Around the British Isles - 10 nights, July 2013

A unique interactive experience, combining stunning scenery and breathtaking wildlife in an exhilarating rigid inflatable boat.

Be immersed in the island’s wildlife as you travel through the turquoise waters around Guernsey to discover the waters, wildlife and history that makes Guernsey such a unique island.

Look out for an impressive variety of seabirds, which nest amidst the rocky ledges, with the possibility of seeing Puffins, Gannets, Razorbills and Shags. These can be viewed from close quarters as your specially adapted boat allows you to get close to the cliffs and caves.

Visit the reef of rocks just to the north of Herm Island, a designated nature reserve, where Atlantic Grey Seals can sometimes be seen lazing on the rocks. You may even spot dolphins or whales.

Guided by a nature enthusiast, this tour provides a combination of wildlife observation and exhilaration. You will also find out more about the history and drama of Guernsey’s spectacular maritime heritage.

Note: The RIB is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women cannot participate. You will be provided with a life jacket and wet weather gear, however it is recommended to also wear warm clothing. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. The route taken by the boat will be dependent on local weather conditions. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Discover the mystery of the ‘Loch Ness Monster’ affectionately known as ‘Nessie’ and explore the historic town of Inverness.

Drive along the banks of the Cromarty Firth and through Beauly on your way to Drumnadrochit. As you approach the famous Loch Ness you will have great views of the Loch and your chance to spot ‘Nessie’, who was first sighted in the 6th century by St Columba.

Visit the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition Experience, where you can see a fascinating presentation passing through seven themed areas of a journey from the dawn of time to the third millennium. A highly effective mix of lasers, special effects and digital projection charts the history of the Loch Ness Monster by exploring Scotland’s geological past, its folklore and the various research projects undertaken on the Loch.

On arrival at Inverness, ‘Capital of the Highlands’, around 1½ hours’ free time will be given to enjoy all that the city has to offer, including shops and historic sites, such as the Gothic-style Town House, Inverness Castle and Tolbooth Steeple, as well as the pretty, tree-lined River Ness.

Note: The journey to Loch Ness takes approximately one hour and takes you through beautiful countryside. Approximately one hour is spent at the Exhibition Centre, the area is flat and there is seating throughout the themed areas. Any walking and activities undertaken in Inverness are at guests’ own discretion. Luncheon is not included but can be purchased in Inverness.

Discover the picturesque scenery of Guernsey’s west coast and gain an insight into the islands production of exquisite jewellery.

A short drive will bring you to the delightful Little Chapel. This Chapel is truly a work of art and was built as a labour of love by two brothers in 1914. The idea was to create a miniature version of the grotto at Lourdes in France and this was successfully completed but the real magic of the Chapel is that it is beautifully decorated with seashells, pebbles and pieces of china.

From the Chapel, you’ll travel to the picturesque grounds of the Gold and Silversmiths. There will be a tour of the workshop where you can watch traditional silver, gold and platinum jewellery being made. During the last century this jewellers has been commissioned to design and craft spectacular jewellery for Royalty and Heads of State. There will be time at the end of your visit to browse the showroom and take advantage of the tax free prices.

Admire the beautiful and spectacular west coast scenery during your journey to the Diamond Museum. A visit to this small room will present a fascinating insight into the sparkling world of diamonds from their origin to the final pieces. In the showroom you can browse the stunning jewellery on display whilst enjoying a glass of champagne.

Note: There are a few steps into the Chapel. The coach driver will also be your guide on this tour.

Enjoy the scenic delights of Beaulieu Estate including the National Motor Museum and Palace House with its beautiful grounds.

Beaulieu is a top visitor attraction located in the heart of the beautiful New Forest. The estate features many highlights including the National Motor Museum, an Ancient Abbey, Palace House and a variety of gardens including a Victorian, kitchen and wilderness garden.

Within the fascinating National Motor Museum you can see some of the earliest examples of motoring from the 1890s through to legendary world-record breakers, such as Campbell’s jet powered Bluebird which broke the world land speed record in 1964.

New for 2012 is BOND IN MOTION, the world’s largest collection of original James Bond vehicles. Celebrating 50 years of Bond, with 50 vehicles from the films, this exhibition includes iconic on-screen favourites such as Goldfinger’s Rolls-Royce Phantom III, Zao’s Jaguar XKR loaded with weapons from Die Another Day and Bond’s Aston Martin DBS from Quantum of Solace.

Take some time to admire the remains of the picturesque 13th century Abbey with its timeless beauty and tranquil atmosphere. One of the buildings now houses a monastic multimedia exhibition which illustrates the daily life of the Cistercian Monks.

Historic Palace House has been the stately home of the Montagu family since 1538. With its combination of 13th century Gothic and 19th century Scottish Baronial architecture, the House offers an insight into the past with many fascinating family treasures, portraits and photographs.

Note: The grounds are spread out over a vast area, however there is a monorail and Veteran Bus which connect the main attractions. There will be approximately three hours of free time to explore the Beaulieu attractions at your own leisure.

Discover the World Heritage City of Bath with its beautiful Georgian architecture, Roman history and stunning scenery.

The Roman City of Bath and the beautiful countryside which surrounds it, has been described as one of England's most beautiful places to visit. Bath is situated within the south west of England and is a 2,000 year old fabulous spa town, built around Britain’s only hot mineral springs.

Bath offers a multitude of fantastic places to visit and is very easy to navigate on foot. Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987, the city has some of the finest architectural sites in Europe and boasts a unique and diverse range of historic features, which attract people the world over.

Your visit will begin with a panoramic tour of the city, with your guide bringing the city to life as you pass the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, the Circus and the city’s parks, including Royal Victoria Park. There will be free time to explore at your own leisure, enjoy the many street performers, visit the Roman Baths Museum, discover Jane Austen’s connection to the city at the Jane Austen Centre or wander around the fabulous shops.

Note: The transfer time to Bath is approximately 1¾ hours. Luncheon is not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling). Bath is relatively flat but some streets are cobbled.

Discover the mystery surrounding Stonehenge, Europe’s most remarkable and intriguing prehistoric monument.

Stonehenge is probably the most important prehistoric monument in the
whole of Britain. It stands as a timeless tribute to the people who built it and is now a richly deserved UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The natural and historical stone circle was erected between 3,000 BC and 1,600 BC (earlier than the Egyptian pyramids) by no less than three different cultures. Its extraordinary features include its orientation on the rising and setting sun, incredible geometry, unique jointing and the fact that some stones were dragged over 100 miles to the site.

As your guide accompanies you around the encircling pathway an insight will be given into the huge significance of Stonehenge. This stone circle also provides many photographic opportunities and with so many theories about its usage and uniqueness, Stonehenge is one of today’s wonders of the world and an absolute must to visit. There will be an opportunity to purchase souvenirs in the gift shop before leaving the site.

Note: The transfer time to Stonehenge is approximately one hour. Audio guides are available at the entrance if you wish to explore Stonehenge independently. The site is wheelchair accessible and the terrain is mainly grass and tarmac pathways with one short but steep incline. The area immediately around the stones is cordoned off to protect them. There is a refreshment area on site for those guests who do not wish to walk around the stones. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling).

Step back in time to visit the Isle of Sark, with its picturesque coastline and lack of cars this island is charming and unique.

Just a 40 minute ride away by ferry from Guernsey, passing the small islands of Herm, Jethou and Brecqhou, lies the Isle of Sark. A tractor-drawn cart called the ‘toast rack’ will take you up the steep hill to the main village. With a map of the island and a local guide to point out all that there is to see and do, you will have free time to truly discover this exquisite island.

For many, the joy of Sark is exploring the quiet pretty corners, enjoying breathtaking vistas and finding a secluded cove to relax. Alternatively, you can visit the Occupation and Heritage Museum, watch chocolates being made at Caragh’s, or walk to the famous La Coupee that links Big Sark to Little Sark in the south.

Along the ‘Main Street’ are a number of interesting and unusual shops, and there are a number of places on the island where you can buy refreshments. At the end of the day, take the ‘toast rack’ or walk back down the harbour hill to the pier and the ferry that will take you back to Guernsey.

Note: There is no transport on the island except the ‘toast rack’ which services the main village. There is approximately five hours free time to explore the island at your own leisure, therefore the amount of walking is at your discretion. No entrance fees have been included. Flat, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, local currency (pounds sterling) and a camera are recommended.

Enjoy a visit to the magnificent Royal residence of Windsor Castle followed by free time to explore the historic town of Windsor.

Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world, is one of the official residences of Her Majesty The Queen. The Castle's dramatic site encapsulates 900 years of British history and dates back to the time of William the Conqueror.

Enjoy an audio tour around the opulent rooms of the Castle including the splendid State Apartments and grand St Georges Hall where the Queen entertains visiting heads of states. The rooms are furnished with some of the finest works of art from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Reubens and Gainsborough. You will be able to admire the world famous Queen Mary's Dolls' House, which took three years to complete and involved 1,500 craftsmen, artists and authors. The house has electric lighting, hot and cold running water and even flushing lavatories.

One of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England can be found in St George's Chapel. The chapel contains the tombs of ten sovereigns, including Charles I, Henry VIII and his third wife Jane Seymour.

After visiting the Castle, there will be around one hour of free time to explore the town of Windsor with its Georgian shops, houses and inns.

Note: The transfer time to Windsor is 1½ hours. There is a ½ mile walk from the car park to the Castle entrance and two hours walking within the Castle. If the Royal Family is in residence some of the state rooms will be unavailable. St George’s Chapel is closed on Sundays. Queues may be experienced due to the strict security procedures. Luncheon is not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling).

A relaxing panoramic tour to the beautiful and mysterious area of Loch Ness, one of the most popular locations in Scotland.

Pass the banks of the scenic Cromarty Firth before pausing at the charming village of Beauly on the way to Drumnadrochit. Approaching from a height, look out over the famous Loch Ness, the deepest freshwater loch in the country. Enjoy spectacular views of the Loch, and have your binoculars at the ready to catch a possible glimpse of its elusive monster, ‘Nessie’.

Your leisurely drive will take you through stunning scenery and along the length of the Loch to the Clansman Hotel. The hotel grounds are located on the edge of the Loch. A photograph stop will enable you to capture one of the most picturesque parts of the Loch at close range, before continuing along the panoramic eastern shore of the Loch.

On the return journey to the port, you’ll pass through the historic city of Inverness, with its imposing Castle overlooking the city.

Note: All sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of your coach, with photograph stops at Beauly and Loch Ness.

Discover a veritable haven abounding with fantastic wildlife, breathtaking panoramas and fascinating ancient wonders.

Follow the marvellous coastal trail through the Parish of Evie. Here you will be afforded stunning views across Eynhallow Sound to the Island of Rousay and the spectacular tidal roosts on either side of the mysterious Isle of Eynhallow, where the North Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean.

Skirting the nearby Birsay Moors RSPB Reserve, a stop will be made at the sandy beach of Birsay Bay, from where the imposing cliffs at Marwick Head can be seen, another designated reserve and arguably the best sea bird cliffs in Orkney.

Keep your eyes alert for your stop at the magnificent cliffs of Yesnaby, where you will find one of the most dramatic seascapes in Orkney and also the rare Primula Scotica (Scottish primrose) which blooms only in May and July.

Travel inland through an area of rich farmland, rolling hills and moorland on the way to the UNESCO World Heritage Site ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’. Here you will see the great ceremonial stone circle, known as the Ring of Brodgar, and stop at the imposing Standing Stones of Stenness, one of the earliest stone circles in Britain.

Your journey then takes you via the Brig o’ Waithe and the Kirbister Loch, eastward around the coast and close to the World War II Naval Base of Scapa Flow. Your guide will tell you dramatic wartime stories that make this one of the best known stretches of water in the world.

Note: There is minimal walking over grassy, flat terrain or rocky cliff edges during the photograph stops, however this is optional.

Breathe in the fresh sea air as you walk along the scenic cliff paths towards the pretty town of St Peter Port.

The enticement of Guernsey for walkers is its size; at just 25 square miles walkers can explore its perfectly formed coastline, while taking in the stunning scenery and colourful beauty that has been an inspiration for many.

After a short drive to the beautiful Fermain Bay, take in the magnificent views over the cliffs and outwards to the other Channel Islands including Herm, Sark, Alderney and, on a clear day, the coast of France.

Pass Petit Fort and savour the fragrance of the blooming flowers filling the paths with colour. Stroll through Bluebell Wood, and enjoy wonderful views out to sea as you take in the fresh air and true beauty of Guernsey. Whatever time of year your visit, discover new colours each month that are an endless source of beauty.

Approaching the town of St Peter Port, see the old Victorian bathing area before passing fascinating Fort George. Pass the shops and marina before arriving back at the quayside. There will be a stop for some light refreshments along the way.

Note: Walking will be along footpaths and lanes. There are some inclines and steps to negotiate which can be slippery when wet. Flat, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, binoculars and a camera are recommended.

Combine a visit to Europe’s most intriguing prehistoric monument, with the enchanting medieval city of Salisbury.

Stonehenge is Britain’s most remarkable and intriguing prehistoric monument. It is as old as the great temples and pyramids of Egypt and remains as compelling today as it was to the people who built the first phase over 5,000 years ago. This mighty symbol is a wonder of the world drawing thousands of visitors each year to witness its awesome majesty and mystery.

The stone circle of shaped stones, lintels, unique jointing and absolutely perfect geometry make it the most sophisticated stone circle in the world. The stones are fenced off for their preservation and protection, however your guide will accompany you along the encircling pathway for close up views and will describe what has been concluded from observations and archaeological evidence.

After a short drive from Stonehenge, you’ll arrive at the magnificent medieval city of Salisbury, with its historic streets and alleyways, charming half-timbered buildings, traditional eating houses and medieval Cathedral. Salisbury Cathedral is a beautiful masterpiece of early English Gothic architecture which also boasts the tallest spire in Britain, Europe’s oldest working clock and the world's best-preserved original copy of the Magna Carta. Enjoy free time to explore this lovely city at your leisure.

Note: The transfer time to Stonehenge is approximately one hour. There will be approximately 2½ hours of free time in Salisbury. Luncheon and the Cathedral entrance fee are not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling).

An ideal opportunity to discover the historic city of Inverness for those who prefer to explore independently.

A short orientation tour of the Highland City of Inverness will help you get your bearings before setting off on your own. Despite being the capital of the Highlands, Inverness is more like a town and its centre is compact and easily accessible.

Why not spend some time strolling along the tree-lined banks of the River Ness, seeing the majestic Inverness Castle, visiting the museum or browsing the shops, which include several large chain stores and local craft shops.

Note: Guests are advised that this tour is unguided and exclusive of entrance fees. The journey time to Inverness is 45 minutes each way depending on traffic. Maps will be provided. Your coach driver will advise you of the departure time and pick up point for your return transfer to the ship.

A panoramic tour around the eastern Scottish Highlands, renowned as one of the most beautiful areas within the British Isles.

As you follow the banks of the beautiful Cromarty Firth you will take in views of the scenic Black Isle and perhaps catch a glimpse of a seal. Turning inland, take the scenic road through the Ardross Forest, planted with beautiful spruce, larch and pine trees, pausing at the Struie Hill viewpoint with superb views over the Dornoch Firth.

Descending to the firth, follow the picturesque northern side to the enchanting 12th century town of Royal Dornoch. The town’s oldest buildings are all clustered around its spacious and beautiful square. Stop to admire the impressive medieval Cathedral, the scene for Madonna’s rock ‘n’ roll wedding. Opposite stands the majestic, 16th century Bishop’s Palace, with stepped gables and towers, and next door, the Old Town Jail, now home to a series of enticing galleries and shops.

Imagine the smell of malted barley in the air as you pass the Glenmorangie Whisky Distillery and enter the Royal Burgh of Tain, a small thriving town with ancient history and attractive red sandstone architecture. Continue through low-lying fruitful farmland, dotted with relics of the Pictish people that once lived here, to the windswept Easter Ross seaboard where you find the fishing villages of Balintore and Shandwick.

Note: All sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of your coach with photograph stops at Struie Hill and Royal Dornoch.

Visit the magnificent capital of Edinburgh, a city which offers an interesting balance between traditional and contemporary.

Enjoy a fascinating city tour that embraces most of Edinburgh’s treasure trove of historical monuments and sights, in both the medieval ‘Old Town’, and the 18th century ‘New Town’, both of which form a World Heritage Site.

During your journey, view the many elegant streets, mysterious cobbled alleys with Georgian and Victorian architecture, nestling alongside a variety of vibrant, cosmopolitan and modern elements, including an abundance of shops, bars and restaurants. The most majestic aspect of the city is medieval Edinburgh Castle which dominates the skyline. Before returning to the ship, drive along the historic and atmospheric Royal Mile, and pass Holyrood Palace, the Queen’s residence in Edinburgh.

This tour is ideal for those who prefer to sightsee from the comfort of a coach.

Note: There will be a comfort stop en route.