British Isle Explorer
Back Together Yet Again!
After meeting Bob & Pam in Portugal in 2019 we've stayed friends and eventually, despite the pandemic, got to travel together on the Puget Sound cruise in the fall of 2021. But then we booked back-to-back-to-back bit trips with them to Iceland (January 2023 - picture at left), then Paris & Normandy (July 2023), and finally our big trip to Egypt in September of 2023. So, shortly after returning from Iceland it was time to begin looking into the future for trips in 2024 and 2025. The first one that caught my eye was a two week Viking Oceans that included several stops in Ireland, a place we'd never been. It was the only one of the options Kim liked enough to mention and Bob & Pam were all in so we booked it!
August 27-28: Day 0 – 1 – Travel To London
Embark today in the celebrated Royal Borough of Greenwich—part of which, Maritime Greenwich, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take some time to settle in to your veranda stateroom and get to know your ship, perhaps having a bite in Mamsen’s gourmet deli, with open-faced sandwiches and delicious sweets inspired by the cuisine of Scandinavia.
Deluxe Veranda Staterooms
Mark & Kim #3028 / Bob & Pam #3026
The BRAND NEW Viking Neptune
August 29: Day 2 - London
Discover the celebrated Royal Borough of Greenwich—part of which, Maritime Greenwich, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. London is just a short drive away, so you can take in the regal city and all its splendor. See the Tower of London, Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Or venture into the countryside to visit Windsor Castle, one of the royal residences. Alternately, step off the ship to tour Greenwich, its excellent National Maritime Museum and the Royal Observatory from where the world’s clocks are set.
August 30: Day 3 – Dover
Most famously known for its dramatic white-chalk towering cliffs, Dover is the nearest city to France across the English Channel. Its strategic location as a doorway into England has earned it the moniker “Key to England.” As the port was under constant threat because of its location, the massive Dover Castle overlooking the channel grew over the centuries to become the nation’s largest edifice and remains so today. Dover also served as a bastion and command center during World War II.
Aug 31: Day 4 – Scenic Sailing The English Channel
Cruise the Irish Sea into the Celtic Sea. Along with a stretch of the Atlantic Ocean to the west of the British Isles, these waters were once known simply as “Western Approaches” as recently as the mid-20th century. You will round the southern shores of Wales and England and enter the English Channel, making your way to the Strait of Dover. Enjoy your ship’s many amenities as you cruise, perhaps indulging in a massage at The Spa, taking high tea in the Wintergarden and closing your day with fine cuisine at Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant.
September 1: Day 5 – Dublin
Discover Dublin, the Republic of Ireland's charismatic capital on the Liffey River. Founded as a Viking settlement, today it is one of Europe's most significant cultural hubs. A panoramic tour takes you to Trinity College; its library is the city's repository of some five million volumes. You will also see the soaring St. Patrick's Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral, two major centers of the country's religion, and pass by neoclassical City Hall and the sprawling Dublin Castle.
September 2: Day 6 – Holyhead, Wales
Holyhead is a cozy coastal enclave on the isle of Anglesey off the northwestern tip of Wales. This region boasts the greatest concentration of ancient burial chambers and standing stones in Britain. Holyhead is contained within one of the few three-walled Roman forts in Europe, protected on the fourth side by the sea. The historic St. Cybi’s Church lies at the fortress’s center and the excellent Maritime Museum chronicles local seafaring history. Locals are as likely to speak Welsh as English; almost two-thirds of the youth speak this fascinating tongue.
September 3: Day 7 - Liverpool
Liverpool is celebrated as the “World Capital of Pop;” 56 musicians born and bred here have had #1 singles. Most notably, the legendary Beatles—John, Paul, George and Ringo—hailed from this port city. But it is more than music that has put Liverpool on England’s cultural map. Long an important center for maritime commerce, its storied waterfront is home to many buildings of historic, architectural and cultural significance, including a spectacular trio of palatial, early 20th-century buildings known as the “Three Graces,” and the revitalized Royal Albert Dock.
September 4: Day 8 – Belfast
A major port heralded for its shipbuilding heritage, Belfast has undergone a cultural and architectural renaissance unrivaled in the rest of Europe. The influence of Britain is everywhere in this polished capital of Northern Ireland. Some of its most striking buildings exude Victorian flair and cosmopolitan elegance amid its famous Irish charm. Along the Golden Mile, high-end boutiques are reminiscent of those found in Paris, and the opulent Grand Opera House stands as a hub of Belfast culture.
September 5: Day 9 – The Highlands (Ullapool)
Ullapool enjoys one of the most remote settings in the United Kingdom on the pristine shores of Loch Broom. This tiny town, dotted with distinctive New Zealand cabbage trees, is the largest community for miles surrounded by the stunningly scenic Western Isles, dramatic mountain peaks piercing the sky and unspoiled wilderness. Ullapool’s beauty lies in its tranquility. A launchpad for ferries to the stunning Western Isles, this former herring port village is also a popular gateway for walkers, adventurers and nature lovers.
As "Outlander" fans we'll be looking for the magic stones to find Jamie & Claire on the Orkney Islands
September 6: Day 10 – The Orkney Islands
The history of the Scottish Orkney Islands dates back millennia. Neolithic remains, including the ancient site of Brodgar, predate Stonehenge and the Pyramids. The 13th-century Norse Orkneyinga Saga told of Vikings who ruled here. Later, the earls took over, and the French Renaissance palace that remains is a legacy to their grandeur. Another castle, Balfour, stands regally in a stark landscape. While the northern Europeans greatly influenced this hauntingly beautiful archipelago, consider the Italian Chapel, built by the hands of Italian prisoners during wartime.
September 7: Day 11 – Edinburgh
Edinburgh has been Scotland’s capital since the 15th century, despite the fact that the Union of the Crowns moved it to London in 1603. There is no capital quite like Edinburgh, with its gorgeous setting on green rocky hillocks and splendid views of the sea. Edinburgh Castle, home of the Scottish Crown Jewels and countless medieval treasures, overlooks the city from Castle Rock. The Royal Mile unfurls Edinburgh’s architectural gems in all their finery, from the Canongate to St. Giles’s Cathedral to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish residence of British royalty.
Sept. 8: Day 12 – The Highlands (Invergordon)
Invergordon lies in the mountainous, heather-covered Scottish Highlands amid a patchwork of farmland. The small community celebrates itself with a series of stunning murals painted by local artists; a walking trail leads visitors to them all, passing colorful window flowerboxes along the way. Whisky is another mainstay here, produced in a local grain distillery. This charming port is the gateway to a breathtaking region that provides a fascinating glimpse into the days of warring clans, and into the legend of “Nessie,” the fabled monster of Loch Ness.
September 9: Day 13 – Shetland Islands
The Shetland Islands may be remote, but history did not overlook them. At the excavation site of Jarlshof, tall, stone roundhouses date to the Iron Age and an ancient Norse longhouse tells of a Viking community. More recent history echoes through the streets of Lerwick, the islands’ sleepy capital founded by Dutch fishermen. The main island, Mainland, gets much of its beauty from its diversity. Farmlands and dreamy meadows unfold toward seal-dotted beaches, rocky cliffs take a beating from the surf, and medieval castles overlook valleys and lakes.
September 10: Day 14 – Bergen
Bergen is home to the Hanseatic League’s only kontor (trading enclave) still in existence. Bryggen wharf, a row of timbered Hanseatic warehouses along a quaint quay, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Narrow wooden walkways are flanked by parallel rows of small, vibrantly painted buildings overlooking the picturesque Vågen Harbor. This is perhaps the most charming district of Bergen and a delight to explore, from its tight-knit community of workshops where artisans sell their wares to its cafés where freshly prepared smørbrød, or open-faced sandwiches, are on the menu.
EXTEND YOUR CRUISE WITH 2 NIGHTS IN OSLO
Uncover vibrant Oslo and its fascinating history with a guided tour of the city’s iconic sights, including some remarkably well-preserved ships at the Viking Ship Museum. And embark on arguably one of the world’s most scenic train rides, the Bergen Railway, over Europe’s highest mountain plateau.
September 11: Day 15 - Bergen
Disembark your ship and begin contrasting the Bergen of old with the elegant modern-day city on an enlightening tour, highlighted by insights from your local guide. Step behind the walls of Bergen Fortress and visit the well-preserved 13th-century Håkons Hall. Pass the Bryggen wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the city’s more modern section, view the National Stage and Grieg Hall, named for the famed Norwegian composer. After, proceed to your hotel and check in for your overnight stay.
September 12: Day 16 – Bergen
Today, you have a full day to independently explore Bergen and its harbor. Once home to the Hanseatic League’s wealthy merchants, the city’s occupants now include artists and craftspeople who find their inspiration in the beautiful surroundings. For a panoramic view of this beautiful city, you may wish to ascend Mt. Fløien via funicular railway. From the summit, some 984 feet above sea level, you can take in spectacular views of Bergen’s seaside setting. (Breakfast)
September 13: Day 17 – Oslo
Board the Bergen Railway for your journey to Oslo, which has often been described as the most beautiful train ride in the world. Your ascension to over 4,000 feet above sea level as you cross the Hardangervidda plateau features breathtaking views and will be accompanied by an informative narration. This afternoon, check in to your hotel and get settled in. This evening, dine in the hotel restaurant or one of the city’s many fine eateries. (Breakfast, Lunch)
September 14: Day 18 – Oslo
This morning, join a guided tour of the city’s highlights. You will see the Akershus Fortress, which has guarded the harbor for centuries; the Royal Palace, home to the beloved Norwegian royal family; the Parliament; and the National Theater. You will also visit the Norwegian Maritime Museum and learn about Norway’s seafaring history that spans over centuries. This evening, enjoy dinner at your leisure. (B)
September 15: Day 19 – Oslo & Home
Over breakfast talk about where we want to go next, then check out of our hotel and transfer to the airport for our flight home.