Join us for this unique expedition aboard the 95-passenger MS Serenissima as we discover the history and legacy of the Kingdom of the Isles and the majestic beauty of the Hebrides. The Atlantic seaboard of Europe has long provided a sea route for the occupation of the islands around Scotland and Argyll and the Hebrides boast some remarkable remains from these earliest prehistoric peoples. Those that resisted the Roman Invasion were proud Celts – Picts and Scots who forced the legions to retreat, leaving Hadrian’s Wall as the Empire’s northernmost boundary.
The period from the 3rd to the 12th centuries is sometimes referred to as ‘the Dark Ages of Hebridean history’, the detail surviving in obscure ancient texts or in oral tradition. However, in the midst of spectacular scenery and impressive wildlife, there is much to be seen and interpreted on the ground and, as history has attested through these centuries, a small ship is the ideal way to experience it. The ancient and proud legacy of Gaelic culture and language was for long suppressed but, as the Romans, the Vikings and the English kings found out, could never be extinguished. Norse and Gaelic place names survive throughout Scotland and the Isle of Man where a strong Norse tradition thrives.
During our voyage, we will learn about this often overlooked history of the region and discover some of the figures who were intrinsic to the story of the Kingdom of the Isles. We track the paths taken by early Christian missionaries and discover leaders such as the Viking Godred Crovan, Somerled ‘the Lord of the Isles’ whose sons and grandsons founded the powerful clans including Clan Donald, Robert the Bruce and the Campbells of Argyll. We will visit the places where this history was made including the monastery at Iona, Armadale Castle and Finlaggan where installation of the Lords of the Isles took place.
Over the course of eight nights, we will explore scenic lochs, beautiful gardens and walking trails and visit some secluded places where we hope to spot some of the amazing wildlife. Joining us on board will be John Love whose knowledge of Scottish history and wildlife, and of the Hebrides, was instrumental in helping us devise this unique itinerary.
Useful links & Travel Advice
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Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Following an extensive renovation in 2003, the vessel began her life as a classic cruise ship and we have had the vessel on long term charter since 2013. Accommodating just 95 passengers the vessel is perfect for small ship cruising and can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Itinerary
Day 1 Oban, Scotland.
Embark the MS Serenissima this afternoon in Oban. Transfers will be provided from Glasgow Central Railway Station and Glasgow International Airport at a fixed time. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner as we sail this evening.
Day 2 Staffa & Iona.
This morning we hope to drop anchor off the south side of Staffa where the perpendicular rock face features an imposing series of black basalt columns, known as the Colonnade, which have been cut by the sea into cathedralesque caverns, most notably Fingal’s Cave. Weather permitting, we will use our Zodiacs to explore closer. A short cruise brings us to the Sound of Iona. For more than 1000 years the island of Iona has been a place of deep spiritual significance and no less than 62 Kings of Scotland are buried here. St Columba came here from Ireland in 563 AD and early Christianity spread through northern Britain from this remote island community. Iona's oldest surviving building, St Oran's Chapel, dates to the mid-12th century and may have been built by Somerled or his family. After exploring the Abbey, time permitting, you may like to join the expedition team and take a walk on the wild side to the ‘Bay at the Back of the Ocean’ and soak up the atmosphere of this enigmatic isle.
Day 3 Armadale, Isle of Skye & Loch Scavaig.
We approach the Isle of Skye and land by Zodiac to visit the Clan Donald Centre, a 20,000 acre Highland estate which includes the ruins of Armadale Castle and the Museum of the Isles which showcases 1500 years of history and culture of the area. We will also visit the restored historical gardens and explore the beautiful walking trails through the 40 acres of woodland which surround the castle. Clan Donald traces direct lineage from Somerled and at their height of power claimed dominion over much of Argyll, The Hebrides and Isle of Man. Wielding great sea power with fleets of galleys or birlinns, they were the most powerful lords after the Kings of England and Scotland. Over lunch we sail to lovely Loch Scavaig. Just beyond is the freshwater Loch Corruisk with its breathtakingly beautiful view over the Cuillins. This is great walking country and our expedition team will run a series of hikes for all interests. For those who prefer a less energetic afternoon our Zodiacs will explore the coast looking out for seals.
Day 4 Plockton.
Sail this morning into Loch Carron and anchor off the picturesque village of Plockton. Discover the delightful Attadale Gardens. Here we find over 2000 trees planted over 20 acres including a sunken garden, water garden and Japanese garden - all interspersed with sculptures. Alternatively visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle. This defensive site, strategically placed at the confluence of three lochs played a pivotal role when the sea was the main highway and defended the lands against raiding Vikings or feuding clans. Later in history Eilean Donan came, once more, to prominence during the Jacobite uprisings of the 17th and 18th centuries. Enjoy a free afternoon and perhaps join the expedition team to explore the local area around Plockton on foot. Sail in the early evening and enjoy the coastal views.
Day 5 Tobermory, Isle of Mull.
We visit the mountainous Isle of Mull whose turbulent history is manifest in the chain of castles dotted along the coastline. This morning we travel to the south of the island and visit the formidable Duart Castle, standing guard over the sea routes and the ancient home of Clan MacLean. Alternatively spend the morning at leisure in Tobermory: walk amongst the colourful buildings, visit the town’s distillery or maybe take the coastal walk to the Rubha nan Gall lighthouse. This afternoon, we sail the short distance to Loch Sunart where we hope to offer a Zodiac cruise to spot seals and lookout for eagles. Amidst the rugged mountains of Ardnamurchan and Morvern, the sheltered lochs and waterways would once have given refuge to heavily laden galleys as they plied the waters between the isles.
Day 6 Ardfern, Argyll.
We anchor in the sheltered waters of Loch Craignish to explore some of the sites of Argyll. There are more than 800 archaeological and historical monuments within a six mile radius of the village of Kilmartin. This extraordinary concentration and diversity of monuments distinguishes the Kilmartin Glen as an area of outstanding archaeological importance. It is one of Scotland’s richest prehistoric landscapes boasting superb standing stones, burial cairns, rock art, forts, duns and carved stones. Discover Kilmartin House Museum, an award winning, world-class centre for archaeology and landscape interpretation that makes an excellent starting point for a walk to the Glen where we see stone circles and cairns dating back to 3500 BC. We will also hope to see the prominent Dunadd Fort, former royal centre of the Gaelic Kingdom, Dal Riata, which reached its height of power in the 6th and 7th centuries. Alternatively, join the excursion to Crarae Garden, a Himalayan-style glen set in the gentle hills of Argyll. The garden was created in 1912 by Lady Grace Campbell, the aunt of intrepid plant hunter Reginald Farrer, who sourced trees and shrubs from China, Nepal and Tibet. Today, the sparkling waters of the Crarae Burn form the centrepiece for a woody paradise of rocky gorges, wooden bridges and thickets of maple, birch and evergreens, blending with sprays of flowers.
Day 7 Islay.
Disembark this morning on Islay, the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides, oft referred to as the Queen of the Hebrides. Early Christians and Norse raiders all landed here to extend their lands. Somerled and his descendants, Clan McDonald, made their base here and Islay is often also referred to as the Cradle of Clan Donald. A drive will bring us to Finlaggan where installation of the Lords of the Isles took place. We will have time to explore the Visitor's Centre and walk across to the islands of Eilean Mor and Eilean na Comhairle where we can see some remains of this era.
Day 8 Peel, Isle of Man.
Located in the middle of the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man’s rich history and culture finds its roots in the Gaelic, Norse and Scot kingdoms that dominated this region between the 5th and 14th centuries. Our morning excursion reveals Tynwald Hill, located in the little village of St John’s. This grass-topped, tiered hill is made from the soil and stones from each of the island’s 17 parishes and is the point from which, each 5th July, all the laws enacted in the year preceding are promulgated to the gathered government officials and the public at large, both in Manx and English languages. We continue to Castletown Station and board the vintage steam train for a delightful and traditional journey to Douglas. Dating from 1874, the Isle of Man Steam Railway is the island’s oldest Victorian rail system and this narrow gauge railway still runs with its original locomotives and carriages. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure, perhaps visit The House of Manannan, housed in Peel’s former railway station and named after the mythological sea god. Here exhibits cover Celtic, Viking and Maritime heritage of the Isle of Man which was also very much at the heart of the Kingdom of the Isles.
Day 9 Liverpool, England.
Disembark this morning. Transfers will be provided to Liverpool Lime Street Station and Manchester Airport at a fixed time.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 27 July to 4 August 2023 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| 2 Standard Stateroom | £3695 | |
| 3 Classic Stateroom | £3995 | |
| 4 Superior Stateroom | £4295 | |
| 5 Deluxe Stateroom | £4695 | |
| 6 Junior Suite | £5095 | |
| 7 Owner’s Suite | £5495 | |
| 8 Serenissima Suite | £5695 | |
| 10 Standard Single | £4495 | |
Tour Reference Code: SCSE270723
Price Includes: Eight nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis – House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner - Noble Caledonia expedition team - Shore excursions - Gratuities - Transfers - Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
During this expedition you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings and excursions will be made by Zodiac landing craft. The use of Zodiacs will be key to the operation of the itinerary as shown. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage, please do not hesitate to ask one of our experienced travel consultants.
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Deckplan
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Following an extensive renovation in 2003, the vessel began her life as a classic cruise ship and we have had the vessel on long term charter since 2013. Accommodating just 95 passengers the vessel is perfect for small ship cruising and can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
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Information Directory
SHIP TECHNICAL DETAILS
Number of crew: 52
Beam: 43.6 feet
Draft: 15.5 feet
Length: 286 feet
Gross tonnage: 2598 tonnes
Classification: CRS
Cruising Speed: 14 knots
Built: 1960
Refurbished: 2018 & 2019
Registered: St Vincent & GrenadinesSHIP INFORMATION
AIR-CONDITIONING
The ship is air-conditioned throughout. Please note that only the Serenissima Suites have individually controlled air-conditioning.
CABINS
The cabins are attractively designed for comfort and convenience. There are eight different grades of cabins arranged over five decks, and all cabins feature either windows or portholes. Windows and portholes do not open in the cabins, except for the Serenissima Suites (numbers 701-704) which have a window and a balcony door which opens out onto the balcony. Facilities include:
• Air-conditioning (please note that only the Serenissima Suites have individually controlled air-conditioning)
• Dressing table with chair or stool
• En-suite bathroom with shower, (please note cabins 601-605 and 507 have a bath with shower attachment)
• Hairdryer
• Minibar (Serenissima Suites only)
• Balcony (Serenissima Suites only)
• Dressing gown and slippers
• Safe
• Television
• Telephone (charges apply)
• Wardrobe
• Wi-Fi access – You will require your own laptop, tablet or smartphone (charges apply).
COMMUNICATION
In case you wish to contact the ship, please call + 47 2367 4607. This is a Norwegian telephone number so calls will be charged at an international rate. The ship can also be contacted by email at cruise@msserenissima. com (please indicate passenger name and cabin number as the subject). The telephone system for ship to shore functions is via satellite and charged at €7 Euros per minute for outgoing calls. Please be advised of the following for internal communication: Cabin to cabin: dial cabin number International line: dial 000+ code of the country + telephone number Reception: dial 800 Doctor: dial 331 or 332
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening during the turn down service.
DINING, DRINKING & DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
The Venice Restaurant on board serves international cuisine and accommodates all guests at a single open seating. Tables seat 4 to 10 diners. In addition, there is an outside dining area for when the weather and itinerary permit. Breakfast and lunch are both buffet style, dinner is waiter service only. Complimentary (red and white) house wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner. Bar drinks and other beverages with meals are not included; these may be purchased on board and paid for at the end of your cruise. Complimentary tea and coffee are available 24 hours a day at the tea and coffee station located in the Andrea Lounge. Please advise of any special dietary requests such as vegetarian, vegan, low salt, low cholesterol, gluten free, lactose intolerant to Noble Caledonia (in writing) in advance and we recommend that you also reconfirm with your Cruise Director and Maitre D’ once on board. We regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed.
DRESS CODE
During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. The evenings are smart casual (e.g. a shirt and trousers for gentlemen and a skirt/trousers and blouse for ladies). There will be a welcome and farewell dinner, so you may like to bring something a little dressier for these events. For example, gentlemen may wish to wear a jacket and tie, and ladies a dress or trouser suit. Black tie is not required.
DOCTOR
A medical doctor is available on board 24 hours a day. A fee is charged for any consultations and medication prescribed. Please ensure you carry adequate supplies of any regular medications you may require. If you have any medication which must be kept cold, please ask at reception to store it in the fridge.
ELECTRICITY
The electrical outlets in the cabins and public areas are 220V and take a two-round-pin plug (as in continental Europe). There is a 110/220V, 60Hz outlet for electric shavers in the bathroom. We recommend that you bring an international adaptor.
EMERGENCIES
In case of an emergency please leave your cabin/suite and follow the instructions given by the Captain and Hotel Manager. All public areas have an emergency button. We request that you read the safety instructions on the back of your cabin door.
GOING ASHORE
Please leave your cabin key at reception and take your ship card with you. As soon as you are back on board please hand back your boarding card and pick up your key as this will confirm your presence on board. When you go ashore individually, please be back on board at least 30 minutes before the advertised departure time of the ship.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions are included in the cost of your holiday.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitisers at key positions around the ship particularly at the entrance to restaurants and near the gangway. We kindly ask you to use these regularly.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
If you require the laundry service, please leave your laundry bag together with the completed laundry list on your bed before 9.00 am. The laundry bag and list can be found in your wardrobe. Every effort will be made to return your laundry to your cabin within 24 hours. There is no dry cleaning service on board.
LIFE JACKETS
All life jackets are stored on Deck 6 near the Muster station.
LIFT
There is a lift on board that serves decks 3 to 6. Please note that, due to the layout of the ship, the following cabins are accessible by at least one flight of stairs: 417 – 421, 424 & 701 – 704.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia within seven days of disembarking. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and to advise of any associated costs.
MONEY
The official currency on board is the Euro, but British Pounds are also accepted. All passengers will have their own ship account, which allows you to sign for purchases and services such as bar drinks, telephone calls, laundry etc. throughout your cruise. The following payment methods are accepted for settlement of shipboard accounts:
• Cash (Euros, British Pounds or US Dollars)
• Credit Card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express)
• Debit Card (MasterCard & Visa)
Please note that personal cheques and Travellers’ Cheques are not accepted.
PASSPORTS
Your passport will be kept securely at Reception throughout the duration of the cruise, and you will be issued with a ship card which we advise you carry with you at all times when ashore. POST Please note that although the reception staff may be happy to post letters and postcards on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or indeed at the port of call at which you make such a request. Please also note that some postal services are unreliable and that any letters or postcards that you ask to be sent on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en route. PUBLIC AREAS Andrea Lounge (on Deck 5). The bar is open from 9.00 am until 12.00 am. Harald Jarl Lounge (on Deck 5). There is a small library here with books and games. Lido area (on Deck 5) with a Jacuzzi and small fitness room with two running machines. Observation Deck (access from Deck 5 lido area) Deck 5 and Deck 6 outside seating areas.
RECEPTION
Reception is open from 7.00 am to 10.00 pm. Overnight the reception’s phone will be switched over to the bridge.
QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday and in order to do this we need some feedback from our guests. Kindly hand your completed questionnaire in to your Cruise Director.
QUIETVOX AUDIO SYSTEM
During our excursions, we use an audio headset system called Quietvox. In your cabin there is a charging station with two devices and two sets of earpieces. Please keep your devices in the charging station (and the station plugged in) whilst you are not on an excursion. Bring the sets with you on excursions as your guides with speak to you through their microphone. The use of the equipment will be explained before the first excursion starts.
SAFE
Although there is a safe in your cabin, we recommend that you leave all extra valuables at home, and bring with you only what you consider necessary. Neither the ship, nor Noble Caledonia, are responsible for any valuables left in the cabins.
SAFETY & LIFEBOAT DRILL
The safety briefing will take place prior to sailing. All guests must attend this compulsory and important exercise. Please listen for the announcements. During the drill you will be instructed on how to wear and operate your life jacket.
SHOP
The shop sells branded MS Serenissima merchandise.
SMOKING
Smoking is not permitted in the cabins or public areas. Smoking will only be permitted outside in the designated areas.
SNORKELLING
There is snorkelling equipment available on board the vessel.
TELEVISION
The ship is equipped with a satellite TV system which receives 13 channels. TV reception depends on the satellite dish and on occasion it may not be possible to receive a signal. There is one central video channel on which it is possible to listen to the lectures delivered in the Andrea Lounge. There is also a channel for the ship’s camera located in front of the ship and another which displays the Daily Programme and activities.
TOWELS
Towels will be changed once in the middle of your cruise. Should you need new towels earlier, please let the housekeeper know. Please do not use the bathroom towels on the beach. A separate towel for swimming will be provided.
WATER
Previously the MS Serenissima used 200 plastic bottles of water every day. In order to help reduce the damage caused to the environment by waste plastic, we are replacing plastic water bottles where possible with eco-friendly, reusable water bottles. We have chosen stainless steel bottles, made of durable, high quality stainless steel. It will keep your drink fresh and cool for longer and fit neatly into your bag or backpack. You can fill it up from the water station on board, located in the reception area, deck 5. We recommend that you do not drink nor refill your bottles from the tap in your cabin. The tap water is not potable. The bottle in your cabin is for your personal use during the cruise to take on excursions. Please leave the bottle/s in your cabin at the end of the cruise.
WI-FI
Wi-Fi access is available in public areas with your own laptop, tablet or smartphone and charges apply – 500MB for €15 Euros, or 1GB for €25 Euros. Please note that connection is dependent on weather conditions and location.
ZODIACS
Some destinations may require the use of Zodiacs to go ashore. These are usually on expedition cruises though may sometimes be used on destination cruises.
Please note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
Click below to download a copy of the Information Directory
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Cabin information
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Deck plans
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Deckplan
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Deckplan
Travelling with You
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John Love
Born in Inverness, John Love graduated in zoology at Aberdeen University. In 1975 he went to live on the Isle of Rum where he managed a highly successful project to reintroduce the white-tailed sea eagle. While he remains involved with birds of prey, seabirds are another passion. After Rum, John worked as a warden in the Cairngorms for two years before heading west, ultimately to become Area Officer for Scottish Natural Heritage for Uist, Barra and St Kilda and has now lived in South Uist (Outer Hebrides) for 26 years. Over the years he has enjoyed holidays in Kenya, Egypt, India, Galapagos, Namibia and Botswana. In the 1990s John acted as guide and lecturer on several small charter vessels round the Hebrides, and has also lectured on cruises, round Scotland and to Norway, for the National Trust for Scotland.
He first worked for Noble Caledonia in 2008 and now participates in various expedition cruises for three to five months each year. This is mainly around the UK - and the Hebrides in particular - but he has also voyaged round Ireland, northern France, Iceland and the Faroes, Norway, the White Sea, the Seychelles, the Maldives, the Tanzanian/Mozambique coast, northern Madagascar and, most recently, New Zealand, the Lesser Antilles and Alaska.
John has written and illustrated books on sea otters, eagles and penguins, on the human history of the Isle of Rum, and natural histories of lighthouses and of St Kilda. His interests are wide, and include drawing, photography, traditional music and playing the fiddle.
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Book with Confidence
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