12/05/2022 Dover

Dover

Embark Spirit of Discovery.

Depart 1800.

13/05/2022 Great Yarmouth, England

Great Yarmouth, England

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

Welcome to Great Yarmouth, a quintessentially British seaside town sandwiched between the North Sea to the east and Norfolk’s iconic Broads to the west. Its history, like many of the UK’s most prestigious towns and cities, stretches as far back as the Bronze Age, however, it was in the 13th century that Great Yarmouth received its town charter. In that same century, during the reign of the infamous King John, the town’s walls were raised, and it grew into a dominant herring fishing port. Today, you will find its pleasure beach to be filled with sights and sounds that reflect an era of Victorian seaside amusement, including the presence of Punch and Judy shows, as well as a colourful funfair.

To feel like a giant, why not visit the Merrivale Model Village, where traditional British scenes, such as morris dancing and floodlit cricket, play out in miniature. Peer through the church window to see a Christening ceremony take place or enjoy the relative enormity of Merrivale’s castle. Further afield are the Broads, Britain’s largest protected wetland. Having brought your walking boots, consider following one of the many walking trails that crisscross this exceptionally flat national park. Originally dug during medieval times to provide peat for fuel, the peat ditches flooded and created a series of beautiful waterways. Joining a boat trip is an excellent alternative method to explore the Broads. An hour and a half’s drive from Great Yarmouth will take you to the Sandringham Estate, home to four generations of monarchs since 1862.

14/05/2022 At Sea

Spend the day at sea.

15/05/2022 Newhaven (for Edinburgh), ⚓ Scotland

Newhaven ⚓ (for Edinburgh), Scotland

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

Located just two miles north of Edinburgh is Newhaven, a harbour town on the banks of the Firth of Forth. Throughout the 15th century, Newhaven’s present-day neighbour Leith was bustling with international trade. In search of quieter pastures, the local fishing community moved their base of operations a mile west and Newhaven (its name meaning New Harbour) was born. Newhaven provides a window into the area’s maritime past; however, it is its proximity to Scotland’s capital that makes it such a popular cruise destination. Edinburgh’s mighty castle, around which the city grew, is instantly recognisable. It is also a great tool for navigation, whether you are strolling along the cobbled old town or passing along Princes Street which cuts through Edinburgh’s new town. If the sun is shining, you may find yourself in Princes Street Gardens, staring up at the Scott Monument, rising out of the park like a Gothic spaceship.

The city of Edinburgh is one of knowledge, being where Joseph Lister developed germ theory, however, it is also one with captivating tales waiting to be told. In Grassmarket, you can learn about Margaret Dickson, known as Half-hangit Maggie, and at the entrance to Greyfriars Kirk you can meet Greyfriars Bobby whose head is thought to bring good luck when rubbed. Edinburgh’s list of must-see sights is a lengthy one, including the National Museum of Scotland, Palace of Holyrood, the Scottish National Gallery, a fascinating camera obscura and Edinburgh Castle itself. For spectacular views, we suggest a hike up to Arthur’s Seat. The hike is a relatively short one, lasting perhaps 40 minutes, and the panorama by which you are greeted is spectacular. During your time in port is an included sightseeing tour of Edinburgh.

⚓ Land by launch or tender

16/05/2022 At Sea

Spend the day at sea.

17/05/2022 Ullapool ⚓, Scotland

Ullapool ⚓, Scotland

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

Ullapool is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Its charming whitewashed cottages gaze directly onto Loch Broom, and the surrounding Highland scenery invites you to put your walking boots on and explore! For a short and rewarding hike, a walk to the top of Ullapool Hill takes just over an hour, leaving you with plenty of time to take a boat trip on the loch. Common wildlife sightings on Loch Broom include white-tailed eagles, seals and even the occasional dolphin! But you don’t have to march up mountains or take to the water to get the most from the great outdoors; Ullapool Golf Course is a short drive from the port, providing players with a round in spectacular beauty.

A drive further afield, through old crofting communities and past picturesque Gruinard Bay, will take you to Inverewe Garden. Inverewe was created from a barren wilderness in the 19th century, and its exotic display is owed to the area’s Gulf Stream microclimate. Wollemi pines, Himalayan blue poppies and Californian redwoods make this northern corner of Scotland feel exceptionally cosmopolitan. Inverewe Garden was the brainchild of a man named Osgood Mackenzie, and the home belonging to his daughter Mairi is an interactive museum. At Inverewe you will also find a visitor centre and the Sawyer Gallery, housing works of art inspired by the garden and its surrounding landscapes.

⚓ Land by launch or tender

18/05/2022 Portree ⚓, Isle of Skye

Portree ⚓, Isle of Skye

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

The second-largest of Scotland’s islands and the most northerly of the Inner Hebrides, Skye inspires visitors with its mist-shrouded castles, sparkling lochs and rock formations which stand guard over some of the prettiest landscapes imaginable. Skye’s capital, Portree, is surrounded by three hills: Ben Tianavaig to the south, Fingal’s Seat to the west and looking to the north you will see the smaller (but no less impressive) Ben Chrachaig. These natural giants are contrasted by the charming and colourful fisherman’s cottages that line Portree’s waterfront, greeting visitors who approach the town by sea. Arriving, you will notice that while Portree is pretty and provides many of the amenities required to make your time here a pleasant one, it is by leaving the town behind that you will discover the true splendour of Skye.

South-west of Portree are the Fairy Pools. These are crystal-clear pools of water – often filled with wild swimmers - into which cascade a series of waterfalls. Trotternish Peninsula, to the north of Portree, is home to The Old Man of Skye, a striking basalt rock formation to which keen walkers hike, and for a glimpse of history, consider travelling to Dunvegan Castle. It has provided the ancestral home to the chiefs of Clan MacLeod for 800 years, and its stately rooms burst with Highland heritage, overlooking extensive gardens. Exploring the Isle of Skye can be thirsty work, so why not visit the Talisker Distillery. Established in 1830, Talisker is the oldest working distillery on the island and enjoys a picturesque location on the banks of Loch Harport.

⚓ Land by launch or tender

19/05/2022 Cruise the St Kilda Archipelago

Cruise the St Kilda Archipelago

Enjoy this opportunity to cruise the remote islands of the volcanic St Kilda archipelago, located off the Hebridean coast. The four islands – Hirta, Dun, Soay and Boreray – were occupied by humans for more than 2,000 years until 1930 when its remaining 36 residents decided that their way of life was unsustainable and moved to the mainland. It may not be suitable for human life, however, at the height of the breeding season nearly a million seabirds – including puffins and gannets – flock to St Kilda. It is for both its human history and natural history that St Kilda has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

20/05/2022 Greenock, Scotland

Greenock, Scotland

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

Famous for being the birthplace of James Watt - credited with the discovery of steam power - Greenock is the west coast of Scotland’s primary container port. Its industrial lower waterside bustles with the busy energy associated with world shipping and offers glimpses of the Greenock's shipbuilding past.

During your time in port, consider a visit to the McLean Museum and Art Gallery. Inside is an exhibition exploring the life of James Watt, and a captivating collection of fine art. Perhaps join an included sightseeing drive or visit nearby Glasgow, after all, the city is only 40 minutes away by train!

21/05/2022 Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

The capital of Northern Ireland has undergone a 21st-century rejuvenation, becoming a celebrated haven for literature, theatre, art and music. Belfast’s cobblestone streets wrap around St Anne’s Cathedral, passing thought-provoking street art and taking visitors to the interactive Titanic Experience. Follow the story of the legendary and ill-fated RMS Titanic, from its construction in Belfast to its launch in 1911 and doomed voyage into the Atlantic. Hear tales told by those that built Titanic, sailed on her and survived. With springtime in full swing, a stroll through Belfast’s Botanic Gardens will reveal carpets of colour, blooming in the sunshine and overlooked by an impressive Victorian glasshouse.

Included in the price of your cruise is a sightseeing drive through the city to spot several of its most prominent landmarks. If you are tempted to venture further afield, Giant’s Causeway National Nature Reserve is located just over an hour’s drive north. This bucket-list site delights visitors with more than 40,000 interlocking basalt columns and plenty of mythology as to how the stones came about! Also featuring on your programme of optional excursions is the Neoclassical Mount Stewart House. Enjoy a private talk from the head collections manager, exclusively for Saga guests, and perhaps admire the fine collection of portraits in the Castlereagh Room before taking a stroll through the gardens.

22/05/2022 Holyhead, Wales

Holyhead, Wales

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

Holyhead’s ancient origins date back to AD 450 when Celtic King Caswallon fought off invaders from Ireland. Today it is one of the UK’s busiest ferry ports, connected to mainland Wales by the A55 road which passes through the island of Anglesey. The suspension bridge that connects Anglesey to the mainland was opened in 1826, designed by Thomas Telford and is considered to be the world’s first suspension bridge. For outdoor enthusiasts, Anglesey’s 125-mile-long coastal trail features archipelago views, rugged coastal scenery and high cliffs.

Alternatively, just an hour’s drive from Holyhead is Snowdonia National Park. With suitable footwear and a high level of fitness, you can ascend Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales. If you would prefer to enjoy the summit sights without hiking, a narrow-gauge mountain railway transports passengers from Llanberis to the top.

23/05/2022 Dún Laoghaire ⚓ (for Dublin), Ireland

Dún Laoghaire ⚓ (for Dublin), Ireland

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

‘When I die, Dublin will be written in my heart.’ These were the words written by literary hero James Joyce. It’s easy to understand why. Dublin's cobbled streets flanked by gorgeous Georgian architecture blend seamlessly with towering modern architecture, illustrating the capital’s fixation on self-improvement and accessibility. A 30-minute drive away from the city centre is your port of call, Dún Laoghaire, a coastal suburb home to the National Maritime Museum of Ireland. Perhaps during your time in port, you will take a tour of the Dublin’s 12th-century cathedral or browse the city’s numerous museums to discover why this small capital was known as the ‘Celtic Tiger’.

Alternatively, soak up the warm welcome associated with Dublin in one of its 1,000 bars and pubs, sampling a pint of locally brewed Guinness. A tour of the Guinness Brewery will tell the tale of the ‘Black Stuff’, including a tasting of the famous Irish dry stout. Whatever your tourist tipple, you’re sure to find something to see or do in the city of Dublin. Alternatively, head out into the countryside surrounding County Dublin to find the Powerscourt Estate, located at the foot of Great Sugar Loaf Mountain, and the iconic Skerries Mills. You will also have the opportunity to join an included sightseeing tour of Dublin.

⚓ Land by launch or tender

24/05/2022 At Sea

Spend the day at sea.

25/05/2022 Portland, England

Portland, England

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

Jutting out into the English Channel, just south of Weymouth, is the Isle of Portland. Part of the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast, Portland is connected to mainland Dorset by Chesil Beach and is home to one of the world’s largest manmade harbours. Throughout both world wars the harbour provided safe berthing to the Royal Navy, and today it welcomes you to one of England’s most inspiring and charming counties. Portland itself offers excellent hiking opportunities, for example to Pulpit Rock on its southern tip, and a metaphorical stone’s throw away is Weymouth – a popular destination for many when the sun is shining. Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove and Kimmeridge Bay are also within easy reach.

Inland you can stumble across the county town of Dorchester, known in Tom Hardy’s fiction as Casterbridge. Its Georgian terraces provide the visitor with architectural elegance, and the town’s museums exhibit plenty of fascinating history, transporting you as far back as the dinosaurs! An hour’s drive east brings you to Corfe Castle, a delightful village clustered around the dramatic ruins of a Norman castle which can also be accessed by vintage steam train.

26/05/2022 Dover

Dover

Arrive 0700.

Disembark Spirit of Discovery after breakfast.

Please note: Some of the highlights detailed may only be seen on optional excursions or by exploring independently.