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Cruise Itinerary

Date	Port	Arrive	Depart
23 May 2026	Edinburgh, Scotland		Hotel
24 May 2026	Edinburgh, Scotland		Hotel
25 May 2026	Inverness, Scotland		Hotel
26 May 2026	Inverness, Scotland		Transfer to Troon
26 May 2026	Troon, Scotland	Embark
27 May 2026	Londonderry, North Ireland
28 May 2026	Belfast, Northern Ireland
29 May 2026	Heysham, UK	Lakes District
30 May 2026	Holyhead, Wales
31 May 2026	Waterford, Ireland
1 Jun 2026	Falmouth, England
2 Jun 2026	Plymouth, England
3 Jun 2026	Cowes (Isle of Wight), England
4 Jun 2026	Portsmouth, England	Disembark	Transfer to London
4 Jun 2026	Thames River, London		Hotel
5 Jun 2026	Thames River, London		Hotel
6 Jun 2026	Thames River, London

9 Night small ship cruise sailing from Troon to Portsmouth aboard Douglas Mawson. 2 nights hotel stay pre-cruise in Edinburgh, 1 night in Inverness pre-cruise and 2 nights hotel stay post-cruise in London.

Day 1 Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
Welcome to Edinburgh. On arrival at Edinburgh airport, make your way to the Arrivals Hall to meet a representative from Vantage Explorations, followed by a transfer to our group hotel. At the hotel, visit our hospitality desk in the lobby to meet our team, who will provide you with useful information regarding pre-embarkation procedures and about your time in Scotland. You will also receive Aurora Expeditions cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and your cabin number on the ship.

This evening offers time to relax in preparation for our ‘day out in Edinburgh’ tomorrow. Our group hotel has a popular restaurant and is close to plenty of corner pubs and cosy restaurants should you wish to try some local cuisine.

Accommodation: Courtyard by Marriott Edinburgh (or similar)

Day 2 Edinburgh
Scotland’s capital hosts you today when you explore its ‘royal’ side on your favourite ‘Your Choice’ experience. There’s plenty of time this afternoon to explore the city independently before we gather this evening for a Welcome Event of Scottish proportions.

Steeped in a captivating blend of history that intertwines the Highland clans with centuries-old ties to the British monarchy, Edinburgh is a highlight of any visit to Scotland. Perched dramatically on volcanic hills and dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the city has served as a strategic stronghold for centuries. Beyond its imposing fortifications, Edinburgh was a hub of political intrigue, and a meeting place where clan leaders negotiated, celebrated, and occasionally clashed. Its proximity to the Highlands made it a natural focal point for these gatherings, underscoring the city’s pivotal role in Scottish clan culture. In addition to its Highland clan dynamics, Edinburgh boasts deep connections to the British monarchy. Holyrood Palace, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and the annual Edinburgh Military Tattoo, exemplify the city’s royal heritage, steeped in centuries-old traditions of pageantry and military prowess.

Today, visitors to the city are encouraged to explore its royal residences and resting places, museums and galleries, and witness firsthand the traditions that have shaped its unique identity. Edinburgh stands as a living testament to Scotland’s past, where the legacies of Highland clans and the British monarchy converge in a historically nuanced yet enduring relationship.

Day 3 Inverness
We head north to ‘clan country’, for an overnight stay in its heartland: Inverness. The Highlands of Scotland invite us to explore Scotland’s own monarchy, with an en-route stop at the royal Scottish city of Stirling and the battlefields of Culloden.

Perched atop Castle Hill, Stirling Castle stands as a symbol of Scotland’s rich history and royal heritage. This grand fortress, once a favoured residence of Scottish kings and queens, played a pivotal role in the Wars of Scottish Independence. It was the childhood home of Mary, Queen of Scots, and witnessed her coronation. The castle was central to the reigns of the Stewart monarchs, particularly King James VI of Scotland, who became King James I of England, uniting the two thrones for the first time. This union eventually led to the Jacobite uprisings and the demise of the clan way of life. Among other sites within the castle, we explore the magnificent Great Hall, Royal Palace, and Chapel Royal, all beautifully restored to reflect its regal past, while discovering the people and events that have shaped both the castles and Scotland’s history.

Our second stop today offers an insight into the clash of the clans and their British rulers, brought alive this afternoon by our local guides. Scottish clans played significant roles in Scotland’s history and politics. Their relationship with the British crown was complex, marked by alliances and conflicts. The clans often supported different royal factions, notably during the Jacobite uprisings in the 17th and 18th centuries, when many clans backed the Stuart claim to the British throne. The defeat of the Jacobites at the notorious Battle of Culloden marked the end of the clan’s power. Subsequent British policies, including the Highland Clearances, dismantled the clan system, by banning tartan, the Gaelic language, bagpipes, and the communal style of living that the clans had enjoyed for centuries. By integrating Scotland more fully into the British state, English rule diminished the clan influence. Today, the clans’ legacy lives on in Scotland’s culture and heritage, with clan gatherings and tartans celebrated worldwide.

Our guided visit to the battleground of Culloden offers a poignant reminder of the bitter feud between the clans and the crown. The Battle of Culloden, fought on 16 April 1746, was the final confrontation of the Jacobite rising, with the fighting resulting in a decisive defeat for the Jacobite forces led by Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie) at the hands of the British government troops commanded by the Duke of Cumberland. The estimated number of casualties varies, but it is generally accepted that around 1,500 to 2,000 Jacobites were killed or wounded during the battle, with those who survived being either imprisoned or executed. In contrast, the heavily armoured British government forces suffered significantly fewer casualties, with around 300 killed or wounded. Standing on the ground where the battle was fought affords us an insight into the brutal manner of 18th-century warfare and its everlasting legacy.

Our overnight stop is in the Highland capital of Inverness. Deeply intertwined with Scotland’s rich clan culture, Inverness is the spiritual home to clans such as the MacDonalds, MacLeods and Frasers, who played pivotal roles in shaping the region’s history and identity. From battles fought to alliances forged, these tight-knit family groups lived a feudal lifestyle, with dedication to their ‘laird’ upmost in their minds. Inverness itself served as a strategic clan stronghold and hosted gatherings that defined Highland life, with annual celebrations such as clan reunions and the Highland Games, celebrating traditional sports and music, keeping alive the legacy of Scotland’s vibrant clan culture.

We gather tonight for dinner, where our host will enthral us with tales of past clan clashes and how they continue to influence ‘the highlands’ 21st century lifestyle.

Accommodation: Inverness Hotel

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4 Embark Troon (Port: Troon)
Pack your camera this morning, as we may encounter an elusive creature. Not men in kilts, but something nearly as Scottish. Undoubtedly Scotland’s most famous freshwater lake, Loch Ness forms part of the Caledonian Canal, which connects the east and west coasts of Scotland. Extending 37 kilometres in length and dropping to a depth of 227 kilometres, its dark, deep waters are the perfect hiding place for its most mysterious resident. The legend of the Loch Ness Monster, often referred to as ‘Nessie’, dates to the 6th century, when the Irish monk St Columba is said to have encountered a large beast in the River Ness. However, it was not until the 19th century the legend truly captured the world’s imagination, when locals reported seeing a large creature in the water, sparking a series of alleged sightings and numerous expeditions to find the elusive monster. Photographs, sonar readings and various pieces of anecdotal evidence have fuelled speculation and mystery, even though scientific proof of Nessie’s existence remains elusive. We skirt Loch Ness and stop briefly for our own opportunity to see the mysterious beast lakeside.

On arrival at Glasgow, we stop to try a ‘wee dram’. Scottish whisky, or Scotch, is more than just a drink; it’s a symbol of Scotland’s rich heritage and craftsmanship. Distilled for centuries, Scotch embodies the country’s rugged landscapes and meticulous traditions. Each sip tells a story, from the peat bogs of Islay to the crystal-clear waters of Speyside. It is thought that Scots consume around 40 million bottles of whisky annually, reflecting its integral role in their daily lives and celebrations. To be officially classed as Scotch whisky, it must be produced in Scotland and matured in oak casks for a minimum of three years. Visiting a distillery offers a glimpse into this age-old process, where you’ll witness the alchemy of malted barley, pure water, and patient ageing. Tasting the whisky, you’ll appreciate the distinct flavours – smoky, sweet, or spicy – which reflect Scotland’s diverse regions. For Scots, whisky is a proud emblem of their cultural identity and history. Join us on a distillery tour to experience this national treasure firsthand, savour its unique character, and understand its significance to Scotland and its people.

We board Douglas Mawson at the Glasgow port of Troon. After boarding, there is time to settle into your cabin before our important safety briefings. This evening, meet your crew and Aurora Expeditions team as we sail west to the United Kingdom’s enclave of Northern Ireland.

Day 5 Londonderry~Derry, Northern Ireland, UK (Port: Londonderry~Derry)
Our overnight sailing takes us to Northern Ireland, and the fascinating city of Londonderry~Derry. Simply 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, but in recent years these tensions have eased, and although some suburbs retain their sense of division, strolling the streets is safe and the general population are happy to share stories of their stormy past and ambitious future. We come alongside on the river Foyle, the now open, natural border between the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. Our experiences offer the opportunity to view one of the United Kingdom’s greatest clashes firsthand.

Day 6 Belfast (Port: Larne)
A popular port for 18th century emigration to the United States, Larne is located around half an hour north of Belfast.

It is fair to say Belfast has endured its share of turbulent times. Famines, disease, invasions and recessions have painted a picture of a resilient city, but it was the more recent period known as ‘The Troubles’ that defined its image of division. Barbed wire, armed soldiers, and constant bomb searches kept tourists away. Today, however, Belfast has transformed, thanks to open political dialogue and foreign investment. The city feels lighter, as if a heavy burden has been lifted from its shoulders.

Spend your morning on a guided tour of the famous Dockyard of Belfast to experience the story of the city’s most famous production: HMS Titanic, or travel south to visit Hillsborough Castle, the royal residence when the monarch visits Northern Ireland. There is time to explore Belfast independently this afternoon. Larne port is located around 30 minutes north of the city. A shuttle bus will operate this afternoon for those who wish to explore Belfast further, prior to our sailing early evening.

Day 7 Lake District, England, UK (Port: Heysham)
The village of Heysham, located on the northwest coast of England, serves as our gateway to the historical town of Lancaster and the ever-popular Lake District today. Situated near Morecambe Bay in Lancashire, Heysham has been a vital port for fishing and maritime trade since the Viking era. Its working harbour and historical lighthouses reflect its rich seafaring heritage. Nearby, Lancaster Castle, a medieval fortress steeped in history, overlooks the city of Lancaster, just a short distance from Heysham. The castle’s imposing presence highlights the region’s historical significance, serving as a symbol of power and authority through centuries of English history. Heysham’s proximity to the Lake District National Park adds to its allure, offering visitors easy access to the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures of one of England’s most beloved natural reserves.

Day 8 Holyhead, Wales, UK (Port: Holyhead)
Located on the Isle of Anglesey in Wales, Holyhead is a port town steeped in maritime heritage. Today, it serves as a gateway to the stunning hinterland of Snowdonia, renowned for its rustic castles and quaint Welsh villages scattered along the rugged coastline and amid the interior’s rugged national parks. Our ‘Your Choice’ options today offer an opportunity to experience your choice of two UNESCO World Heritage listed ‘royal sites’ or stretch your legs on an escorted hike in Wales’ Snowdonia National Park.

This afternoon we are in for a real treat: an onboard performance from a Welsh choir. Welsh male mining choirs are a powerful symbol of Wales’ cultural heritage. Originating in the coal-mining communities, these choirs embody the resilience and camaraderie of the miners. Their harmonies, rich and resonant, reflect the soul of the Welsh landscape and its history. Singing traditional hymns and contemporary pieces, these choirs preserve a unique musical tradition. Attending a performance is a moving experience, showcasing the strength and spirit of Welsh communities through song.

Day 9 Waterford, Republic of Ireland (Port: Waterford)
Sailing the Irish sea, we meet the coast near Rosslare and make our way to the popular city of Waterford.

Known as the city where culture meets the ‘craic’ (that is 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 that came 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.

Today's 'Your Choice' experiences let you dive into some intriguing regal encounters. Discover the Kennedy family's ancestral stronghold in Wexford, where the Kennedys are considered American royalty, travel to Kilkenny Castle for an intriguing story of nobility gone wrong, or enjoy a visit to every royal family’s favourite crystal producer; Waterford Crystal. We’ll dock at the Port of Waterford, only a handy 10-minute coach shuttle into town, affording you an afternoon exploring Waterford should you wish, before we set sail in the early evening.

Day 10 Falmouth, England, UK (Port: Falmouth)
Having explored the fractured past between Ireland and the United Kingdom, we arrive around midday at the quintessential British county of Cornwall. The seafaring folk of Cornwall have traditionally lived around the crags and coves of the county’s coastline in small villages that hug bays and cling to clifftops. Falmouth, with its rich maritime heritage, was established in the 17th century and played a crucial role in naval history, serving as a base for packet ships that carried mail across the British Empire. The town’s natural harbour facilitated its development as a significant maritime centre. Today, Falmouth is a vibrant community known for its maritime activities, including shipbuilding and fishing.

This afternoon, we tender ashore due to tidal restrictions, as mariners have for centuries to join ‘Your Choice’ of Cornish experiences. Once the tide permits, we'll dock to welcome you aboard in the late afternoon and sail for Plymouth early evening.

Day 11 Plymouth (Tender Port: Plymouth)
Today, we step ashore in a port steeped in maritime history and royal connections: Plymouth. This city’s rich legacy begins with the Mayflower, which set sail from Plymouth in 1620, carrying the first Pilgrims to America. Landing at Plymouth Bay, Massachusetts, this voyage marked a pivotal moment in Europe’s expansion to the ‘New World’, with over 30 million people today tracing their ancestry to its 102 passengers and crew from England and Leiden, Holland. We literally follow in their footsteps, as our tender comes alongside within sight of the very steps they used when boarding the Mayflower, giving us direct access to Plymouth’s centre.

Plymouth’s maritime heritage extends to Sir Francis Drake, a celebrated naval commander and explorer. Famous for circumnavigating the globe and defeating the Spanish Armada in 1588, Drake was knighted by Queen Elizabeth I aboard his ship, the Golden Hind, in Plymouth harbour. Over the centuries, Plymouth’s naval significance has deepened royal ties, with the late Duke of Edinburgh serving as Commodore-in-Chief for Plymouth. This enduring connection underscores Plymouth’s pivotal role in British naval history and its global influence.

Day 12 Cowes, Isle of Wight (Tender Port: Cowes)
The Isle of Wight, a favoured summer holiday destination, offers travellers more than Victorian-era seaside towns and sandy beaches. Just three kilometres across the Solent from the Hampshire coast, this 388-square-kilometres island’s strategic location has guarded ports like Southampton and Portsmouth throughout history, from Roman times, through to the Spanish Armada, to the Battle of Britain.

The coastal gem of Cowes hosts us today as we anchor in its famous bay and tender ashore like the royals of olde. This ‘yachty’ town boasts a royal sailing legacy and has hosted the esteemed Cowes Week regatta since 1826. This sailing hub attracts yachties and royalty alike to its renowned waters, home to prestigious sail makers and synonymous with wealth and yachting prestige. Strolling its waterfront streets, we find an eclectic mix of shops and cafes filled with sailing equipment, seaside souvenirs and tasty baked treats respectively.

Early this evening, we sail the Solent, following in the wake of countless ships that have departed from Southampton and Portsmouth over the centuries. These waters have carried emigrants seeking new lives, soldiers heading off to war, and cruise passengers embarking on transatlantic journeys. On board, enjoy a Farewell dinner as we pay homage to our own voyage’s end.

Day 13 Disembark Portsmouth (Port: Portsmouth) - London
We cross the Solent overnight and disembark at the naval city of Portsmouth. Our journey takes us on a regal route with a visit to the town of Royal Windsor, where we visit King Charles III’s weekend retreat, Windsor Castle.

Windsor Castle stands as an iconic symbol of British royalty, recognised as the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. Initially constructed by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it has been a royal residence for nearly a millennium. Its majestic architecture, profound historical significance, and role as a functioning royal palace make it a dream for royal aficionados. Throughout history, it has witnessed pivotal events, including rebellions and reprisals, births and burials, weddings and divorces, while during World War II, Windsor Castle provided crucial refuge for the royal family, safeguarding them from the London bombings. In 1992, a devastating fire almost destroying several galleries complete with artwork, prompting Queen Elizabeth II to famously describe the year as her “annus horribilis”.

Today, Windsor Castle remains an active royal residence. It continues to host state visits, ceremonial occasions and commemorations, perpetuating its legacy as an integral part of British heritage. Our visit includes exploring the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel, and the extensive grounds, all of which showcase the castle’s rich history and grandeur before we continue our journey to London.

This evening, you are free to sample some local fare. Perhaps try pheasant pie and risotto, coddled eggs, or foraged wild mushrooms, all said to be King Charles III favourites.

Accommodation: London Hotel

Meals: Breakfast onboard

Day 14 London
With its six royal palaces, numerous shops endorsed by royal charters, and a wealth of museums, galleries, and vaults housing treasures from the Crown Jewels to King Charles III himself, London indisputably embodies the essence of ‘the crown’. From the iconic coronation chair at Westminster Abbey to the stately Royal Mews, and the expansive parklands of St James’s Park, to countless pubs bearing royal names, every corner of London resonates with regal history, ensuring any ‘crown aficionado’ a right royal day out.

With an abundance of royal sites to explore, the choice is yours today, when you use your hop-on-hop-off bus pass to uncover the city’s regal history. Whether you prefer the open-top or traditional inside seating, this popular mode of transport offers a fully guided tour with stops at all the significant sites. From Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and St Paul’s Cathedral, you will have the opportunity to visit numerous iconic locations that showcase the city’s rich royal heritage. We’re including an entrance ticket to the Tower of London in your experience. After all, no royal day out in London is complete without marvelling at the Crown Jewels, hearing the city’s story from the Beefeaters, and discovering the intriguing tales of eccentric monarchs and lost heads.

This evening, join your fellow travellers and host at a right royal Farewell Event.

Accommodation: London Hotel (or similar)

Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Event canapés

Day 15 Depart London
We bid you farewell today with a departure transfer to Heathrow airport – the monarch’s airport of choice!

Meals: Breakfast

Adventure has a new name. Setting sail in 2025, our new state-of-the-art ship, the Douglas Mawson, is the last in a line of purpose-built vessels that have redefined small ship expedition cruising.

Named after the legendary Australian geologist and explorer, our new small ship embodies Mawson’s pioneering spirit and is designed for global discovery. Featuring the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW® and purpose-built with enhanced sustainability features, it takes a maximum of 130 adventurers on board our Expeditions. All in smooth, quiet comfort. It boasts our most extensive range of staterooms yet, including a range of single staterooms.

The Douglas Mawson features a host of amenities to help you connect with like-minded travellers and elevate your time onboard our floating base camp for adventure. After a long day of exploring, head to the back deck to swim in the heated outdoor swimming pool, find a sun bed to read on, or soak in one of two Jacuzzis. Work up a sweat in the gym before unwinding in the sauna, resolve to learn something new in the Citizen Science Centre, then enjoy a delicious meal with new and old friends in one of two restaurants. Or, with multiple observation areas throughout the ship, simply relax in comfort while you keep watch for wildlife or incredible landscapes unfold before you.

While enjoying the luxurious amenities onboard, you can rest assured that our aim to get you off the ship to explore the natural environment as much as possible through our unique activities program remains unchanged.

At Aurora Expeditions wilderness is a passion they share with others by taking small groups of like-minded people to some of the most isolated places on our planet. From the polar regions of Antarctica and High Arctic to the wilds of Costa Rica, Scotland, Patagonia and more, Aurora Expeditions aims to create special expedition-style cruises that foster an understanding and appreciation of our natural world.

The Australian-owned adventure company was initially established in the early 1990¹s by adventures Greg Mortimer and Margaret Werner when they began sharing their love of remote places by organising ship-based trips for keen friends and fellow travellers. Their style to push the boundaries¹ has remained unchanged and they are proud of the fact that their spirit of adventure and exploration is as strong as ever. Their adventure activities are proof of this; with many of their voyages offering polar scuba diving, sea kayaking, camping and mountain climbing.

Deeply committed to education and preservation of the environment, Aurora Expeditions were the founding member of both the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO) and the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO). All their voyages have expert expedition staff who will help to unlock the wonders of these special places.