Ireland & Scotland: Saints, Saviours and Secrets

Welcome to Dublin! Upon arrival at Dublin Airport, proceed to the Arrivals Hall, where an Aurora Expeditions representative will greet you and arrange your transfer to your group hotel. Visit the hospitality desk in the hotel lobby to meet the team, who will provide essential details about pre-embarkation procedures and your stay in Dublin. Collect cabin tags for your luggage—please ensure they are clearly labeled with your name and cabin number. This evening, unwind before tomorrow’s exciting ‘Day Out in Dublin.’ Your hotel features a renowned restaurant conveniently located near traditional pubs and charming eateries, perfect for enjoying a pint or sampling local cuisine.

Dublin, Ireland’s dynamic capital, pulses with energy and resilience. Once under British rule, it has forged a distinct national identity, positioning Ireland as a proud European Union member and a key player in modern Europe. The city has nurtured literary greats like Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, W.B. Yeats, and George Bernard Shaw. Historic landmarks such as Trinity College, home to the revered Book of Kells, showcase its rich heritage, while Dublin remains a thriving center of artistic and cultural expression. Its global influence extends through music, with icons like U2 shaping its creative landscape. The city’s renowned pub culture blends tradition with contemporary vibrancy, offering endless opportunities to explore day and night.

This morning, select your preferred Your Choice experience to uncover Dublin’s saints, spirits, and saviors. The afternoon is yours to explore the city independently before you come together for a spirited evening of Irish music and dance—an authentic celebration of Ireland’s lively traditions.

Personalize your exploration with your included Your Choice experiences.

Option 1 – Morning experience: Dublin Walking Tour

The size of Dublin makes it ideal for a leisurely walking tour. This morning, your local guides entertain you with tales of the city’s character-filled history. Hear stories of Ireland’s emotional past through the eyes of its many artists, manic lord mayors, and rebellious citizens whilst following the park-side alleys of Dublin’s ‘backyard,’ St Stephen’s Green, to the grand Georgian buildings of Ireland’s first university, Trinity College. Founded by Queen Elizabeth I, the college grounds offer 40 acres of academic seclusion from the hustle and bustle of downtown Dublin. Your path slows to hear quotes from Dublin’s most flamboyant son, Oscar Wilde, passing the historic Huguenot cemetery en route to your hotel.

Option 2 – Morning experience: The Dead Center of Dublin

Join a locally guided tour of Glasnevin Cemetery, where the stories of 1.6 million souls are meticulously preserved. This historical Victorian cemetery, adorned with statues of shamrocks, high crosses, and harps, offers a window into Ireland’s rich past and psyche. Discover the final resting places of notable figures such as Michael Collins, a leader in the struggle for Irish independence, and Éamon de Valera, a key political figure and former president of Ireland. You may also visit the graves of Brendan Behan, the influential playwright, and Thomas Kinsella, a celebrated poet. Look out for the final resting places of Countess Markievicz, a revolutionary and the first woman elected to the British Parliament, and Daniel O’Connell, the great emancipator. Glasnevin is a testament to Ireland’s deep-rooted belief in spirits and saints, reflecting the nation’s spiritual heritage. Each monument and grave tells the story of its occupant and offers insights into the Irish psyche, where reverence for historical figures and a connection to the spiritual world are intertwined.

Option 3 – Morning experience: The Lock Up – Kilmainham Gaol

Your morning begins with a visit to Kilmainham Gaol, a historical prison in Dublin that is now serving as a museum. One of the largest unoccupied gaols in Europe, Kilmainham opened in 1796 and closed as a prison in 1924. It played a crucial role in Ireland’s struggle for independence, housing leaders from numerous rebellions and prominent figures from the Irish War of Independence. Harsh conditions and notable executions mark the gaol’s history. Leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising, including James Connolly and Patrick Pearse, were executed here, symbolizing the dire costs of Ireland’s fight for freedom. The prison also housed many political prisoners under severe conditions, highlighting the brutal treatment they endured. The guided tour provides a detailed look into the prison’s dark past, including its role in shaping Ireland’s path to independence. You can see the stark cells and hear poignant stories of sacrifice and struggle, offering a profound insight into the nation’s history and the personal stories of those who fought for its freedom.

Today, you journey north to Belfast, with a significant stop in County Down, to pay homage to Ireland's most iconic patron, St Patrick. Originally hailing from Wales, St Patrick was a teenager when he was captured and brought to Ireland as a slave. Known as the 'Apostle of Ireland,' he is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland and is a central figure in Irish heritage. Your journey includes a brief stop at the site reputed to be St Patrick's final resting place. Here, alongside the remains of two other revered saints, St Brigid and St Columba, you pause to reflect on their enduring legacies. This sacred site not only honors the memory of St Patrick but also celebrates the profound spiritual heritage that he, along with St Brigid and St Columba, bestowed upon Ireland.

It is fair to say Belfast has had its share of turbulent times. Famines, disease, invasions, and recessions paint a picture of a tough town, but it is in the city's more recent times, known aptly as 'The Troubles,' which tarred it with the brush of division. Images of barbed wire, armed soldiers, and constant searches for bombs kept tourists away. Today, thanks to open political dialogue and foreign investment, Belfast has a new air about it. It appears lighter somehow as if a heavy burden has been lifted from its shoulders.

Your day in Belfast is filled with stories of the workers who toiled for 14 hours a day to build the world's most glamorous ship, the Titanic, the employment it created, and the race to finish her. Had they taken their time, would things have been different for the Titanic? Located on the site where the ship was built, the dockyard's Titanic Experience may answer a few of your questions. From the dockyards, your tour skips ahead to the days of 'The Troubles' as you are guided through Unionist and Nationalist neighborhoods. The occasional security gate is a reminder that the island is still contested. Still, nowadays, the city is split into seven virtual quarters or cultural zones: the Cathedral Quarter, the Titanic Quarter, the Gaeltacht Quarter, the Smithfield Market and Library Quarter, the Linen Quarter, the Market Quarter, and Queen's Quarter rather than walled ones. You peek at Belfast's 'quarters' before you board the Douglas Mawson.

Once on board, meet your team and crew and enjoy a Welcome Dinner as you sail west along Northern Ireland's rugged coastline.

Your overnight sailing takes you to Northern Ireland and the fascinating city of Londonderry~Derry. Known as Derry to the Nationalist (Catholic) population but still referred to as Londonderry by the Unionist (Protestant) population, this ‘border’ town has seen it all. The sectarian ‘Troubles’ of this predominantly Nationalist city may have blemished its reputation. Still, these tensions have eased in recent years. Although some suburbs retain their sense of division, strolling the streets is safe, and the general population is happy to share stories of their stormy past and ambitious future. You come alongside the river Foyle, the now open, natural border between the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.  

Personalize your exploration with your included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.

Option 1 – Half-day experience: Londonderry~Derry – Past, Present, Future

Your local guides interpret the story of Londonderry~Derry in this excursion, a combination of a walking and coach tour. Having lived through the tumultuous times of ‘The Troubles’ as the locals refer to it, their first-hand experiences immerse you in the era when a word to the wrong person, a stroll on the wrong side of the street, or a misplaced glance, could cost you your life. In recent years, the artists and youth of Londonderry~Derry have painted emotive murals on walls around the city. You pass several of these as your guides explain the city’s tumultuous past. Several monuments in the Bogside neighborhood shed even more light on key events, such as the hunger strikes that marred the city.  

Option 2 – Full-day experience: Dunluce Castle, Giant’s Causeway

Northern Ireland has impressive natural scenery: vast valleys, glittering lakes, and cliffs hoisted up from the Atlantic. Visit its most famous natural attraction, the Giant’s Causeway. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant’s Causeway consists of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns lifted from the ocean by volcanic activity over 60 million years ago. Of course, according to legend, giants strode across columns over the sea from Scotland, creating a giant pathway of stepping-stones that start on land and disappear into the ocean. After lunch at a local restaurant, you follow the Scenic Causeway Road to Dunluce Castle. Once the headquarters of the MacDonnell clan, the castle fell victim to a violent storm and was abandoned. Its ruins and spectacular backdrop have been popular recently after it was used as the Castle of Pyke in the famous series Game of Thrones. Returning to Londonderry~Derry, you enjoy a short driving tour before returning to the ship.

The fishing village of Killybegs is the gateway to the rugged beauty of Slieve League Cliffs and the dramatic backdrop of Ireland's own Table Mountain, Ben Bulben. Jutting out of Sligo's northern edge, the peninsula of Mullaghmore pokes into the North Atlantic. Land and sea meet in confluence along the coast of County Sligo, a landscape of jagged mountain peaks that inspired the work of Nobel-winning poet William Butler Yeats.   

Start the morning in Killybegs, where you can explore the dramatic cliffs, enjoy the scenic cliffside walk, or delve into sustainable whiskey production at the family-owned Adara Distillery. After returning to the ship for lunch, set sail south along the rugged coastline, heading towards the picturesque natural bay of Galway. 

Personalize your exploration with your included 'Your Choice' experiences.  

Option 1 – Afternoon experience: Slieve League Cliffs

Slieve League is Ireland's ultimate sea cliff experience and a signature point on the Wild Atlantic Way. Believed to be Europe's highest accessible sea cliffs, they rise 600 meters from the ocean below. The lookouts here offer unspoiled views of the Atlantic as it slams the coastline of Donegal. Slieve League boasts a raw landscape and challenging lifestyle for those who call County Sligo home. You meet some stoic characters at the Tí Linn café and craft shop for a hot drink and scones. The Slieve League Cliffs Center supports local artisans by selling their handmade specialties, including items from the Donegal Tweed company and Triona, located only a few kilometers away at Adara.  

Option 2 – Afternoon experience: Adara and the Adara Whiskey Distillery

For those who would prefer to hear about the region's most popular 'spirits,’' visit the friendly folk of Adara. One of the five designated heritage towns in County Donegal, Adara has built itself a reputation as a village of craftsmen and women. The movement towards uniquely Irish goods is a growth market for the villages scattered throughout Ireland's isolated peninsulas. It provides work for young people, and families are typically involved in the production. As home to the popular Triona Design, visitors enjoy weaving demonstrations based on traditional methods. Steeped in tradition, the Adara Distillery operations produce An Dúlamán Irish Maritime Gin and Sliabh Liag Whiskeys. Established by two 'scatterlings,' James and Moira Doherty, who returned to the Sliabh Liag peninsula to build a legacy, the distillery employs 30 people in the village 700. Tour the distillery to appreciate a sustainable, boutique side of Irish whiskey making. One inspired by the almost lost tradition for a smoky style of spirit brought up to date with the best distillation know-how. Learn about the history of Donegal's distilling heritage and see skilled workers breathing new life into it. All are tied together by a tasting of this unique brew.

Arriving at Galway, you anchor in its natural bay and tender ashore. This popular west coast seaside town of Galway attracts a steady flow of local visitors. The Irish come here to walk its mile-long promenade and, as tradition dictates, kick the walls end for good luck, enjoy fish and chips straight from the newspaper, and, of course, 'go on the gargle' in its cozy pubs.  

Join one of your morning or full-day experiences to hear stories varying from poverty to excess, fame and fortune to famine and despair before you sail for a sunset over the Cliffs of Moher. 

Personalize your exploration with your included 'Your Choice' experiences.  

Option 1 – Full-Day Experience: The Burren Badlands and their Birds of Prey 

Discover the rugged beauty of The Burren, where expansive cracked formations showcase the region's remarkable karst bedrock. This ancient limestone, sculpted by glacial activity into striking cliffs, caves, and fossils, unveils a lesser-known side of Ireland's stunning landscapes. Charming villages and small communities await as you navigate this craggy terrain, making this journey an essential experience in Ireland.  

Your scenic route leads you to an unexpected highlight—the captivating world of birds of prey. At the Birds of Prey Center, you delve into the historic bond between Ireland's elite and these magnificent raptors. Here, witness some of the world's top predators in free flight and learn about the reintroduction of rare species, including the majestic Red Kite. The center's mission focuses on conserving birds of prey through education and awareness while actively fundraising for raptor conservation across Ireland. Get up close with eagles, owls, vultures, and hawks as handlers share fascinating insights into their unique traits and the birds' modern challenges. After your encounter, enjoy a hearty lunch before returning to Galway, where you can have some free time to explore this seaside town before you tender back to the ship. (This excursion replaces your morning at Dunghaire Castle, as the castle will no longer be accessible to visitors.) 

Option 2 – Full-day experience: Galway and the Poor Souls of 'The Workhouse'

Join a guided exploration of Galway upon your arrival mid-morning. Galway City is rich in culture, art, and history and has many boutique shops offering the best Irish crafts, literary works, and artwork. Home to two of the leading colleges in Ireland, Galway has a vibrant culture and is a town for walking. View The Spanish Arch, which, being Irish, has no connection to Spain whatsoever, before boarding your coach for an hour or so drive through the open countryside of County Galway, where you find a testament to Ireland's dark days.   

Ireland struggled with poverty and famines throughout the 17th – 19th centuries. Many Irish emigrated, but those who could not were often forced to enter institutions known as 'The Workhouse.' As the name suggests, inmates were made to work long hours for meager food and lodgings in terrible conditions. One of the cruelest aspects of the workhouse was that it split families, segregating them into separate living areas for women, men, girls, and boys. Often, family members would never see each other again. Visit a new museum in a former workhouse, which aims to show the plight of those who made the ultimate decision in hopes they and their families would survive. The museum displays artifacts relevant to workhouse life, some of which are the only remaining links to the people who once lived there. After your visit, return to Galway and tender to the ship. 

Option 3 – Full-day experience: Kylemore Abbey

In the heart of Connemara, within the Archdiocese of Tuam, stands a beacon of spiritual devotion and monastic life: Kylemore Abbey. Since arriving on 4 December 1920, the Benedictine nuns at Kylemore have been committed to the Gospel of Jesus, following the Rule of St Benedict. Their lives are dedicated to prayer, work, and community, anchoring them in Connemara and Ireland's spiritual, social, educational, and cultural fabric.  

Your drive to the abbey takes you via Oughterard and Maam Cross through Connemara's rugged and breathtaking landscape. Nestled at the base of Doughruagh Mountain on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul, this iconic structure is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic buildings. The Visitor Experience at Kylemore Abbey brings its rich history to life through historical photographs, audio-visual presentations, displays of artifacts from the Kylemore archive, historical costumes, and beautifully restored period rooms. Visitors can also explore the Victorian walled garden, a testament to the nuns' meticulous dedication to maintaining the abbey's original gardens. A visit to the abbey is a mainstay of travel in Connemara and will remain with you long after you return home. 

Departing Galway, sail past the fabled Cliffs of Moher. Towering over the West Clare coast, the Cliffs of Moher are best seen in the early morning from the sea. Visually spectacular, they sit astride the striking landscape of the Burren on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. At the height of over 200 meters at O'Brien's Tower and following the coast for almost 13 kilometers, these ancient cliffs were formed over 320 million years ago and today form part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark. Dusk captures you as you sail south towards the Dingle Peninsula.

Once described by National Geographic Traveller as 'the most beautiful place on earth,' Dingle is away from the general 'tourist route,' affording you exclusive access to the wild west coast. Traditionally a fishing port, Dingle Harbor is where you anchor and tender into town. Known for its rugged scenery, dramatic cliffs, and sandy beaches, the surrounding promontory is the coastal heart of County Kerry. At the same time, Dingle has a bohemian flair and is famous for its hardware pubs, where you can enjoy a brew and buy wares. You enjoy lunch onboard before tendering ashore to experience a slice of Ireland's rural lifestyle while viewing the wild side of the country and the Irish who call County Kerry home.

Personalize your exploration with your included 'Your Choice' experiences.  

Option 1 – Morning experience: The Saintly Sites of the Dingle Peninsula

Journey today to the Dingle Peninsula, the northernmost of the five fingers projecting into the Atlantic Ocean. This area is steeped in Christian heritage, with numerous sites dedicated to Saint Brendan the Navigator, born nearby in Tralee in c. 484. Saint Brendan is celebrated for his legendary sea voyages and is a significant figure in Irish spirituality.  

Your journey takes you along the scenic coast road, past Inch to Slea Head, the most westerly point in Europe. You follow in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims and visit the 12th-century church at Kilmalkedar, a traditional assembly site for those who journeyed along Saint Brendan's Road northeast to Mount Brandon.
You also visit the renowned Gallarus Oratory, the most impressive early Christian monument on the Dingle Peninsula. This oratory, built in the shape of an upturned boat, has withstood the test of time for over 1200 years. It was part of a larger monastic site and served as a place of prayer and reflection. The Irish cherish visiting these saintly sites, finding solace and inspiration in their deep spiritual and historical significance.

Option 2 – Morning experience: Life on the Land – Past and Present

You hear tales of 'life on the land' this afternoon as you visit 'famine cottages' and meet the shepherds and the sheepdogs of the Dingle Peninsula. Your scenic drive follows a route along the dramatic cliffs of the promontory before heading inland to the farmlands of Dingle.  

This land is sheep country. Generations of farmers have survived here through wild weather, disease outbreaks, and, of course, famine. The Kavanagh family is one of them. In the 19th century, Ireland's densely populated western counties were poverty-stricken. The people in these areas were hugely dependent on the potato crop, and when the potato blight arrived in the 1840s, West Kerry experienced severe hardship. Neglected by the ruling classes, people endured horrific conditions, forcing many to emigrate, while those who remained starved. You hear tales of extreme poverty and struggles for survival as you visit the family's 19th-century cottages, which remain as they were during the great famine.

The story of this land continues in a lighter vein as you enjoy a sheepdog demonstration. The shepherds' 'best friends' take instructions in native Irish as they show off their skills and win your hearts with their cunning ability to herd even the most determined sheep. Off the coast, you see the deserted Blasket Islands, an unenviable place to live. The islands were evacuated in 1953 due to a dwindling, aging population, but the islanders' stories live on, thanks to the Blasket Center. This interactive museum tells tales of the islanders who survived in often unliveable conditions. You hear their stories, learn some 'real Irish,' and marvel at their tenacity before returning to the ship.  

Option 3 – Full-day experience: Dingle Peninsula and Tralee

As the Atlantic carves the coast, you watch its waves from your clifftop drive to Slea Head. Your route weaves and twists as you follow the peninsula, with stops to take in its dramatic scenery as the road narrows and you drive to the ocean's edge. An unforgiving land, this peninsula attracted medieval monks, who lived in beehive-shaped stone clocháns, which you visit at the Fahan Beehive. On the horizon, you see the deserted Blasket Islands, an unenviable place to live. The islands were evacuated in 1953 due to a dwindling, aging population, but the islanders' stories live on, thanks to the Blasket Centre. This interactive museum tells tales of the islanders who survived in often unliveable conditions. You hear their stories, learn some 'real Irish,' and marvel at their tenacity before heading onto the famed town of Tralee for a stroll of its quaint streets.

You sail late afternoon to bask in the last rays of sunlight as you slow to pass the Skellig Islands. Off the coast of County Kerry, two rocky pinnacles rise from the Atlantic Ocean. The Skellig Islands are world-renowned for their ornithological and archaeological significance. Skellig Michael is the site of a well-preserved monastic outpost of the Early Christian period and is now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Little Skellig is equally renowned in matters of ornithology. As the home of 27,000 pairs of gannets, it is the world's second-largest colony of such seabirds.

Some 1,400 years ago, a congregation of monks searched for a place to practice their religion in complete solitude and isolation. Determined to build a monastery on these remote islands, generation after generation of monks hand-carved 600 stone steps with the simplest tools to build a hilltop monastery 180 meters above the pounding waves. The survival of the terraces, oratories, and six corbel stone beehive huts is a testament to their skill and dedication. The archaeological remains show the dramatically spartan conditions in which the monks lived; however, after enduring several Viking raids, the monks eventually left the island in the 13th century. The site has subsequently become a place of Christian pilgrimage.

Note: The Office of Public Works (OPW) manages the Skelligs and no longer allows cruise ship passengers to land on Skellig Michael. Visitor numbers to Skellig Michael in recent years have reached the maximum permitted by UNESCO and any violation of UNESCO criteria will affect the future UNESCO status of the island. From the elevated height of your vessel, enjoy a cruise of the islands.

Arrive at Bantry Bay and tender to shore. The harbourside town of Bantry is the gateway to the touring route known as the Wild Atlantic Way. It is easy to see why Ireland’s color of choice for everything is green, from its national sporting uniforms to its flag, as you drive the famed Ring of Kerry, tread the trails of Whiddy Island, or explore Bantry, surrounded by the lush grass-covered hills and dales of the Emerald Isle. For those choosing a morning excursion, Bantry itself is small enough for a comfortable stroll in the afternoon, with shops, cafes, and plenty of pubs.  

Personalize your exploration with your included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.  

Option 1 – Morning experience: Meet the Mayor of Whiddy Island

A 15-minute ferry crossing takes you to one of Ireland’s 80 islands – Whiddy Island, with a population of 30. A former World War I US Navy seaplane base known as Bantry Bay Station, Whiddy Island offers an insight into ‘island life in Ireland.’ It is an island ideal for walking at just 5.5 x 1.6 kilometers in size. It is famous for its red and purple hue provided in summer by extensive planting of fuchsias and birdlife, as Whiddy is also home to kingfishers, little egrets and shags. But it is the story of its people that you have come to hear about, and you could not ask for a more local guide to show you around. He is the local publican and postal worker and is locally known as the King of Whiddy Island. Learn about traditional baking and mussel farming, and, of course, you wash it down at his pub with a local brew. 

Option 2 – Morning experience: The Beara Peninsula

The Ring of Beara, located on Bantry’s neighbor, the Beara Peninsula, is one of the region’s top three scenic drives, known for its rugged and less touristy charm. This 128-kilometer route, including the renowned Beara Way, journeys through some of Ireland’s most striking landscapes. You encounter a dramatic coastline where the Atlantic Ocean crashes against cliffs, creating breathtaking views. The route is flanked by sharp-featured mountains and intricate rock formations, with exposed and contorted strata presenting a geologist’s dream. Scenic detours lead to hidden gems such as ancient stone circles, secluded beaches, and picturesque villages like Eyeries, known for its brightly painted houses. Time permitting, you visit the quaint village of Allihies, famous for its copper-mining history, offering stunning vistas of Beara’s lakes and valleys. With its wild beauty and diverse scenery, the Ring of Beara promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking a truly authentic and rugged Irish experience. 

Option 3 – Full-day experience: Ring of Kerry

No, this is not a real ring, although its presence is gold for the local economy, as a day spent driving the Ring of Kerry is the touchstone against which all other beauty spots in Ireland are measured. The Iveragh Peninsula is a magical place full of myths and legends. This landscape of sandstone hills, wooded valleys, and pristine lakes has inspired poets and authors to pen many a lament. A photographer’s dream, the region is dotted with quaint towns and villages. Its lands have been carved into a series of mountain passes that whisper their story as you follow the trail of the Ring of Kerry.

Your shore excursions offer you the opportunity to 'get the gift of the gab' or follow those Irish who left their homeland for foreign shores. On return to the Douglas Mawson, enjoy lunch while you are in for a true Irish treat this afternoon when you discover the heart and soul of Irish whiskey with a private onboard tasting. A local expert expounds their passion behind every drop as you immerse yourselves in a world of rich heritage, craftsmanship, and unforgettable stories all pertaining to this amber treasure.

Personalize your exploration with your included 'Your Choice' experiences.

Option 1 – Morning experience: The Queenstown story

A half-hour drive brings you to Cork's second port at Cobh. You join a tailor-made guided walking tour tracing the story of Irish emigration with a self-guided audio tour of 'The Queenstown Story' at the Cobh Heritage Center. Seeking a better life or simply hoping to survive starvation, hundreds of thousands boarded vessels bound for foreign lands at Cobh, including Annie Moore, a teenager who was the first immigrant to be processed at the newly opened Ellis Island in New York City. Sadly, in 1912, Cobh, known as Queenstown at that time, also boarded passengers on the ill-fated Titanic.

This port town, a crucial departure point for over 3 million Irish people, tells the poignant story of their quest for a better life. The 'Queenstown Story' traces Irish emigration since the 1600s, including the transportation of convicts to Australia and the impact of disasters like the Titanic and the Lusitania. The exhibition, housed in Cobh's restored Victorian railway station, features personal tales, such as Jeremiah Burke's message in a bottle from the Titanic and Margaret Drury's convict voyage to Australia. Discover these moving stories and more, reflecting the hardships and hopes of Irish emigrants across the globe.

Option 2 – Morning experience: Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone

If every myth, legend, and limerick associated with Blarney Castle's indomitable 'stone' were true, the world would ask it to solve all your problems. Where the stone came from and how its modern-day reputation was conceived is a matter of contention, but there is no doubt that the thousands of travelers who kiss it every week receive 'the gift of the gab.' Thought to endow all those who kiss it with eloquence and the skill of flattery, the Blarney stone is shrouded in stories. Was it a witch who was saved from drowning that revealed its power? Was it the Lord of Blarney's eloquent reply to the land title demands of Queen Elizabeth I? Was it the Goddess Cliodhna's hinted reply to a love-lost Cormac McCarthy? Today, find out the truth.

Option 3 – Morning experience: The Colourful Coastal Enclave of Kinsale

You drive to the coast and the picture-perfect town of Kinsale, where you hear stories of naval battles, foreign invasions, and shipwrecks. Once a garrison town embroiled with invading navies, Kinsale became the natural landfall for ships sailing from the continent and the Americas. Two of the world's greatest ocean liners were last seen in these waters. In the early hours of 7 May 1915, the Cunard liner Lusitania was struck, only a mere 11 nautical miles off the coast of Kinsale, by a single torpedo shot from a German U-Boat. The people of Kinsale rallied to assist, but within 18 minutes, she sank, with only 764 of the 1959 souls on board surviving. There is time to enjoy a stroll around this colorful coastal enclave before returning to Cork for lunch onboard.

Known as the city where culture meets the ‘craic’ (Irish for a good time), Waterford is a modern city with a layered history. Invaded by the Norsemen in 914 CE, Waterford became a Viking settlement, which is reflected in its people even today. It emerged from the Middle Ages as a trading port with the wealth from goods from as far away as Newfoundland, the profits of which funded the construction of the many Georgian mansions that line the city’s streets. A town for those who enjoy a good stroll, Waterford is easy on the eye, offers plenty to see, and, as its reputation suggests, is full of fun.  

Enjoy one of your morning experiences before returning to the ship for lunch. This afternoon, a shuttle coach provided by Aurora Expeditions will transfer you into/out of town should you wish to explore Waterford independently. 

Personalize your exploration with your included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. 

Option 1 – Morning experience: Rock of Cashel

Perched on a dramatic limestone outcrop in the Golden Vale, the Rock of Cashel, often called ‘the Devil’s Bit,’ is one of Ireland’s most ‘saintly’ sites. According to Irish legend, flying home angrily, the devil bit off a piece of the Slieve Bloom Mountains and hurled it into the Tipperary Plain, creating the Rock of Cashel. Legend also has it that St Patrick preached here in the 5th century, converting King Aengus around 450 CE. St Patrick later established Cashel as a bishopric, claiming it as a seat of power long before it became the seat of the high kings of Ireland.

In the 12th century, St Patrick’s Cross was erected to commemorate 800 years since his visit. Although weathered, the cross still displays the crucified Christ and possibly St Patrick. The Rock of Cashel also featured in Brian Boru’s coronation in 978 CE and became a major ecclesiastical center in 1101 CE. Cormac’s Chapel, featuring unique Romanesque frescoes, reflects Ireland’s rich religious and artistic heritage. For many Irish, the Rock of Cashel symbolizes a sacred heritage and national identity, embodying the enduring legacy of Ireland’s spiritual beliefs.

Option 2 – Morning experience: Kilkenny Castle

Considered Ireland’s best-preserved medieval city, Kilkenny mixes small-town intimacy with a big-city buzz. The former home to the seat of the medieval Irish parliaments rivaled Dublin in importance, evident in its imposing Norman buildings and marble-clad facades, even today. Few buildings in Ireland can boast a longer history of continuous occupation than Kilkenny’s monolithic castle, and few have a more fascinating family story. Kilkenny Castle’s 800 years of history is associated with the rise and fall of the Marshal and Butler families, who rose in nobility from Earls to Dukes. In more recent years, they were known for their marriages to famous personalities like Winston Churchill’s cousin and Ellen Stager, an American heiress who brought quite a fortune into the Butler family. However, by 1922, Kilkenny Castle was embroiled in political problems when it was occupied by Republicans and besieged by troops of the Free State. In 1967, the family sold the castle to the Kilkenny Castle Restoration Committee for a mere £50. If you love a good riches-to-rags story, enjoy the story of Kilkenny and its powerful peerage on a self-guided tour of the castle and its grounds. 

Option 3 – Morning experience: Guided visit to the House of Waterford

Explore Waterford’s famed glassworks with a tour of the Waterford Crystal Factory – the House of Waterford. The House of Waterford is the factory of the famous glass creations named after their hometown. Opened in 1783, this fine-cut glass is exported worldwide and is beloved in every Irish home. Watch the master blowers, crystal cutters, and engravers in action as you follow the story of the crystal masterpieces, from the initial design to the final engraving.

Sail into Douglas Harbor, having enjoyed lunch on the ship, ready to explore the unique island of the Isle of Man. In the heart of the Irish Sea sits the tax-free haven of the Isle of Man, an island steeped in ancient mythology. Its name, 'Man,' is believed to be derived from 'Manannán mac Lir,' a figure from Celtic mythology who was the god of the sea and the island's legendary first ruler. In the 21st century, the island's captivating blend of rugged coastline, medieval castles, and rolling hills is a self-governing British Crown dependency, offering an insight into island life under British rule. With its own parliament, Tynwald claimed to be the oldest continuous parliamentary body in the world, the Isle of Man has a rich history, having been passed from the Celts to the Romans, to the Vikings, and finally to the British' Lords of Mann'. Self-governing since 1866, when it was granted limited home rule due to its unique cultural identity and historical ties, the Isle of Man is particularly famous for the annual TT (Tourist Trophy) motorcycle races. This exhilarating event attracts enthusiasts from around the globe and transforms the island into a hub of high-speed excitement. Although only 570 square kilometers in size and with a population of 85,000, the Isle of Man's eclectic history makes it a fascinating destination.

Personalize your exploration with your included 'Your Choice' experiences. 

Option 1 – Afternoon experience: Highlights of the Isle of Man

Your afternoon features two of the Isle of Man's top attractions. Visit the Castle Rushen in the island's former capital, Castletown. Developed by successive rulers between the 13th and 16th centuries, its towering limestone walls once dominated the southern landscape, symbolizing the power of the island's Kings and Lords. The castle's long and eventful history reflects the Isle of Man's strategic importance during the medieval period as a key possession on Britain's western seaboard.  

Following your exploration of the castle, head to the Manx Museum in Douglas. This popular museum brings the island's history to life with interactive exhibits and films. Discover the Viking Gallery, showcasing impressive artifacts from the Viking and Celtic eras, and the Natural History Gallery, offering insights into the island's natural environment. The National Art Gallery features notable works by Archibald Knox, William Hoggatt, and John Miller Nicholson, alongside evocative wartime pieces. Together, Castle Rushen and the Manx Museum provide an engaging journey through the Isle of Man's fascinating past. 

Option 2 – Afternoon experience: More Than a Bike Race – the Isle of Man TT story

For many motorcycle racing fans, legends like Conor Cummins and John McGuinness are revered as saints, their dedication earning them a place in the bike racing hall of fame. Dive into their world with your exhilarating Isle of Man TT course tour, paired with a visit to the Isle of Man Motor Museum. 

Begin with a drive along a section of the world-famous TT Course, where your guide will immerse you in the race's storied history, from its origins in 1907 to its current record-breaking feats. Discover the iconic spots where racers achieve speeds exceeding 200 mph and average lap speeds over 136 mph.  

On a section of the course, visit the Isle of Man Motor Museum, home to over 500 unique vehicles. Admire everything from the groundbreaking Ford Model T to TT heroes' bikes like Cummins' Kawasaki ZX-10R and McGuinness' Honda RLR 400. This tour promises a thrilling journey through the Isle of Man's motoring legacy. Get ready to rumble!

After breakfast, disembark the Douglas Mawson in Glasgow's seaside suburb of Troon and start your journey from coast to coast, ending your drive in Edinburgh.

You head east to the William Wallace National Monument. Possibly the second most famous man to be 'hung, drawn, and quartered' after Guy Fawkes, Sir William Wallace was a knight who led the Scottish rebellion against Edward I of England. In 1297, he killed the English sheriff at Lanark, igniting a full-blown revolt. Wallace's notable victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge severely weakened English control, but on returning to Scotland from France in 1303, he found that Robert the Bruce and John Comyn had made truces with Edward I. Excluded from these terms, Wallace was captured near Glasgow. Despite denying charges of treason, claiming he never swore allegiance to the English king, Wallace was executed, becoming a lasting symbol of Scottish patriotism and resistance.

Continuing your 'savior theme,' visit Dunfermline Abbey, the final resting place of Robert the Bruce. This revered site honors the king who secured Scotland's independence from England. Known for his pivotal role in the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, Bruce's leadership restored Scottish sovereignty and re-established its monarchy. After his death, 'the Bruce' was buried here, with his grave symbolizing his enduring legacy and the profound respect he still commands throughout Scotland.

Your evening is free to enjoy Edinburgh. This vibrant city boasts more pubs, restaurants, and whisky-tasting venues than anywhere else in the United Kingdom, guaranteeing an eventful night out.

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is more than just a city of castles and royal connections; it is where the stories of saints and heroes who saved Scotland echo through its ancient streets. Perched dramatically on volcanic hills and dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the city has been a strategic stronghold for centuries. Renowned for its connections to Scottish heroes like Robert the Bruce, Mary Queen of Scots, who took up residence at Holyrood Palace as a widow at 18 years of age, and St Giles, the patron saint of Edinburgh, the city holds secrets including hidden underground tunnels beneath the Royal Mile, and tales of ghostly apparitions that haunt the ancient vaults. 

Beyond its imposing fortifications, Edinburgh was a center of political intrigue and a gathering place where clan leaders negotiated, celebrated, and sometimes clashed, leading to dangerous liaisons and hidden nooks and crannies throughout the city. Today, visitors are encouraged to explore Edinburgh’s royal residences, museums, and galleries to uncover these stories and witness firsthand the secrets that have shaped its unique identity. Edinburgh is a living testament to Scotland’s resilience and spirit, where the legacies of saints and national heroes merge with the city’s enduring royal heritage in a puzzle of history and legend. 

Your experiences this morning showcase many classic sites, gifting you an afternoon to enjoy the city independently before you gather this evening for a Farewell Event of Scottish proportions. 

Personalize your exploration with your included ‘Your Choice’ experiences. 

Option 1 – Morning experience: The Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle

This morning, Scotland’s most famous mile awaits you, promising a fascinating journey as your guide shares quirky tales and local gems. Immerse yourself in the rich Scottish history woven into the medieval labyrinth of cobblestone alleyways and tenements. Along the Royal Mile, discover the captivating St Giles’ Cathedral, the historical Parliament Square, and the storied John Knox House. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is brimming with secrets and unforgettable stories, offering an experience you won’t want to miss.

At the pinnacle of the Royal Mile, follow in the footsteps of kings, queens, soldiers, and prisoners as you explore the historic Edinburgh Castle. This former royal residence is brimming with fascinating stories from its past. Perched high on a volcanic rock, the castle had a strategic advantage over invaders and witnessed many sieges, often switching hands between Britain and Scotland. An iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, Edinburgh Castle holds many historical treasures, including the Honors of Scotland – the oldest Crown jewels in Britain. Created during the reigns of James IV and James V, these jewels were first used together for the coronation of Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1543. During World War II, the Crown of Scotland was cleverly hidden in a medieval latrine closet in David’s Tower! Your audio tour of the castle is stacked with fascinating facts about this stoic fortress, making it factual and enjoyable.

Option 2 – Morning experience: The Underground World of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle

Explore Edinburgh’s hidden underground world on your exclusive tour, delving into the fascinating history of the city’s subterranean spaces. Beneath the bustling streets of the Old Town lies a labyrinth of vaults and passages, built in the 18th century primarily for storage and commercial purposes. These underground areas, originally constructed to accommodate the city’s growing needs, were used for storing goods, housing taverns, and even as living quarters for the city’s poorest residents.

As you journey through these shadowy chambers, your guide will reveal how the vaults became home to Edinburgh’s destitute, offering a glimpse into the city’s past struggles. Discover why these vaults were built, their varied uses over the centuries, and the hidden stories of those who lived and worked in Edinburgh’s dark corners. 

At the pinnacle of the Royal Mile, follow in the footsteps of kings, queens, soldiers, and prisoners as you explore the historic Edinburgh Castle. This former royal residence is brimming with fascinating stories from its past. Perched high on a volcanic rock, the castle had a strategic advantage over invaders and witnessed many sieges, often switching hands between Britain and Scotland. An iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, Edinburgh Castle holds many historical treasures, including the Honors of Scotland – the oldest Crown jewels in Britain. Created during the reigns of James IV and James V, these jewels were first used together for the coronation of Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1543. During World War II, the Crown of Scotland was cleverly hidden in a medieval latrine closet in David’s Tower! Your audio tour of the castle is stacked with fascinating facts about this stoic fortress. 

Option 3 – Morning experience: The Royal Yacht Britannia

A Royal residence for over 40 years, the Britannia enchants you with an audio tour of her decks, apartments, bridge, and engine room. Launched on 16 April 1953 from the John Brown & Company shipyard in Clydebank, Scotland, the Royal Yacht Britannia served the royal family for over 44 years. It sailed more than a million nautical miles, becoming one of the world’s most famous ships. To Queen Elizabeth II, Britannia was the ideal royal residence for state visits, official receptions, royal honeymoons, and family holidays. For Great Britain, it was a symbol of the Commonwealth and a proud ambassador, generating billions in trade deals. For the royal family and its 220 dedicated crew members, Britannia was a cherished home. When she was decommissioned in 1997, it marked the end of a long tradition of British royal yachts dating back to 1660 and the reign of Charles II.

After breakfast, you leave, carrying the vibrant tales of Ireland’s and Scotland’s saints, saviors, and uncovered secrets. An airport transfer shared with your fellow explorers is included for your onward flight.