Circumnavigation of Ireland - The Emerald Isle

Belfast combines tradition and modernity in a fascinating way. Known for its eventful industrial history, especially shipbuilding and the Titanic, the capital of Northern Ireland has developed into a cultural hotspot today. The murals or impressive wall paintings tell of its past and symbolise peace. Sights such as the Titanic Belfast Museum and St George’s Market attract visitors, while the magnificent City Hall adorns the historic city centre.

A wonderful place for bird watching lies ahead of you when your expedition ship Rathlin Island calls at Northern Ireland with cliffs up to 70 m (229 ft) high that alternate with beautiful bays. Compared with the island’s nearly 150 human inhabitants, the many cormorants, crow cormorants and crossbills that you can watch are clearly in the majority. Look forward to special encounters with nature and to the ornithological expertise of your on-board experts. Amidst the rugged landscape, the excursions to the burial mounds, cashels and menhirs that have been built here are surrounded by a magical aura. Follow in the footsteps of the island’s history and explore the remains of the old castles and churches that dot Rathlin Island. A highlight is a visit to the West Light, one of the three lighthouses that now houses a maritime museum. From here you have spectacular views of the rugged cliffs and the sea.

Killybegs is an insider tip off the classic Irish routes. The largest fishing port in Ireland is located in the tranquil town on the Atlantic coast, where numerous ships land their fresh catch daily. A very special “commodity” has its origin ashore: the Donegal rugs, which are produced in traditional carpet weaving mills, are characterised by their handicraft and elaborate patterns – the world’s largest loom is also said to be here. Killybegs is also the gateway to nature’s works of art: green meadows, idyllic dunes and azure-blue waters. Fintra Beach on the outskirts of the town is one of the most beautiful beaches in County Donegal.

You will feel a true sense of discovery on the Aran Islands. The limestone islands off the west coast of Ireland rise up with grey and blue cliffs up to 100 m (328 ft) from the raging sea. If you are on a discovery tour, you will enjoy the view over the rocky coast and puzzle over the islands’ past. Answers will be provided by your experts, but also by your own impressions when visiting Kilronan: in what is perhaps one of Ireland’s most picturesque locations, lined by a white sandy beach, you can immerse yourself in island life. During your individual shore visit, explore the impressive Fort Dun Aonghasa, which sits high up on a cliff above the Atlantic. The well-preserved stone fortress from the Bronze Age offers breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding nature. At first glance, the islands may look like a rocky desert, but they turn out to be a nutrient-rich limestone landscape with rare flora and fauna.

You will experience the works of art that erosion is capable of as you cruise off the Cliffs of Moher. The power of the crashing waves has eroded hollows into the rock, with parts of the cliff crashing down to form a unique and spectacular coastline. In some places, the rocks drop more than 200 m (656 ft) almost vertically into the sea. As you pass by this natural wonder, you will be able to enjoy some amazing views from the deck.

Splendid impressions and exciting activities lie ahead of you as your expedition ship makes its way along the coast of Ireland towards Dingle. The peninsula, with its wild cliffs, juts out into the Atlantic, leaving you amazed at the eroding power of the sea. A rugged coastline and fine sandy coves shape Dingle, the pearl of County Kerry. “Failte!” – you’ll often hear the welcoming greeting from the hospitable locals. Irish, also known as Gaelic, has been spoken on the peninsula since the fourth century. And the landscape on Dingle will leave you speechless – an ideal terrain for enjoying magnificent views while hiking with your experts on the Irish pilgrim route. The rugged nature, bathed in green, is truly inspirational.

How do you picture the “most fantastic and impossible rock in the world”? This is how the Nobel prizewinner for literature, George Bernard Shaw, described the island of Great Skellig, which you too can admire from the ship. This rugged UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its early medieval monastery: The ruins of the beehive-shaped monks’ huts still sit majestically high up on the rocks today. But nature lovers, in particular, will be in their element, as an impressive colony of seabirds lives here. Cormorants and various species of gulls can be observed throughout the year.

Bantry, a scenic town on Ireland’s south-western coast, will enchant you with its idyllic location and rich cultural heritage during your individual shore visit. Bantry Bay, framed by rolling hills and lush greenery, offers a spectacular backdrop. Bantry House is an absolute highlight: the imposing 18th-century estate towers majestically over the bay and captivates visitors with its beautifully landscaped gardens and impressive collection of antiques. As you stroll through the artistically designed terraces, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the coast. The city itself is a vibrant centre of traditional Irish culture. Narrow streets lined with colourful houses and charming pubs invite you to stroll around and experience Irish hospitality first-hand.

The Irish themselves, at least those outside of Dublin, speak of Cork as the actual capital of Ireland. You will surely agree with them when you discover the charming lanes with their Victorian houses, cosy cafes and pubs. A popular meeting place for locals is the covered English Market, dating from 1788, where local specialities are sold – indulgence and history are served up in equal measure here. Your experts will be happy to help you with the history: the “Rebel City” was the heart of the Irish struggle for independence. The spirit of freedom that Cork reflects is exemplary for your cruise – off the beaten track, you will find new impressions. In addition to your city tours, we also recommend a detour into the breathtaking landscape with rugged cliffs and picturesque bays, ideal for wonderful hikes. Get ready to discover the true Irish soul.

Cornwall’s best-kept secret is the 140 Isles of Scilly, only five of which are inhabited. The archipelago is rightly called the “Caribbean of England” – with turquoise waters, golden beaches and subtropical vegetation. A place to retreat to where you can leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life far behind and discover the refined English style of British nature.

A botanical highlight awaits you on the small island of Tresco: the famous Abbey Garden. Thanks to the mild climate favoured by the Gulf Stream, over 4,000 plant species from more than 80 countries thrive here. Between Mexican agave, South African protea and Chilean wine palms, you will feel as though you have been halfway round the world. While you relax and explore the garden, your knowledgeable experts will share fascinating biological facts with you. In addition, numerous works of art and sculptures can be discovered throughout the grounds.

The largest of the Isles of Scilly, St. Mary’s, is a hidden jewel in the Atlantic. Be inspired by its genuine nature. Hugh Town, the main town of the archipelago, lies on a narrow headland framed by two beaches. Despite its importance, the harbour town has remained small and charming, with narrow streets, historic buildings and a relaxed, maritime atmosphere. The island also invites you to go hiking with its unique, scenic mix of granite formations, heathland and coastal landscape.

Gijon lies on the beautiful Asturian coast, with its picturesque beaches and charming fishing villages. The city on the Bay of Biscay reveals stunning contrasts: the Plaza Mayor is where the old part of the city meets the new, a picture of traditional and modern Europe. Immerse yourself in the charm of the historic centre with its narrow streets and impressive buildings, including the San Lorenzo church and the Revillagigedo Palace – and in the city’s lively cultural life with its museums, festivals and vibrant food scene. In Gijon itself or on excursions* into the surrounding area with your experts, shed light on the Reconquista, the reconquest of the Iberian peninsula: the crusade against the Muslim conquerors, or Moors, to regain Christian supremacy laid the foundations for modern Spain.

The treasures of Galicia await when your ship arrives in La Coruna, Spain. The Torre de Hercules, the city’s impressive landmark, tells of great history from afar – it is the only still active lighthouse from Roman times. Discover the city’s architectural history as you stroll through the lively old town and trace the transition from Roman to baroque times San Carlos Garden is an oasis of calm right in the city centre, or you can enjoy the dramatic Atlantic coastline on an invigorating walk along the promenade. La Coruna is also a popular starting point for excursions* to the pilgrimage site Santiago de Compostela, whose magnificent cathedral combines Romanesque, Renaissance and baroque styles.

Itineraries are subject to change.