British Isles

Edinburgh - City & Castle
If you’re serious about sightseeing, this one’s for you. By the end of your trip you’ll have crossed most of Edinburgh’s highlights off your must-see list. You’ll start your day with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, which has been the home of Scottish kings and queens for centuries. The most interesting parts of this place include the Royal Palace, where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to James VI, and The Honours of Scotland, which is a collection of the nation’s crown jewels. The castle is also home to the National War Museum, where you can get the low-down on more than 400 years of military history. After looking round the castle, you’ll take a drive along the Royal Mile, where you can see sights like the 15th-century St Giles Cathedral and the Palace of Holyrood, where the queen stays during official visits to Scotland. (4hrs)

Panoramic Edinburgh
This trip takes the effort out of exploring Edinburgh. All you need to do is hop on a coach and let us chauffer you around the city’s top sights. The journey starts with a drive along the famous Royal Mile, a series of streets that cut through Edinburgh’s Old Town. The highlights in this section of the city include Gladstone’s Land, which is a well-preserved 17th-century townhouse, and the new Scottish parliament building. Just before you leave the Royal Mile, you’ll catch a glimpse of Holyrood Palace. This turreted castle was built at the start of the 12th century, and it’s where the Queen stays when she pays official visits to Scotland. Next, you’ll be taken up to Calton Hill, which offers up panoramic views over the whole of the city. You’ll get a particularly good look at Edinburgh’s famous castle from this spot, it dominates the skyline from its perch on the craggy Castle Rock. Finally, you’ll head to the Georgian New Town, where Alexander Graham Bell used to live. (3hrs)

Royal Mile Walking Tour
Lace up your walking shoes because this trip will have you exploring Edinburgh on foot. You’ll begin your journey in the shadow of the city’s 12th-century castle, at the start of a series of roads known as The Royal Mile. As you trace your way eastwards, you’ll pass Gladstone’s Land, which is a well-preserved six-storey townhouse that dates back to the 17th century. You’ll also catch a glimpse of Lady Stair’s House, another 17th-century building, which is now used as a writers’ museum. The exhibitions here showcase the lives and works of three of Scotland’s greatest writers – Robert Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott. Moving on, you’ll tick off St Giles Cathedral and Parliament Square, before you reach the Church of Canongate. The churchyard here is home to the graves of historical heavyweights like Mary Queen of Scots. Finally, you’ll have chance to look around Holyrood House, where the Queen stays when she’s on official visits to Scotland. (3.5hrs)

St Andrew's - Home of Golf
St Andrews is known as the Home of Golf, but you don’t have to be Tiger Woods to fall in love with the place. On this trip you’ll see St Andrews from all its angles, starting the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral. This huge religious house was built at the start of the 12th century and was once the longest church in Scotland. Next, you’ll get back onboard the coach for a drive through the centre of the market town. You’ll probably see the students of the town’s university going about their day. And you’ll pass some of the places where Prince William used to socialise when he studied here. Finally, we’ll take you to The Royal and Ancient Golf Club, which has been the Mecca of the golfing world for more than 600 years. While you’re here, you’ll get to walk around the Old Course and browse the small specialist golf shops for performance enhancers like great gloves or superior clubs. (4.5hrs)

The Trossarchs Panoramic
This trip will take you off the beaten track to some of Scotland’s most scenic spots. After hopping on a coach, you’ll be driven along the south side of the Firth and Forth River. Keep an eye out for the sword-shaped Wallace Monument, which soars 220 feet into the sky. This 19th-century tower was built on the spot where William Wallace watched the English army approaching before he led the Scots to victory in the Battle of Stirling Bridge. As your journey continues you’ll pass through the historic city of Stirling and catch a glimpse of the castle, which was once the home of Mary Queen of Scots. Next, you’ll make your way into the Trossachs, which are known as ‘the highlands in miniature’. You’ll passs tangled glens, mirror-shine lochs and thick forests. This area is said to be the home of the outlaw Rob Roy – Scotland’s version of Robin Hood. (5hrs)

Edinburgh's Medieval Past
Forget the dull history lessons you had to sit through at school – this exploration of Edinburgh’s medieval past is far from dry and boring. We’ll take you deep beneath the city’s Royal Mile to Mary King’s Close. Back in the 1600s, this warren of streets was one of Edinburgh’s busiest areas, but it was built over as the centuries moved on. Once you’re underground, you’ll be met by a costumed guide, whose character will be based on one of the close’s original residents. Depending on the day, your guide could be a merchant, a maid, a poet, or the foul clenger, who was responsible for clearing out houses once they were infested by plague. When the introductions are over, you’ll start your tour of the ancient alleyways. As you’re led past the sites of original pubs, shops and houses you’ll listen to the true stories of plague, murder, misery and intrigue that marred the lives of the people who lived here. (4hrs)

Shore excursions and prices are subject to change and latest prices will be available onboard the ship.

Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle Ruins
You’ll trace a path alongside the mysterious Loch Ness on this driving tour. Legend has it, it’s where the prehistoric monster ‘Nessie’ roams the waters. The loch itself is pretty incredible, too. The 23-mile body of water is overlooked by steep, wood-cloaked banks and, in some parts, reaches depths of 900 feet. This trip is all about taking in the Scottish scenery, and you’ll journey through Inverness – also known as the ‘capital of the highlands’ – and pass by salmon rivers, valleys and glens on your way. When you reach the village of Drumnadrochit, there’ll be a stop at Urquhart Castle, a medieval fortress that was used in the Scots’ struggle for independence from England in the 15th century. It was blown up in 1692 and, nowadays, only the crumbling walls remain. Keep an eye out for Nessie here, too – according to locals, she lives in a shallow cave beneath the castle. (4hrs)

Dunrobin Castle, Gardens & Falconry Display
You’ll find out how people lived back in the 19th century on this tour, with a visit to Dunrobin Castle. One of the oldest of its kind in Scotland, this place is the opposite of the dark-stone medieval strongholds the nation is famous for. Instead, it showcases sky-high turrets and Cinderella-like towers, which are surrounded by immaculate Victorian gardens that overlook the sea. Inside, take a look at the elegant piano and huge paintings in the music room. Then, breathe in the scent of the 10,000 dusty books stacked in the library. As for the dining room, it’s like walking into a period film set, with its wood-panelled walls, grand fireplace and oak chairs. The table is even set with shining Georgian silverware, so you can see how the lords and ladies dined once upon a time. After a tour of the castle, you’ll head out to the gardens to watch a birds of prey demonstration. The castle’s professional Falconer will give you an insight into the hunting methods of the owls, hawks and falcons, as they perform an exciting flying display overhead. (4.5hrs)

Glenmorangie Distillery & Dornoch
You’ll learn all about a subject close to the heart of the locals on this one – malt whiskey. One of the nation’s favourites is Glenmorangie, which is produced in the town of Tain. The word Glenmorangie actually means ‘Glen of Tranquillity’ in Gaelic, which is spot on when you consider the distillery’s surroundings. It’s set in the Scottish Highlands, so valleys, rivers and hills stretch as far as the eye can see. Today, we’ll visit the Glenmorangie Distillery, which has been producing the smooth stuff for over 150 years. You’ll see the methods and equipment used in the making process, and get a look at the swan-necked stills that remove the sulphur from the alcohol – they’re the tallest in the Highlands, in fact. Afterwards, you’ll head to the Visitor Centre, which has been converted from the distillery’s original still-house. In here, you’ll get up close to a 130-year-old working steam engine, and discover the ancient skills of coopering and malting. (3.5hrs)

Sealife EcoVenture in RIB
Just off the coast of Invergordon is the area of Moray Firth, which is home to some very friendly residents – a colony of bottlenose dolphins. They’re one of only two colonies in the UK, and the most northern in the world. On this trip, you’ll sit back and take in the views of the craggy cliffs as a high-speed Rigid Inflatable Boat whisks you through the Scottish waters. As you’re keeping an eye out for the dolphins, you might also spot harbour porpoise, common and grey seals, as well as the occasional minke whale. Your skipper will give you a background into the habits of any animals you see, as well as pointing out interesting bird life that’s unique to this part of the world. And for a bit of a history fix, you’ll pass some of the imposing war fortresses that dot the coastline. (3hrs)

Cawdor Castle & Culloden Moor
You’ll step back to a time of castles and clans, battles and bravery, on this tour. Cawdor Castle – a huge, medieval fortress that’s surrounded by greenery – is your first stop. It even caught the eye of a certain Shakespeare back in its heyday – the famous playwright used it as the setting for King Duncan’s murder in Macbeth. Cross the drawbridge and step inside to stoop under the low doorways, marvel at the beautiful woven tapestries and climb the winding stone stairways. The castle’s central tower dates back to 1454, and you’ll get the chance to look at the creepy dungeons inside it. Once you’ve explored the castle, you’ll head for nearby Culloden Moor. This place pays homage to the 5,000 Highlanders that lost their lives fighting the 9,000-strong army led by the Duke of Cumberland on 16th April 1746. Today, you can see the wooden plaques that dot the battlefield, explaining which clan fought where and how the battle progressed. You’ll see the communal burial sites, too, and the headstones bearing the names of the clans. Lastly, you’ll drive past the Well of the Dead, where wounded Highlanders were slain as they drank water to revive themselves mid-battle. (4hrs)

Scenic Moorland Drive, Shin Falls & Dornoch
When it comes to taking in a place as vast and as open as the Scottish Highlands, your best bet is a driving tour. Leaving Invergordon behind, you’ll set off on a coach, heading through hills and farmland and up over the moors. There’ll be a photo stop at the Struie viewpoint, also known as the million-dollar view. When you see the mountains in the distance, and the glens and valleys stretching out beneath you, you’ll see how it earned its nickname. Your next stop is the Falls of Shin Visitor Centre. The River Shin is quite small – only about five miles long, in fact. But it’s home to Shin Falls, a cascade of water the salmon of the river can be seen hurling themselves against in a bid to reach their birthplace upstream. From here, you’ll head towards the coast to the pretty town of Dornoch, where little stone houses dot the broad, tree-lined streets. Here, you can spend the time as you like. The old jail is worth a visit – it shows you what it would have been like to be imprisoned in the last century. Plus, there’s a small cathedral here, complete with rainbow-coloured stained-glass windows. (3.5hrs)

Photographic Expedition in the Scottish Highlands
Unleash your inner photographer on this half-day tour, as a professional snapper gives you an introduction to the Scottish Highlands. With your camera ready for action, you’ll set off in a Land Rover through the Northern Highlands, which is one of the most beautiful and photogenic areas of the UK. Your driver and guide, Keith Hart, has over 30 years experience in photographing the Highlands, and he’ll give you the inside scoop on the wildlife, places and people on this trip. You’ll journey past moors, glens and valleys, stopping at locations that’ll get you the best shots. Plus, Keith will let you in on his secrets and tips for things like angles and lighting, so you’ll get some really special photos to take home. (4hrs)

Afternoon Tea with a Clan Chief
Tour guides are brilliant – they can give you the lowdown on a place like no-one else. This tour goes one step further, though, giving you the chance to meet a Clan Chief at Foulis Castle. It means you can look forward to stories from someone who really knows their stuff. This place has been the home of the Chiefs of Clan Munro for over 700 years. And today, Hector Munro – the 33rd hereditary Clan Chief – will show you around the castle. You’ll see the reception rooms, the early Victorian kitchen and the display of the old Clan tartans. Plus, you’ll learn all about the most famous member of the clan, James Munro, who went on to become the 5th President of the United States. After your tour, you’ll sit down to afternoon tea in the castle dining room, and listen to stories from Hector and his mother – Mrs Eleanor Munro of Foulis. (3hrs)

Shore excursions and prices are subject to change and latest prices will be available onboard the ship.

South Island & Highland Park Distillery -
The Orkney Islands have a history that spans six millennia, and you’ll get a real feel for it on this tour. Heading south from Kirkwall, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive along the coast, soaking up views of the pretty inlets and coves along the way. Your first stop is one of the most visited monuments in Orkney, an Italian chapel that was built by Italian prisoners during the Second World War. The gold curtains that frame the inside altar were even bought with the prisoners’ own money. The second half of your trip will be spent in the Highland Park Distillery, the birthplace of Highland Park 12-year-old Single Malt Whiskey. The Scot’s reckon it’s the best whiskey going, thanks to the local peak beds here. They’ve absorbed the salt spray for centuries, giving the tipple its heathery taste. Your visit begins with a short film that’ll give you the inside scoop on the history of the drink. Next, you’ll see how the stuff is made as you’re shown around the peat kiln, the floor maltings and the viewing warehouse. Your trip ends with a taste of the whiskey. (3.5hrs)

Skara Brae & Skaill House -
Ever wondered what Scotland’s answer to Stonehenge might look like? You’ll find out on this trip, with a visit to the Ring of Brodgar – a circle of huge stone slabs that date back around 5,000 years. The stones are shrouded in mystery, although it’s thought they were used for ritual purposes in Neolithic times. Your guide will fill you in on the theories of their beginnings, and you’ll have a chance to take photos. The prehistoric village of Skara Brae is also on the agenda today. This place was only discovered after a fierce storm in the 1800s. It dates back to the Stone Age, making it older than the Great Pyramids, and it’s been dubbed the Scottish Pompeii because it’s so well preserved. Wandering through the crumbling houses is like stumbling on to a film set – you can even see the stone cupboards, dressers and storage boxes the villagers fashioned thousands of years ago. And in some of the houses, there’s evidence of a primitive toilet. Down the road from Skara Brae is Skaill House, which is set in a spot between the Loch of Skaill and the sea. There’ll be time to look around this 16th-century mansion, which is home to artefacts from the prehistoric village. (3.5hrs)

Panoramic Orkney Island North Coast Drive -
Sometimes, a drive around is the best way to get a feel for a place. And that’s exactly what’s in store on this trip. Keeping an eye out for birdlife, you’ll travel through Orkney’s heather moorland, storybook woods and vast fields. Get your camera ready for the stretch along the coastal road – it offers up some of the most spectacular cliff views for miles around. You’ll pass through the ancient village of Brisay next, before moving on to the trip’s highlight – the Ring of Brodgar. This perfect circle of stone slabs is thought to be over 5,000 years old, and no-one knows for sure why it came to be. You’ll also pass the Standing Stones of Stennes – many believe this site was used for burials or lunar observation. There’ll be a coffee stop at one of the island’s country hotels during the tour, where you can tuck in to traditional Scottish shortbread. (3.5hrs)

Italian Chapel & Mull Head Walk -
This trip mixes up man-made treasures with natural beauty spots. You’ll start your day with a visit to the Italian Chapel, one of the island’s most surprising sights. This house of prayer was built in 1942, after 550 prisoners of war were shipped over to Orkney from Italy, to help construct naval defences. The prisoners built the chapel in their spare time using scrap materials, but you wouldn’t know it. The building has a pretty bell tower and the inside is intricately decorated with iron work, art and painted glass. Later, you’ll head to Mull Head Nature Reserve, where a ranger will take you on a guided walk. This Scottish wilderness spreads out for 160 hectares and your walk will take you through three miles of it. As you wander, you’ll take in rugged sea cliffs, windswept grasslands and headlands fleeced in heather. (4hrs)

Viking Capital Walking Tour -
At the end of the first millennia, Kirkwall was a crucial cog at the centre of a great seafaring empire. The island provided a vital connection between Scandinavia and Iceland, and Argyll, Ireland and the Isle of Man. On this walking tour, you’ll retrace the footsteps of all the different cultures that have hopped on and off the island. One of the highlights of the trip is St Magnus Cathedral. Built by a descendent of the island’s first Vikings, this red-brick building is one of the best-preserved Medieval cathedrals in Scotland. Another top sight is Earl’s Palace, a 16th-century structure, developed by one of Scotland’s most tyrannical noblemen, Patrick Stewart. Finally, you’ll catch a glimpse of the 12th-century Bishop’s Palace. This ancient manor house is best known for being the final resting place of King Haakon the Old, one of the greatest rulers of medieval Norway. (3hrs)

Balfour Castle - Island of Shapinsay -
On this trip, we’ll take you through the keyhole of a traditional Scottish Castle. You’ll start your day by boarding a ferry and making the 25-minute journey to Shapinsay Island. As you sail, you’ll catch a glimpse of Thieves Holm, a little isle which was once used to intern witches and robbers. You’ll also get to soak up Shapinsay’s unspoilt scenery – the island only has one small village and the rest of the countryside is a patchwork of fields and stone walls. When you arrive at Shapinsay Harbour, you’ll make the 15-minute walk to Balfour Castle. All turrets and towers, this 19th-century fortress looks like something from a Brothers Grimm story. You’ll be shown around by a member of the Zawadski family, who have owned the place since 1961. Inside, the rooms are virtually identical to the way they were in the Victorian era. As you walk through the drawing room, dining room, library and gardens, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time. (3hrs)

Shore excursions and prices are subject to change and latest prices will be available onboard the ship.

Dublin Highlights
You’ll see the Georgian architecture, traditional squares and sweeping bridges Dublin is synonymous with on this drive. Plus, you’ll pass landmarks like the old Parliament House and St Patrick’s Cathedral. The latter is Ireland’s largest church, and it becomes the focal point of the city during St Patrick’s Festival, when it’s bathed in green light every evening. You’ll also tick off Dublin Castle – with its turrets and stone walls, you almost expect to see Maid Marian appearing out of its wooden doors. Continuing along the River Liffey, you’ll check out the Irish Law Courts and the Customs House, as your guide fills you in on their history. Also on the agenda is O’Connell Street, which is lined with modern shops and grand buildings. Your final stop is Leinster House, a stately mansion that houses the two chambers of the Irish Parliament. (3.5 hrs)

Dublin Castle & The Book of Kells
You’ll follow in the footsteps of medieval kings and queens when you visit Dublin Castle. Most of it dates back to the 18th century, although a fortress has stood on this site since the days of King John, the first Lord of Ireland. This tour includes a guided visit, so you can wander the pretty courtyards, explore the old Georgian houses, and take a look at the chandeliers and antique furniture in the luxurious State Apartments. Your next stop is Trinity College, Ireland’s oldest university. It was founded in 1592, and past scholars include writer Oscar Wilde. While you’re here, you’ll get to peek at the Book of Kells – an illustrated medieval manuscript, which contains the four gospels in Latin. The book is held in the Old Library, which displays a whopping 200,000 texts, as well as the oldest surviving harp in Ireland. Just So You Know: The castle may close at short notice if there is an official state function. (4hrs)

Guinness Brewery & City Drive
Think of Dublin and a pint of Guinness is probably one of the first images to spring to mind. Locals have been drinking the stuff for years now, and you’ll get an insight into how this famous drink came to be on this tour. It all happens at St James’s Gate Brewery in the heart of the city. This is the birthplace of Guinness, and it’s close to the spot where the creamy stout was first produced over 230 years ago. When you arrive, you’ll see a short film about the black stuff, before following a guide who’ll take you through the making process. You’ll see the machines where the drink is produced, and get the lowdown on the advertising and transport of Guinness around the globe. Best of all, the tour ends in a bar that offers up panoramic views, so you can sample some of the brew while you look out over the city. (4hrs)

Malahide Castle & Irish Pub
Delve into a world of princes and princesses at one of Ireland’s oldest fortresses. We’ll take you to Malahide Castle, which dates back to the 14th century. With its rounded Rapunzel-like towers, it’s got a real fairytale vibe. Better still, it’s surrounded by 250 acres of picturesque grounds. Step through the lantern-lit doorway and follow the stone stairway, and you’ll come across ornate period furniture and grand portraits of past residents. Plus, you’ll get a look at the huge oak-beamed Great Hall, where you can imagine the clink of glasses, the sound of laughter and the swish of the ball gowns that once filled it. Once you’ve finished playing Cinderella, you’ll head into Malahide Village to visit a traditional Irish pub. Get into the local spirit by sipping Irish coffee or trying a pint of Guinness while you’re here. (4hrs)

River Cruise & National Museum
See the sights of Dublin from two very different angles. This trip starts with a boat ride along the River Liffey, which runs through the centre of Dublin. You’ll climb onboard for a journey past all the main landmarks, including the Ha’penny Bridge and the elegant Georgian Custom House. You’ll see the Royal and Grand canals, too, and you’ll sail past the spot where Oliver Cromwell launched his invasion of Ireland. Afterwards, you’ll swap boat for coach for a narrated drive around the city. There’ll be a stop when you reach the National Archaeological Museum. This place is a treasure trove of ancient pieces, like the Ardagh Chalice – one of the best examples of eighth-century metalwork ever discovered, and the Tara Brooch – a Celtic piece of jewellery that dates back to around 700 AD. Prehistoric relics aside, the museum itself is pretty impressive – its entrance was modelled on Rome’s Pantheon. We’ll take you to Trinity College, Ireland’s oldest university for your final stop, where past students include Oscar Wilde. Find a spot on one of the grassy lawns, and imagine the famous writer strolling across the courtyard to lectures. (3.5hrs)

Dublin Walking Tour & Pub
This walking tour begins at Merrion Square, one of the city’s largest and grandest Georgian squares. On one side of it, you’ll see the facades of the Natural History Museum, the National Gallery and the sweeping gardens of Leinster House – a stately mansion which houses the two chambers of the Irish Parliament. On the other three sides, rainbow-coloured townhouses sit shoulder-to-shoulder, showcasing their original wrought-iron balconies and doorknockers. You’ll spend some time in St. Stephen’s Green, too – a huge park that’s made up of tidy flowerbeds, impressive fountains and a large lake. And over in Dawson Street, your guide will point out the Catholic University of Ireland, the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Royal College of Surgeons. The latter was built in the 18th century and was commandeered by rebel troops in the 19th – you can still see the bullet marks from the fighting. Lastly, there’ll be a photo stop at Mansion House – home of the city’s Lord Mayor. You’ll finish the trip in a traditional pub, so make like the locals and order a Guinness or an Irish coffee. Before you leave, you’ll get to see Ireland’s oldest university, Trinity College, as well. (3.5hrs)

Shore excursions and prices are subject to change and latest prices will be available onboard the ship.

Panoramic Cork City and Blarney Castle
Smooth talking. Silver-tongued. A real charmer. However you phrase it, once you’ve kissed the Blarney Stone you’ll never be lost for words – or so the legend goes. Whether there’s any truth in the story remains to be seen, but British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill certainly thought so. And he’s just one name in a long list of famous faces that’ve kissed this rock. To reach the stone’s precarious perch at the top of Blarney Castle, you’ll scale a spiral staircase that’s barely wide enough for one person. And even if you don’t fancy a close encounter with the boulder, the climb is worth it just for the view. You can see right over the Blarney River and the surrounding countryside from here. Blarney Stone aside, no visit to this part of the world would be complete without stopping at the Blarney Woollen Mills. This 200-year-old mill sells distinctive green Blarney Castle jumpers they make right here on the premises. It’s also the place to come for cashmere, crystal and, of course, all things woollen. Your day rounds off with a tour of Cork city centre taking in the Gothic splendour of St Finbarr’s Cathedral. All gargoyles and birds, the carved exterior of this place is really something. You’ll also see Cork’s old courthouse, the city hall and the Bells of Shandon. (4hrs).

Old Jameson Distillery and Midleton
Scotland has scotch and America’s got bourbon. But in Ireland, plain old whiskey does just fine. Second only to the black stuff, which whiskey fans dismiss as food, the amber nectar is one of Ireland’s favourite drinks. And Jameson’s are masters of the Irish malt. On this trip you’ll take a guided tour of the Old Jameson Distillery to find out what makes the Irish brew so special. An audio-visual presentation will be followed by a trip down Jameson’s memory lane on the Old Distillery trail. You’ll see the mills and malting houses. Corn stores and still houses. And the largest pot still in the world – it can hold 32,000 gallons of the golden liquor. Your trip through time comes back to the present in the Jameson Bar where, in true Jilly Goolden-style, you’ll be swilling and sipping your way to the tour’s malty, whiskey tasting conclusion. After swigging all that bourbon-barrelled alcohol, you’ll enjoy some much-needed fresh air with some free time for shopping in Midleton. (3.5 hrs).

Cork’s Countryside and Kinsale
Gorse, brambles and lots of green, green grass. It couldn’t be anywhere but the Emerald Isle. In fact, Cork is such a classic slice of Irish countryside, you half expect a leprechaun to pop out of a hedge with his pot of gold. And that’s just some of the scenery you’ll pass on your way to Kinsale. A beautiful harbour town in the south of Cork, Kinsale is also the gourmet capital of Ireland. It’s home to more than a dozen award-winning pubs and restaurants. Plus with narrow streets, overflowing window-boxes and brightly painted shop fronts, it’s got chocolate-box good looks, too. Better yet, this place is packed with museums, churches and castles. But it’s Charles Fort that deserves special mention here. This star-shaped fort sits two miles outside the town centre, guarding the harbour. You’ll have a brief photo-stop here before you head into the centre of Kinsale to explore. This isn’t your typical tourist town and it’s not full of high street favourites. Instead it’s all about dinky boutiques selling crystal, knitwear and Celtic jewellery. Then it is on to Innishannon. A character-packed village pushed into the spotlight back in 1755 when the tidal wave backlash from the Lisbon earthquake wiped it out. Here you’ll enjoy the day’s final photo-opportunity on the banks of the River Bandon. (4hrs).

Cork City Walking Tour
You’ll wander the winding lanes of Cork’s French Quarter on this walking tour, passing sweet-smelling chocolate shops and patisseries as you go. Plus, you’ll see the city’s English market, where you can check out some of the local delicacies on offer. One of the more bizarre ones is ‘crubeen’ – pigs feet boiled with the hoof on. Cork is a city that’s shrouded in history, and as your guide steers you through its centre, you’ll hear the story of the French Protestants who flocked here in the 17th century to escape persecution. You’ll see St Finbarr’s Cathedral, an early French gothic building that’s lined with medieval gargoyles and ornate carvings, and you’ll pass the Crawford Art Gallery and the Opera House. The tour ends in a traditional Irish pub, where you can relax over a pint of Guinness. (3.5 hrs)

The Titanic & Walking Heritage Trail
Cobh is often described as the saddest place in Ireland. It was where millions fled the country throughout the 19th century to escape starvation, and it was where the RMS Titanic picked up its last passengers, before sailing off to an icy demise. You’ll learn all about the maritime history of the city on this tour, which begins with a guided walk. You’ll make your way down the same path the emigrants would have taken all those years ago, passing the pastel-coloured houses and the imposing gothic cathedral. When it’s time for a rest there’ll be a stop at an Irish pub, where you’ll get the inside scoop on how Irish coffee is made, before trying some for yourself. A visit to the Cobh Heritage Centre brings your trip to an end. You’ll hear the story of emigration from the period of famine in 1845, up until the great liners era of the Fifties. Plus, you’ll learn about the tragic voyages of the RMS Titanic and the Lusitania. (3.5 hrs)

Powerboat Experience & Scenic Cruising
Keep an eye out for sharks, seals and bottlenose dolphins on this tour, as you whiz along the coast of Cork in a powerboat. Wildlife aside, you’ll want your camera handy to capture the craggy cliffs and hidden caves that make up Ireland’s exterior. Your guide will point out interesting sights along the way, including the spot where the RMS Titanic made her final port of call before sailing to an icy end in the Atlantic. Your high-speed boat ride comes to an end when you reach Kinsale, a pretty seaside town that’s overlooked by a huge 15th-century fortress. There’ll be a bit of free time here, so you can stroll past the Crayola-coloured houses, rummage through the souvenir shops, or stop for a Guinness in one of the pubs. This place is renowned for its fish and chips, too, so stop for a bite to eat at one of the harbour cafés before you leave. (3.5 hrs)

Shore excursions and prices are subject to change and latest prices will be available onboard the ship.

Honfleur
Your day kicks off with a coach journey from Le Havre, passing Pont de Normandie along the way. This massive bridge was a record-breaker when it was built, measuring up at 2143 metres. When you reach Honfleur, the exploring really begins. A guided walking tour through the town sees to it you don’t miss the best bits. Wander along the cobbled streets that twist their way around the harbour. Admire the slate-fronted houses that stand cheek-to-cheek on the dock – some are more than seven storeys high. And check out the Lieutenancy building that was once part of the 16th-century ramparts. Then, leaving the docks behind, you’ll step inside St Catherine’s Church. The biggest wooden church in France, it was built by local shipwrights – so it’s not surprising the vaulted roof looks like an upturned ship’s hull. After that, you’ll have some free time to explore on your own before returning to Le Havre. (4 hrs)

Bayeux & D Day Beaches
This tour’s a real treat. You’ll spend the whole day exploring the Bayeux area with a guide giving you loads of local information as you go. One of your first stops, the Bayeux tapestry, is at the top of the sightseeing charts. This 69-metre embroidery shows scenes from the life of English king Harold, from coronation to the Battle of Hastings. And tales from Aesop’s Fables are stitched around the edge, too. So it’s easy to see how it earned the title ‘the most beautiful tapestry in the world’. See if you can spot the arrow in Harold’s eye before you move on to see Bayeux Cathedral. It’s had numerous makeovers since the 11th century and the end result is a mix of Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque and Renaissance architecture. When you’ve snapped it from every angle, you’ll stop for lunch before moving on to the British cemetery. With its endless rows of headstones, it’s a sight you’ll never forget. But the drive back to the ship is equally memorable. You’ll pass the D-Day beaches, where parts of the floating harbour still sit on the sand and the cliffs are freckled with battle-worn bunkers and bomb craters. Last but not least, the final photo opportunity of the day is at the famous Pegasus Bridge that was a key part of the Allied troop’s battle-winning manoeuvres – a touching end to great day out. (9 hrs)

Paris On Your Own
What makes Paris Paris? The city of light is different things to different people. To some it’s all about the must-see sights. To others it’s about sitting over a coffee for two hours and watching the world go by. That’s why on this tour we simply drive to the city centre, drop you off and then pick you up four hours later. Your time is your own, so you can follow your sightseeing checklist without getting waylaid. You can spend the whole time dipping into big-name boutiques in Faubourg Saint-Honoré. Take time out in Jardin du Luxembourg. Or visit Notre-Dame Cathedral. But whatever else you do, there are three things you should try to tick off. Topping the list is a boat trip down the Seine. Closely followed by climbing the Eiffel Tower. Both give you a crash course in the city’s geography and the view from the top of the tower is amazing. And, of course, you can’t come to Paris without checking out the Mona Lisa’s smile, so head to the Louvre and search out the Da Vinci section. Finally, make time to try the ice-cream and to sit in a pavement café on the Champs-Élyseés before you leave. Happy exploring! (9 hrs)

Monet's Garden
Waterlillies. Wisteria. Irises. Beautiful in their own right, these flowers are also the subject of some of the World's most famous works of art, Monet's house and garden collection. Restored to their former glory in the 1980s, Monet's gardens have become a place of pilgrimage for Impressionist art lovers. And the house, which is now a fascinating museum, is decorated in shades of green and pink, and filled to bursting with antiques and reproductions of Monet's work. On this trip you'll travel to Giverny to see the house and its gorgeous grounds for yourself. You'll check out his kitchen and dining room. You'll see the iris bed, the wisteria arch and the Japanese bridge. And you'll fill you digital with pictures of the weeping willows trailing their leaves in the famous lilly pond. Every inch is lovingly cared for and recreated to honour the vision Monet's paintings brought so vividly to life. After all that exploring, you’ll have time for lunch before you head back to the ship. (7 hrs)

Rouen
Put on the map by Joan of Arc. Caught on canvas by Monet. And virtually destroyed by World War Two bombings. The City of a Hundred Spires, otherwise known as Rouen, is packed to it’s Gothic rafters with sights. Cue entire streets lined with timber-framed Medieval houses and more monuments than you can count on one hand. This tour takes you, by coach, right to the heart of Upper Normandy’s capital, to the Market Square. Top of the list of things to see here is the Joan of Arc Church. Sitting in the spot where the famous saint burned at the stake, this modern masterpiece features wall-to-wall 16th century stained glass that was saved from the fire that destroyed St Vincent’s Church. You’ll pass the Gros Horloge – a grand clock that has chimed the hour here since Joan of Arc met her fiery fate in the 1400s. You’ll admire the Renaissance flourishes of Justice Hall – one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. And you’ll visit the flamboyant Notre Dame Cathedral. All lace stone-work and flying buttresses, it’s home to the tallest church tower in France - and it was painted by Monet more than 30 times. Rounding off this day out, you’ll check out the Aître St Maclou - the burial ground of Rouen’s plague victims and a tranquil garden - before browsing the boutiques that speckle the town centre. (5 hrs)

The trips and tours listed here are offered as guide and may vary slightly to what's on offer when you reach the ship. You'll find guide prices inside your ticket booklets. And you can book your excursions once you're onboard.