11 Nights Belles of the British Isles: Edinburgh to London

Cruise Ship

Europe | Windstar Cruises - Star Breeze

Departure Dates:

September

Ports of Call:

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom; Ullapool, Scotland, United Kingdom; Oban, Scotland; Glasgow, Scotland; Belfast, Northern Ireland; Dublin, Ireland; Fishguard, Wales; Cork (Cobh), Ireland; Falmouth, England; London, England

General Info:

Close in geography, distinct in culture, the countries of the British Isles offer their own unique takes on the United Kingdom. See it all with the perspective only a Windstar ship can give you as you visit small-ship-only ports like Ullapool, Oban, and Fishguard; berth at small-ship-only locations in Belfast and London; and stay in key cities like Belfast and Dublin late into the evening. Explore castle ruins and gardens in Scotland. Check the Giant’s Causeway and Blarney Castle off your list in Ireland. Discover the idyllic Cornish village of St. Ives. Even your disembarkation is an adventure as you dock in London right next to HMS Belfast (Tower Bridge), one of the most exclusive cruise ports in the world.

Type of Vessel

With only 212 guests, you begin to feel like it's your own private yacht almost as soon as you step aboard. The sitting area of your spacious suite gives you an expansive ocean view, making it a welcome retreat. When you're ready to make an appearance, the lounges, club, casino and library are waiting to be explored. Take some "you" time in the tranquil WindSpa, enjoy a dip in the pool, work off that decadent dessert in the Fitness Center and, of course, you are always welcome to visit the Bridge to examine navigation charts with the Captain. Star Breeze is large enough to pamper and entertain you, yet small enough to tuck into delightful tiny harbors and hidden coves that others can’t reach.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom: From the Firth of Forth, a UNESCO site, to the Royal Mile, Edinburgh is steeped in history. Edinburgh Castle. The Royal Botanic Gardens. The UNESCO site of Old Town. The wonders of Edinburgh are never ending. From one of Europe’s best-preserved castles to the world’s longest herbaceous border, a riot of color and culture pervades. In this city as old as Scotland itself, you’ll find the perfect blend of historic tradition and natural beauty.

Day 2 | At Sea

Day 3 | Ullapool, Scotland, United Kingdom: The scenic fishing town of Ullapool is nestled on the shores of Loch Broom and is the gateway to the Northern Highlands. The North Atlantic Drift passes by here bringing moderate temperatures. Described as an outdoor paradise, Ullapool was voted one of the UK’s top 10 outdoor destinations. It offers a delightful choice of varied walks and footpaths. Nearby is the Inverpolly National Nature Reserve, home to pine martens, wildcats, and golden eagles and one of the most photographed hills in the area, Stac Pollaidh, with its unique shape.

Day 4 | Oban, Scotland: Oban has developed into Scotland's most popular West-Coast holiday town. Just outside the town stands Dunollie Castle, on a site that overlooks the bay and has been fortified since the Bronze Age. The charm of its Victorian harbor offers an excellent seafood scene, and is also a major gateway to the Hebrides.

Day 5 | Glasgow, Scotland: The largest city in Scotland is famed for its Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture. Situated on the River Clyde, Glasgow is proud of the 12th century Glasgow Cathedral, George Square with its 12 statues of famous people including Robbie Burns, Queen Victoria and Walter Scott, and the University of Glasgow, established in 1451.

Day 6 | Belfast, Northern Ireland: Probably best known as the birthplace of the Titanic, Belfast was a hub for not only shipbuilding but also tobacco processing, rope-making and Irish linen in the early 20th century. Today the old shipyards are giving way to luxury apartments in what is known as the Titanic Quarter, home to the Titanic Belfast Centre, a beautiful star-shaped building covering the Titanic’s construction. Other must-sees include the Ulster Folk Museum and the Belfast Cathedral, as well as numerous award-winning restaurants and bars.

Day 7 | Dublin, Ireland: Dublin is a city of delights and surprises. Stroll across the Ha’Penny Bridge to Trinity College for a glimpse of the Book of Kells. Step inside the 11th century Dublin Castle. Stop by the Guinness Storehouse or Old Jameson Distillery for a taste of Irish history. And embrace the beauty of Dublin Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Day 8 | Fishguard, Wales: Welcome to the Gateway to West Wales and stunning Pembrokeshire National Park. This beautiful area provides breathtaking moments around every bend of the path as you cruise a coastline acclaimed as the world’s best and most beautiful. Don’t miss an optional visit to storybook Pembroke Castle, birthplace of Henry VII or Picton Castle with its 40 acres of gardens. Or head for the National Botanic Garden of Wales, where extensive waterscapes and the world’s largest single-span greenhouse (larger than a football field) frame a dazzling display of flora.

Day 9 | Cork (Cobh), Ireland: Home to Ireland’s only dedicated cruise terminal, Cobh (pronounced Cove) is a charming seaport that was the exit port for 3 million immigrants between 1848 and 1950. Visit the famous St. Colman’s Cathedral with its 49-bell carillon and Fota Wildlife Park where wallabys roam free. Cork, just inland from here, is a university city with a unique 1824 castle-style Gaol which once held prisoners bound for Australia. The hilltop steeple of 18th century Church of Saint Anne is the landmark of the city.

Day 10 | Falmouth, England: This gem of the Cornish coast invites you to explore the jewel in Cornwall’s crown, St. Michael’s Mount. Built following the Norman conquest of 1066, invaders named this ancient island mount after their own Mont St. Michel and invited Normandy’s monks to build another similar monastery here. Leave some time to shop for a memento in the harbor boutiques and to stroll the lovely seaside town of Marazion, just down the causeway.

Day 11 | At Sea

Day 12 | London, England: London, one of the world's top destinations, is a city begging to be explored. Steeped in history, the well-known sites of Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Trafalgar Square beckon, or get a modern perspective from the top of the London Eye. This cosmopolitan city offers all the world cuisines you’re used to, but there are still places to find traditional British fare like bangers and mash or shepherds’ pie.

Food and Dining

All meals in all venues at all times, including room service menu available 24 hours. All non-alcoholic beverages, including cappuccino, espresso, and other specialty non-alcoholic drinks are offered to guests. There is also a welcome cocktails reception as well.

Onboard Activities/Events

Guests are allowed unlimited access to use all water sports equipment and there is also on board entertainment. A casino, library/business center, lounge, pool, whirlpool, and screening room are also available for guests at their leisure.

Shore Excursions

Explore beautiful landmarks throughout your journey between Spain and Rome on many highlighted excursions. Below are just a few of the many that you can experience on your voyage.

Scenic Assynt
Scottish Highlands & Glencoe with Visitor Center
Loch Lomond & Glengoyne Distillery
Belfast Panoramic & Titanic
A Taste of Dublin & Guinness
Pembroke Castle & Tenby
Kinsale by Sea Safari
SainMichaels Mount

Staterooms or Cabins

Guests can enjoy amenities including a queen size bed with luxurious linens, a waffle weave robe and slippers, a flat screen TV with DVD player, a full stocked minibar and refrigerator, safety deposit box, direct dial phone, luxury bath amenities, Wi Fi access, fresh flowers and fruit, granite vanity with makeup mirror, wake in closet with ample drawer space, bathroom with granite countertop, full size tub and a shower, and hairdryers.
Gracious Balcony and Ocean View Suites are where stylish comfort and ocean views welcome you in 277 square feet. Your queen bed, which can be separated as twins if you prefer, features luxurious Egyptian cotton linens. Enjoy a luxurious soak in your full-size tub or an invigorating shower, then wrap up in your waffle-weave robe and slippers, savor a treat from the fresh fruit bowl, or simply stretch out and enjoy the fresh flowers.
Classic Suites allow you to relax in 400 to 530 spacious square feet. Your living area offers beautiful views from the forward-facing window and French doors onto your private veranda. Two spacious closets give you plenty of room to unpack.
Owner’s Suites with 575 square feet, your Owner’s Suite offers separate living room and dining areas. A veranda, two flat-screen TVs and DVD players, and a full master bath and separate powder room indulge you in spacious comfort.

Spa

WindSpa is available to guests who wish to take time and relax after an adventurous day out exploring Panama or Costa Rica.

Fitness

There is a fitness center on board for guests who want to continue their workout while sailing.

CALL YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR OR

800.837.0420

Distinguished Recognitions, Pleasant Holidays Family of Brands