional piper.
A taste of the Orkneys
Head to a local restaurant to sample some traditional Orkney fare comprising delicious local produce, such as herring and oatcakes, bere bannocks and Orkney cheese, Orkney beef with clapshot (mashed swede and potatoes) and Orkney fudge cheesecake. During your optional culinary tour you will be entertained with live Orcadian music and tales of island life from an Orkney food connoisseur.
Ride aboard a vintage steam train
During your visit to the Isle of Man you’ll have the opportunity to take your seat for a scenic journey aboard a steam train. The narrow gauge railway opened in 1873 and is one of the longest narrow gauge steam lines in Britain that still uses the original locomotives and carriages. Relax as the train travels through the island’s charming countryside.
Spirit of Discovery departing Southampton
2 passengers
2nd August 2021