Name: Spirit of the Celts
Brand: Swan Hellenic
SKU: D1225052111

Itinerary

Portsmouth, the UK's sole island city and home to the world's oldest dry dock, has a rich naval history tied to figures like Admiral Nelson and Henry VIII. The Portsmouth Historic Dockyard offers a captivating journey through maritime history, housing a remarkable collection of historic ships, including Lord Nelson's HMS Victory, Queen Victoria's HMS Warrior, and the sole surviving ship from WWI's Gallipoli campaign, the HMS M.33.

The picturesque Cornish town of Fowey overlooks its natural harbour, which is flanked by 14th-century blockhouses and overlooked by the ruins of St Catherine’s Castle, built on the orders of Henry VIII. The local museum displays works and items from novelist Daphne du Maurier who was born here. The scenic South West Coast Path passes through, while nearby attractions include the world-famous Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan.

Scenic Cornish Drive & Polperro

Included

04 h 00 m

Take a scenic drive through peaceful Cornish countryside, passing traditional granite farmhouses
Explore the enchanting fishing village of Polperro, with its winding streets and charming cottages
Experience a local favourite - indulge in a delicious and traditional Cornish pasty

Lanhydrock House

Optional

04 h 00 m

Discover Lanhydrock House, an impressive late Victorian country house
Step inside the house and learn about the story of the Agar-Robartes family through the 49 rooms like the servants' bedrooms, the kitchens, the majestic dining room, all boasting interesting artefacts
In company of the Head Gardener, visit the formal garden, full of colour all year round and famed for magnolias

Fowey on foot

Optional

03 h 00 m

Discover the rich maritime heritage of Fowey on a guided walking tour along charming narrow streets
Admire the 'Rook with a Book' sculpture, a tribute to renowned author Daphne Du Maurier, who found inspiration in Fowey
Trek through woodland to the ruins of St Catherine’s Castle and hear stories of pirates

Tresco, one of the five inhabited islands of the Isles of Scilly, is a subtropical paradise located 45 km off the coast of Cornwall. The Gulf Stream provides a mild climate, allowing flowers and other flora to thrive, including the 20,000 global species found in Tresco Abbey Garden. This world-renowned botanical garden is divided into themed areas, including the Valhalla Collection of succulents, the New Zealand Garden, and the Italian Garden.

Tresco Abbey Gardens

Included

03 h 00 m

Wander through the Benedictine priory ruins upon which the walled garden stands
Explore the Valhalla collection of 19th-century ship-wrecked figureheads and decorative carvings
See Britain's endangered red squirrels dart about among the trees

The charming harbour town of Bantry lies amid headlands and islands in Ireland's southwest on Bantry Bay. Ancient sites like the Kealkil stone circle, Kilnaruane Pillar Stone and 16th-century Carriganass Castle surround the town, prime for walking. More recent is the grand 18th-century Bantry House with Italianate gardens by the water. Nearby, Seal Island bustles with friendly seals, and the garden paradise Garinish Island graces the bay.

Natural beauty of Mizen Head

Optional

04 h 00 m

Witness Ireland's most southwesterly point at Mizen Head
Travel along a scenic stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way
Discover the town of Ballydehob, known for its rustic beauty and rich heritage

The Whiddy Island Experience

Optional

02 h 30 m

Discover the harbour's maritime history and tragedies from WWI to today
Witness stunning red and purple fuchsias that spread across the island in summer
Enjoy a refreshing pint and a bowl of local mussels at Tim's Pub

Gardens of Garnish Island

Optional

04 h 00 m

Keep your eyes peeled for playful seals as you sail across Bantry Bay to Garnish Island
Explore the magnificent 37-acre garden paradise, including rhododendrons, azaleas, and unique climbing plants
Learn about its subtropical climate that transformed the blustery wild isle into an Italian idyll

A Leisurely Drive through West Cork Towns

Included

03 h 45 m

Delve into the rich history of the Mizen Peninsula, learning about its ancient tombs
Experience stunning landscapes as you travel through southern Irish towns
Enjoy free time in the charming town of Schull, a popular harbour resort with excellent cafes and local shops

Dingle, a historic Irish fishing village on the Dingle Peninsula's western edge, features craggy cliffs, dramatic waves and hidden beaches. It's guarded by a Victorian lighthouse, reached via a 6 km coastal walk. The surroundings offer diverse hikes, from mountain ridges to secluded shores. The area's rich history encompasses the medieval Garfinny Bridge, 15th-century Gallarus Castle and the ancient Reask monastic site.

Wild Atlantic Way - Dingle Peninsula

Included

03 h 15 m

Discover the rich heritage and culture of the remote Blasket Islands with interactive displays
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Dingle Peninsula's coastline with dramatic sea cliffs, sandy beaches and breathtaking headlands
Gain insights into the renowned authors behind literary classics such as 'The Islandman', 'Twenty Years A-Growing' and 'Peig'

Spectacular Coastal Walk

Optional

03 h 30 m

Enjoy a scenic drive along the magnificent Dingle Peninsula
Marvel at the spectacular views of the rugged Atlantic coastline
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Ireland with a moderate walk, embracing the landscape's full splendour

Dingle Bay by Kayak

Optional

03 h 00 m

Experience a relaxing sea kayaking adventure along Dingle Bay's beautiful coastline
Explore sea caves as you paddle with a local guide
Keep an eye out for seabirds and seals while enjoying the stunning scenery

A harbour city on Ireland’s west coast, Galway has a little of the air of Dublin, centred on 18th-century Eyre Square. Its architecture ranges across the centuries from widespread medieval creations, to the elegant university and the playful design of the 1960s cathedral. Ireland's national aquarium, the Galway Atlantaquaria, sits on the waterfront with more than 1,000 species from the Atlantic, its lakes and rivers on show.

Galway Through the Ages

Optional

04 h 00 m

Enjoy a panoramic drive along Galway bay and admire 17th-century Dunguaire Castle perched on a rocky promontory
Visit Rathbaun Farm for traditional homemade scones and tea while learning about Irish farming history
Experience hand-feeding newborn lambs (season permitting) and watch the farmer work with his sheepdog

A Walk Through Galway City

Included

02 h 45 m

Discover the history of the 14 tribes that gave Galway the nickname “The City of Tribes”
Explore landmarks like Eyre Square, Lynch’s Castle and the Spanish Arch with a knowledgeable guide
Enjoy an Irish coffee amid the picturesque Galway cityscape

The Burren & Aillwee Caves

Optional

03 h 45 m

Discover the picturesque countryside of Galway, gateway to The Burren, Connemara and the Aran Islands
Journey through The Burren's limestone landscapes, rich in flora, fauna and ancient monuments
Explore the ancient Aillwee Caves, carved into limestone during the ice age

Killybegs, a quaint coastal town in County Donegal, is famed for its vibrant fishing industry and holds a rich maritime history. Surrounded by Donegal's natural wonders—mountains, forests, and remote beaches—the Atlantic coastline, adorned with sea stacks, adds to its allure. The Slieve League Cliffs, Europe's tallest sea cliffs at 600m, dominate the skyline. Killybegs also offers Celtic gems like Donegal Castle and the ruins of Donegal Abbey.

Walking the Bluestack Mountains

Optional

03 h 30 m

Enjoy a scenic walk through the Bluestack Mountains, a true wilderness and area of naturally beautiful scenery
Explore an ancient graveyard and holy well dating from 590AD
Experience the unspoilt dramatic landscape of southwest Donegal with cascading waterfalls

The Wild Sliabh Liag Cliffs

Included

03 h 30 m

Take in the breathtaking sights of Europe's highest sea cliffs at Sliabh Liag (Slieve League)
Enjoy the spectacular scenery and natural beauty of this remote area, offering breathtaking panoramic views
Indulge in warm Irish hospitality with traditional homemade scones

Traditional Donegal and Glencolmcille Folk Village

Optional

03 h 45 m

Take in the panoramic vistas of Donegal's stunning landscapes during a scenic drive through the region
Step back in time with the rich cultural heritage of traditional Ireland at Glencolmcille Folk Village
Indulge in tea and scones in the tea rooms while enjoying the melodies of traditional Irish music

This small town is the gateway to one of Northern Ireland’s most popular destinations - the Causeway Coast with clifftop walks and beaches. Top of the bill is UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway with its 40,000 basalt formations. The crashing Atlantic on one side, towering cliffs the other, it is Northern Ireland’s number-one attraction, leaving the question: is this prehistoric volcanic activity or the handiwork of two legendary Celtic giants?

Antrim Coast & Giant's Causeway

Included

04 h 00 m

Listen to tales of early Christians and Vikings who were drawn to Dunluce Castle's historic site
Explore the castle's intricate details fortified during the 16th and 17th centuries
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, Giant's Causeway, for stunning views of the North Antrim Coast

Mussenden Temple & Downhill Demesne

Optional

03 h 30 m

Explore breathtaking views from Downhill Demesne, a ruined estate on the windswept cliffs of Northern Ireland's North Coast
Explore breathtaking views from Downhill Demesne, a ruined estate on the windswept cliffs of Northern Ireland's North Coast
Marvel at the awe-inspiring Mussenden Temple, perched on the cliff's edge and modelled after the Temple of Vesta in Italy

Antrim Coast & Giant's Causeway

Included

04 h 15 m

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Giant's Causeway and see the breathtaking views of the North Antrim Coast
Discover Dunluce Castle one of the most picturesque and romantic of Irish Castles.

Rathlin Island, a mountainous and sparsely populated island off the Northern Irish coast, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and historic intrigue. Views include the harbour with fishing boats and a lighthouse, which has stood guard for over 150 years.

Gateway to Scotland’s Isle of Mull, a wild, wonderful place that has the fairytale feel of a desert island, ringed by beaches, from little white-sand Calgary to the wide-open swathe of Laggan Sands. Tiny Tobermory with its brightly painted houses is the island’s picture book capital, lovely to wander in. There are six castles in splendid spots, two brochs (drystone Iron Age shelters) and Lochbuie, a Bronze Age standing stone circle and magnificent walks taking in mountains, cliffs and shoreline.

Explore Duart Castle

Included

02 h 15 m

Learn how Sir Fitzroy Maclean restored the castle in 1911 to the spectacular condition it stands in today
Experience the castle through the ages with a visit to the exhibition of clan history where many historical objects are on display
Get unbeatable views of the Sound of Mull surrounded by the rolling hillsides of Scotland’s west coast

One of Britain’s most beautiful stretches of water, The Sound of Mull, between Mull and the Scottish mainland, is a dreamlike destination with ancient fortifications, beaches and cliffs always on view. The waterway takes in distant peaks often wreathed in mist. Three lighthouses stand guard, while a number of wrecks sit below on the seabed.

The capital of the most populous island in the Outer Hebrides, Lewis, is a windswept, rugged place famed for its weavers who make world-famous Harris Tweed. The spellbinding Callanish Stones on the west coast, are standing stones in a cruciform pattern with a central stone circle. This circle is thought to have been built some 500 years before Stonehenge, in 3,000 BC, making it (along with one on Orkney) the UK’s oldest.

Ancient Lewis & Blackhouse Village

Included

03 h 45 m

Visit the historic Callanish Standing Stones, Scotland's Stonehenge
Learn about the construction of blackhouses which involved dry stone masonry and thatched roofs
Pause for a moment to enjoy the unforgettable views over the Atlantic coast

Lews Castle Walk

Optional

02 h 30 m

Explore the Museum of the Hebrides to discover the region's rich cultural heritage
Marvel at significant exhibits, including the renowned Lewis Chessmen
Take a stroll through the transformed Lews Castle grounds, now lush with woodlands and gardens

A sheltered deep water loch, Loch Ewe in the Scottish Highlands has a big Naval history. During WWII the Home Fleet stayed here, it was a base for Arctic convoys and a post-war depot for captured German U-boats. NATO still uses the loch as a base for submarine servicing. The loch is a beauty spot , with low-lying Ewe Island in the middle. Sitting on the banks is Inverewe, a Victorian garden rich in exotic plants.

Inverewe Garden Exclusive Visit

Included

02 h 00 m

Enjoy a zodiac ride around Loch Ewe and the peninsula's shores before arriving at the gardens
Be amazed by the 19th-century transformation of a barren wilderness into lush landscapes by a father-daughter duo
Discover rare plant species thriving in this heritage garden, where the Highlands meet the Gulf Stream

Oban, a beautiful seaside town on the west coast of Scotland, is the "Seafood Capital of Scotland." Its picturesque harbour, brimming with life, serves as the gateway to the enchanting Hebridean islands. The city is surrounded by miles of dramatic shores and beautiful countryside, and is home to the Oban Distillery, which produces some of Scotland’s finest whisky.

Oban Walking Tour and Whisky Distillery

Optional

03 h 30 m

Take a leisurely stroll around the city and climb to McCaig’s Tower for rewarding views over the bustling harbour and nearby islands
Join a guided tour of one of Scotland's smallest distilleries
Discover the production stages of Scotland's national drink and enjoy a tasting experience

Scottish Highlands & Glencoe

Included

04 h 00 m

Experience incredible scenery of the Scottish Highlands on a panoramic drive around Loch Awe
Explore the award-winning Glencoe Visitor Centre to learn about the region's history, geology and nature
Admire Castle Stalker, a tower house on its own islet set against a dramatic backdrop of mountains

Inveraray Castle

Optional

04 h 00 m

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish countryside on a panoramic drive
Step into a fairytale as you visit Inveraray Castle, the majestic home of the Duke and Duchess of Argyll
Wander among splendid art collections within the castle walls, then stroll in the formal gardens

Your cruise comes to an end today in Dublin, the Republic of Ireland’s capital. It’s at times gritty and in places, gorgeous – Georgian squares, hidden parks and tree-lined canals. It’s lively, complex, cosmopolitan and eminently walkable. So bid farewell to Vega and start exploring, if time allows before your flight home. Come full circle and visit The Long Room in the Old Library in stately Trinity College to inspect the Book of Kells, which was produced on Iona. The Long Room itself is much lauded for its beauty – it’s a stunning, two-storey, barrel-vaulted space that houses 200,000 of Trinity’s oldest books and manuscripts. Elsewhere the new Museum of Literature Ireland, the National Museum of Ireland, Christ Church and St Patrick’s Cathedrals, the Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol, Glasnevin Cemetery entice visitors – just be sure to stop into a snug somewhere for a pint.

This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.

Choose

YOUR SUITE TYPE

View mode

Number of Guests:

Oceanview D4

20 m²

Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m²(215ft²) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Oceanview M4

20 m²

Balcony D5

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms measure 25m² (269ft²) – including a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Balcony M5

25 m²

Balcony D6

25 m²

Junior Suite

32 m²

Junior Suites measure 32-36m² (344-388ft²) – including a 6m² (65ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two guests. They feature a king size bed, have a separate living room area, and luxurious en-suite bathroom.

Suite

41 m²

Suites measure 41m² (441ft²) – including a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and a walk-in shower.

Premium Suite

41 m²

Premium Suites measure 41m² (441ft²) – including 8m² (86ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two guests. They feature a king size bed, separate living room, and flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and shower – and a walk-in wardrobe.

Deck 4

Oceanview D4

20 m²

Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m²(215ft²) and can accommo...

Cruise Plus

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 9,590

Double

$ 5,480

		Cruise Plus
Single		$ 9,590
Double		$ 5,480

Oceanview M4

20 m²

Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m²(215ft²) and can accommo...

Cruise Plus

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 10,115

Double

$ 5,780

		Cruise Plus
Single		$ 10,115
Double		$ 5,780

Deck 5

Balcony D5

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms measure 25m² (269ft²) – including a 5m<...

Cruise Plus

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 12,565

Double

$ 7,180

		Cruise Plus
Single		$ 12,565
Double		$ 7,180

Balcony M5

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms measure 25m² (269ft²) – including a 5m<...

Cruise Plus

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 13,090

Double

$ 7,480

Triple

$ 3,740

		Cruise Plus
Single		$ 13,090
Double		$ 7,480

Junior Suite

32 m²

Junior Suites measure 32-36m² (344-388ft²) – including a 6...

Cruise Plus

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 17,760

Double

$ 8,880

		Cruise Plus
Single		$ 17,760
Double		$ 8,880

Suite

41 m²

Suites measure 41m² (441ft²) – including a 5m² ...

Cruise Plus

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 19,960

Double

$ 9,980

Triple

$ 4,990

Quad

$ 4,990

		Cruise Plus
Single		$ 19,960
Double		$ 9,980

Deck 6

Balcony D6

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms measure 25m² (269ft²) – including a 5m<...

Cruise Plus

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 13,790

Double

$ 7,880

		Cruise Plus
Single		$ 13,790
Double		$ 7,880

Junior Suite

32 m²

Junior Suites measure 32-36m² (344-388ft²) – including a 6...

Cruise Plus

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 17,760

Double

$ 8,880

		Cruise Plus
Single		$ 17,760
Double		$ 8,880

Suite

41 m²

Suites measure 41m² (441ft²) – including a 5m² ...

Cruise Plus

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 19,960

Double

$ 9,980

Triple

$ 4,990

Quad

$ 4,990

		Cruise Plus
Single		$ 19,960
Double		$ 9,980

Premium Suite

41 m²

Premium Suites measure 41m² (441ft²) – including 8m^2<...

Cruise Plus

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 21,960

Double

$ 10,980

Triple

$ 5,490

Quad

$ 5,490

		Cruise Plus
Single		$ 21,960
Double		$ 10,980

Prices are quoted per person per cruise.

Spirit of the Celts

Spirit of the Celts

Itinerary

Scenic Cornish Drive & Polperro

Lanhydrock House

Fowey on foot

Tresco Abbey Gardens

Natural beauty of Mizen Head

The Whiddy Island Experience

Gardens of Garnish Island

A Leisurely Drive through West Cork Towns

Wild Atlantic Way - Dingle Peninsula

Spectacular Coastal Walk

Dingle Bay by Kayak

Galway Through the Ages

A Walk Through Galway City

The Burren & Aillwee Caves

Walking the Bluestack Mountains

The Wild Sliabh Liag Cliffs

Traditional Donegal and Glencolmcille Folk Village

Antrim Coast & Giant's Causeway

Mussenden Temple & Downhill Demesne

Antrim Coast & Giant's Causeway

Explore Duart Castle

Ancient Lewis & Blackhouse Village

Lews Castle Walk

Inverewe Garden Exclusive Visit

Oban Walking Tour and Whisky Distillery

Scottish Highlands & Glencoe

Inveraray Castle

YOUR SUITE TYPE

Oceanview D4

Oceanview M4

Balcony D5

Balcony M5

Balcony D6

Junior Suite

Suite

Premium Suite

Deck 4

Oceanview D4

Oceanview M4

Deck 5

Balcony D5

Balcony M5

Junior Suite

Suite

Deck 6

Balcony D6

Junior Suite

Suite

Premium Suite

RELATED CRUISES

Cookies Management

Choose your cookie preferences

Mandatory

Analytics

Advertising and Marketing

Functional

Contact Us

Callback Request

Callback Request

itinerary

Add to waiting list

Request a quote

Language mismatch

activities

Excursions