Essential cruise - British Isles and Cities Discovery

Day 1 London Tilbury At London Tilbury Port, embark Columbus (3T) in preparation for a late afternoon sailing. Day 2 Rotterdam, The Netherlands Following almost total destruction by the bombings of World War II, Rotterdam now boasts bold, futuristic architecture following its modern reconstruction. As the country’s second-largest metropolis, there are many top museums, the grand St Lawrence Church - the only remaining medieval building - the picturesque Kinderdijk Windmills and the Museum Boijmans-Van Beuningen, home to a superb collection of sculptures and paintings made by talented artists from across Europe. Day 3 At sea A relaxing day spent on board Columbus, perhaps indulge in a relaxing massage treatment. Day 4 Kirkwall, Orkney Islands This morning we arrive in the capital of the Orkney archipelago, Kirkwall - a beautiful town rich in Viking heritage, with beautiful grey stone buildings, enchanting streets and a handful of spectacular monuments including St Magnus Cathedral. Britain’s northernmost cathedral, known as the ‘Light of the North’, was founded in 1137 by the Vikings and has dominated Kirkwall’s skyline ever since. Day 5 Portree, Isle of Skye The Isle of Skye’s main town, Portree, is set among picturesque cliffs and scenic high ground and the settlement itself is located around the picturesque harbour, with colourful houses and picturesque fishing boats bobbing in the calm waters. Optional excursions allow you to visit the region’s incredible natural beauty including charming crofting villages, magnificent castles, small lochs and adventurous moorland. Ship to shore tender service. Day 6 Belfast Northern Ireland’s lively capital is renowned for its shipbuilding industry which in its Golden Age, created the ill-fated Titanic. Today, Belfast is a cosmopolitan city bursting with elegance and interesting attractions including the historic City Hall - a grand government building - the magnificent Opera House, Belfast Castle and the superb Botanic Gardens, home to many tropical plants and a glasshouse completed in 1840. Day 7 Dublin, Ireland This morning we arrive in the Republic of Ireland’s charming capital, Dublin, located along the banks of the River Liffey. An array of medieval, Georgian and modern-day architecture occupies the city centre, including the Dublin Castle - a Viking fortress as well as an important government complex - and the magnificent Christchurch Cathedral. There are also a number of delightful galleries and historic museums such as the Dublin City Gallery, National Museum of Ireland and Irish Museum of Modern Art. A visit to Dublin wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Guinness Storehouse, the producer of Ireland’s world-famous beverage; while here you can taste some of the renowned tipple and learn of its production process. Day 8 Cobh Located at the mouth of the beautiful River Lee is the town of Cobh. Disembark here to discover streets lined with coloured houses and the impressive St Coleman’s Cathedral, a magnificent structure hosting 49 impressive bells. Cobh is not only a picturesque town, it is the perfect place to embark on an optional excursion to the fairytale Blarney Castle, a medieval structure dating back to the 13th century. Day 9 At sea Spend a relaxing day at sea as Columbus travels towards France. Day 10 Honfleur, France Painters and writers have long been admirers of picturesque Honfleur in northern France, featuring half-timbered houses, narrow cobblestone streets and an old harbour. Roam the pretty streets to discover historic architecture, art galleries, welcoming boutiques, and fine restaurants and cafés. The harbour is an unmissable highlight, with its beautiful fishermen’s boats surrounded by picturesque centuries-old townhouses - the perfect place to sit back and take in the scenery. Day 11 London Tilbury Arrive at London Tilbury Port.