Deckplan
Please note that all beds can be configured as twin or double with the exception of suites 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed.
An expedition from Portsmouth to Oban aboard the MS Hebridean Sky in association with Botanica World Discoveries
For this exploration of the gardens of the British Isles we are working with our Australian associates and experts in botanically themed tours, Botanica World Discoveries, and the all-suite MS Hebridean Sky. Botanica have exclusively chartered the vessel for this sailing and are making a limited number of suites available for Noble Caledonia guests. The voyage is timed for when the shores of the UK and Ireland will be alive with colour, when many of the estates and gardens will be at their most appealing and the countryside will be lush and inviting.
We will journey from the South Coast of England to Scotland by way of the Isles of Scilly, Wales, Ireland and Northern Ireland as well as the Hebrides. The gardens of Britain and Ireland have a unique quality and from the formal and manicured to the wilder and more natural, our itinerary includes some of our most beautiful and diverse which in spring are a sight to gladden any heart. This, combined with the sheer diversity of the coastline, makes for a most appealing sea journey whether you be an avid gardener, birdwatcher or simply enjoy sailing past and visiting some of the most enchanting places in the world.
Travelling by small ship in the company of just 118 fellow guests we have the advantage of being able to reach remote islands and, with the use of Zodiacs we will be able to explore some of the loveliest places from seductive coastal towns to stunning seascapes and idyllic isles.
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
Embark the MS Hebridean Sky this afternoon. Transfers will be provided from Portsmouth Harbour Railway Station at a fixed time. Sail in the early evening.
Anchor this morning in the River Fowey, our base for a day exploring this picturesque part of Cornwall. This morning choose to visit Caerhays Castle and Gardens. Situated between St Mawes and Mevagissey in a secluded valley above Porthluney Cove, this is one of the great gardens of Cornwall. The estate is one of the oldest in the country and home to a National Magnolia Collection whilst the 120 acre woodland gardens are a springtime wonderland. Alternatively, visit the Lost Gardens of Heligan. The seat of the Tremayne family for 400 years, the garden fell into disrepair after World War I and was lovingly restored between 1990 and 2000. Its pre 1920 camellias and rhododendrons, which we hope will be in bloom for our call, are now part of the National Collection and provide a living link to the past. The extensive grounds include a Victorian Kitchen Garden and atmospheric paths lead through the Pleasure Grounds. After lunch on board the afternoon is free to explore Fowey at your own pace.
This morning we arrive at the traffic-free island of Tresco, walking its idyllic lanes from the beach to the famous sub-tropical Abbey Gardens. Defying the Atlantic weather, this miracle of a garden is home to more than 20,000 species of plants from over 80 countries. Enjoy time to wander at your own pace along the paths, maybe visit the Valhalla collection of ship figureheads from ships wrecked on the islands or relax in the café. This afternoon local tenders take us to Bryher Island which was the setting of the film, “When the Whales Came”, based on Michael Morpurgo’s novel inspired by the island. The island is home to a number of nationally recognised rare plants. We take a walk around the island in search of wildflowers, including the dwarf pansy which grows nowhere else in Great Britain.
From our berth in Fishguard you can choose to take a scenic drive to St Davids, Britain’s smallest city. Explore the magnificent 12th century cathedral and see the Bishop’s Palace before enjoying some free time in the city. You may also wish to join our naturalists for a walk along the Pembrokeshire coastal path. The path covers 186 miles around the Welsh coast and we will join a section to enjoy the wonderful scenery. Alternatively visit Dyffryn Fernant Garden, a relatively new garden created from scratch in 1996. It has quickly become one of the most interesting and innovative gardens in Wales. The garden is known for its eclectic mix of plants and planting styles, and it is nestled in a secluded valley with stunning views of the Preseli Mountains. Enjoy free time in Fishguard this afternoon.
Arriving into Ireland we visit two exceptional gardens around the Waterford region. Mount Congreve Gardens is home to one of the ‘Great Gardens of the World’, including one of the world’s largest private collections of plants. Curraghmore Estate was the home of the 9th Marquess of Waterford. Explore the house and gardens, including the Shell House, and artwork from the 18th and 19th centuries. This afternoon, you can choose to take a shuttle bus from the ship to Waterford where you have free time to maybe visit the famous Waterford Crystal Factory or follow the Waterford Viking Triangle, whose cluster of museums detail the city’s history.
Arrive in the Dublin port of Dun Laoghaire, then travel south to Powerscourt Estate which is comprised of a sublime blend of formal gardens, sweeping terraces, statues and ornamental lakes. Continue to Mt Usher, one of Monty Don’s favourite gardens, and a world-class example of a Robinsonian garden. This afternoon, choose free time or perhaps take a city tour of Dublin.
Returning to Wales we visit Bodnant Garden, renowned as one of the most beautiful gardens in the UK. This Grade I-listed historic garden comprises formal gardens, shrub-filled glades, meadows and water gardens. Afterwards, visit Snowdonia National Park where we explore Maenan Hall Garden, the private garden of Christopher McLaren. He is part of the Aberconway family who were responsible for the creation of Bodnant Garden.
Spend the day in Belfast where we take a tour of the city, which includes the Cathedral Quarter and St George’s Market, while learning about the layers of history that make Belfast such a compelling place to visit. We also visit the Titanic Experience to learn more about the ill-fated vessel’s history. This afternoon, visit Northern Ireland’s much-loved family home, Mount Stewart, located on the shores of Strangford Lough. The garden was planted by Edith, Lady Londonderry, who had a passion for bold planting schemes.
On our first day in Scotland we visit Crarae Gardens, Britian’s finest example of a Himalayan-style garden, with tumbling waterfalls and rippling burn. The garden was created by Lady Grace Campbell, the aunt of intrepid plant hunter Reginald Farrer. This afternoon visit Ardmaddy Castle Garden set in a most spectacular setting. This garden is shielded to the north by mature woodlands, carpeted with bluebells and daffodils and protected from the Atlantic winds by the elevated castle.
Arrive on the Isle of Iona, within the Inner Hebrides. Here we visit its abbey, founded by St Columba in 563. The abbey survived several Viking attacks and once housed a community of around 1,200 Benedictine monks. We then take a walk, in search of wildflowers, including wild iris and yellow bird’s-foot trefoil, along with fields of buttercups. We return to the ship, sailing to the Isle of Lunga as we enjoy lunch on board. Keep an eye out for the nesting slopes of the resident puffins. Described as ‘a green jewel in a peacock sea’, this uninhabited island is a designated site of special scientific interest, which seeks to protect the marine life and seabird colonies of the area, as well as its rare and endangered plants, including primrose, bird’s-foot trefoil and orchids. Get up close to the island’s thousands of breeding puffins which live on the island.
Disembark this morning. Transfers will be provided to Glasgow Central Station and Airport at a fixed time.
25 May to 4 June 2024 | ||
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Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
Amundsen Deck Standard Suite | £5995 | £5795 |
Byrd Deck Superior Suite | £6195 | £5995 |
Mawson Deck Premium Suite | £6595 | £6395 |
Mawson Deck Corner Suite | £6995 | £6795 |
Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite | £7495 | £7295 |
Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £7995 | £7795 |
Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite | £8995 | £8795 |
Amundsen Deck Standard for sole use | £10295 | £10095 |
Byrd Deck Superior for sole use | £10495 | £10295 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHKS250524
PRICE INCLUDES: 10 nights aboard the MS Hebridean Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Expedition team • Guest Speakers • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Please note that all beds can be configured as twin or double with the exception of suites 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed.
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
Australian media personality Sophie Thomson’s career in TV, radio and print media work focuses on the gardening arena. She is a popular gardening author and her latest book Sophie’s Patch is a best-seller. The avid horticulturist’s enduring love affair with gardening stems from growing up in the family nursery in Australia’s Adelaide Hills.
Winner of five RHS gold medals, and many accolades, Anthea is a garden designer and teacher who has exhibited at Chelsea, Gardeners’ World Live, Cardiff and Hampton Court Palace RHS shows. She has travelled all over the world as a speaker on gardens and gardening. She has a special interest in garden history and medicinal plants.
A circumnavigation of the United Kingdom aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
A voyage from Portsmouth to Aberdeeen aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
A voyage around Ireland aboard the MS Island Sky
A Circumnavigation of the United Kingdom aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000