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YOUR O.A.T. ADVENTURE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE®
Maritime Jewels of the British Isles & Ireland
2022
Small Groups: 20-25 travelers—guaranteed! (average of 22)
®
Overseas Adventure Travel
The Leader in Personalized Small Group Adventures on the Road Less Traveled
1
Dear Traveler,
For me, one of the joys of traveling is the careful planning that goes into an adventure—from the first spark of
inspiration to hours spent poring over travel books about my dream destinations—and I can’t wait to see where my
next journey will take me. I know you’re eager to explore the world, too, and our New! Maritime Jewels of the British
Isles: England, Wales, Northern Ireland & Scotland itinerary described inside is an excellent way to start.
As for New! Maritime Jewels of the British Isles: England, Wales, Northern Ireland & Scotland, thanks to your small group
of 20-25 travelers (average 22) you can expect some unforgettable experiences. Here are a few that stood out for me:
When I think of the British Isles, I imagine dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, lively music echoing from a local
pub, and legendary tales of folk heroes. I also love to see how the people live, work, and play in rural communities
like the Orkney Islands, a remote community off the northeaster coast of Scotland. You’ll experience A Day in the
Life of a working sheep farm. You’ll meet the farm owner and his wife before feeding the sheep and witnessing
a demonstration of the whistle commands uses by farmers to train sheepdogs to herd flock. Then, you’ll enjoy a
farm-fresh lunch with the farmer and his wife.
But nothing compares with the stories I hear directly from the local people. You’ll hear their dramatic personal
experiences when you explore Belfast via black cab, driven by locals who lived through The Troubles; and you’ll
have a rare opportunity to meet an ex-British soldier and two ex-political prisoners—a Republican who fought for
Irish independence and a loyalist who fought with the Ulster Volunteer Force—to learn about the dark shadow cast
by this conflict and their shared hopes for a better future.
The way we see it, you’ve come a long way to experience the true culture—not some fairytale version of it. That’s
why we don’t shy away from controversial topics, and why all our Trip Experience Leaders are “insiders” who live
in the country.
To ensure your adventure is truly unique, join the 85% of our travelers who choose to put their own personal stamp
on their adventure by personalizing their experience. You can arrive early and stay later, add a pre- or post-trip
extension, spend time in a Stopover city, or combine two or more trips. Plus, your itinerary offers ample free time so
you can pursue your own interests.
So now that the day has come when you can enjoy your New! Maritime Jewels of the British Isles: England, Wales,
Northern Ireland & Scotland adventure, I hope you will relish the fun and anticipation that this O.A.T. Adventure
Travel Planning Guide® will inspire. Should you have further questions, feel free to call our Regional Adventure
Counselors at 1-800-955-1925.
Warm regards,
Harriet R. Lewis
Vice Chairman
Overseas Adventure Travel
P.S. I thought our 3 most popular videos about Great Britain and Ireland would help you get inspired for the
adventure ahead. Scan the QR code next to the video to watch.
Traveler’s Perspective: Travelogue: Paris, France and Smart Travels with Rudy Maxa:
the British Isles London, England 1957 Edinburgh & Scotland
SCAN ME SCAN ME SCAN ME
Open the camera feature on your mobile device, and hover the lens over this code to scan it. A pop-up notification will take you directly to the video.
2
CONTENTS
A Letter from Harriet Lewis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
The O.A.T. Difference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
The Freedom to Personalize Your Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Grand Circle Foundation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
The Leader in Solo Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
MARITIME JEWELS OF THE BRITISH ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS:
ISLES: ENGLAND, WALES, NORTHERN CULTURE, ETIQUETTE & MORE
IRELAND & SCOTLAND Culture of the British Isles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Your Adventure at a Glance: Language in Ireland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Where You’re Going, What it Costs, Oxford in Brief. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
and What’s Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Aberdeen in Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Your Detailed Day-To-Day Itinerary . . . . . . . . 12 74
Dublin in Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pre-Trip Extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 73
Edinburgh in Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Post-Trip Extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Shopping: What to Buy, Customs,
Deck Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Shipping & More . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Dates & Prices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
DEMOGRAPHICS & HISTORY
Travel Documents & Entry Requirements. . . 37 United Kingdom in Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
37
No Visas Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 77
Rigors, Vaccines & General Health . . . . . . . . . 39 England . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Ocean Cruise vs. River Cruise . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 77
Vaccines Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 England: A Brief History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Money Matters: Local Currency & Wales. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Tipping Guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 79
Top Three Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Wales: A Brief History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
How to Exchange Money . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Scotland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Tipping Guidelines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 80
Air, Optional Tours & Staying in Touch . . . . . 48 Scotland: A Brief History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Optional Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Isle of Man . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Communicating with Home from Abroad . . 50 Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 82
Packing: What to Bring & Luggage Limits . . . 51 Northern Ireland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Your Luggage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 83
Clothing Suggestions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Northern Ireland: A Brief History . . . . . . . . . . 83
Suggested Packing Lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Ireland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Electricity Abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Facts, Figures & National Holidays . . . . . . . . 84
Climate & Average Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . 57 Ireland: A Brief History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Aboard Your Ship: Cabin Features,
Dining & Services on Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 RESOURCES
M/V Corinthian & M/V Clio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Suggested Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Ship Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Suggested Film & Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
O.A.T. Health & Safety Measures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
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EXPERIENCE THE O.A.T. DIFFERENCE
in Europe
This adventure not only showcases iconic sights, but takes you beyond them to experience the
culture through unique activities, engagement with the natural world, and authentic encounters
with local people. Since our founding in 1978, O.A.T. has become America’s leader in personalized
small group journeys on the road less traveled.
SMALL GROUPS: 20-25 TRAVELERS LOCAL MODES OF TRANSPORTATION
(AVERAGE OF 22)—GUARANTEED To see the world like the locals, you should
The world feels more intimate and engaging travel like one. Our small group size allows
when your experience of it is also personal us to take the roads and waterways that are
and genuine. That’s why our groups never less traveled, and we often follow them using
exceed 25 travelers. This gives you access to the same unique modes of transportation
people and places larger groups simply can’t that the locals use—be it a canoe, a camel or a
reach. More authentic interactions. Deeper vintage cab.
bonds with your travel mates. Personal service
from your Trip Experience Leader. Smoother UNIQUE LODGINGS
transitions. And a far more satisfying Our lodgings reflect the local character,
experience than any traditional tour offers. from smaller family-run hotels and historic
manors to comfy inns. Occasionally, larger
THE BEST TRIP EXPERIENCE LEADERS hotels closer to city centers are used. Wherever
Your English-speaking, O.A.T. Trip Experience you stay, you’re assured fine comfort and
Leader is a resident of the region you are visiting, hospitality.
so you will get a true insider’s perspective
that brings each place alive—the stories, food, OUR WORLDWIDE OFFICES
customs, hidden treasures and more. With 36 regional offices around the world,
we are perfectly poised to leverage our local
AUTHENTIC CULTURAL CONNECTIONS relationships to deliver an excellent experience
Engage with local people through visits to and value. During this trip, you’ll be supported
farms, factories, markets, and artisans’ by our team in London.
studios; school visits; Home-Hosted meals;
and more.
Witness the thatched cottages of Gaerannan Blackhouse Experience the hospitality of locals over a Home-Hosted meal
Village on the Isle of Lewis
4
THE PILLARS OF DISCOVERY
Enriching. Inspiring. Unforgettable. These features form the foundation
of your Maritime Jewels of the British Isles adventure.
GRAND CIRCLE FOUNDATION (GCF) VISIT divisions still split Belfast today, and how
GCF was established in 1992 to help change they are now committed to a shared vision of
people’s lives in the world where we live, reconciliation.
work, and travel. To date, we have pledged or
A DAY IN THE LIFE
donated $200 million worldwide.
Do you ever wonder, “What would it be like
By investing in the places we explore— to live here?” when you visit new lands? Let’s
including local schools, cooperatives, or arts find out during your O.A.T. A Day in the Life, an
centers—we hope to give locals the skills and exclusive, immersive experience that places
confidence they need to become leaders of you in the heart of a community where you’ll
their generation and preserve their heritage meet various people where they live, work,
for many years to come. We’re proud to play and play; visit the neighborhood school; lend a
a part in preserving precious locales like the hand with daily chores; and break bread with
Bryggen waterfront district of Bergen, a living our hosts.
example of the glory days of the Hanseatic
Meet a Scottish farmer during A Day in the
League, and supporting villages like Harmi in
Life of a working sheep farm in Stromness
Estonia, whose once-struggling school is now
where we’ll witness a demonstration of the
a center of community life.
whistle commands used by farmers to train
CONTROVERSIAL TOPICS the sheepdogs to herd the flock, followed by
Every culture has its joys and achievements, lunch with the farmer and his family.
and we celebrate them all. But every place
HOME-HOSTED EXPERIENCES
also has its challenges, and to gloss over them
Stories shared. Differences solved. Taste buds
would not do justice to those whose stories
engaged. Good will extended. It’s amazing the
need to be told—nor to you, as a traveler who
things that can happen across a kitchen table,
deserves more than a sugar-coated version of
so we’ll break into groups of 4-5 to join a local
things. So our Trip Experience Leaders will
family in their home for a snack or a meal.
lead frank discussions on controversial issues,
This is a rare opportunity to witness family
and introduce you to people whose stories will
life, learn local customs, and taste some
expand your understanding.
home-cooked fare.
For example, we will experience an eye-
On this adventure, a local Welsh family
opening view of the Troubles when we meet
will invite us into their home for a
with three men who fought on opposing sides
traditional Home-Hosted Lunch. Expect
during this period of turmoil. We’ll hear their
simple, hearty fare as you enjoy this unique
firsthand accounts of the brutal experiences
opportunity to experience a slice of everyday
they had, and the dark deeds they committed
Welsh life.
during the fighting, about how sectarian
5
You're in control with
THE FREEDOM TO PERSONALIZE YOUR EXPERIENCE
Exclusively with O.A.T.
Your Choice. Your Adventure. Your Way.
It’s your adventure, so why not make it exactly what you want it to be? We offer an exclusive
variety of options that let you tailor your adventure so it’s completely your own. In fact, O.A.T. is the
only travel company to offer this level of flexibility and choice for a truly personalized experience.
PRE- OR POST-TRIP EXTENSIONS 2. Great value: All extensions include
Every O.A.T. adventure offers at least one accommodations, daily breakfast, and
optional pre-trip and one post-trip extension. airport transfers.
Here’s why more than 55% of O.A.T. travelers 3. Continuity and camaraderie: You’ll usually
choose to take a pre- or post-trip extension: travel with the same Trip Experience Leader
1. You’ll maximize your discoveries—often who leads your main trip, enjoying more of
in an even smaller group than your main his or her insider expertise—and more time
adventure (on average, 6 travelers with a to bond with the group.
dedicated Trip Experience Leader)—and take
advantage of your included airfare.
Optional Extensions offered with your Europe adventure
Ireland’s Ancient East: Dublin, Wexford Scotland & England: St. Andrews,
& Kinsale Edinburgh & York
7 nights pre-trip from $1895 7 nights post-trip from $1895
Kinsale, Ireland Edinburgh, Scotland
6
ARRIVE EARLY, STAY LATER the tours you take, activities you plan, and
Extending your time abroad—with us or restaurants you visit. If you’d like ideas about
on your own—is the best way to broaden how to spend this time and what to see and do,
your experience. It’s also a practical way to our Regional Adventure Counselors can provide
maximize the value of the international airfare recommendations when helping you plan
covered in your main itinerary. this option.
Expand Your Discoveries Before COMBINE ADVENTURES
or After Your Adventure You’re already overseas. Why not see more and
maximize your value by avoiding the cost and
Arrive early in the first destination on your
length of another international flight? Here’s
pre-trip extension or main adventure, or stay
why 2,250 O.A.T. travelers combined two or
later in the last city on your main adventure or
more adventures in 2019:
post-trip extension. By coming early, you can
rest after your flight and adjust—with time to • Save a total of $600-$3000 per person when
explore. By staying later, you have extra time you combine two adventures compared to the
to relax, pack, or continue exploring. cost of taking each trip separately.
This option lets you take advantage of our • Apply the 5% or 6% Frequent Traveler Credit
lower group rates, with prices from $75 per you earn on your first trip to your second trip.
person per night—including accommodations, • Sir Edmund Hillary Club members save an
private airport transfer, and daily breakfast. extra $250-$350 per person when booking
multiple trips in a calendar year.
• Arrive early in Oxford for your main trip
for $200 per person, per night • Our Regional Adventure Counselors make all
the arrangements for a seamless experience.
• Arrive early in Dublin on your Ireland’s
Ancient East pre-trip extension for $175 per Combine this trip with our Ireland in Depth
person, per night adventure—for a total cost of $10,090-$13,890
per person—and save $800-$1200 per person
• Conclude your main trip with more time
versus taking each trip separately.
in Aberdeen for just $75 per person, per night
• Remain in Manchester after your Scotland AIR PREFERENCES
& England post-trip extension for $75 per 54% of our travelers customize their air
person, per night itineraries:
Accommodations are at the same hotels where • Choose your departure city and airline
you begin or end the main trip and optional • Depart from one city and return to another
extensions, so transitions will be seamless.
• Upgrade to Premium Economy or
NEW! Stopover in any major international city Business Class
Travelers with O.A.T. airfare have the FREEDOM OF CHOICE DURING YOUR
opportunity to stopover in popular cities en
ADVENTURE
route to your main adventure. Speak with one
Our itineraries provide a balance of included
of our Regional Adventure Counselors to learn
activities and free time so you always have
more about your options and to arrange your
the flexibility to participate in included
international airfare.
activities, go off on your own entirely, or do a
You are free to choose however you’d like to mix of both.
spend this additional time exploring, including
7
GRAND CIRCLE FOUNDATION
Changing people’s lives, one village, one school, one person at a time
ON THIS ADVENTURE …
Dear Traveler,
Since our inception in 1992, the Grand Circle
In 1992 we established Grand Circle Foundation has pledged or donated more
Foundation, an entity of the Lewis Family than $200 million to projects around the
Foundation, as a means to give back to world. Here are just a few of the ways we have
the world that had already given us so partnered with the communities on this trip.
much. We’ve pledged or donated more
Haven Horizons
than $200 million worldwide to support
Haven Horizons—a new partner of Grand Circle
the education of young people and the
Foundation—is dedicated to preventing domestic
preservation of international treasures
abuse and helping survivors develop the skills
and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and needed to lead fulfilling, independent lives. In
the conservation of natural resources for addition to community outreach and emotional
future generations. support, the organization offers adult education
Of course, none of this would be possible
courses and works with the community, police,
public agencies, and other institutions to promote
without your help. A portion of the
prevention policies.
proceeds of every adventure is donated to
Grand Circle Foundation—so just as your St. Oliver’s National School
life will be enriched by the discoveries Total Donations: $8,198
you’ll make on your journey, you’ll also Located in Killarney, this Catholic primary school
help to enrich the lives of the people serves a diverse population of nearly 750 students
you’ll meet along the way. Thank you from a variety of faiths, nationalities, and abilities.
for traveling with us, and for helping to The school has the highest number of pupils with low
change people’s lives. incidence Special Education Needs in Ireland and has
received awards for Cultural Diversity and Environ-
Love and peace, mental Awareness. With GCF funding, the school ob-
tained furnishings and play therapy for 40 students.
Harriet R. Lewis
Chair, Grand Circle Foundation
SCAN ME See how Grand Circle
Foundation is giving back
in this video
Open the camera feature on your mobile
device, and hover the lens over this code to
scan it. A pop-up notification will take you
directly to the video.
www.grandcirclefoundation.org
8
THE LEADER IN SOLO TRAVEL
in Europe—and Around the World
ON THIS ADVENTURE …
FREE or low-cost Single Supplements: We The leader in solo-friendly
have a limited number of FREE or low-cost travel for Americans—by
single supplements on this adventure and the numbers
FREE Single Supplements optional trip
extensions. But single spaces fill quickly, so
early reservations are advised.
More than 50% of all O.A.T.
travelers are women who travel solo
One of our most popular trips for solo
travelers. More than 585 solo travelers joined In 2022, we’re offering 30,000
us on this adventure in the past three years— singles spaces across all O.A.T.
either independently or sharing a room with a adventures. That’s 86% more than
mother, daughter, sister, or friend. offered in 2019
High ratings: More than 93% of these solo
travelers rated their adventure excellent. 92% of our 30,000 single spaces
have FREE Single Supplements. The
Since you will be joined by others traveling remaining 8% have the lowest single
independently in your group, it’s easy to forge supplements in the industry.
special bonds as you experience unforgettable
moments together.
In 2022, we’re offering 25 exclusive
women’s departures on some of our
You’ll be in good hands, thanks to your
most popular itineraries
dedicated local Trip Experience Leader (a
resident of Europe), and the expertise of our
regional office team in London.
SCAN ME
Increased Single Space: In 2022, we have 23%
NEW! 101+
more single spaces than in 2019, with up to 9
Tips for Solo
single spaces per departure. See available FREE
Women Travelers
This complimentary, 96-page
single space at www.oattravel.com/cre2022.
booklet is a comprehensive
collection of savvy tips
specifically for seasoned women
travelers going solo. Learn about
safety for solos, packing like a pro,
the best travel apps, self-care on
the road, and more. Scan this code
to view an online copy or to request
one by mail.
9
Explore aboard our privately owned 98-passenger M/V Corinthian
New! Maritime Jewels of the British Isles:
England, Wales, Northern Ireland & Scotland
Small Ship Adventure
England̆zƗĕŋũù̇ ũĢŭŶŋķ̇dÖĴā'ĢŭŶũĢóŶ̳Ά̳Wales̆DĢŭĞėŽÖũù̳Ά̳Isle of Man̳Ά̳Northern Ireland̆ āķĕÖŭŶ̳Ά̳Scotland:
Islay, Isle of Mull, Isle of Lewis, Orkney Isles, Aberdeen
Countries: 4Ά!ĢŶĢāŭ̆10Ά10 Nights Aboard Our Privately Owned 98-Passenger M/V Corinthian
Small Groups: 20-25 travelers—guaranteed!
It’s Included
(average of 22)
FROM PER DAY DAYS • Services of our local Trip Experience • 35 meals: 13 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 12
Leader with your group of 20-25 dinners—including 1 Home-Hosted
$ 8095 $ 540 15 (average of 22) throughout Lunch—plus all onboard house beer,
your adventure wine, and soft drinks
Including international airfare
• International airfare, airport transfers, • 20 guided tours and cultural
government taxes, fees, and airline fuel experiences
Single Supplement: $1395
surcharges, unless you choose to make
your own air arrangements
• Gratuities for local guides and
motorcoach drivers
Maximize Your • Accommodations for 2 nights in
• All port charges
Oxford, 10 nights aboard our privately
Discoveries & Value owned small ship, and 1 night • Baggage handling for 1 piece of luggage
in Aberdeen per person, including tips
Optional extensions:
• 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward
Ireland’s Ancient East: Dublin, your next trip
Wexford & Kinsale SCAN ME
7 nights pre-trip from $1895 Watch our #1 most popular video
Travel from only $271 per night
for this adventure
Scotland & England: St. Andrews,
Open the camera feature on your mobile device, and hover
Edinburgh & York the lens over this code to scan it. A pop-up notification will
7 nights post-trip from $1895 take you directly to the video.
Travel from only $271 per night
Stromness harbor, Scotland
Maritime Jewels of the British Isles: England, Wales, Northern Ireland & Scotland
10Itinerary Summary
Pre-trip extension: 7 nights in Ireland’s
Ancient East: Dublin, Wexford & Kinsale
DAYS DESTINATION
1 Depart U.S.
2-3 Oxford, England
4 Bristol • Embark ship
5 Wales
6 Isle of Man
7 Lake District
8 Northern Ireland
What to Expect 9-13 Coastal Scotland
14 Aberdeen • Disembark ship
Pacing: 14 days, with 10 nights aboard the M/V Corinthian, one two-night hotel stay in 15 Return to U.S.
Oxford, and one overnight hotel stay in Aberdeen
Post-trip extension: 7 nights in Scotland
Physical Requirements: Walk 3 miles unassisted and participate in 2 hours of & England: St. Andrews, Edinburgh & York
physical activities each day, including the boarding of Zodiacs or tenders and possible
rough seas
Flight time: Travel time will be 6-18 hours and most likely won’t have connections
View all physical requirements at www.oattravel.com/cre2022
Arrive Early, Stay Later
Prices below include accommodations,
daily breakfast, and private airport
The British Isles & Ireland: The O.A.T. Difference transfer.
• Arrive early in Oxford for your main trip
Unbeatable Value: Travel at the lowest price and per diems in the industry. Plus, all for $200 per person, per night
port charges included—a value of up to $725 per person. • Arrive early in Dublin on your Ireland's
Ancient East pre-trip extension
People-to-People Experiences: Meet a Scottish farmer during A Day in the Life of a for $175 per person, per night
working sheep farm in Stromness where we’ll witness a demonstration of the whistle
• Conclude your main trip with more time
commands used by farmers to train the sheepdogs to herd the flock, followed by
in Aberdeen for just $75 per person,
lunch with the farmer and his family. Plus, meet with a relative of a prisoner of war
per night
(POW) at Stromness’ World War II Italian Chapel to hear their story.
• Remain in Manchester after your
O.A.T. Exclusives: Join conversations about Controversial Topics and confront Scotland & England post-trip exten-
uncomfortable truths facing the region: Explore Belfast via black cab, driven by locals sion for $75 per person, per night
who lived through The Troubles; then meet an ex-British soldier and ex-political
prisoners who fought on opposite sides of the fighting to learn about the dark shadow
cast by this conflict, and their shared hopes for the future.
Information & Reservations 1-800-955-1925 www.oattravel.com/cre2022
11Maritime Jewels of the British Isles: England,
Wales, Northern Ireland & Scotland
YOUR DETAILED ITINERARY
BEGIN YOUR ADVENTURE WITH AN OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP EXTENSION
7 nights in Ireland’s Celtic Coast: Dublin, Wexford & Cork
Day 1 Depart U.S. Day 5 Explore Kilkenny • Visit a fish farm
Day 2 Arrive Dublin, Ireland Day 6 Wexford • Visit Waterford Crystal
factory • Cork
Day 3 Explore Dublin •
Community-Hosted Lunch Day 7 Cork • Visit Blarney Castle
Day 4 Dublin • Visit Glendalough • Avoca Day 8 Cork • Fly to London • Oxford
Handweavers • Wexford
Day 9 Oxford • Join main trip
Day 1 Depart U.S. room assignments and settle in. Depending
on which hotel you stay in, it may feature an
Evening: You depart today on your overnight on-site restaurant and bar. Typical rooms
flight from the U.S. to London, England. are all fully equipped with wireless Internet,
TV, coffee- and tea-making facilities,
Day 2 London, England • and a private bathroom with a hair dryer.
Overland to Oxford Throughout the day, our Trip Experience
• Destination: Oxford Leader will lead travelers on orientation walks
of the neighborhood surrounding our hotel as
• Accommodations: Hotel in Oxford or similar
they arrive.
Morning: You’ll arrive in London in the
morning or afternoon, depending on your Lunch: On your own. Your Trip Experience
specific flight arrangements, where an O.A.T. Leader will be happy to provide you with
representative will meet you at the airport and recommendations.
assist with your 50-minute transfer by private
Afternoon: The remainder of the day is free
motorcoach to your hotel in Oxford.
to make your own discoveries. Perhaps you’ll
At our hotel, we’ll meet our Trip Experience stroll the cobbled streets of this historic city
Leader, as well as travelers who took our or rub elbows with some of its residents at a
optional Ireland’s Ancient East: Dublin, Wexford local pub.
& Kinsale pre-trip extension, then receive our
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
12Dinner: On your own—perhaps you’ll try one of Afternoon: Free for your own
Britain’s signature savory pies, such as a classic discoveries—ask your Trip Experience Leader
sherpherd’s pie or a hearty venison and wild for recommendations. Perhaps you’ll stroll
mushroom pie. along the river, or explore more architectural
wonders, such as the domed Radcliffe Camera.
Evening: You’re free to relax at the hotel after
your flight or explore the area we’re staying in. Our small group will reconvene with our
Trip Experience Leader around 5:30pm for
Day 3 Explore Oxford a 30-minute welcome briefing. During this
briefing, we will review our itinerary in more
• Destination: Oxford
detail (including any changes that may need
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
to occur).
• Accommodations: Hotel in Oxford or similar
Dinner: Around 6pm, we’ll walk around 10
Breakfast: Served at the hotel from 7am-9am
minutes to enjoy a meal of regional specialties
featuring British and American options.
at a local restaurant.
Morning: Around 9am, we’ll embark on a
Evening: We’ll walk back to our hotel, arriving
3-hour walking tour of the famous university
around 8pm, where you have the remainder of
town dominated by Oxford University and its
the evening to continue making independent
more than 38 colleges and buildings spread
discoveries. Perhaps you’ll retire to your room
throughout the city with our Trip Experience
or grab a drink at a local pub.
Leader. The legendary colleges have been seats
of learning for a long line of notable figures,
including Oscar Wilde and Jonathan Swift. Day 4 Overland to Bristol • Cotswold
And more recently, several buildings served village • Embark ship
as settings for the Harry Potter films and the • Destination: Bristol
Inspector Morse television series. • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Alongside your Trip Experience Leader, we’ll • Accommodations: M/V Corinthian
transport ourselves into the medieval splendor Breakfast: Served at the hotel from
of Oxford, strolling its cobbled streets and 7am-8:30am featuring British and
marveling at the golden-hued ensemble of American options.
colleges and Gothic chapels. Around noon,
Morning: Around 8:30am, we’ll check out of
you’ll have the remainder of the afternoon free
our hotel and board our motorcoach to begin
for your own discoveries.
the drive to meet our ship. Around 9:30am,
Lunch: On your own—ask your Trip Experience we’ll stop to visit a picturesque Cotswold
Leader for suggestions. Perhaps you’ll get village. Here, you’ll have about two hours to
cozy in an old pub where you may strike up a explore on your own. As you wander through
conversation with local university students or the village, you may feel like you’ve stepped
professors. into a storybook fairytale. Many of these
villages have quaint, honey-colored cottages
lining their narrow lanes and verdant rolling
hills that breathe charm and beauty into these
remote destinations.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
13Around 11:30am, we’ll board our motorcoach Day 5 Explore Fishguard, Wales •
and drive about 1-hour to Bristol, where we’ll Home-Hosted Lunch • St. Davids
embark the 98-passenger M/V Corinthian, our
• Destination: Fishguard
privately-owned small ship which will be your
home for the duration of your British Isles • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
cruise. The Corinthian is staffed by a friendly, • Accommodations: M/V Corinthian
English-speaking crew who will welcome you Exclusive O.A.T. Activity: This afternoon, a
aboard and show you to your room. Each of local Welsh family will invite us into their home
the ship’s outside-facing cabins features a for a traditional Home-Hosted Lunch. Expect
queen-sized bed convertible into twin beds, simple, hearty fare as you enjoy this unique
flat-screen TV, air-conditioning, and its own opportunity to experience a slice of everyday
private bath. Welsh life.
Lunch: Included onboard in the ship’s dining Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
room beginning around 12:30pm. beginning around 6am.
Afternoon: After lunch, you’ll have a few hours Morning: Around 9:15am, we’ll drive about 10
to settle in, unpack, and acquaint yourself with minutes to begin our discoveries in Fishguard
the ship’s amenities, or you may head out to see at a local church where the parishioners will
the sights of Bristol. share a piece of their culture with you during a
performance. Then, visit the Town Hall where
Around 6pm, your ship sets sail for Fishguard,
you’ll view a 100-foot tapestry that depicts
Wales. As you sail, join your fellow travelers,
an incursion in 1797 that lasted only two days.
captain, and crew for a ship safety briefing,
The tale of the short-lived occupation is told
then get to know your new shipmates a little
on the tapestry that was created for the 200th
better over a short Captain’s Welcome Party.
anniversary by a team of 77 local women, who
Then, join your small group in the lounge for
used 97 colors and sewed for two years to create
the first in a series of nightly Port Talks. These
the piece.
informative conversations, led by your Trip
Experience Leader, will give you an overview of Your discoveries in town will conclude around
the following day’s itinerary and prepare you 10:30am, and then you have about an hour
for the destination ahead. Tonight, you’ll learn to explore the town on your own—ask your
about Fishguard, where you’ll dock tomorrow. Trip Experience Leader for recommendations.
Around 11:30am, we’ll break into even
Dinner: Enjoy a Captain’s Welcome
smaller groups and drive about 10 minutes by
Dinner onboard in the ship’s dining room
motorcoach to the home of a local family.
around 7:15pm.
Lunch: Join a local family in their home for
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
a Home-Hosted Lunch. Savor a traditional
rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps
meal and discuss daily life in Fishguard with
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in
your hosts.
the lounge.
Afternoon: We’ll say goodbye to our gracious
hosts and return to our ship around 2pm.
Around 2:30pm, we’ll depart by private
motorcoach for a 15-minute drive to Wales’s
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
14ecclesiastical capital, St. David’s. Here, you’ll Primeval politics aren’t the only holdover from
visit the medieval cathedral named after the the island’s past: Evidence of the Isle of Man’s
country’s patron saint with a local guide before earliest inhabitants is peppered throughout.
making your own independent discoveries. You’ll witness a number of them this morning,
Saint David, a Welsh bishop, established a beginning with a visit to a dry-stone waller,
monastery in the sixth century on the site of where you’ll get a glimpse into the architectural
today’s cathedral. Churches at the time were features that characterize many of the British
one of the wealthier institutions in the British Isles’ iconic structures of centuries past. Then,
Isles, making them more susceptible to attacks. you’ll stop at a kipper factory to learn about a
As Viking invaders flooded the region, the traditional British way to prepare fish, followed
cathedral fell prey to attacks from the seventh by a scenic drive around the island.
century until the eleventh century. It wasn’t
Afterwards, we’ll board a steam train around
until 1181 when construction of the current
12:30pm for a 1.5-hour ride where we’ll be
cathedral began. Around 5:30pm, we’ll drive
joined by a local expert who will provide more
about 30 minutes back to our ship.
insight into the history and culture of the Isle of
Around 7pm, our small group will enjoy a Port Man as we journey towards Douglas, the capital
Talk led by your Trip Experience Leader about of the Isle of Man.
tomorrow’s destination, the Isle of Man.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch on the steam train,
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room featuring local specialties.
around 7:15pm.
Afternoon: Around 3pm, we’ll meet our ship
Evening: We set sail for the Isle of Man this in Douglas, where you can enjoy free time to
evening, and you have the freedom to spend make your own discoveries—ask your Trip
the rest of your night as you wish. Perhaps Experience Leader for recommendations.
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in Perhaps you’ll soak up the sites and sounds
the lounge. of Douglas at Marine Drive where you may
spot seals lounging on the rocks and dolphins
Day 6 Explore the Isle of Man swimming in the water. Or you may discover
the Tower of Refuge, a stone structure evocative
• Destination: Isle of Man
of a castle from the Middle Ages. Located on
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
a submerged reef, this site was erected in the
• Accommodations: M/V Corinthian early 19th century and was used by sailors
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room whose ships had been damaged or sunk.
beginning around 6am.
Then, your Trip Experience Leader will lead a
Morning: Around 9am, we’ll depart on a tour Port Talk about the Lake District.
of the Isle of Man. While officially a British
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
protectorate, this tiny island between Ireland
around 7:15pm.
and England is not legally part of the United
Kingdom. In fact, the island’s independent Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
parliamentary government has been operating rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps
uninterrupted since AD 979, making it you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in
the oldest continuously governing body in the lounge.
the world.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
15Day 7 Lake District • Visit sheep farm Day 8 Explore Belfast, Northern Ireland •
• Destination: Lake District Controversial Topic: The violence of the
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Troubles with Seamus, Lee & Robert, who
• Accommodations: M/V Corinthian fought on opposite sides • Black cab ride
with local drivers
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
beginning around 6am. • Destination: Belfast
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning: Around 8am, we’ll board our • Accommodations: M/V Corinthian
motorcoach and begin a 2-hour scenic drive
Exclusive O.A.T. Activity: Today we will
of the Lake District, a region prized for its
experience an eye-opening view of a
mountain, lakeside scenery, and traditional
Controversial Topic when we meet with three
sheep farming. At the end of your scenic drive,
men who fought on opposing sides during the
you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore amidst
period of turmoil known as The Troubles. We’ll
the hodgepodge of traditional white-washed
hear their firsthand accounts of the brutal
country cottages in one of the Lake District’s
experiences they had, and the dark deeds they
picturesque villages. Then, we’ll reconvene
committed during the fighting, about how
with our small group to walk to a local pub.
sectarian divisions still split Belfast today,
Lunch: Enjoy lunch in a traditional pub around and how they are now committed to a shared
noon, where you’ll savor local specialties. vision of reconciliation. Read more about this
exclusive activity below.
Afternoon: Following lunch around 1:30pm,
we’ll board our motorcoach and drive about Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
30 minutes to a local sheep farm. We’ll spend beginning around 6am.
about an hour exploring the farm and learning
Morning: We’ll dock this morning in Belfast,
about the hardy Herdwick sheep that have
the capital of Northern Ireland. Despite being a
called the Lake District fells their home for
center of conflict during the Troubles, Belfast
generations. After our discoveries, we’ll head
has a long history and lasting legacies. The
back to the ship via motorcoach, arriving
countryside surrounding the city inspired
around 3:30pm.
stories like the Chronicles of Narnia and Gulliver’s
Later this afternoon, your Trip Experience Travels. The city itself, as an industrial center
Leader will lead a Port Talk about tomorrow’s in the 19th century, was a hub of Ireland’s
destination, Belfast. booming linen industry and is the birthplace
of the Titanic—which was designed, built, and
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
launched in Belfast.
around 7:15pm.
Today, beginning around 9am, we’ll get to
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
explore the city like a local: in Belfast’s famous
rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps
black cabs. During the height of The Troubles
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in
in the 1970s, public buses stopped serving West
the lounge.
Belfast’s Catholic neighborhoods, and these
iconic cabs stepped up to offer their services.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
16Today’s black cabs are driven by Catholics You’ll also have the opportunity to make your
and Protestants alike, and in groups of 3-5 mark on a peace wall—one of the still-standing
per car, we’ll get a very personal view of barricades that physically separates the city,
the city through our drivers’ eyes. They’ll now adorned with messages of hope and peace
share their perspectives on the city’s historic from locals and visitors alike.
political turmoil and religious divides, as well
Because your driver grew up in Belfast, they will
as their views on how old controversies cast
be able to offer a deeply personal perspective on
a shadow over Belfast today. As long-term
the murals you will see—depending on whether
residents of the neighborhoods you’ll be
they are Catholic or Protestant, they will have
exploring, your driver will be able to offer a
their own recollection of Belfast’s history, so
personal perspective of this dangerous period
be sure to ask questions, and to compare your
of Belfast’s history, when a wrong turn might
experience with your fellow travelers once you
have taken you across the dividing line between
have a chance to rejoin your group.
the Catholic and Protestant section of the
city, putting drivers and passengers at risk of Following our enlightening discoveries, we’ll
physical abuse or even death. arrive back to the ship around noon.
As we ride through the city, we’ll hear firsthand Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
accounts about how the Belfast of the 1970s
was a warzone. Fighters belonging to the Afternoon: Following lunch onboard, you
militant faction of Irish Republican Army (IRA) have the remainder of the afternoon to explore
committed bombings, shootings, and other acts Belfast on your own. You may choose to visit
of terror to pressure the British government Titanic Belfast, a memorial to the famed ship
into recognizing Irish sovereignty over the and museum chronicling Belfast’s maritime
north. In response, extremists sympathetic to heritage, or pay a visit to the Crumlin Road Jail.
the crown formed paramilitary groups like the Maybe you’ll stroll through the regal campus at
Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF), clashing with IRA Queen’s University. Or, you could always choose
rebels and unleashing their own acts of terror to enjoy a pint of the famous Guinness in one
on Belfast’s Catholic population, while armed of the city’s pubs, mingling with locals and
British soldiers patrolled the streets, fingers listening to traditional music.
resting lightly on the trigger. The Troubles
Later onboard around 6pm, we will have a
rocked Northern Ireland for three decades,
chance to hear about a Controversial Topic
and when the dust settled, more than 3,500
during a 1-hour-long conversation with three
people—civilians and combatants alike—were
individuals who fought in The Troubles—on
killed, and more than 47,000 wounded.
opposing sides. We’ll meet two ex-political
Our black cab drivers will take us by the prisoners—Seamus, a Republican who fought
boundary between West Belfast’s Protestant for Irish independence, and Robert, a loyalist
and Catholic neighborhoods, where murals on who fought with the UVF—as well as Lee,
each side depict contrasting sentiments about an ex-British army serviceman. During the
the deep-rooted conflict. We’ll stop to see violence of The Troubles it would have been
famous murals—such as the Irish Language inconceivable to gather men such as these in
Mural, the Tribute to Frederick Douglass, and the same room; today, they have put aside their
the Nelson Mandela Mural—and our driver differences and will share their stories about
will help to explain each one’s significance.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
17the dark deeds they took part in during the Day 9 Islay • Whisky distillery visit and
fighting; their experiences while incarcerated; tasting • Conversation with two local
and their shared hopes for a better future.
whisky distillers
While the violence may be over, modern • Destination: Islay
Belfast is still a divided city, and the road to • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
harmony is a long one. Belfast’s religious • Accommodations: M/V Corinthian
population is roughly equally split, with 48%
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
hailing from a Protestant background, and 45%
beginning around 6am.
raised Catholic. To this day, the two factions
live in entirely segregated neighborhoods, Morning: Your ship docks in Islay (pronounced
divided physically by “peace lines”—walled ‘Eye-la’), the most southerly of Scotland’s
barriers that separate the two sections of the Inner Hebrides islands, is renowned for its
city which are sealed off by locked gates each birdlife and Gaelic culture—but mostly for
night. While the brightly colored murals along its peaty single malt whisky. Around 9am,
the walls illustrate the city’s hope for peace we’ll board a motorocoach for an island tour,
and reconciliation, the fact that the walls still featuring a visit to a local distillery. Here,
stand demonstrate the progress that still needs we’ll tour the distillery grounds and have the
to be made. opportunity to taste some of whisky varieties.
This conversation will offer a perspective of Following your discoveries, we’ll board our
Northern Ireland made possible only by the motorcoach and drive about 15 minutes back to
local connections facilitated by O.A.T.—we our ship.
will confront harsh and uncomfortable truths,
including tales of violence, death, and Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room.
deeply-rooted prejudices that still linger over
Afternoon: Following lunch, the remainder of
Belfast today. While this controversial topic
the afternoon is free for your own discoveries.
may be emotionally challenging, it’s necessary
Perhaps you’ll walk along the shore to Carraig
to understand the real Northern Ireland, and
Fhada Lighthouse, where you can admire the
travelers often find it rewarding. After our
craggy coastline and scenic views of the harbor.
discussion around 7pm, you’ll enjoy a Port Talk
with your Trip Experience Leader about Islay. Return to the ship around 4pm to learn more
about whisky production in one of Scotland’s
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
largest whisky regions. You’ll learn if flavor
around 7:30pm.
and yield are mutually exclusive terms in the
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the malt whisky business when two distillers with
rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps opposing viewpoints join us—one who uses
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in the natural ingredients grown on Islay, another
lounge with fellow travelers to discuss today’s who imports ingredients to produce a greater
discoveries. yield. You’ll delve into both production
methods and gain a deeper understanding
of the benefits and limitations of both. Our
discussion will conclude around 5pm, where
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
18you’ll about one hour of free time before your Then, you’re free to discover more of
Trip Experience Leader joins you for a Port Talk Tobermory on your own. You may want to
on the Isle of Mull. explore the Mull Museum, which documents
many parts of the island’s life and its history.
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
Or, you can mingle with some of the locals as
around 6:30pm.
you enjoy a pint at one of the traditional pubs
Evening: Following dinner, you may join your that line the main street.
Trip Experience Leader to a local pub to see
We’ll then enjoy our evening Port Talk about
how the locals feel about the subtleties of malt
the Isle of Lewis before dinner.
whisky production, or retire to your room to
recharge for tomorrow’s discoveries. Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
around 6:30pm.
Day 10 Isle of Mull • Croft visit • Hike in Evening: After dinner onboard, a Gaelic choir
Tobermory • Gaelic choir performance will join us on the ship to perform some
• Destination: Isle of Mull traditional Gaelic songs around 8pm.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodations: M/V Corinthian Day 11 Explore the Isle of Lewis •
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room Conversation with a Syrian refugee
from 6am-9am. family on a proposed mosque on the
predominantly Christian island
Morning: Today we’ll depart around 9am to
• Destination: Isle of Lewis
discover Tobermory, the capital of the Isle
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
of Mull in the Scottish Inner Hebrides. This
picturesque fishing port features brightly • Accommodations: M/V Corinthian
painted houses surrounding its quiet harbor. Activity Note: If this itinerary day falls on a
Sunday, you’ll visit the Isle of Skye, which is
During our first stop, we’ll learn about crofting,
located in the Inner Hebrides.
the system of small-scale land tenure unique to
the Scottish Highlands and these islands. You’ll Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
have coffee with a local crofter and his family from 6am-8:30am.
and learn about crofting’s origins—a practice
some call “a piece of land fenced around by Morning: We’ll arrive in Stornoway on the
regulations.” Then, you’ll meet with some shop Isle of Lewis, first settled by the Vikings as a
owners specializing in food items produced on sea trade port. With its lighthouse and fishing
the island and try a few samples. harbor, Stornoway has kept its maritime
character ever since. Around 9am, we’ll set
We’ll return to our ship in time for lunch. off on a 1-hour walking tour of this port town.
Then, we’ll discover the island’s rich past with
Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
a visit to the 5,000 year-old Callanish Stones,
around 12:30pm.
an ancient standing stone circle roughly shaped
Afternoon: This afternoon, you can join your like a Celtic Cross.
Trip Experience Leader for a 1-hour nature hike
around 2pm.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
19Our discoveries continue in Gaerannan Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
Blackhouse Village, which showcases the rest of your evening as you wish as we set off
traditional thatched houses found on the for the Orkney Isles. Perhaps you’ll enjoy a
Isle of Lewis. Originally built in 1880, these nightcap at the bar or relax in the lounge.
houses have since been refurbished to preserve
the island’s heritage and way of life for its Day 12 Explore the Orkney Isles • Visit
residents. During our visit, we’ll also have a
Skara Brae, West Mainland Orkney
conversation about the history of crofting on
• Destination: Orkney Isles
the island, a system in which a person occupies
a piece of land that they tend to, normally for • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
food production. • Accommodations: M/V Corinthian
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
Then, we’ll meet a Syrian refugee family to
from 6:30am-8:30am.
discuss an issue that is dividing the island—a
proposal to build a mosque on this island, Morning: Arrive in the Orkneys, an archipelago
whose residents are predominantly members in northern Scotland. After an onboard
of the Church of Scotland, a Presbyterian breakfast, go ashore in Stromness for an
sect. We’ll hear their perspective as refugees included tour around 9am. We’ll begin the day’s
seeking a place to worship and learn about discoveries at the World War II Italian Chapel,
the conflicts that have arisen as a result of the where we’ll learn about the humbling story
proposed mosque. of how the structure came to be. Here, enjoy a
special opportunity to speak with the relative of
Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
a POW to hear their story.
around 1pm.
We’ll then drive across the Churchill Barriers,
Afternoon: You’ll have some free time this
manmade causeways created during World War
afternoon, or perhaps you’ll choose to join your
II to protect the British Navy’s fleet at Scapa
Trip Experience Leader for a 2-hour discovery
Flow. As we cross them, we’ll learn more about
walk of Stornoway.
their history and construction.
Around 5:30pm, we’ll be treated to a
We’ll continue our explorations in the town of
performance onboard by a group of Highland
Kirkwall. The capital of Orkney, this ancient city
Scottish Dancers, who will be joined by their
dates back to the eleventh century when the
families. Once the performance has ended, we
Norse first christened it Kirkjuvagr, meaning
will have a chance to interact with the dancers
“The Church of the Bay.” Today, it’s a vibrant
and their families and ask any questions we
port with the charm of a small town and the
may have.
abundant shopping and restaurant options of
We’ll then enjoy our evening Port Talk on the a city. During our tour, we’ll visit St Magnus
Orkney Isles around 6:45pm. Cathedral, which began construction in 1137,
and was added to over the next 300 years.
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
around 7pm. Our tour of Stromness will conclude at the
Scapa distillery where we’ll uncover the
secrets of making their signature single malt
artisanal whisky at one of the last remaining
manually-operated distilleries. We’ll hear
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
20how five artisans and one Master Distiller use Morning: After breakfast around 9am, we’ll
traditional methods to make this iconic Scottish drive about 30 minutes via motorcoach to
drink before heading back to our ship. experience everyday life in the remote Orkney
Islands during NEW A Day in the Life of a
Lunch: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
working sheep farm. Upon arrival, we’ll meet
around 1pm.
the farm owner and his wife and begin our
Afternoon: We’ll depart to West Mainland discoveries by helping feed the sheep. Then,
Orkney around 2:15pm via private motorcoach, we’ll enjoy a demonstration on the whistle
including the many Neolithic sites for which commands used by farmers to train the
the area is famous. Okrney’s west mainland sheepdogs to herd the flock, and perhaps you’ll
is home to a large collection of archaeological try your own hand at this technique. You can
sites, including the standing stones of Stenness also take a walk around the land to observe
and the Ring of Brodgar. We’ll discover both the grazing sheep. Following our discoveries
of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites before outside, we’ll head into the farmer’s home and
continuing on a 15-minute drive to Skara Brae help his wife prepare lunch.
around 3:30pm. The most well-preserved
Lunch: Enjoy a lunch of regional specialties
Neolithic village in northern Europe, Skara Brae
with the farmer and his family. We’ll have the
was established around 3000 BC—but then was
opportunity to get to know our gracious hosts
literally lost to the sands of time. Uncovered
more intimately and learn about what life is like
in 1850 when a historic storm scoured away
for a farmer in Scotland’s remote Hebrides.
the sand, Skara Brae was revealed, and this
UNESCO World Heritage Site today provides Afternoon: After lunch, we’ll drive about 30
glimpses of the stone beds and seats that were minutes back to our ship, where you’ll have the
part of life 5,000 years ago. We’ll return to the remainder of the afternoon free for your own
our ship around 5:30pm and enjoy some free discoveries—ask your Trip Experience Leader
time before dinner. for recommendations. Perhaps you’ll enjoy a
round of golf at Stromness Golf Club or a visit to
Dinner: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
the Stromness Museum, where you can explore
around 7:15pm.
artifacts from World War I and learn about the
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the area’s connection to Canada.
rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps
Our small group will reconvene in the ship’s
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in
lounge around 6:30pm where your Trip
the lounge.
Experience Leader will lead a Port Talk on
Aberdeen.
Day 13 Orkney Isles • A Day in the Life of
Dinner: Enjoy a Farewell Dinner onboard in the
an Orkney sheep farm
ship’s dining room around 7:15pm.
• Destination: Orkney Isles
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
• Accommodations: M/V Corinthian rest of your evening as you wish. Perhaps
you’ll enjoy a nightcap at the bar or relax in
Breakfast: Onboard in the ship’s dining room
the lounge.
beginning around 6am.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
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