Tour Code
GEW2025
Url
https://www.tauck.com/tours/legendary-scottish-isles-edinburgh-glasgow-scotland-cruise/?tcd=gew2025
Description
There’s no better way to explore all the natural and cultural riches that Scotland and its islands have to offer – from treasured tartans and traditions of the clans, to the wonders of single malt whiskies at a distillery in the Highlands to the distinctive folkways of the captivating Scottish Isles… Our 11-day trip includes a 7-night cruise aboard the luxury small ship Le Dumont d’Urville, plus a choice of hotel stays in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Cruise to the celebrated Orkney and Shetland Islands, and the more remote isles of Mull, Skye and Lewis; explore eclectic Edinburgh, the traditions of Scottish music and dance, the Highlands’ incredible scenery, and much more. Enjoy a visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, a sea safari, and more.
Months
5,9
Price
$9,990.00
Tauck Values
Enjoy a visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, joining a local guide for a tour through the historic official residence of the monarch in Scotland
Visits to Skara Brae, a Neolithic settlement, and Gerranean Blackstone Village, a living museum, on Orkney Mainland
All gratuities to Tauck Director, ship staff and local guides
Tauck’s private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at $3,199
Glasgow and Edinburgh city sightseeing on hotel stays in the heart of the cities – 1 night in Glasgow, 2 nights in Edinburgh
Day by Day
Day 1 – Arrive Edinburgh
Tour begins 6:00 PM. A transfer is included from Edinburgh Airport or Edinburgh Waverley train station to your choice of hotels in the heart of the city: Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel or the Intercontinental Edinburgh The George. Settle in and join us this evening for a Tauck Exclusive special welcome reception and dinner aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia.
Day 2 – Holyroodhouse & Edinburgh sights
Under the watch of its lofty clifftop castle, Edinburgh rambles over rocky hills beside the sea, inviting you into its captivating maze of crooked medieval streets, cozy passages, avenues, shops, pubs, townhouses, and monumental palaces. Begin the day with a visit to Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland where you’ll explore the magnificent state apartments, the royal gardens, and the royal art collection. Then take a ride through Holyrood Park, a patch of wild Highland landscape, once the royal hunting estate. Next, enjoy a guided walk along the Royal Mile, the cobbled main street that runs between the castle and Holyroodhouse, lined with shops, pubs, museums, and intriguing alleyways called “closes” and “wynds,”as well as churches, law courts, the Parliament house and St. Giles Cathedral. The rest of the day and evening are free to explore on your own.
Day 3 – Edinburgh Castle and embark your Ponant ship
More Edinburgh sightseeing takes you to Old Town for a tour of iconic Edinburgh Castle, standing on a crag of volcanic rock above the city skyline; over one thousand years of turbulent history have played out within its venerated halls, gates, courtyards, and battlements. Next, enjoy an exploration of Edinburgh’s “New Town” and “Old Town” on a guided walking tour that includes the Botanical Gardens, Inverleith Terrace, the Robert Lewis Stevenson Birthplace along with Charlotte Square, Queen Street, George Street and Princes Street. Then drive to Leith and embark; enjoy cocktails on deck followed by dinner as you sail for the Shetland Islands.
Day 4 – A Day at Sea
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea today as we sail towards the Shetland Islands. A full schedule of activities will be offered throughout the day for you to choose from or simply sit back and enjoy a peaceful cruising day.
Day 5 – Treasures of the Shetland Islands
The Shetland Islands are an archipelago of more than a hundred windswept islands, of which only 16 are inhabited; the rest are havens for wildlife. Towns and villages are few, but there are thousands of archaeological sites throughout the islands, including the remains of prehistoric fortresses and settlements. Arrive dockside at Lerwick on the largest island, where you have a choice of shore excursions. Drive to the southern tip of mainland Shetland to visit the uninhabited island of Mousa*, site of a 2,000-year-old broch (round stone tower), 43 feet high, the best preserved in the world; explore its beehive-like chambers and climb the internal staircase to the top for panoramic views; cross to Shetland’s east coast for a view of St. Ninian’s Isle, where a cache of Pictish treasure was discovered in the 1950s (the Picti were tribes known to the Romans as “painted people”.); venture into the Shetland countryside for a visit to a croft for an authentic crofting experience with a local crofter and his sheep dogs; visit Jarlshof near Sumburgh Head to see a 5,000-year-old settlement with remains dating from the Stone Age to the 17th century AD, a microcosm of Shetland history; then ride to the top of Sumburgh Head for views of the sea, seabird colonies, and Shetland’s first lighthouse, built in 1821 by Robert Stevenson (grandfather of the writer Robert Louis Stevenson); lighthouses were the family business, and there are Stevenson lighthouses all over the Highlands; or, head to the west mainland for a visit to Scalloway, its 17th-century castle, and the Scalloway Museum; learn about the village’s clandestine role in World War II, and visit a farm that breeds Shetland Ponies. Aboard ship this evening, a local historian will lecture on the “Shetland Bus,” a secret operation during World War II that smuggled agents in and refugees out of occupied Norway at night by way of fishing vessels.
Day 6 – Orkney Archipelago and Bronze Age monuments
The Orkney archipelago belonged to Norway until 1468 when the king of Norway gave them to the king of Scotland as collateral for a loan. When Norway tried to repay the loan, Scotland wouldn’t give the islands back. But after all, who would? Arrive in Kirkwall, once a medieval Norwegian port, now the largest town on the Orkney Mainland, where you have a choice of shore excursions. Take a walk along the cliff tops of Orkney’s rural east mainland, rewarded with stunning views over Mull Head. Or, explore the four monuments that make up the heart of Neolithic Orkney as well as a visit to the best-preserved Neolithic settlement, Skara Brae. Join us for a lecture aboard the ship, featuring a local historian and storyteller well-versed in local myths and legends.
Day 7 – Lochs, brochs and standing stones
The Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides offers a dreamlike landscape of windy rolling hills, moors, vivid colors, and dramatic, rugged shores. Dock in the town of Stornoway, founded by Vikings in the 9th century, and take your choice of excursions. Set off on a sea safari* to view marine life and some of the most magnificent coastline in Scotland; the coastal waters warmed by the Gulf Stream are known to draw porpoises, bottle-nosed dolphins, pilot whales, orcas, grey and common seals, basking sharks, and seabirds including puffins, gannets, fulmars, shearwaters, and petrels. Alternatively, explore the Victorian-era Lews Castle; or take a panoramic coach excursion that includes the Standing Stones of Callanish, Dun Carloway Broch, one of the best-preserved stone-built circular constructions, and Gearrannan Blackhouse Village situated in a beautiful secluded bay. Spend some time at leisure in Stornoway before a private tasting of Scottish Whiskey. Your ship sails for the Isle of Skye this evening.
Day 8 – The Isle of Skye, castles and storybook views
Known in Gaelic as “isle of mist,” Skye is steeped in Celtic and Norse legend, a land of faerie glens, storybook mountains, and otherworldly landscapes that seem to spring from Tolkien’s Middle Earth. At Portree, a fishing town in a harbor sheltered by cliffs, take your choice of shore excursions. Take a cruise around Portree Bay and the Sound of Raasay on a wildlife safari which may include seals, otters, dolphins, and sea eagles along with enchanting coastal views. Alternatively, travel to Kintail where iconic Eilean Donan Castle stands on a small tidal island; destroyed in 1719 and restored in 1932, it is the most photographed castle in Scotland, and you can explore it while learning its turbulent history. Your third choice is a visit to medieval Dunvegan Castle, the seat of the MacLeod Clan, rising four stories high on a promontory overlooking Loch Dunvegan and the sea. The fourth choice takes you on a guided tour of a working Croft. Afterwards, you’ll have the opportunity to spend the afternoon in colorful Victorian Portree to explore on your own, or you can return to the ship. Late afternoon, a professional photographer will give a presentation of his works and discuss photography on the Scottish Isles. Set sail this evening for the Isle of Mull.
Day 9 – The Isle of Mull
Sail to the Isle of Mull, a popular destination for naturalists and photographers in search of Britain’s more elusive birds and wildlife. Anchor in Tobermory on a morning arrival for a choice of three excursions. Drive along the scenic coastline to Duart Castle, a medieval landmark on the sea cliffs, home of the Maclean Clan – restored in the 20th century – a rare opportunity to visit a clan seat that is still owned by its members; or enjoy a short but scenic drive to Aros Park* for a guided nature hike. Join us this evening for a whisky tasting and the captain’s farewell reception followed by dinner as you sail for the Scottish mainland.
Day 10 – Disembark and explore the city of Glasgow
Disembark at Greenock or Fairlie and drive to Glasgow, where a tour of city sights includes the Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis, George’s Square, Buchanan Street, the Glasgow Gallery of Modern Art, and Prince’s Square. This afternoon, visit Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, one of the city’s most popular attractions, featuring a wide-ranging collection of art and artifacts of cultural history, ancient history, natural history, and more. Join us this evening for a farewell reception and dinner.
Day 11 – Journey Home
Tour ends: Glasgow, Scotland. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from the Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel, Glasgow, or VOCO Grand Hotel Glasgow to the Glasgow International Airport or the Glasgow Central Train Station. Allow three hours for flight check-in.
Mediterranean Odyssey: Greece & Turkey – Eastbound
Tour Code
GIX2024
Url
https://www.tauck.com/tours/greek-isles-small-ship-cruise/?tcd=gix2024
Description
A Mediterranean cruise unlike any other on a voyage from Greece to the islands of Mykonos, Crete and Rhodes to Turkey… Embark on a small ship odyssey to Greek islands and the ‘Land of Four Seasons’ – Turkey, where you’ll experience unforgettable wines, local cuisines, cultures, ruins of lost empires, blazing sunsets, temples, Crusader citadels, and far flung, mystical landscapes where gods and mythologies were born.
Months
4,10
Price
$8,990.00
Tauck Values
Attend a private evening of Greek food and entertainment at a special venue on the island of Rhodes, exclusively for Tauck guests only
Following a day exploring the island of Mykonos, attend an exclusive olive oil tasting experience back onboard the ship; meet a master olive oil sommelier who gives a presentation that includes how to recognize the characteristics of a good quality extra virgin olive oil
All gratuities to Tauck Directors, ship staff and local guides
Traveling with Tauck’s private group and the same Tauck Director on land and at sea aboard the ship
Tauck’s private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at $3,896
Spend one night in the center of Athens at one of Europe’s premier hotels, Hotel Grande Bretagne
8-night cruise aboard Windstar’s Star Legend
Day by Day
Day 1 – Arrive Athens
Tour begins: 6:00 PM, Hotel Grande Bretagne. A transfer is included from Athens International Airport to historic Hotel Grande Bretagne, located in the heart of Athens. Join us for a welcome reception and dinner this evening.
Day 2 – Athens / Embark your Wind Star ship
In Athens, excursion choices include a guided tour of the Acropolis, high above the city, with its complex of temple ruins including the iconic Parthenon; peruse the staggering wealth of archaeological treasures at the Acropolis Museum, accompanied by a local guide. Visit picturesque Plaka, a tree-lined neighborhood of narrow streets, and sidewalk cafes, for time at leisure. Or, begin the day with a panoramic drive viewing iconic city sights such as the Academy (founded by Plato), the National Gardens and Panathenaic stadium – site of the first modern Olympic games; visit the Acropolis Museum and Plaka. Drive the short distance to the port of Piraeus and board Star Legend; this evening, sail for the Cycladic islands.
Day 3 – Mykonos, playground of the Greek Isles
Arrive at Mykonos, Island of Winds, known for resorts, glorious beaches, fishing boats, and (naturally) windmills. Everyone begins the day with a walking tour of the town of Mykonos, then your choice of shore excursion. Ferry to Delos, birthplace of Apollo; the most sacred island in Ancient Greece, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with ruins from prehistoric times to Antiquity. Or, on an island drive, visit a farm for a taste of traditional daily life as well as homemade bread and tzatziki. Following time to explore Mykonos on your own, join us later this afternoon for a special experience – an olive oil tasting and presentation aboard ship with a master sommelier.
Day 4 – The hub of the ancient world – Crete
Crete was the island hub of the Ancient World, and Heraklion, its capital city, is steeped in 5,000 years of history and unrivaled collections of Greek artifacts. Explore centuries of architectural influences, from ancient Minoan to Arabic and Byzantine, on a guided walking tour, Or visit the Palace of Knossos, a Minoan masterpiece, and the fabulous Archaeological Museum, one of the top museums in Greece. At a family winery, the owners give you a tour and talk about winemaking over a lunch of local specialties.
Day 5 – Rhodes – “The Island of the Sun”
Rhodes was a maritime power and a center of fabulous wealth and culture before an earthquake in 226 BC shook the city-state to its core. It fell into ruin until the Crusades, when the Knights of St. John captured Rhodes and restored its glory. The walled medieval city they built is a place out of time, an astonishing warren of stone streets, arches, and alleys, with beguiling architecture and beauty around every corner. Its centerpiece is the massive Palace of the Grand Master, a treasure-house of artifacts and mosaics. Take a guided walking tour of Old Town followed by a Greek lunch at a local restaurant. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Rhodes as you wish.
Day 6 – Ancient Kamiros
Alongside Lindos and Ialyssos, Kamiros was unified in the 5th century BC to create the powerful city-state of Rhodes. Today, Kamiros stands as a testament to those ancient times, and is sure to be a memorable experience on your tour of Greece. Notable for its production of oil, wine and figs, you’ll have an opportunity today to see the remnants of the ancient civilization, including a stop in Filerimos for views of its architecturally-unique monastery, before enjoying an afternoon to do as you wish. Tonight, an evening briefing precedes dinner aboard the ship.
Day 7 – Bodrum, Turkey
Welcome to Turkey! Today, your ship docks in the port city of Bodrum, known in ancient times as Halicarnassus and once home to the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, also known as the tomb of Mausolus. Your journey through this ancient city takes you on a guided exploration of the Castle of St. Peter. Built by the Knights Hospitaller to be used as a mainland stronghold, the castle was eventually taken over by the Ottoman Empire in the 1500s where it remained under their control for nearly 400 years. Following World War I, the castle laid dormant, it wasn’t until 1962 that the Turkish Government transformed the space into the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archeology, housing the underwater discoveries found from ancient shipwrecks throughout the Aegean Sea. You’ll be able to explore the museum and its collection of amphoras, ancient glass, bronze, clay and iron items on a tour of the museum followed by a visit to the aforementioned Temple of Mauselous, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This afternoon, your adventure continues as you embark on a three hour excursion aboard a traditional wooden boat along Bodrum’s turquoise coast. Tonight, your ship sets sail for Kusadasi.
Day 8 – Kusadasi, Turkey & Ephesus
Arrive this morning in the port of Kusadasi, Turkey for a guided excursion to Ephesus, one of the world’s best-preserved classical cities revealing important vestiges of an ancient Roman civilization; in its heyday, marble lined the streets, fountains flowed, and an eternal flame burned upon a sacred altar. Take a walking tour of the ancient city, seeing the Odeon, Temple of Hadrian, Trajan’s Fountain, the Arcadian Way and the two-tiered Library of Celsus. Have lunch at a local restaurant and a carpet demonstration before returning to the ship for cocktails. Enjoy a special dinner ashore this evening, complete with music by the Aegean Chamber Orchestra, at ancient Ephesus. Chart a course for the island of Patmos tonight.
Day 9 – Cultural treasures on the Isle of Patmos
Today you’ll discover the many charms of the picturesque island of Patmos, an important Christian pilgrimage site for its role in the writing of the Book of Revelations in the Christian Bible by St. John the Theologian. You’ll have a choice of activities today. The first is a photography excursion through the historic heart of Chora, Patmos’ capital city; with your guide, make your way through the old village’s maze of winding cobblestoned streets and arched alleyways, learning to compose and capture stunning images of ancient whitewashed buildings and bell towers, rugged cliffs and hills, and blue Aegean seascapes. Alternatively, take a tour of the Monastery of St. John the Theologian plus a visit to the Grotto of St. John – also known as the Cave of the Apocalypse – where tradition has it that John of Patmos received visions from Jesus that he recorded as the Book of Revelations; the grotto and the monastery have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Following lunch, you’ll have free time to explore the port of Skala on Patmos. Tonight, join us for a farewell reception and dinner as your ship charts a course back to Athens.
Day 10 – Journey Home
Tour ends: Athens. Disembark your Windstar ship for an 8:15 AM transfer. Flights should depart after 11:45 AM due to disembarkation schedules which cannot be guaranteed. A transfer is included to Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport or Hotel Grande Bretagne. Allow at least three hours for flight check-in.
