Here is a unique opportunity to combine a leisurely passage from the UK to Spain aboard the all-suite MS Island Sky with time spent walking along various sections of the Camino de Santiago, the renowned pilgrimage route and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Follow in the footsteps of seafaring pilgrims from centuries past who would sail from the UK to Galicia to begin their pilgrimage to the tomb of St James. Our journey promises to be an enriching experience accompanied by fellow like-minded travellers and our Guest Speaker, the Right Reverend Tim Stevens who will provide a series of fascinating talks. After four nights on board the MS Island Sky sailing from Portsmouth to Vigo by way of La Coruna, we will disembark for a three night stay in the beautiful Galician city of Santiago de Compostela.
Established after the discovery of the relics of St James, the Camino de Santiago or the ‘Way of James’ is an extensive network of ancient pilgrim routes stretching across Europe and culminating at the magnificent cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. We have designed our itinerary to allow for the opportunity to walk along three sections of the Way of St James; the English Way, the French Way and the Portuguese Way and the walks will be planned so that participants can walk as much or little as they choose of the three sections each of the days and, for those electing not to partake in the walks, there will be the option to instead join a guided excursion to the region’s picturesque towns.
- Walking the Camino: Experience the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, following in the footsteps of centuries of seafaring pilgrims, and walking sections of the English Way, the French Way, and the Portuguese Way.
- Santiago de Compostela: Immerse yourself in the historical and spiritual atmosphere of Santiago de Compostela, explore the city, visit the iconic cathedral, and enjoy a guided tour that includes historic landmarks and impressive architecture.
- Pazo de Oca: Discover the enchanting "Galician Versailles," the Pazo de Oca, often referred to as the 'Galician Versailles.' This historical site showcases beautiful golden granite architecture and stunning formal gardens that have been restored to their 18th-century splendor.
- Cultural and Culinary Delights: Savor Galician cuisine, explore charming villages and towns, and enjoy leisurely afternoons to explore at your own pace. You'll also have the opportunity to experience local dining, such as dinner at a local restaurant and lunch at the Pazo de Faramello.
There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.
Island Sky
| Length: | 90 Metres |
|---|---|
| Built/Refurbished: | 1992/2018 |
With a maximum passenger capacity of only 116, a vessel of her size is capable of carrying many more but instead the MS Island Sky has the benefit of unusually large suites, luxuriously appointed public areas and spacious outside decks.
There is a high ratio of crew to passengers- the friendly crew of 75 crew and Scandinavian captains are experienced mariners, having been in service aboard large 2000 plus passenger vessels and who now prefer a less frantic life aboard a small ship. If, like them and us, you prefer a more peaceful life at sea, you will find the MS Island Sky the perfect ship. When choosing the vessel for your next voyage of discovery, you can select a ship with endless entertainment and impersonal service or come with us where peace, high quality service and attention to detail are the order of the day. We promise there will be no organised entertainment, fancy dress, deck games or any of the usual big ship experiences. The atmosphere on board is more akin to a private yacht or country hotel. A little music in the lounge or bar after dinner, guest speakers, informative port briefings from our cruise director and of course good food which may be enjoyed leisurely in the attractive dining room. After a day ashore you will return to the comfort and peace of a well run and exceedingly comfortable ship.
Your SuiteOnboard there are 57 exceptionally spacious and well designed suites. All feature a sitting room area and some have private balconies. The feeling of luxury is enhanced by the wood panelling and brass, which predominates throughout the vessel conveying the atmosphere of a private yacht. The passenger accommodation is arranged over five decks and all suites have outside views. Each affords considerable comfort with en-suite bathroom featuring marble-topped vanity unit with sink and walk-in shower, large wardrobes, dressing table with large mirror and stool and excellent storage. There is a mini-fridge, flat screen television with inbuilt DVD player which can also play CDs and a telephone in each suite. Bottled water, towelling dressing gowns and slippers are also provided for your comfort. Other facilities include a programmable electronic safe, hairdryer, assorted toiletries and individually controlled air-conditioning and heating. The suites on each deck have their own colour theme. Soft hues and blended tones enhance the traditional maritime style making the passenger accommodation an inviting and relaxing place to be.
Your SpaceThe spacious and finely decorated public rooms include a large lounge where daily briefings and talks will be provided throughout the voyage and an elegant bar where a pianist plays periodically throughout the day. The bar also features a 24-hour tea and coffee station. The onboard library is the perfect place to relax with a book and is stocked with reference books pertaining to the places the vessel is visiting along with a selection of games and two computers with internet access. Daily newspapers and magazines are also placed in the library depending on local availability. There is also WI-FI access throughout the vessel. Outside there is a rear sun deck where meals are served in warm weather under shade, a bar and comfortable deck furniture for sun bathing or relaxing with a book. On the top deck there is a Jacuzzi and further observation and sun deck. There is also a small hairdressers on board with appointments made on request.
Your DiningAnother benefit of a small ship is the quality of the cuisine. With only one sitting and a maximum of just over 100 passengers, the galley is able to provide delicious meals. Where possible and when it meets his high standards, the chef will obtain local produce in markets or buy the catch of the day from a passing fishing boat. Such purchases enhance the well stocked larders and bring a local touch to the varied menus.
