Compare The British Isles by Sea: Ireland, Scotland and England by Road Scholar vs Britain & Ireland Explorer - Small Group Small Group by Insight Vacations
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| Trip |
4.5 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 17 days | 15 days |
| Price From | $ 6,795 | $ 6,155 |
| Price Per Day | $ 400 | $ 410 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Large ship cruise | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
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| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
| Activities |
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| Meals Included |
15 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 15 Dinners |
N/A |
| Description |
Immerse yourself in the customs and traditions of modern Celtic communities as you journey along the coastlines of England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland on board the ms Prinsendam. |
Discover the ancient Roman Baths of Bath with their healing waters, learn to pour a pint like a pro at Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse and take an exclusive behind the scenes tour of the National Stud Farm in Kildare — the epicenter of Ireland’s thoroughbred horse breeding history. This all-encompassing tour showcases the regal heritage of Edinburgh Castle, the stunning beauty of England’s Lake District, the historic grandeur of Durham’s Romanesque cathedral and the rolling hills of Pembrokeshire in Wales. Pay homage to the literary legacy of Shakespeare as you visit his birthplace in Stratford Upon Avon, tour the medieval Shambles of old York, admire the ancient border of the Roman Empire at Hadrian’s Wall and set sail from Holyhead to Dublin, on this journey through Great Britain and Ireland. |
Day 1: Departure from North America to Amsterdam
In Flight
Day 2: Arrive Amsterdam, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Doubletree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station
Morning: Arrive in Amsterdam and transfer to the program hotel.
Afternoon: Before dinner, we will gather in our private meeting room where the group leader will greet you with a warm welcome and introduce everyone. We will review the up-to-date daily schedule and any changes, discuss responsibilities, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer any questions you may have. Please be aware that program activities and scheduled times could change due to local circumstances. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner: Join your group and group leader for a welcome dinner at the hotel.
Evening: At leisure.
Day 3: Exploring Amsterdam, Embark MS Prinsendam
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: MS Prinsendam
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: Explore the rich history of this European capital during a field trip led by a local expert. While our local expert talks about the history, take in sites including the Royal Palace and the National Monument at Dam Square. The Royal Palace on Dam Square was originally built as Amsterdam's town hall. Opened in 1655, it was designed in grand style to reflect the city's economic prosperity. It became a royal residence when the Emperor Napoleon established his brother Louis as King of Holland, who had it elaborately furnished. It reverted back to the city when the French empire crumbled only a few years later. The succeeding Dutch Sovereign, King William I of the House of Orange-Nassau, was given permission to use it, as did other monarchs. The city sold the building to the State of the Netherlands in 1935, when it was offered permanently as the residence of the Royal House. When the palace is not in use by the royal family, it is open to the public. Dam Square is named for an actual dam on the River Amstel that was constructed on this spot about 1270. It later became the city's central marketplace. It's turbulent history is nowhere apparent today and what we see instead is the national monument of The Netherlands commemorating those who died in World War II. We end the morning at the Albert Cuyp street market, the largest in Europe. More than a century old, it features nearly 300 vendors selling nearly everything imaginable. But the emphasis is on food - fruits, vegetables, fish, meats, spices, chocolate, cheese, and more - from local favorites to specialties from around the world.
Lunch: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like at the market. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.
Afternoon: Transfer by coach to the port in Ijmuiden to embark the MS Prinsendam.
Dinner: Aboard the ship.
Evening: At leisure. The ship departs Amsterdam this evening.
Day 4: At Sea
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: MS Prinsendam
Breakfast: Aboard ship. The expansive offerings include a variety of hot and cold dishes for every taste.
Morning: We gather for a lecture by our Study Leader Celtic/Scottish history.
Lunch: Aboard ship. The expansive offerings include a variety of hot and cold dishes for every taste.
Afternoon: We will join our study leader for a presentation on the history and culture of the British Isles. As a special highlight, we'll gather for a Road Scholar cocktail party and to share what we may have in common beyond a love of learning.
Dinner: Aboard the ship.
Evening: Enjoy the ship's variety of activities on board.
Day 5: Arrive Scotland, Port of Rosyth, Explore Edinburgh
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: MS Prinsendam
Activity note: The morning field trip to Edinburgh entails walking approximately 500 meters on uneven and cobblestone terrain
Breakfast: Breakfast onboard
Morning: Enjoy a half day (4 hours) field trip in Royal Edinburgh – Scotland’s vibrant capital. Historic landmarks Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle linked by streets steeped in history – the iconic Royal Mile, tell a captivating story. History and beauty unite in the proud city of Edinburgh where a dramatic balance exists between the high dark buildings of the medieval Old Town and classical architecture of the Georgian New Town. From the moment you arrive in the city centre you will be captivated by the stunning skyline and magnificent architecture. The castle clings dramatically to its rock as the ancient buildings ramble down the spine of the Royal Mile to the splendid Palace of Holyroodhouse. Admire the major sights and a unique vista over beautifully tended gardens to the historic castle, perched on a magnificent, natural rock formed by the core of an extinct volcano. In complete contrast to the warren of ancient buildings in the shadow of castle rock is Edinburgh’s New Town. Built largely in the 18th century, its elegant crescents, squares and gardens are lined with splendid Georgian buildings. Throughout its thousand-year history, Edinburgh Castle has witnessed many tense moments and for centuries it was home to Scotland’s kings and queens. There is much to see within the castle including the 15th century Old Royal Palace, which houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and regalia in the Crown Room with origins from medieval times. See the apartment where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to the future King James VI of Scotland who also became James I of England. Finally enjoy the historic area known as the ‘Royal Mile.’ Drive across Castle Hill, Lawnmarket, High Street and Canongate past delightful multi-storeyed houses and quaint side streets. See St Giles Cathedral dating from the 14th century and the 15th century Palace of Holyroodhouse – official Scottish residence of the Queen.
Lunch: Lunch on own in Edinburgh or aboard the ship
Afternoon: Continue your exploration of Rosyth (Edinburgh), Scotland. The ship is scheduled to depart at 6:00PM.
Dinner: Aboard ship.
Evening: Enjoy the ship's variety of activities on board.
Day 6: Arrive Invergordon, Scotland - Cawdor Castle
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: MS Prinsendam
Breakfast: Breakfast onboard
Morning: We disembark the ship and board a motorcoach to the parish of Cawdor for an exploration of Cawdor Castle. Set amid gardens in the parish of Cawdor, the castle is built around a 15th-century tower house, with substantial additions in later centuries. Originally a property of the Clan Calder, it passed to the Campbells in the 16th century. It remains in Campbell ownership, and is now home to the Dowager Countess Cawdor, who kindly moves out in the summer so people can visit. The castle is perhaps best known for its literacy connection to William Shakespeare's tragedy Macbeth, in which the title character is made "Thane of Cawdor." However, the story is highly fictionalized, and the castle itself was built many years after the life of the 11th-century King Macbeth. On your way back to the ship, make a quick detour to the village of Dores, for a photostop of Loch Ness.
Lunch: Aboard ship.
Afternoon: At leisure.
Dinner: Aboard ship.
Evening: Enjoy the ship's variety of activities on board.
Day 7: Scrabster, Scotland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: MS Prinsendam
Breakfast: Aboard ship.
Morning: Situated on the north coast of Scotland, Scrabster provides access to Scotland's rugged and spectacular Highlands. Look for Viking heritage in Highland place names; visit three churches in Caithness dating back to the Middle Ages and still in use today; and tour the Castle of Mey, the northernmost castle on the UK mainland and long time residence of the Queen Mother.
Lunch: Aboard ship.
Afternoon: Continue your exploration of Scrabster, Scotland.
Dinner: Aboard ship.
Evening: Enjoy the ship's variety of activities on board.
Day 8: At Sea
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: MS Prinsendam
Breakfast: Aboard ship.
Morning: Join your study leader for an educational presentation.
Lunch: Aboard ship.
Afternoon: At leisure.
Dinner: Aboard ship.
Evening: Enjoy the ship's variety of activities on board.
Day 9: Dublin, Ireland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: MS Prinsendam
Breakfast: Aboard ship.
Morning: Visit historic Trinity College in the company of current undergraduates. Trinity College builds on its four-hundred year old tradition of scholarship to confirm its position as one of the great universities of the world. It has been the educator of many of Ireland's great writers from Swift to Wilde. Part of the field trip will include Trinity College Library which houses 200,000 antique texts, marble busts of scholars and the oldest surviving harp in Ireland as well as the Book of Kells. This illuminated manuscript of the Gospels was created by Irish monks around the year 800. Meet Dublin historian at Trinity College to commence the 1916 Rebellion Walking Field Trip of Dublin City, visiting the relevant sites of the Rebellion in Dublin, including O'Connell St, Dublin's main thoroughfare with its landmark statue of Daniel O'Connell, the Great Liberator; The General Post Office (GPO headquarters of the 1916 Rising) the Four Courts, Dublin's City Hall and finishing at Dublin Castle.
Lunch: In a Dublin Pub. You will be joined by a duo of young Dublin traditional musicians who will share their knowledge of Irish music with you and play a few jigs, reels and airs!
Afternoon: Depart by coach for a field trip to Glencomlcille, a unique and beautiful place. Glencolmcille was chosen as a base by St. Columba, one of Ireland's three patron saints, along with St. Patrick and St. Brigid. Take an expert led walk of the Turas, a traditional pilgrimage site. On this hike, discover megalithic tombs, cross pillars, and breathtaking scenery.
Dinner: Aboard ship.
Evening: Return to ship.
Day 10: Liverpool, England
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: MS Prinsendam
Breakfast: Aboard ship.
Morning: The Beatles and more: Discover Beatles Liverpool and some of the places associated with John, Paul, George and Ringo as they grew up, met and formed the band that would take the pop world by storm.
Lunch: Aboard the ship.
Afternoon: AFTERNOON AT LEISURE TO EXPLORE Explore Liverpool Heritage: As the birthplace of the Beatles, Liverpool attracts many musical pilgrims, but its fascinating social history is recognised for its importance, Liverpool's Maritime Mercantile City was inscribed onto UNESCO's World Heritage List in 2004 to help preserve one of the world's most recognisable ports as a historic site.. Situated on the River Mersey, Liverpool's former maritime grandeur - in which it garnered a fortune from cotton and slaves during the 17th and 18th centuries - has left a striking architectural legacy. The Albert Dock and the Port of Liverpool Building are two such examples. Its status as European Capital of Culture in 2008 also helped chronicling the city's contribution to British history and culture, including The Beatles Story.
Dinner: Aboard ship.
Evening: Enjoy the ship's variety of activities on board.
Day 11: Belfast, Ireland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: MS Prinsendam
Activity note: NOTE the currency here is the Pound Sterling.
Breakfast: Aboard ship.
Morning: Today will take you on a journey to Northern Ireland’s most famous landmark and only UNESCO World Heritage Site—the Giant’s Causeway. This remarkable landform takes its name from the legend of the giant Finn MacCool and it draws people from far and wide to this corner of North Antrim. The northern Antrim coastline is renowned for it scenic beauty and the Giant’s Causeway is its unique jewel in the crown, known to the Irish as the Eighth Wonder of the World. You journey along the Donegal coastline through the towns of Moville and Culmore before crossing from the Republic of Ireland into Northern Ireland and the walled city of Londonderry. A short panoramic drive introduces you to this historic city. From here, travel through the towns of Limavady and Coleraine to join the Antrim Coast at Portrush and arriving at the Giant’s Causeway. Marvel at the majesty and mystery of the causeway—a natural rampart against the unbridled ferocity of the Atlantic. The rugged symmetry of the columns never fails to intrigue and inspire.
Lunch: At a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Free time to explore Belfast city center before returning by private motorcoach to the ship.
Dinner: Aboard ship.
Evening: Enjoy the ship's variety of activities on board.
Day 12: Milford Haven, Wales
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: MS Prinsendam
Breakfast: Aboard ship.
Morning: Located in the heart of Pembrokeshire, Wales, Milford Haven has been welcoming ships in it's deep, natural harbor since the Middle Ages. From Milford Haven, enjoy a scenic drive to the city of St. Davids to explore the St. David's Cathedral.
Lunch: Return to the ship for lunch
Afternoon: Enjoy some free time to explore Milford Haven independently.
Dinner: Aboard ship.
Evening: Enjoy the ship's variety of activities on board.
Day 13: St. Mary's, Isle of Scilly, England
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: MS Prinsendam
Breakfast: Aboard ship.
Morning: Just 28 miles off the southwest tip of Britain lies the small, beautiful archipelago of the Isles of Scilly. Its components include St Mary's, St Agnes, Bryher, Tresco, St Martins, and seemingly countless uninhabited islands and skerries. These beautiful islands exude a timeless peace and natural tranquility seldom found elsewhere.
Lunch: Aboard ship.
Afternoon: Continue your exploration of St. Mary's.
Dinner: Aboard ship.
Evening: Enjoy the ship's variety of activities on board.
Day 14: Portland, England, Llfracombe
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: MS Prinsendam
Breakfast: Aboard ship.
Morning: The Isle of Portland is a limestone island in the English Channel located in the southernmost point of the county of Dorset, England. It is connected to the mainland by the picturesque Chesil Beach. Portland Isle is an integral part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Dorset. A tranquil place, it is ideal for birdwatchers, divers, climbers, walkers and paradise for anyone interested in geology and archaeology.
Lunch: Aboard ship.
Afternoon: Continue your exploration of Portland.
Dinner: Aboard ship.
Evening: Enjoy the ship's variety of activities on board.
Day 15: St Peter Port, Guernsey, Channel Islands
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: MS Prinsendam
Activity note: This is a tender port. The ship will anchor as close to port as possible and you will be transported to the port on smaller boats.
Breakfast: Breakfast onboard
Morning: Guernsey is part of the southernmost group of islands that make up the British Isles. They sit in the Bay of St Malo, less than 30 miles from the French coast. This circular 3 hour drive of the green and beautiful island starts with a visit to a Neolithic Passage Grave and viewing of a Open Loophole Tower, built because of the American War of Independence. You will be able to see the remains of a medieval fishing village on the west coast plus German Fortifications left over from WWII and the Martello Tower. Just inland from the west coast is the only remaining free-standing chantry chapel in Guernsey built in 1392, St. Appolline Chapel. The chapel contains medieval wall paintings. Next, we will drive through the countryside to Bruce Russells and then to Castle Cornet. Those who wish to miss lunch on board have the option to stay with our local expert to visit the Castle. After the visit to the Castle proceed walking through St Peter Port’s back to the port.
Lunch: Aboard ship or on own at the Castle Cornet Cafeteria.
Afternoon: Continue your exploration of St Peter Port, Channel Islands.
Dinner: Aboard ship.
Evening: Enjoy the ship's variety of activities on board.
Day 16: At Sea
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: MS Prinsendam
Breakfast: Aboard ship.
Morning: This morning is free to enjoy as you wish.
Lunch: Aboard ship.
Afternoon: Afternoon program wrap up with your group leader
Dinner: Farewell dinner aboard ship.
Evening: Enjoy the ship's variety of activities on board.
Day 17: Arrive Amsterdam, Disembark, Program Concludes
Meals: Breakfast
Activity note: Please see the "Travel Details/Transportation" section for information about transfers.
Breakfast: Aboard ship. Ship is scheduled to arrive in Amsterdam at 7:00AM.
Morning: Transfer to the Amsterdam airport for flights back to the US. If you are booking your own air, avoid scheduling flights prior to 2:00PM. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are trasnferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future.
Day 1: Welcome to London
Welcome to London. After checking into your hotel, the afternoon is free to enjoy a city that is famous for its pomp and pageantry. Perhaps relax with a walk along the Serpentine in Hyde Park or window shop in the elegant boutiques of Knightsbridge? Alternatively, you may want to stroll along the Thames to the iconic Tower Bridge and Tower of London.
Day 2: Stratford-upon-Avon and Medieval York
At 07:30, meet your Travel Director and journey to Stratford, beautifully situated on the River Avon. Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare, full of interesting memorabilia and artefacts relating to his life. Continue on to York where you walk within the old city walls to the crooked houses of the Shambles and see York Minster, England’s largest medieval cathedral. Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly Welcome Dinner with drinks and the opportunity to mingle over a pleasant evening of dinner and wine.
Day 3: Durham, Hadrian's Wall and Edinburgh Relaxed Start
Stop in Durham to see the castle and Romanesque cathedral. Then view part of Hadrian's Wall, Britain's most impressive Roman monument, once spanning 80 miles from coast-to-coast, marking the northern frontier of the mighty Roman Empire. Cross the Scottish border to reach the elegant Scottish capital, Edinburgh.
Day 4: Scotland’s Capital of Culture
Journey down the Royal Mile to see the Palace of Holyroodhouse - official Scottish residence of Her Majesty, the Queen - before crossing over to New Town. Next, walk with your Local Expert inside Edinburgh Castle for spectacular views of the town and to see Scotland's Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg. The afternoon is free to shop on Princes Street. In the evening, select departures will enjoy the spectacle of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – a colourful mixture of historic battles and military manoeuvres with pipes and drums.
Day 5: St. Andrews and Inverness
Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife. Make your way to St. Andrews, home to the Old Course and birthplace of golf.Enjoy free time to explore. Perhaps stroll to West Sands Beach where the famous 'Chariots of Fire' scene was filmed?Your travels continue as you cross the Tay river, passing the charming Victorian resort town of Pitlochry, famous for its salmon run. Travel via Blair Atholl and past the Grampian Mountains to the sparkling Spey Valley. Later, continue to Inverness and your hotel.
Day 6: Loch Ness and Glencoe
In the morning, travel along Loch Ness and hear tales of the famous Nessie. Continue your journey through some of the most stunning scenery in all of Scotland, found in the region of Glencoe. Reach the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and admire the incredible scenery as you cruise what is arguably one of Scotland's most beautiful lochs, while enjoying a light lunch. Cross the English border before arriving at your lakeside hotel.
Day 7: The English Lakes to Chester Relaxed Start
In the morning, discover the beauty of the Lake District. Continue to your hotel in Chester. In the afternoon, why not join The Beatles City Tour Optional Experience in Liverpool?
Day 8: North Wales and over to Dublin Relaxed Start
In the morning, step back into Roman times in Chester, where you see the city’s ancient encircling walls and remarkable 13th century black and white Rows. Continue through Wales, passing the massive Conwy Castle before crossing over to the Isle of Anglesey. The village with the longest name in Europe will be visible - see if you are able to read it aloud! From the port of Holyhead, set sail for Dublin in Ireland.
Day 9: In Dublin’s Fair City
Before it opens to the public, experience Ireland's national, world-famous drink with a guided visit to the Guinness Storehouse. Gain a fascinating insight into the history and traditions behind its production and enjoy a private masterclass and tasting, where you will learn to pour the perfect pint. Later, become acquainted with Dublin’s elegant squares during sightseeing with a Local Expert. See famous O’Connell Street, the Custom House and Dublin Castle. For the rest of the afternoon, you are free to soak up the Irish atmosphere or browse the shops along Grafton Street.
Day 10: From Dublin to Killarney
Travel to Ireland's premier thoroughbred horse breeding region for a fascinating, behind-the-scenes visit of the National Stud with an equine professional. You then visit the acclaimed 100-year-old Japanese Gardens, where you can 'journey through life.' Cross the rolling pastures that encircle Tipperary to Brookfield Farm and join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Meet Ailbhe Gerrard, a passionate farmer and beekeper, who shares her secrets to crafting the most delicious and sustainable honey of the island over a delicious Farm-to-Table lunch. At night, your Dine-Around Evening offers authentic and intimate dining with your friends, from a hand-picked selection of fine local restaurants.
Day 11: Ring of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start
In the morning, join a delightful trip around the Ring of Kerry, a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands and remote villages. Get a sense of the unhurried pace of Irish life as you pass through Ireland’s highest mountain range and make your way to the three peaceful Lakes of Killarney. Explore Killarney with Insight Choice. Choose a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys. Alternatively, join a gentle hike with a Local Expert along the lake shore and past the grounds of Ross Castle, admiring the incredible scenery of the National Park. While there aren't any mountains to climb, walkers should be fit, have good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen and rain gear.
Day 12: Blarney Castle and Waterford
Explore Blarney with Insight Choice. Choose to climb up the ramparts and see the famous Stone of Eloquence. Alternatively, visit the lush gardens of the estate with a senior gardener. Travel on through the scenic port of Dungarvan to the historic walled city of Waterford, with its 11th century Reginald Tower. Enjoy a guided visit of the world-famous House of Waterford Crystal and meet a master craftsman. In the evening, after miles of fun and fascinating sights, spirits will be high during your Celebration Dinner. Toast to your newfound friends — Sláinte!
Day 13: Across the Irish Sea to Cardiff
From the port of Rosslare, board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea. A pleasant drive will then take you into the rural scenery of Pembrokeshire. Continue past the valleys of southern Wales to the capital, Cardiff, famous for its imposing castle and brilliant Principality Stadium.
Day 14: Roman Baths and Stonehenge
Visit the well-preserved Roman Baths, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, pioneering new educational investments to benefit the community. Your journey continues across Salisbury Plain for a visit to mysterious Stonehenge - no-one can be sure why they were built, or even how prehistoric man could move such huge blocks of stone. Upon your return to London you are at leisure for the rest of the day.
Day 15: Homeward Bound
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast.
