Introduction
There's nothing quite like a British Isles cruise to explore the rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery of this magical region. From the bustling city centers to the remote, windswept landscapes, a cruise ship adventure around the United Kingdom and the surrounding islands is an unforgettable experience. In this blog post, we will share reviews of some of the top British Isles cruises, focusing on the various cruise lines, ports of call, and unique attractions that make each journey special. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or considering your first voyage, we hope these British Isles cruise reviews will inspire you to set sail on an adventure of your own.
Princess Cruises: A Royal Experience
Princess Cruises is one of the most popular cruise lines for a British Isles adventure. With a fleet of stunning ships, exceptional onboard amenities, and a wide range of ports of call, it's no wonder that many travelers turn to Princess Cruises for an unforgettable journey.
One standout itinerary is the 12-day roundtrip British Isles cruise, which departs from Southampton and includes stops in Guernsey, Cork, Dublin, Belfast, Glasgow, the Orkney Islands, Edinburgh, and Le Havre. Highlights of this cruise include a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Blarney Castle in Ireland, the ancient wonders of the Orkney Islands, and the majestic Edinburgh Castle in Scotland.
Many passengers who've experienced this British Isles cruise with Princess Cruises rave about the excellent service, comfortable accommodations, and diverse shore excursions available. A visit to a local travel agent can help you customize your itinerary and ensure you make the most of each port of call.
Viking Venus: Elegance And Intimacy
For travelers seeking a more intimate and luxurious experience, the Viking Venus offers a smaller ship alternative to the larger vessels of other cruise lines. This elegant ship, part of the Viking Ocean Cruises fleet, provides passengers with an upscale, yet relaxed atmosphere as they explore the British Isles.
The Viking Venus' 15-day British Isles Explorer itinerary includes stops at the Isle of Man, Isle of Mull, Isle of Scilly, and the Channel Islands, in addition to visits to major cities like London, Edinburgh, and Dublin. With fewer passengers on board, the Viking Venus provides an opportunity to explore smaller ports and more remote locations that may be inaccessible to larger cruise ships.
Passengers aboard the Viking Venus often praise the ship's attentive staff, spacious staterooms, and immersive shore excursions. The smaller ship size allows for a more personalized experience, giving guests the chance to truly connect with the places they visit.
Royal Caribbean: Family-Friendly Adventure
If you're searching for a British Isles cruise that caters to the entire family, look no further than Royal Caribbean. Known for their innovative ships and a wide array of onboard activities, Royal Caribbean offers an exciting and engaging cruise experience for all ages.
One popular Royal Caribbean British Isles cruise is the 12-night roundtrip itinerary from Southampton, which includes stops in St. Peter Port, Cork, Dublin, Liverpool, Belfast, Glasgow, Inverness, and Edinburgh. The cruise takes passengers to iconic sites like the ancient stone circle at Stonehenge, the bustling city center of Dublin, and the picturesque Isle of Scilly.
Families who have sailed with Royal Caribbean often rave about the variety of onboard activities, including rock climbing walls, surf simulators, and Broadway-style shows. The cruise line also offers dedicated kids' and teens' clubs, ensuring that every member of the family has a memorable vacation.
Queen Victoria: A Regal Journey
For those interested in exploring the British Isles aboard a ship steeped in history and tradition, the Cunard Line's Queen Victoria is the perfect choice. This elegant vessel harkens back to the golden age of ocean liners, combining modern amenities with the charm and sophistication of a bygone era.
One of the Queen Victoria's signature itineraries is the 14-night roundtrip British Isles cruise from Southampton. This voyage includes stops in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath, the picturesque coastal town of St. Peter Port, the rugged beauty of the Isle of Mull, and the historic city of Edinburgh. Additional highlights include the mysterious Orkney Islands, the vibrant city center of Dublin, and the stunning landscapes of the Isle of Man.
Passengers who have experienced a British Isles cruise aboard the Queen Victoria often speak highly of the ship's exceptional service, refined atmosphere, and elegant public spaces. From the lavish ballroom to the traditional afternoon tea service, the Queen Victoria offers a truly regal cruising experience.
Exploring the English Channel: Channel Islands And Beyond
For travelers interested in a more focused exploration of the English Channel, there are a variety of cruise lines and itineraries that cater to this unique region. These cruises often include stops in the picturesque Channel Islands, such as Guernsey and Jersey, as well as the historic ports of Le Havre and St. Peter Port.
One standout option is a smaller ship cruise aboard the luxurious Viking Venus, which includes stops in the Channel Islands, the Isle of Scilly, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mont Saint-Michel in France. Passengers can immerse themselves in the history and beauty of this fascinating region, while enjoying the upscale accommodations and personalized service of a smaller ship.
Off The Beaten Path: Smaller Ships And Unique Itineraries
For travelers seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, smaller ships and unique itineraries can provide a more intimate and personalized exploration of the British Isles. These cruises often visit lesser-known ports of call and offer immersive shore excursions that delve deeper into the history and culture of each destination.
One such option is the Windstar Cruises' Star Legend, a small ship that accommodates just 312 passengers. The ship's 11-day Gaelic Explorers itinerary includes stops in the Shetland Islands, the Outer Hebrides, and the Isle of Skye, as well as visits to more well-known destinations like Dublin, Belfast, and Edinburgh. Passengers can enjoy the charm and intimacy of a smaller ship, while exploring some of the most remote and enchanting locations in the British Isles.
Those who have embarked on this Windstar cruise often praise the attentive service, exceptional cuisine, and the unique ports of call. The smaller ship size allows for more in-depth exploration and an opportunity to truly connect with the places visited.
Another smaller ship experience can be found with Azamara, known for their destination-focused itineraries and luxurious accommodations. Azamara's 12-night British Isles cruise departs from Southampton and includes visits to the historic cities of Portsmouth, Liverpool, and Glasgow, as well as lesser-known gems like the Isle of Man, the Isle of Skye, and the Hebridean island of Lewis. The cruise concludes with an overnight stay in the vibrant city of Dublin, allowing passengers to fully immerse themselves in the local culture.
Passengers who have sailed with Azamara rave about the immersive shore excursions, the ship's elegant accommodations, and the personalized service. The smaller ship size also allows for longer stays in port, giving guests ample time to explore each destination in depth.
Sustainable Cruising: Eco-Friendly British Isles Adventures
As environmental awareness grows, many travelers are seeking more sustainable and eco-friendly ways to explore the world. Fortunately, several cruise lines are stepping up to the challenge, offering greener options for environmentally conscious passengers. By incorporating innovative technologies, reducing waste, and supporting local communities, these cruise lines are paving the way for sustainable cruising in the British Isles and beyond.
Hurtigruten: Leaders in Sustainable Cruising
Hurtigruten, a Norwegian cruise line, has long been a leader in sustainable cruising. With a commitment to minimizing their environmental impact, Hurtigruten offers a unique British Isles cruise aboard their state-of-the-art hybrid electric-powered ship, the MS Fridtjof Nansen. This innovative ship is designed to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, making it one of the greenest options for exploring the British Isles.
The 13-day British Isles – Picturesque Ports, Isolated Islands, and Wonderful Wildlife itinerary features stops in remote destinations like Fair Isle, the Shetland Islands, the Isle of Lewis, and the Isle of Iona. In addition to visiting popular cities like Belfast and Edinburgh, passengers can explore some of the most untouched and pristine locations in the region.
Passengers aboard the MS Fridtjof Nansen often praise the ship's commitment to sustainability, as well as the knowledgeable expedition team, immersive shore excursions, and the unique destinations visited. The ship's environmentally friendly features, combined with Hurtigruten's dedication to responsible tourism, make this British Isles cruise a top choice for eco-conscious travelers.
Lindblad Expeditions: Conservation Through Exploration
Another cruise line focused on sustainability and conservation is Lindblad Expeditions, which partners with National Geographic to offer a range of educational and environmentally responsible cruises. Their 16-day British Isles: Art, Wildlife, and History expedition provides passengers with a unique opportunity to explore the region's natural and cultural treasures in a sustainable manner.
Aboard the National Geographic Explorer, a purpose-built expedition ship, guests can enjoy the guidance of expert naturalists, historians, and photographers as they explore destinations like the Scilly Isles, the Hebridean island of St. Kilda, and the Orkney Islands. The itinerary also includes visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Giant's Causeway and the historic city of Bath.
Travelers who have experienced a Lindblad Expeditions British Isles cruise often highlight the enriching educational programs, the passionate and knowledgeable staff, and the focus on responsible tourism. By choosing a sustainable cruise line like Lindblad Expeditions, passengers can enjoy an unforgettable adventure while minimizing their impact on the environment and supporting local communities.
In Conclusion
A British Isles cruise offers a wealth of opportunities to explore the rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes of this enchanting region. With so many cruise lines, itineraries, and ship sizes to choose from, there is truly something for everyone – from family-friendly adventures to luxurious getaways, and from off-the-beaten-path explorations to sustainable and eco-friendly voyages.
When planning your perfect British Isles cruise, consider working with a travel agent who can help you navigate the many options available and ensure that you make the most of your ports of call. With their expert guidance and advice, you'll be well on your way to discovering the magic and beauty of the British Isles.
A British Isles cruise does sound magical. Â It is definitely on my bucket list, and I will be planning one of these magical journeys soon.
Judith Eve, loves to write riveting articles on crusingtonpost.com. She hails from the sun-kissed regions of South Florida, residing within a stone’s throw of the bustling Fort Lauderdale and Miami cruise ports. As a native Floridian, Judith’s love for the ocean and cruising extends as far back as her memory can recall.
Her lifelong passion for travel has taken her to countless destinations around the globe, but cruising, undeniably, holds a special place in her heart. Judith has embraced the elegance of luxury liners, relished the intimacy of boutique ships, and marveled at the innovation found on the newest megaships. This varied experience makes her a well-rounded and knowledgeable commentator on everything cruise-related.
Balancing her writing career and family life with effortless grace, Judith is happily married, mother to two wonderful children, and a doting grandmother to three grandkids. Much like Judith, her family shares her enthusiasm for the sea, often accompanying her on cruise adventures and enriching her articles with their unique perspectives.
Her work for crusingtonpost.com provides readers with insightful, engaging narratives of her travels, from vivid descriptions of the picturesque locales she visits to in-depth reviews of the cruise lines she travels with. Her writing is not only an exploration of travel and cruising; it is a testament to her zest for life, her commitment to family, and her love for the ocean.
Endearing herself to readers with her warm, personable writing style, Judith has become a trusted voice in the cruising community. She is the go-to source for tips, advice, and comprehensive information on cruising. As a tireless explorer and devoted family woman, Judith Eve embodies the essence of the adventurous spirit, inspiring readers to set sail and create their own sea stories.
