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!
From Edinburgh to Dublin
Scotland’s Wild Isles: Shetlands, Orkneys and Inner Hebrides
From Edinburgh to Dublin
Scotland’s Wild Isles: Shetlands, Orkneys and Inner Hebrides
Voyage Itinerary
2 June
Setting sail from Edinburgh
Edinburgh - what a city! The capital city of Scotland has some striking and varied architecture, an imposing Castle, memorable museums and galleries and some wonderful restaurants. And what we love best about this buzzing city is that you can always look up, and there's the beautiful countryside - the Seven Hills - surrounding you. It's a city of inexhaustible delights; in one day alone you could see the Scottish Crown Jewels and Stone of Destiny, follow the Royal Mile to explore narrow closes steeped in history, and go to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Edinburgh Dungeon and the Scottish Parliament.
3 June to 5 June
United Kingdom: Shetland Islands
6 June
United Kingdom: Loch Ewe
Loch Ewe is a sea loch off the coast of Wester Ross, and the shores were traditionally inhabited by Gaelic speakers who lived in crofting villages. The loch had an important role during the Second World War as the base for Arctic shipping convoys, and is also home to Scotland’s smallest whisky distillery.
7 June
United Kingdom: Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most popular tourist destinations, thanks to a spectacular landscape of jagged peaks, misty moors and glassy lochs. The island’s biggest town is Portree, a pleasant little place with a colourful harbour.
8 June
United Kingdom: Rathlin Island
Sparsely populated Rathlin Island, off the coast of Northern Ireland, is home to thousands of seabirds, including puffins, kittiwakes, razorbills and guillemots. This is also where Robert the Bruce famously took refuge in a cave when he was driven out of Scotland by the English.
9 June
Arriving in Dublin
The city of Dublin has something for everyone with great shopping, beautiful Georgian architecture, lovely parks, galleries and museums. Everywhere you go you will be bowled away by the jovial Irish welcome. Don’t miss the chance to sample a local pint of Guinness.
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.
The ship
National Geographic Explorer
- Capacity:
- 148 Guests
- Crew:
- 99 Staff
- Style:
- Expedition cruising at its best, so expect relaxed informal evenings after adventurous days!
National Geographic Explorer was originally constructed to navigate the Norwegian coast before being rebuilt as a fully stabilised ice-class expedition ship.
What we love
With an ice-strengthened hull she is perfectly suited to the polar regions but also offers voyages in the British Isles, Iceland and North America and features Lindblad's signature 'Tools for Exploration' to enhance your adventure. National Geographic Explorer underwent a refurbishment of her upper suites in 2023, boasting a refreshed décor and Scandinavian design.
inclusions
- All meals on board
- Beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks
- All park fees and permits
- Activities and excursions
- Basic Wi-Fi package
- Gratuities
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
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.
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.
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.
