Scenic Coastlines of the British Isles

One of Scotland's most striking coastal vistas can be seen while cruising past Duncansby Sea Stacks. Centuries of erosion have sculpted towering sea stacks that soar magnificently from the North Sea, and a vivid symphony of sights and sounds is produced by seabirds such as razorbills, guillemots, and puffins using these remarkable rocks as nesting grounds. From the decks of your ship, there will be opportunities for you to witness seals sunning themselves on nearby rocks, adding to the area's abundant wildlife display. For both nature lovers and photographers, the untamed splendour of Duncansby Sea Stacks, set against the backdrop of Scotland’s northern shoreline in summer, makes for an unforgettable experience.

Renowned for the strength of its tides, Pentland Firth lies between the Orkney Islands and mainland Scotland, is celebrated for its rich diversity of marine life, and is seen as a vital migratory route for whales and dolphins. During August, the seas here are teeming with marine life as the favourable weather conditions bring an abundance of food supplies close to the surface, and you may be able to spot minke whales, orcas, and bottlenose dolphins playing and hunting in the waters as your ship sails along Pentland Firth.

Britain’s tallest and most famous sea stack, the Old Man of Hoy rises 450 feet out of the Atlantic Ocean on the coast of Hoy Island, in Scotland’s rugged Orkney archipelago. Originally an arch with two ‘legs’ resembling those of an old man, hence its nickname, the erosive power of the weather has reduced the stack to a single pillar which, owing to a crack slicing through the middle of it, geologists believe will one day collapse into the sea.

A thriving town with a busy fishing port, Stornoway is a delight to explore and offers opportunities for discovering Lews Castle, home to a museum and cultural centre telling the story of the Hebrides, or simply wandering through its garden pathways, hills, and carriage trails. In August, a stroll through the town’s centre offers chances to try freshly caught seafood like lobster, scallops, and salmon, accompanied by locally distilled Scottish whisky, and listen to foot-tapping music from nearby pubs. Meanwhile, there will be opportunities to venture further afield to witness the striking Callanish Standing Stones.

Duart Castle dates back to the 13th century and guards the sea cliffs of the Isle of Mull, giving it one of the most spectacular positions for prominence in West Scotland. The castle treasures over 700 years of history of one of Scotland’s oldest clans, the Macleans, and is one of the last surviving privately owned clan castles in Scotland. Duart Castle was deliberately chosen to be sited on a high crag at the end of a peninsula, jutting into the Sound of Mull.

Bac Mòr, also known as Dutchman’s Cap due to its unique mushroom-like shape, is one of the most iconic of the Scottish Treshnish Isles. Sailing alongside this geological spectacle offers a unique perspective from the sea, as the striking appearance of this uninhabited island appears before your ship, creating a rugged silhouette against the skyline. During August and the summer months, you’ll be able to witness rich grasslands and an abundance of wildflowers on the island; as well as nesting puffins, guillemots, fulmars, and razorbills, as it has been designated as a Special Area of Conservation.

Fingal’s Cave is an iconic structure comprised of basalt rock, renowned for its distinctive symmetrical columns that soar out of the ocean. Famed for its naturally arched roof that creates eerie sounds from the echoes of the waves as they tumble against its walls, it was said to be Mendelssohn’s inspiration for the ‘Hebrides Overture’. According to legend, the giant Finn McCool built Fingal’s Cave as a place of refuge from his archenemy, Benandonner, and the road connects to the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland, both formed from the same ancient lava flow. In August, the cave is a popular place for wild swimming in its clear waters, so you may spot bathers from the decks of your ship snorkelling amongst the hexagonal columns. 

The largest of the Isles of Scilly, St. Mary’s is a peaceful gem off the coast of Cornwall, known for its warmth and beauty. The island is a charming blend of picturesque beaches, rolling hills, and rugged coastal paths, perfect for peaceful walks and sea views, and the capital of Hugh Town has narrow streets lined with boutiques and cafés, ripe for browsing or sampling locally caught seafood. Close by is Star Castle standing as a reminder of its centuries past, while, due to the island’s subtropical climate, you’ll have the chance to discover the lush Tresco Gardens, home to 2,000 exotic plant species, or go in search of the abundant wildlife, from playful seals to a variety of birds. 

During summer, the picturesque capital of Guernsey, St. Peter Port, is a bustling, historic town that blends perfectly with nature and adventure. After you have explored the fascinating 800-year-old Castle Cornet, sitting proudly at the mouth of the harbour; stroll along the winding, cobbled streets of the quaint old town, with its charming boutiques and restaurants offering fresh Guernsey crab and lobster, or sample traditional locally made Gache (fruit loaf). Meanwhile, the island is famed for its coastal walks, providing opportunities to search for hidden coves and beaches and enjoy panoramic views across to the islands of Herm and Sark. There will also be chances to learn about the island’s World War II history through a collection of memorabilia at the local German Occupation Museum.

Portland is a ruggedly beautiful island connected to the mainland by the renowned Chesil Beach and is known for its striking cliffs and wild landscapes. Forming part of the Jurassic Coast, the island is rich in history, with important landmarks like Portland Castle and the distinctive red and white tower of Portland Bill Lighthouse. Close by is the famous limestone arch of Durdle Door, which you will have the opportunity to admire on a coastal tour from your smaller sized ship. As you stroll through the town during the summer months, you can stop at local delicatessens and sample the famous Dorset knob, beautifully paired with Blue Vinny cheese or local honey, or Dorset Apple Cake, deliciously sweet with a hint of cinnamon.