Embarking on a cruise is not merely about sailing the ocean blue, it’s a chance to explore the world from a unique perspective. For nature lovers, island explorers, and keen photographers, cruises around the British Isles offer a wealth of opportunities to venture into wildlife reserves. This detailed guide will help you discover the best cruises for spotting Britain’s wildlife and visiting its nature reserves.
Exploring the British Isles: A Nature Lover’s Dream
The British Isles, comprising England, Scotland, and numerous smaller islands, are home to a wealth of biodiversity. As you embark on a cruise around these isles, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this wildlife in an intimate and immersive way.
When you think of a British expedition, perhaps images of London’s historic sights come to mind. But beyond the cities, the British Isles host an array of vibrant wildlife reserves. Whether you’re travelling through the northern reaches of Scotland or the southern shores of England, there’s no shortage of wildlife sightings to be had.
Renowned for its rich birdlife, the British Isles are home to various species of puffins, guillemots, and gannets. Whales and dolphins also frequent the surrounding waters, making every day a potential wildlife viewing adventure.
Cruises to Scotland’s Northern Isles: An Unforgettable Expedition
Scotland’s Northern Isles, including the Orkney and Shetland Islands, are some of the most spectacular locations for wildlife viewing in the British Isles. A cruise to these islands not only offers a chance to view these wildlife habitats but also to learn about their rich history and culture.
A typical Scotland cruise lasts between 7 to 10 days, providing ample time to explore the various islands. As you sail from one island to another, you’ll view impressive sea cliffs, home to colonies of seabirds. On a lucky day, you might also spot seals basking on the rocks or dolphins dancing in the waves.
Excursions on these cruises often include visits to wildlife reserves such as the Hermaness National Nature Reserve, where you can discover 100,000 breeding seabirds. The Keen of Hamar Reserve is another must-visit location, where you’ll find unique plant species that have adapted to the Reserve’s serpentine soil.
Norwegian Sea Cruises: A Gateway to British Wildlife
The Norwegian Sea borders the western and northern coastline of Norway and the northeast coast of the British Isles. Cruises in this sea region offer a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitats, including whales, seabirds, and seals.
Norwegian Sea cruises typically last between 10 to 14 days. These cruises often include stops at the British Isles, allowing passengers to visit wildlife reserves in England and Scotland. For instance, a stop at the Farne Islands in England could allow you to view a puffin colony or a grey seal rookery.
These cruises combine the best of two worlds, enabling you to experience the wildlife of the British Isles and the breathtaking fjords and polar wildlife of Norway.
The Allure of English Channel Cruises
Apart from the northern seas, cruises through the English Channel allow you to explore the southern and eastern coastlines of the British Isles. You’ll have the opportunity to visit several wildlife reserves in England and the Isle of Wight.
English Channel cruises typically range from 7 to 10 days. During your journey, you’ll visit reserves like the Arne Nature Reserve, famous for its heathlands and woodland birds. You might also stop at the Blakeney National Nature Reserve, which is home to common and grey seals.
These cruises offer a unique mixture of wildlife viewing, cultural exploration, and gastronomic delights. As you sail from one port to another, you can also indulge in local cuisine and learn about the British heritage.
The Wildlife Wonders of Scottish West Coast Cruises
The west coast of Scotland is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Cruises to this region provide an opportunity to visit the Hebrides, a group of islands known for their rich marine and birdlife.
These cruises, often lasting 7 to 10 days, take you to places like the Treshnish Isles, where you’ll find colonies of puffins and guillemots. You could also visit the Isle of Mull, known for its white-tailed eagles and otters.
Scottish west coast cruises are not just about wildlife. They also provide a chance to explore the cultural heritage of the Hebrides, with visits to ancient castles and historical sites.
In conclusion, a cruise around the British Isles provides a unique opportunity to explore the region’s diverse wildlife reserves. Whether you’re cruising the northern waters of Scotland, the Norwegian Sea, the English Channel, or the west coast of Scotland, you’ll have an unforgettable wildlife expedition.
A Taste of History on British Isles Cruises
Apart from providing unforgettable encounters with British wildlife, cruises around the British Isles give you the chance to walk through history. In between wildlife sightings, you’ll have the opportunity to visit historic sites that tell the story of the United Kingdom and Northern Europe.
For instance, an expedition team could guide you through the ancient ruins in the Orkney Islands, where you’ll learn about the UNESCO heritage site of Skara Brae, one of the best-preserved Stone Age villages. Similarly, a stop at the Isle of Wight could include a visit to the iconic Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s palatial holiday home.
On some cruises, you might even get a chance to sail past the Magna Carta Island in the River Thames. As you glide past this small yet significant islet, you’ll be reminded of its pivotal role in shaping the democratic traditions of Britain and, indeed, the world.
Many cruise operators make it their mission to offer educational shore excursions, which blend wildlife viewing with historical and cultural experiences. With expert guides on board, you’ll learn fascinating details about the wildlife you see and the places you visit.
The Exceptional Comfort of Wildlife Cruises
Cruises around the British Isles are not only about the destinations—they’re also about the journey. The cruise operators ensure you travel in utmost comfort, providing luxurious amenities on board. Whether it’s a sea-view cabin on a Baltic Sea cruise or a spacious suite on a Norwegian fjords journey, comfort is not compromised.
The expedition cruises often have expert-led presentations, fine dining experiences, gym facilities, and even spas on board. But let’s not forget the most thrilling aspect: the ocean view! Waking up to the sight of the sun rising over the horizon or spotting a dolphin from your cabin window can be magical.
When it comes to dining, you can expect to enjoy a variety of cuisines, often inspired by the places you visit. On a Norwegian Sea cruise, for instance, you might get to taste traditional Norwegian dishes alongside quintessential British fare.
Moreover, these cruises often offer a range of activities to keep you entertained and engaged during sea days. You might participate in wildlife photography workshops, attend lectures by wildlife experts, or even learn about the local cultures through onboard performances.
Concluding Thoughts
A wildlife cruise around the British Isles is more than just a holiday—it’s an immersive experience that connects you with nature, wildlife, history, and culture. From the puffin colonies of the Farne Islands and the seals of Blakeney Reserve to the UNESCO heritage sites in the Orkney Islands and the gastronomic delights onboard, every moment of this journey is designed to be memorable.
So, whether you’re an avid wildlife photographer, a history enthusiast, or simply a lover of travel, a cruise around the British Isles is a journey you’re unlikely to forget. This unique blend of wildlife exploration and historical discovery, all from the comfort of a luxury cruise ship, truly sets these cruises apart. So, why wait? It’s time to book online and embark on the adventure of a lifetime.