On this 12-day expedition, you can discover the coasts and islands of Great Britain and Ireland. The route takes you to smaller ports and remote islands, including the Giant's Causeway, Skara Brae, and the islands of Fair Isle and Isle of May, which are known for their seabird colonies. Aboard the expedition-class vessel MS Sea Spirit, days at sea are combined with guided shore excursions, photography, exploration of historic sites, and birdwatching opportunities.
This expedition sails along selected coastal and island regions of Great Britain and Ireland, linking the southern English, Irish and Scottish sections into a varied route. The voyage calls at smaller ports and remote islands, offering insights into the local landscapes, history and culture. Shore excursions and guided walks are complemented by onboard lectures and briefings, which provide context on the natural and cultural environments. The itinerary is timed to coincide with the spring bird migration and the peak breeding season of many seabirds, providing additional opportunities for observation. On Fair Isle, the voyage also falls during the seasonal wildflower bloom, when numerous plant species adapted to the harsh environment colour the island. The journey departs from Plymouth and concludes in Edinburgh. The vessel, designed for expedition travel, serves as the base for all daily landings.
Day 1: Arrival in Plymouth, England
Individual arrival in Plymouth. Depending on arrival time, there is an opportunity to explore the historic port town independently.
Day 2: Embarkation in Plymouth
Embarkation at the port and check-in to your cabins. Following mandatory safety and orientation briefings, the vessel sets sail along the southwest coast of England.
Day 3: Tresco, Scilly Isles
Landing on Tresco, one of the Scilly Isles. Opportunities for walks include the renowned Abbey Gardens and the coastal areas.
Day 4: Southern Ireland
The voyage continues to the Irish coast. Subject to conditions, there may be a landing in a coastal town or on a nearby island, offering insights into local history and daily life.
Day 5: Wales
Call at a Welsh port or an island off the coast of Wales. Time is available for independent exploration or guided walks through natural and cultural landscapes.
Day 6: Iona and the Inner Hebrides
Visit the island of Iona in the Inner Hebrides. The small island is noted for its historic abbey and its significance in early Scottish church history. Walks take you through the village and along the coast.
Days 7–8: Orkney Islands
Sailing to the Orkney Islands. Shore excursions allow visits to archaeological sites, coastal areas and small settlements. The region is known for its prehistoric monuments and maritime history.
Day 9: Fair Isle
Landing on Fair Isle, a remote island between Orkney and Shetland. Walks provide an introduction to the island’s landscapes and, depending on the season, opportunities for seabird observation. The island is also renowned for traditional knitwear.
Day 10: Shetland Islands
Visit a port in the Shetland Islands, often the island capital Lerwick. Time is available for independent exploration or participation in guided excursions.
Day 11: Sea Day towards the Scottish Mainland
Sailing along the Scottish coast. Onboard lectures and summaries provide additional insights, alongside time for relaxation.
Day 12: Edinburgh, Scotland – Disembarkation
Arrival in Edinburgh and disembarkation after breakfast. Individual onward travel or return home.
Included in the price:
- Accommodation in the selected cabin category on board the expedition vessel
- All meals on board throughout the voyage
- 24-hour access to tea, coffee and water on board
- All planned landings, Zodiac excursions and activities as per the itinerary
- Accompaniment by experienced expedition leaders and lecturers (English/German-speaking)
- Poseidon Expeditions softshell jacket
- Reusable water bottle as a keepsake
- Welcome and farewell cocktail
- All port charges
- Digital voyage log
- Onboard Wi-Fi
Additional Information for Expedition Cruises:
The itinerary and route described are provided as examples only and may be adjusted or changed at any time due to weather, ice and tidal conditions, as well as for safety reasons. Specific landing sites, locations or route sections therefore cannot be guaranteed. The captain and expedition leader will make all final decisions regarding the route, landings and daily programme on site. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Landings and Zodiac excursions depend on local conditions and regulatory requirements. Optional activities have very limited availability; we recommend booking them well in advance, often weeks or months before departure, as they may be fully booked by the time of travel; their operation depends on weather, ice and safety conditions as well as minimum participation. Polar regions are remote and dynamic natural environments, therefore programme changes or delays may occur.
Note: We recommend booking additional categories and guided activities directly with the tour package (several weeks or months before arrival), as these may be fully booked at the time of travel. Some activities are only available on certain dates and not for the entire season.
Additional activities and tours to extend
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All prices per person in double or multi-bed category. Single room surcharges, children's price advantages etc. on request. Fixed travel dates, additional days on demand.
