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Best of British Isles

Best of British Isles

dates
06 May - 18 May 2025
EMBARKATION
May 07, Portsmouth (England)
PROGRAM DURATION
13 days
DISEMBARKATION
May 18 , Edinburgh (Scotland)
CRUISE DURATION
12 days
SHIP
M/v Sea Spirit114 Passengers
ACTIVITIES
Photography
VIDEO

ITINERARY

Welcome to England and the start of your British Isles cruise! Our included pre-cruise hotel night is designed to allow for a relaxing motorcoach transfer to Portsmouth the next morning. You’ll receive information about the time and place to meet the motorcoach at the hotel.

Look for the Poseidon representative in the hotel’s lobby, who will direct you to our chartered motorcoach that will take us to Portsmouth. Considered the home of the Royal Navy, its rich maritime heritage sets the mood for the beginning of our exciting voyage. In the afternoon we welcome you aboard the deluxe expedition ship Sea Spirit.

The Isles of Scilly is a group of small islands off the coast of Cornwall boasting mild weather, secluded beaches, enchanting wildlife and a relaxed lifestyle. On the lovely, sand-fringed island of Tresco, Bronze Age burial sites and romantic 17th-century castle ruins reveal a long and dramatic history. On the hallowed grounds of a Benedictine abbey we discover the exquisite Tresco Abbey Garden with its spectacular collection of more than 20,000 exotic plants from all corners of the world. Delightful cafés and local shops enrich your experience even further.

Saltee Island

Dunmore East is a popular tourist and fishing village in County Waterford on Ireland’s southeastern coast. From here it is a short journey through scenic countryside to the House of Waterford Crystal. Here you can take a guided tour of the factory to see the master craftsmen at work as well as the world’s largest collection of their wares. Also nearby is Mount Congreve, a magnificent 18th-century Georgian estate and botanical gardens containing thousands of plant species on 70 acres of intensively planted woodland and a four-acre walled garden.

Our plan is to visit the the Saltee Islands. The larger island, Great Saltee, is the most famous bird sanctuary in Ireland. These Islands are privately owned and are one of the world's major bird sanctuaries. The Saltees are a haven for sea birds, nurturing an impressive array of Gannets and Gulls to Puffins and Manx Shearwaters. They also lie on an important migratory route and a popular stopping-off place for spring and autumn migrants


Our port for today is the vibrant seaside town of Llandudno in the north of Wales. From here we embark on a scenic overland tour of Snowdonia National Park. We drive through some of the wildest and most dramatic landscapes in Britain as we discover craggy mountains, stunning waterfalls, crystal clear lakes, dense woodlands and flowering meadows. Snowdonia is also renowned for wildlife including otters, water voles, wild ponies and rare birds such as dotterel and peregrine falcon. We enjoy a delightful stop at the charming and distinctively Welsh town of Betws-y-Coed in the Gwydyr Forest.

Visit to the Conwy Castle is also on our list. UNESCO considers Conwy to be one of "the finest examples of late 13th century and early 14th century military architecture in Europe", and it is classed as a World Heritage site. Divided into an Inner and an Outer Ward, it is defended by eight large towers and two barbicans, with a postern gate leading down to the river, allowing the castle to be resupplied from the sea.


Today we disembark at the small seaside resort town of Portrush in Northern Ireland. We travel overland to the world-famous Giant’s Causeway. Here we discover a geological masterpiece—40,000 closely packed hexagonal basalt columns of varying heights descending like a staircase into the sea. According to legend, the columns are the remains of a causeway built by a giant. In this area we are also able to spot various seabirds such as fulmar, petrel, cormorant, shag, redshank, guillemot and razorbill.

These days, we'll explore Scotland, uncovering its beauty and the secrets of its history. From the picturesque coasts to the hidden tales etched into its landscapes, our journey promises a glimpse into the heart of this captivating region.

Today, we’ll disembark in Stromness for an overland tour of Mainland, the largest of the Orkney Islands off the northeastern coast of Scotland. Attractions such as the well-preserved 5000-year-old village site at Skara Brae and the ancient Ring of Brodgar within the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Heart of Neolithic Orkney” showcase the world-class cultural heritage of the island. We finish our island tour in the charming village of Kirkwall, where find the landmark Saint Magnus Cathedral, built in the Romanesque style in the 12th century. You will also have free time to roam the old streets of Kirkwall and enjoy its unique atmosphere before we head to our next destination.

On Fair Isle—an isolated island of rolling moorlands and rugged coastlines—one is easily enchanted by historic crofts, picturesque lighthouses, and friendly locals. The island is famous among birders for its abundance of British birds and for its numerous records of eastern rarities and migrants.

Fair Isle is also one of Europe’s best places to watch seabirds, especially puffins, at close range.

Additionally, the island is notable for the abundance and diversity of its wildflowers. Seals are also commonly seen in its bays. Finally, during our visit it will be possible to see and purchase articles hand-knitted in the intricate and distinctive style for which Fair Isle has been celebrated for hundreds of years.

Isle of May and Bass Rock... Both of these uninhabited islands are in the outer part of the Firth of Forth in the east of Scotland. The Isle of May is a national nature reserve and includes significant colonies of puffins, guillemots, razorbills, shags, cormorants and terns. Harbor seals and grey seals can be spotted along the shores. There are also some historic architectural sites, including St. Ardin’s Chapel, the lighthouse and the Low and Light Cottages.

The island known as “the Bass” plays host to over 150,000 northern gannets in the breeding season, making it the world’s largest colony of these magnificent birds. The island’s steep walls are white with guano and the sky all around is darkened by the vast multitude of seabirds in flight. Our voyage is perfectly timed to coincide with this amazing spectacle—truly one of the wildlife wonders of the world.


Leith

After breakfast on board Sea Spirit we say farewell in Leith, Edinburgh’s vibrant port district. We provide transfers to the airport or to Edinburgh city center if you wish to spend more time in the wonderful capital of Scotland.

Important:

Itinerary, landings and all other activities during the cruise depend strongly on weather conditions and are subject to the decisions of the Expedition Leader and the Captain of the vessel. Encounters with any mentioned wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

RATES Per person

Your cabin Owners Suite Is located on the decks:
Main Ocean Club Sports Sun
Main Ocean Club Sports Sun
Triple Suite
US$ 6 195
Main Deck Suite
US$ 8 495
Single Suite
US$ 12 695
Classic Suite
US$ 9 095
Superior Suite
US$ 9 295
Deluxe Suite
US$ 10 395
Premium Suite
US$ 11 395
Owners Suite
US$ 14 595
Triple Suite
Triple Suite
Triple Suite
Triple Suite
PASSENGERS
3
SIZE
21 M² (226 FT²) m²
VIEW
picture window

Averaging 21 square metres/226 square feet, these staterooms have two twins and a comfortable sofa bed. The twins also convert to a King, if desired. Located on Oceanus Deck, these suites have a picture window, two wardrobes and en suite facilities. Amenities include: in-room safe, refrigerator, satellite telephone access, TV/DVD, individual temperature control, and hair dryer.

Main Deck Suite
Main Deck Suite
Main Deck Suite
Main Deck Suite
PASSENGERS
2
SIZE
23 M² (248 FT²) m²
VIEW
Portholes

Averaging 23 square metres/248 square feet, Main Deck cabins are equipped with either two twins or a King Size bed. They are located on the Main Deck with a minimum of two portholes for exterior views. Amenities include: en suite facilities, in-room safe, refrigerator, satellite telephone access, TV/DVD individual temperature control and hair dryer.

Single Suite
Single Suite
Single Suite
Single Suite
Single Suite
Single Suite
PASSENGERS
1
SIZE
21 M² (226 FT²) m²
VIEW
picture window

Averaging 21 square meters/226 square feet, these cabins are located on the Oceanus Deck. They feature a picture window (it may be covered during rough sea crossings), two wardrobes, and a King Size bed. Amenities include: en suite facilities, in-room safe, refrigerator, satellite telephone access, TV/VCR, individual temperature control, and hair dryer.

Classic Suite
Classic Suite
Classic Suite
Classic Suite
Classic Suite
PASSENGERS
2
SIZE
21 M² (226 FT²) m²
VIEW
picture window

Averaging 21 square metres/226 square feet, these cabins are located on the Oceanus Deck. They feature a picture window, two wardrobes and a choice of either two twin beds or a King Size bed. Amenities include: en suite facilities, in-room safe, refrigerator, satellite telephone access, TV/DVD, individual temperature control and hair dryer.

Superior Suite
Superior Suite
Superior Suite
Superior Suite
PASSENGERS
2
SIZE
20 M² (215 FT²) m²
VIEW
Picture window

Superior Suites are located on the Club Deck. Averaging 20 square metres/ 215 square feet, these cabins feature two twin beds or a King Size bed. The picture window overlooks an outside walkway on the Club Deck. Amenities include: en suite facilities, walk-in closet or wardrobe, in-room safe, refrigerator, satellite telephone access, TV/DVD, individual temperature control, hair dryer.

Deluxe Suite
Deluxe Suite
Deluxe Suite
Deluxe Suite
PASSENGERS
2
SIZE
24 M² (258 FT²) m²
VIEW
Private balcony

The Deluxe Suites with balconies are located on the Sports Deck. Averaging 24 square metres/ 258 square feet means plenty of room. Choose from either two twin beds or a King Size bed. A sliding glass door leads to a private balcony. These suites feature a walk-in closet or wardrobe. Amenities include en suite facilities, in-room safe, refrigerator, satellite telephone access, TV/DVD, individual temperature control, and a hair dryer.

Premium Suite
Premium Suite
Premium Suite
Premium Suite
Premium Suite
PASSENGERS
2
SIZE
30 M² (323 FT²) m²
VIEW
Private balcony

The Premium Suites are located on the Sun Deck. Averaging a generous 30 square metres/ 323 square feet, with two twin beds or a King Size bed. Access the private balcony by a sliding glass door. Amenities include: en suite facilities, lounge area, in-room safe, refrigerator, satellite telephone access, TV/DVD, individual temperature control, and hair dryer.

Owners Suite
Owners Suite
Owners Suite
Owners Suite
Owners Suite
Owners Suite
PASSENGERS
2
SIZE
63 M² (678 FT²) m²
VIEW
PRIVATE DECK

Super-spacious (63 square metres/ 678 square feet) elegant suite on the Sun Deck. Designed for entertaining, the Owner's Suite has a separate living room with game and meeting area. A BOSE stereo system provides background music, or watch videos on the HD plasma TV. Sliding glass doors lead to a private deck. Refresh in the jetted bathtub in en suite facilities. Slumber in the King Size bed. A sofa bed can accommodate a third person.

Cruise rates are quoted per person. Sharing is available in Triple, Main Deck, Classic, and Superior Suites. If you prefer a cabin for yourself, the following categories are available with the single supplement: x1.7 for Main Deck, Classic, and Superior Suites; x2 for Deluxe, Premium, and Owner's Suite.

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Rates include
1 pre-voyage hotel night;
Seamless group transfer to Portsmouth on the day of embarkation;
Cozy accommodation aboard the elegant Sea Spirit, your home away from home;
Delicious gourmet meals crafted by our chef throughout your voyage;
24-hour tea and coffee station, complete with cookies for a quick energy boost;
Scheduled landings and excursions (weather permitting) to explore breathtaking landscapes;
Expert leadership from our experienced Expedition Leader and top-notch Expedition Team;
A stylish branded Poseidon Expeditions windbreaker jacket to take home as a cherished memento;
Comfortable rubber boots for shore landings during your cruise;
Welcome and Farewell cocktails to celebrate your journey with fellow travelers;
All port fees;
Group transfer to airport or central location right after disembarkation;
Comprehensive pre-departure materials to prepare you for your adventure;
A Digital Voyage Log with photos and a memorable video from our expedition photographer;
Wi-Fi on board to stay connected during your journey.
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Rates do not include
Airfare;
Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, except those provided during special events and celebrations;
Personal expenses such as laundry and telecommunication charges;
Mandatory emergency evacuation insurance to a minimum coverage of US$ 100,000 per person;
Staff gratuities.

Adventure options

Photography

FREE OPTION

This voyage offers a wealth of subjects for photographers of all levels and interests. Our included photography program gives you the chance to learn and practice your skills alongside a professional photographer.

Zoom out to capture dramatic landscapes of sweeping moorland and rugged coastlines or go macro to expose the beauty of flowers. You will get plenty of practice with the special art of architectural photography as well.

From historical monuments to colorful puffins, the sights on this voyage will make a photographer out of anyone. Our expert will be there to help you make the most of the bounty in your viewfinder.

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