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Hurtigruten Group

British Isles Cruises

British Isles Expedition Cruises

Visit port cities, towns and villages across England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales on our British Isles cruises. Immerse yourself in the culture of the British Isles and learn about the history of distinct nations within the UK and Ireland. Discover the wild beauty of its isolated islands and beaches. Sail into Scottish lochs and English estuaries and encounter enchanting wildlife along the way. See our itineraries, activities and offers.

British Isles expedition cruises

  • Choose from a range of 7 to 15-day itineraries, taking in the highlights of England, Scotland, and Ireland - from vibrant cities to rugged coastlines and charming villages.

  • From discovering the Emerald Isle's rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality to a journey through the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands and dramatic coastline. There are a range of hidden gems to experience around the British Isles.

Activities for you

  • Your expedition comes with included and optional activities so you can enjoy some of the best things to do along the coasts of the British Isles, from landings to walks, wildlife watching, and kayaking.  

  • The onboard Expedition Team will guide you across hikes, and landings, and take you on expedition boat cruising. They’ll also give talks on geology, nature and history. 

British Wildlife

Go wildlife watching and visit some of the UK’s best birding sites. See Golden Eagles, seals, otters and perhaps even whales. 

Britain’s diverse coastlines

Discover stunning coastal scenery as you cruise the British Isles, such as the magnificent Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland.

Cruising off the coast of Stornoway, Scotland. Photo: Tom Woodstock / Ultrasharp

Discover our latest offers

From discounted voyages to flight inclusive deals - we have a range of unmissable offers to help you experience some of the world's most breathtaking destinations.

Explore latest offers

Active exploration

Cruising around the UK, you’ll enjoy guided nature walks along rocky coastal paths, get close to nature in a sea kayak, and take small expedition boats to visit wild islands.

Activities in the British Isles

Cruise around the British Isles, enjoying included and optional activities along the way. We visit England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man. See wildlife havens, and discover historic towns and cities packed with culture.

St. Kilda Nature Landing

Discover the stunning wildlife on St. Kilda, the UK’s only dual UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Distillery & Churches of the South Isles with ‘Honour and Pride’ Experience

Enjoy panoramic views across the water to the smaller South Isles of Orkney.

St Mary’s Coastal Walk 

Walk through Hugh Town, the capital of the Isles of Scilly. Enjoy beautiful sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and spectacular views over Hugh Town out to Samson, Bryher, and Tresco.

* Please note that these are optional activities; an additional cost may apply.

Lively waters

The seas and shores of the British Isles are rich in marine life. Join our Expedition Team to spot dolphins, basking sharks, humpback whales and seals.

Wildlife of the British Isles

The British Isles are home to an abundance of wildlife from sharks to butterflies. Scotland’s St Kilda and the Treshnish Isles are home to colonies of thousands of seabirds, as is Rathlin Island. As you cruise along the coast, you may catch sight of otters, seals, seabirds and shorebirds, and you might be surprised to discover that 16 species of whale and dolphin inhabit UK waters.

A cultural tapestry

Experience the distinct cultures and customs of the English, Irish, Scottish, Manx and Welsh people who share the British Isles.

Expedition Team British Isles

On a British Isles expedition, the team will help you get the most out of your cruise. Knowledgeable and passionate, they’ll share history, wildlife facts and cultural insights as you travel. These active explorers will also guide you on landings and expedition boat cruising and take you off the beaten track to see the wild beauty of these islands.

Expedition Ships to the British Isles

Travel sustainably, safely and in comfort on board our smaller expedition ships, perfect for exploring the coastline and isles around Britain and Ireland. See the ships that will take you there.

Sustainable adventures

From the locally sourced food you eat onboard to the places you visit on optional excursions, we make a point of supporting local businesses and communities wherever we go.

Penguins perched on the ice of Cuverville Island, Antarctica. Credit: Espen Mills / HX Hurtigruten Expeditions

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