Don't miss
Temple Bar is where it’s at – dating back to Anglo-Saxon days, it’s a cobblestoned cultural enclave of galleries, restaurants, hopping pubs and the lively Meeting House Square.
From Dublin to Edinburgh
Ireland & Scotland: Saints, Saviours and Secrets
From Dublin to Edinburgh
Ireland & Scotland: Saints, Saviours and Secrets
Voyage Itinerary
24 June to 26 June
Setting sail from Dublin
There is nothing like a visit to Ireland for a warm welcome, and in Dublin great literature, fascinating history and the friendly atmosphere make a stay here an unforgettable experience. The fair city of the song is a great place to meet the locals, enjoy the Georgian townhouses, explore the nooks and crannies of the castle, and of course to indulge in some serious retail therapy. And do seek out the Viking roots, medieval streets, city parks and beautiful bridges over the river Liffey - this is after all a great city to investigate on foot.
27 June
Ireland: Waterford
Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city, over 1,000 years old, with a fascinating Viking and Norman heritage that is still discernible in the narrow streets of the ‘Viking Triangle’. The city is also famous as the home of Waterford crystal, and the glass-making industry here dates back to the late 18th century.
28 June
Ireland: Cork
Ireland’s second city is an engaging mix of cosy pubs, grand Georgian architecture and forward-thinking restaurants, with one of the best foodie scenes in the country. Cork’s historic centre sits on an island in the River Lee, and the narrow streets are full of cafés, bars and markets.
29 June
Ireland: Bantry
Bantry Bay is one of the most picturesque spots on County Cork’s west coast, sandwiched between the Beara and Sheep’s Head peninsulas. Local highlights include the 18th-century Bantry House, with its elegant gardens and intriguing links to the United Irishmen Rebellion of 1798.
30 June
Ireland: Dingle
The beautiful Dingle Peninsula reaches out into the crashing Atlantic surf, culminating in the westernmost point on the Irish mainland. The peninsula’s buzzing ‘capital’, Dingle town, is a charming little place full of lively pubs, colourful shopfronts and toe-tapping traditional Irish music.
1 July
Ireland: Galway
Galway is known as the ‘city of festivals’, home to a cosmopolitan mix of artists, musicians and students. Buskers and folk bands provide the soundtrack as you explore the city’s fantastic pubs and pedestrianised streets, and Galway is also a useful base for visiting sights such as the Cliffs of Moher and Connemara National Park.
2 July
Ireland: Killybegs
Killybegs is a bustling fishing port on the Donegal coast, and you’ll see both local and international vessels filling the harbour. The village has some nice pubs worth visiting, and the surrounding countryside is typified by beautiful coastal scenery such as the dramatic Slieve League cliffs.
2 July
Ireland: Slieve League Cliffs
3 July
United Kingdom: Derry (Londonderry)
Disagreements over the correct name for Northern Ireland’s second city date back to 1613, and are unlikely to be resolved any time soon, so let’s focus instead on what the city has to offer. Highlights include the 17th century city walls, a vibrant live music scene and a city centre rejuvenated by Derry’s stint as UK Capital of Culture in 2013.
4 July
United Kingdom: Belfast
The 1998 Good Friday Agreement was a watershed moment for Northern Ireland, and its rejuvenated capital is enjoying a surge in popularity. The new Titanic Belfast museum is the star attraction, while the city centre boasts some handsome Victorian architecture and a lively pub scene.
5 July
United Kingdom: Glasgow
Gritty Glasgow is Scotland's largest city, renowned for its culture, style and the friendliness of its people. With internationally-acclaimed museums and galleries, stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, fantastic shopping and a diverse array of restaurants and bars, Glasgow has something for everyone.
5 July
United Kingdom: Troon
The coastal town of Troon, just to the north of Ayr, is probably best known for its seven golf courses, including Royal Troon, which regularly hosts the Open. Other attractions include sandy beaches, excellent seafood restaurants and nearby Dundonald Castle, which dates back to the 14th century.
6 July to 7 July
Arriving in Edinburgh
Cosmopolitan Edinburgh, Scotland’s lovely capital, is located in spectacular countryside, always visible from the city centre. Striking architecture, lots to see and do, and great food mean that your time here will be very busy. And if your visit coincides with the Festival, you have a treat in store.
Our tip
If you will be visiting in August, the Festival is overwhelming – check out what’s on and book ahead. Don’t forget to include the Tattoo – a stirring evening indeed!
The ship
Douglas Mawson
- Capacity:
- 154 Guests
- Crew:
- 81 Staff
- Style:
- Immersive exploration in comfort with elegantly designedinteriors and the latest in sustainable technology.
The brand new expedition ship from AE Expeditions set sail in 2025 with the latest in cutting-edge nautical technology for immersive exploration in complete comfort.
What we love
The third ship to join AE Expeditions' fleet of revolutionary purpose-built expedition ships, Douglas Mawson features the newest X-BOW design and a whole host of enhancements, building on the success of Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle. Named after a legendary Australian explorer, the new ship's inaugural season immerses guests in the pristine landscapes of East Antarctica, marking AE Expeditions' return to this region for the first time in 15 years.
On board you can expect the largest choice of cabins in the fleet, including single berth cabins, plus beautiful open deck space for taking in the views, featuring a heated outdoor swimming pool, whirlpools and comfortable loungers, perfect for unwinding after a day's exploring.
inclusions
- All meals, snacks, tea and coffee
- Soft drinks throughout the day
- Beer and house wine with dinner
- Landings, Zodiac cruises and select excursions
- Onboard lecture programme
- 3-in-1 polar jacket on polar voyages
- WiFi
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Dublin
The Merrion – great location, an elegant setting (four restored Georgian townhouses) and a Michelin restaurant.
Around Dublin
Head out of the city to Brú na Bóinne - even older than the Pyramids, here are three Neolithic passage tombs.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
For sheer weird quirkiness, the Witchery by the Castle has to be our top choice: gothic and theatrical, this is Edinburgh at its best.
What to see around Edinburgh
Cross the Forth Bridge to visit Hopetoun House, the seaside fortress Blackness Castle, the House of the Binns, the Palace of Linlithgow and Rosslyn Chapel.
How can we help?
Our frequently asked questions
From expedition tips to travel protection, here are some of our most-asked questions.
visit our faqs
Can you help with pre and post-cruise arrangements?
Absolutely. Expedition cruises often start and end in remote destinations, and we're able to arrange everything from flights and transfers to hotels and tours. If you're keen to make the most of your time away with bespoke arrangements, we can help with all your travel needs to make sure your trip is exceptional. What's more, we are members of ABTA and we offer full ATOL protection, not to mention a 24-hour emergency contact, to give you complete peace of mind.
Will I save by booking with Mundy Adventures?
You'll save money and time by booking with us rather than directly with the cruise line, as well as enjoying more flexibility in your travel arrangements. We have access to preferential rates and exclusive offers, and we offer expert advice on how to get the best value.
How much time is spent ashore?
Itineraries are planned to deliver an unforgettable experience of the destination, so days are filled with landings ashore via the ship's fleet of Zodiacs (sturdy rubber boats) or exploration along the coastline. It will vary depending on itinerary and operators, so it's best to contact us to discuss but rest assured an expedition cruise is focused on the time you spend off the ship.
cruise news
Latest news and travel inspiration
News, trip reports, cruising advice and industry insight brought to you from our expert team.
Why Mundy?
Who we are
Mundy Adventures is the intrepid little brother of Mundy Cruising Ltd., the UK's very first cruise specialist, and one of the leading companies in its field.
We specialise in travel by ship and have been doing so for over 50 years. By providing expert, personal service, insightful ideas and fascinating add-ons we aim to make your adventure holiday truly unique and special.
We're happy to do all of that over the phone. But if you prefer to chat face to face, why not visit us at our comfortable offices on London's High Holborn - we'd be delighted to see you.
