Join the MS Island Sky and escape to warmer climes for this unique journey from Sri Lanka and across the Bay of Bengal, to Thailand. We will discover Sri Lanka in some depth before sailing to the tropical Andaman Islands and on to Phuket, returning each evening to all the comforts of the MS Island Sky. Such a trip by land would be a continuous connection of hotels, long road journeys and domestic flights whereas with our small ship we can journey along the coast through beautiful scenery enjoying a wonderful mix of cultural and natural wonders along the way.
During our time in Sri Lanka we will explore Colombo with its Buddhist and Hindu temples and old colonial buildings and Galle Fort, the fortified old city founded by the Portuguese colonists in the 16th century and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition we visit Polonnaruwa, the 5th century ancient city considered to be one of the best planned archaeological sites in the country. There will also be opportunities to discover some natural world wonders with visits to Yala National Park, renowned for its rich wildlife, most notably its many elephants, and Bundala National Park, a haven for birdwatchers and Sri Lanka’s first designated wetland site of international importance.
After a week of exploration in Sri Lanka, we will spend a leisurely two days at sea as we head east across the Bay of Bengal allowing for time to catch up with fellow travellers and the onboard team regarding all you have seen and experienced. Arriving in the enchanting yet little known Andaman Islands, some 852 miles from mainland India, we have three days to explore these tropical islands with their pristine beaches and untouched primeval jungle. During our time here we will visit Port Blair, the capital which has a number of museums showcasing the lives of the indigenous population, Ross Island where we will discover the island’s rich history with remnants of the colonial era and also spend time on Havelock Island where there will be the opportunity to relax on the beach and swim in the inviting turquoise waters. Continuing on to Thailand and the island of Phuket, our final day will be spent exploring this ‘pearl of the Andaman Sea’ with its Buddhist temples, beautiful coastal scenery and characterful capital.
Island Sky
The MS Island Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Hebridean 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.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Colombo.
Arrive and transfer to the MS Island Sky. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 3 Colombo.
Sri Lanka’s commercial capital and largest city dates back over 600 years having been a trading hub for sea merchants and colonial rulers. Buddhist temples, Hindu temples, mosques and churches reflect the various beliefs practised all over the island and the beautiful facades of the old, colonial buildings contrast with the modern but elegant shopping arcades that have been developed inside. There will be a choice of activities today including a cultural tour visiting the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, the National Museum and Independence Square. Alternatively, visit the Kelaniya Buddhist Temple, located on the outskirts of the city. It is said that Buddha visited and preached his doctrine to a gathering of serpent-kings. Today worshippers come to lay sprigs of lotus flowers around the great white dagoba, light oil lamps, and sprinkle the base of the Tree of Enlightenment with purifying water. We can see the fine carvings and lovely frescoes, fascinating geometrically patterned ceiling paintings, and three important images of Buddha.
Day 4 Galle.
Awake this morning in Galle where we take a walking tour of the impressive Galle Fortress. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the port where the Portuguese first landed in Sri Lanka in the 16th century and was then extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century. Also see the maritime museum, which is housed in an old Dutch house, the lighthouse, mosque, and church before taking a stroll through the narrow streets with its shuttered mansions and cloistered courtyards. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore Galle further at your own pace or alternatively join a tour to a nearby tea plantation where we will learn about the growing processes and enjoy a tasting.
Days 5 & 6 Hambantota for Bundala National Park, Yala National Park & Kataragama.
We have one and a half days in Hambantota from where we will visit some of the region’s highlights. We explore Bundala National Park, a haven for birdwatchers and Sri Lanka’s first declared Ramsar wetland. Located in the deep south of the island, the diversity of the park lies in its landscape, from dry thorny scrubland to sand dunes and salt marshes, to mangroves and lagoons. Take a jeep through the park and discover close to 200 species of bird as well as many species of butterflies, crocodiles, elephants and deer. Also known as Ruhunu, Yala National Park was designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and is now home to 44 varieties of mammals and 215 bird species. This vast region of arid scrub interspersed with pockets of dense forest and open patches of grassland hosts one of the highest densities of leopards in the world. On a Jeep safari we also hope to see sloth bears, jackals, wild boar, and elephants. In addition, there will be a chance to visit Kataragama, one of the three most important religious sites in Sri Lanka and a popular place of pilgrimage for Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim and the indigenous Vedda communities of Sri Lanka and South India. According to Buddhists, this was one of the 16 places visited by Buddha during his visits to Sri Lanka. We will explore the religious complex built across the Menik Ganga which contains buildings from all three religions including the mosque, temple, the small archaeological museum, and the principal shrine of the god Kataragama.
Day 7 Trincomalee & Polonnaruwa.
Sailing to the northeast coast of Sri Lanka we arrive in Trincomalee, one of the finest deep water harbours of the world. Choose to join a morning excursion of Trincomalee which includes Fort Frederick built by the Portuguese in 1623, a walk to Swami Rock and a visit to Koneswarum Kovil, one of the five most holy Shaivate temples in the country. The afternoon will be free to relax on board or maybe visit one of the nearby beaches. Alternatively join a full day tour to Polonnaruwa. This 5th century ancient city was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 and is considered to be one of the best planned archaeological sites in the country. The entire landscape of the region is punctuated by high man-made reservoirs, the most famous of which is Parakrama Samudra or the Sea of Parakrama, built during King Parakramabahu’s reign in 1164-1196 AD. The monuments in the ancient city are relatively well preserved and highlights are the Royal Palace complex, including the King’s Palace and Audience Hall and the spectacular Gal Vihare complex of four massive images of the Buddha cut from a single slab of granite.
Days 8 & 9 At Sea.
Spend a relaxing two days at sea as we cross the Bay of Bengal. Maybe join our lecture programme in the lounge or find a spot on deck.
Days 10 to 12 Andaman Islands, India.
Located 1,000 kilometres off the East Coast of India in the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Islands are an archipelago of approximately 300 islands renowned for their palm lined beaches, mangroves, tropical rainforests and coral reefs that support multiple species of marine life. Our two days of exploration will include Port Blair, the largest town, capital and main entry point of the islands where we will visit the 19th century Cellular Jail, the Naval Marine Museum and the Anthropological Museum which showcases the lives of the aboriginal tribes that populate some of the outer islands. On Ross Island we discover the former capital and administrative centre which was used by the British from 1857 until being abandoned after an earthquake in 1941. Exploring the island by foot we will see the ruins of the Chief Commissioner’s House, church, hospital and former troops barracks surrounded by a protected forest which is a sanctuary to a variety of birds. Also visit the small museum where we can see photographs of the island from its heyday. Meanwhile on Havelock Island we can spend some time relaxing on one of the sandy beaches or swimming in the clear waters.
Day 13 At Sea.
Enjoy a leisurely day on board cruising across the Andaman Sea towards Thailand.
Day 14 Phuket, Thailand.
Arriving in Thailand over breakfast we will have a choice of excursions this morning. An island drive will include Wat Chalong, the largest and most strikingly ornamented of Phuket’s 29 Buddhist temples. Its intriguing history features a monk believed to have formidable healing powers. To this day, Thais from all over the country flock to Wat Chalong to pay homage to the monks and regain their physical and spiritual powers. Later see the Big Buddha Temple located at the top of Nark Kerd mountain. Alternatively, join a local speedboat to visit Phang Nga Bay, renowned for the limestone islands rising dramatically from the sea including the famous backdrop to the James Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun”. Spend the morning enjoying the scenery in the bay before we visit Koh Panyi, a settlement built over 200 years ago with houses built on stilts above the water.
Day 15 Phuket to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London. Arrive this evening.
Exploring Ashore: This voyage will appeal to those who enjoy the natural and cultural world and includes activities which will require walking around large archaeological sites, such as Polonnaruwa. In addition, in the National Parks of Yala and Bundala, the safaris will be in 4x4 vehicles travelling on unsealed roads. During our visit to the Andaman Islands, we expect to be at anchor in Havelock Island where we will make use of the vessel’s Zodiacs which will require a beach landing. Throughout the journey our onboard team will endeavour to arrange a selection of walks to include longer and shorter options to cater for different abilities and interests. However, many days will involve walking for extended periods in hot and humid conditions. To best enjoy this itinerary, we do recommend a good level of mobility and if you would like to discuss the level of fitness required, please contact us.
Dates and Prices
26 February to 12 March 2026 | ||
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Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
Magellan Deck Standard Suites | £9495 | £8995 |
Columbus Deck Superior Suites | £9795 | £9295 |
Marco Polo Deck Premium Suites | £10195 | £9695 |
Marco Polo Deck Corner Suites | £10495 | £9995 |
Erikson Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites | £11795 | £11295 |
Explorer Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £12295 | £11795 |
Explorer Deck Island Suite | £12995 | £12495 |
Magellan Deck Standard for sole occupancy | £10495 | £9995 |
Columbus Deck Superior for sole occupancy | £10795 | £10295 |
Tour Reference Code: SCISK260226
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 13 nights aboard the MS Island Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Shore excursions • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Indian visa, Sri Lankan visa.
Exploring Ashore: This voyage will appeal to those who enjoy the natural and cultural world and includes activities which will require walking around large archaeological sites, such as Polonnaruwa. In addition, in the National Parks of Yala and Bundala, the safaris will be in 4x4 vehicles travelling on unsealed roads. During our visit to the Andaman Islands, we expect to be at anchor in Havelock Island where we will make use of the vessel’s Zodiacs which will require a beach landing. Throughout the journey our onboard team will endeavour to arrange a selection of walks to include longer and shorter options to cater for different abilities and interests. However, many days will involve walking for extended periods in hot and humid conditions. To best enjoy this itinerary, we do recommend a good level of mobility and if you would like to discuss the level of fitness required, please contact us.
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Deckplan
Island Sky
The MS Island Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Hebridean 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.
Skys Video Tour
Skys Video Tour
Travelling with You
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Right Reverend Tim Stevens
Tim Stevens read Classics and English at Cambridge. In 1968 he joined BOAC as a graduate trainee and entered the Foreign Office in 1972 working in the South Asian Dept until starting training for ordination in Oxford. He was a parish priest in East London and Essex before being appointed Archdeacon of West Ham, Bishop of Dunwich and eventually Bishop of Leicester where, from 1999 to 2015, he was heavily engaged in interfaith relations and a visiting professor in Church and Society at De Montfort University. Tim was chair of the Children’s Society between 2004 and 2010 and Convener of the Bishops in the House of Lords, between 2009 and 2015, where he spoke regularly on public policy issues especially on Welfare Reform and inter-faith relations. In 2015 he was responsible for planning and leading the events surrounding the re-interment of Richard lll in Leicester Cathedral. Tim is now on the global governance board of St John International and a trustee of the Woolf Institute in Cambridge which researches and supports understanding between Jews, Christians and Muslims.
Tour Extensions
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If you would like to discover more of Sri Lanka, you can join our escorted tour visiting some of the country’s highlights prior to embarking the MS Island Sky.
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Negombo.
Arrive and transfer to Negombo Beach where we will have an afternoon to relax in the hotel or at the nearby beach before we meet for dinner at the hotel. (D)
Day 3 Negombo to Habarana.
Check out this morning and transfer to the centre of Sri Lanka and Habarana. After lunch we check into our hotel and have a free afternoon before meeting for dinner this evening. (B, L, D)
Day 4 Anuradhapura & Minneriya National Park.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site predominantly influenced by Buddhism; Anuradhapura was Sri Lanka’s first Capital Kingdom. According to the ancient Sinhalese Chronicle ‘Mahavansa’ the Kingdom was founded in the fifth century BC. Upon arrival see the brilliant white dome shaped Ruwanweliseya and Jethawanarama stupas or dagobas (religious monuments). These two stupas have survived over two millennia and the mighty Jethawanarama is equal in size to the pyramids in Giza. Next, admire the ‘Samadhi’ Buddha statue, a granite statue of Buddha in a meditative pose and a true masterpiece of sculpture. After lunch near the site we will continue to the Minneriya National Park, a wildlife reserve where during a safari we will witness the animals that call this park home such as sambar deer, birds and of course elephants. (B, L, D)
Day 5 Sigiriya.
Easily the most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka, Sigiriya Rock dramatically rises up out of the surrounding jungle, standing at nearly 200 metres tall. This incredible rock fortress was built by King Kashyapa l in the 5th century AD and served as a royal citadel for more than 18 years. Arriving at the fortress in the morning and with every step we climb, marvel at its beauty in the sun, pausing occasionally during our ascent to admire the mirror wall, the great lion paws, and the famous Sigiriya frescoes. Legend states that King Kashyapa’s harem threw themselves off the rock when he fell but live forever in the form of frescoes found on the inner cave walls. Once at the top, enjoy the unparalleled views of the natural jungle that surrounds you. Return to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. (B, L, D)
Day 6 Dambulla to Kandy.
Check out this morning before we visit the Dambulla Cave Temples. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a vast cave complex that dates back to the 1st century BC when it was converted into a temple and it is still regarded as one of the most important Buddhist monasteries. As we explore the complex of five caves, admire the rock ceiling which is the largest collection of paintings in Sri Lanka within a cave temple and wander between the 150 Buddhist statues that stand so well preserved within the cave walls. After lunch we will drive to the hill capital of Kandy, the last kingdom of Sri Lanka. After checking into our hotel the remainder of the afternoon and evening are at leisure. (B, L, D)
Day 7 Kandy.
Kandy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the famed Temple of the Tooth. This iconic monument was built during the 16th century AD and is one of the most important temples for Buddhists as it houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha and is one of the most revered sites in this cultural capital. Later we continue to the Royal Botanical Gardens. With 147 acres and over 4,000 species of plants, it is the largest and most impressive botanical garden in Sri Lanka. As we take a leisurely walk, admire the beautiful giant bamboo and double palm trees, both of which are imports to the island and many are over a century old, and the fine collection of orchids, for which the garden is famous. (B, L, D)
Day 8 Kandy to Colombo.
Check out after breakfast and transfer to the MS Island Sky moored in Colombo. (B, L)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
20 to 27 February 2026 Category Price Twin £3495 Single £4295 Price Includes: Overnight hotel accommodation in Negombo, three nights hotel accommodation in Dambulla, two nights hotel accommodation in Kandy, meals as indicated (B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner), Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, tours as described, gratuities, transfers, airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Sri Lankan visa.
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If you would like to spend some time in Bangkok after disembarking the MS Island Sky, we are offering a three night extension based at the Shangri-La Hotel.
The Itinerary
Day 1 Phuket to Bangkok, Thailand.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for the scheduled flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival transfer to the Shangri-La Hotel. Dinner will be at the hotel this evening. (D)
Day 2 Bangkok.
Today we will set out to explore the city. We will start at the Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple. We will then board Tuk Tuks to explore the Old City before visiting Wat Pho, the oldest temple in Bangkok. After lunch we will continue to explore the city by boat, travelling through the canals seeing everyday life from the water. Our final stop will be Wat Arun before returning to the hotel where the remainder of the day is at leisure. (B, L)
Day 3 Bangkok.
This morning we will set out to explore the vibrant Damnoen Saduak Floating Market where we can watch the locals shop from the colourful boats filled with fresh produce. We will explore the area further by travelling through the canals before lunch. We will return to the hotel where the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. This evening we will meet for dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 4 Bangkok to London.
Check out this morning and transfer to Bangkok airport for the scheduled flight to London. (B)
Day 5 London.
Arrive today.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
12 to 16 March 2026 Category Price Twin £1695 Single £2095 Price Includes: Three nights hotel accommodation, meals as indicated (B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner), tours as described, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Also of Interest
Passage to India
A voyage from the Seychelles to Chennai including the Maldives & Sri Lanka aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Hebridean Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Mahe / Aride / Curieuse / Grande Soeur / Praslin / Maldives / Colombo / Galle / Bundala National Park / Yala National Park / Kataragama / Trincomalee /Pigeon Island National Park / Polonnaruwa / Chennai
Enchanting Indochina
A journey through Hanoi, Halong Bay, Laos & the Upper Mekong aboard the Ylang & the Anouvong
Ylang and Anouvong
Itinerary at a glance
- Hanoi / Halong Bay / Luang Prabang /Pak Ou Caves / Ban Khok Phou / Had Sako / Khok Aek / Pakbeng / Huay Xai / Chiang Rai
Islands & Atolls of the Indian Ocean
A voyage from Mauritius exploring Madagascar, Aldabra & Tanzania aboard the MS Island Sky
Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Mauritius / Reunion Island / Masoala National Park / Nosy Mangabe / Domaine de Bobangira / Diego Suarez / Nosy Hara / Aldabra Islands / Kilwa Kisiwani / Latham Island / Zanzibar / Dar es Salaam
Passage from Mahe to Mumbai
A voyage from the Seychelles to India’s Malabar Coast including the Maldives & Lakshadweep Islands aboard the MS Island Sky
Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Mahe / Inner Seychelles / Maldives / Cochin / Lakshadweep Islands / Goa / Mumbai
Mumbai, the Malabar Coast & Sri Lanka
A voyage from Mumbai to Colombo aboard the MS Island Sky
FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Mumbai / Goa / Mangalore / Cochin / Galle / Bundala National Park / Yala National Park / Kataragama / Colombo
Splendours of Southeast Asia
A voyage from Thailand to Vietnam including Malaysia aboard the MS Island Sky with Guest Speaker Reverend Richard Coles
Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Phuket / Langkawi / Penang / Kuala Lumpur / Malacca / Singapore / Pulau Tioman / Con Dao / Ho Chi Minh
Treasures of Vietnam
An exploration of Vietnam sailing from Ho Chi Minh City to Hong Kong aboard the MS Island Sky with Guest Speaker Michael Buerk
Island Sky
Itinerary at a glance
- Ho Chi Minh City / Nha Trang / Quy Nohn / Hoi An / Hue / Hanoi / Ha Long Bay / Hong Kong
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000