British Isles from Dover – Remote islands, natural wonders and a diverse coastline

This expedition cruise begins as we set sail from Dover and make our way along the south coast of England.

Before joining your ship today, perhaps take time to explore the coastal town of Dover with the magnificent, medieval Castle.

As we head out to sea, passing the famous white cliffs of Dover, stretch your sea legs and get to know MS Maud. Find the amenities you like best – the Science Center, the Explorer lounge, or maybe your favourite spot out on deck.

This small, typical fishing village, seems to have stood still in time.  With its charming main street and lush green surroundings, Fishguard lies between the Preseli Hills and the coast of Pembrokeshire.  Split in two by a steep, winding hill, the “new” town sits on a clifftop commanding spectacular views.

Steeped in history dating back as far as the 10^th Century, Fishguards past includes Viking raids and Norse settlements, and has the dubious accolade as the site of “last invasion of Britain”, by the French in 1797.  The local library houses ‘The Last Invasion Tapestry’, a 100-foot long masterpiece which took 4 years to complete, and records the scenes of the invasion.  The town offers insight into this fascinating history as well as being charming with local shops, cafes and restaurants to enjoy.

Explore the surrounding areas with walks through the ancient woodlands and the nearby Gwaun Valley which flows between Fishguard and the Preseli Mountains.  With its unique atmosphere, there is plenty of wildlife and prehistoric sites to explore, the valley is listed as one of the most important meltwater channels in Britain and dates from the last Ice Age.  At a more sedate pace, wander the gardens of Dyffryn Fernant or Penlan Uchaf, with lovely views across the valley.

Originally a Viking settlement, Stornoway is the main town of the Western Isles and the capital of the Isle of Lewis, which is the largest and most northerly of the Outer Hebrides. A bustling harbour and waterfront with museums and art galleries are overlooked by the handsome Lews Castle which we invite you to explore with us.

Further afield are mills and cottages where hard-wearing Harris Tweed is woven. There are tiny folk museums, the world-famous Callanish Standing Stones, described as Scotland’s Stonehenge from around 3000BC, and the mysterious Carloway Broch - the best preserved fort in Scotland dating back more than 2,000 years.

With a rural landscape and rugged coastline, the Isle of Man became a designated Biosphere Reserve in recognition of its marine and coastal ecosystems. With more than 100 miles of stunning coastline and rugged cliffs, the island has a spectacular landscape of rolling hills, moorland and heath, waterfalls, pebble-dash beaches and coastal paths – an ideal destination for exploring.  

Our location in Douglas enables us to explore the island which has a strong Celtic and Viking heritage.  There are Viking museums to visit, or board a historic steam train, or discover the castles of the island, or just enjoy strolling through the town and local surrounds at your leisure.

Nearby Douglas Head is a rocky outcrop overlooking Douglas harbour, which has some of the best views on the Isle of Man.  Pass through the ornate gate, visit the unique Grand Union Camera Obscura and continue on to the Douglas Head Lighthouse, built in 1857.

Visit the delightful harbour community of Peel with the impressive Peel Castle, originally constructed by the Viking King of Mann, and dating back to the 11^th Century as the original place of worship and stronghold.

On previous calls to the Isle of Man, we have joined the local community and taken part in a beach clean-up as well as engaging in a tree-planting ceremony along with the Department of Forestry who have identified a site where they intend planting 84,000 trees as a national forest.

The famous TT races are held on the island from late May to early June.

This enchanting archipelago off the coast of Cornwall is home to outstandingly beautiful, uncrowded and unspoilt islands and around 140 islets.  Covered in heathland, with magnificent sandy beaches, these islands are surrounded by rocks and reefs and offer picturesque coastal walks.

Ideal for exploring on foot, the small town of Tresco is home to the world famous Tresco Abbey Garden with its 20,000 plants from 80 different countries. You can also explore the castle ruins, the Valhalla Museum or stroll along the tropical-like white beaches.  Should conditions allow, we aim to do a beach clean-up on this charming island.

We will split our time in the area and you may also choose to visit St. Mary’s - the largest of the islands – with its rocky coves, archaeological sites and charming Hugh Town.  Explore the town and sample some of the freshly caught seafood whilst enjoying the delightful views of the island. 

Alternatively, join one of our optional excursions for a trip around the islands, visiting shipwreck sites, spotting seals basking on the rocks and cruising around the bird sanctuary of Annet to observe the puffins and numerous other breeding seabirds. 

We pass the white cliffs of Dover during the early morning hours and dock at the city’s harbour. After breakfast, it’s time to leave your home for the past 13 days.