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Barge Cruising in Ireland

Cruise through the heart of ireland along the unspoiled landscapes of river shannon..

Expansive skies, rolling hills of emerald, and abundant flora and fauna set the tone for this scenic cruise route. The cruise route along Ireland’s River Shannon reveals dual worlds of immense natural beauty and centuries of dynastic rule. Ruins of  castles and ancient monasteries waiting to be explored dot the landscape, alongside the wildlife who make their homes along the river. Cruises begin and end in Dublin, a city with culture, shopping and nightlife.

Cruises in Ireland

Sightseeing Highlights

Kilbeggan Distillery, the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world. Pre-historic artifacts, such as a castle devoted to Bronze Age culture. The colorful city of Galway. Wildlife and flora reserves. Be welcomed in the tiny villages and local pubs along the route.

Canals & Waterways

Your river barge cruise takes you to the very heart of unspoiled Ireland. The Shannon Waterway, also known as the River Shannon, is not a river at all, but a series of very scenic lakes, or loughs, connected by stretches of rivers and canals.

Why Barge in Ireland?

Barging in Ireland reveals its many charms best seen from the water. An extraordinarily scenic cruise route, Ireland’s natural beauty offer major appeal. Lovers of history will thrill to the tours and visits. Guests aboard an Irish cruise will intimately explore Ireland’s vibrant culture and impressive place in world history while also discovering the small slices of Irish life typically overlooked while traveling.

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These are lands of legends, castles, fortresses, Neolithic sites and verdant heaths that immerse visitors in a magical world. Elves, druids and great kings are part of tradition in the magical countries of Ireland and Scotland . Meanwhile, England has its own treasures to offer, with beautiful islands and bustling cities. 

All about cruises Ireland, Scotland and England

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Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage – with Smithsonian Journeys

Cultural treasures and Scandinavian panoramas

Shetland, Faroe, Iceland: wild islands & lands of legends

Atlantic shores and the Channel coastline

Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea – with Smithsonian Journeys

Landscapes and islands of the North Atlantic

Scottish archipelagos and the Faroe Islands: Nordic heritage and island identities

From the English Channel to the Irish Sea

The Hebrides archipelago, a journey deep into the heart of the wilderness

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Must-Sees - Scotland, Ireland and England

Bustling towns, castles and fortresses, breathtaking wildly beautiful landscapes... A cruise to Scotland, Ireland and England means a journey with unexpected magic around every corner. Here, we look at 10 unmissable things that keep British and Irish legends alive.

The Essentials - Ireland, Scotland, England

From Celtic shores to typical British towns, cruises to Ireland, Scotland and England offer you the opportunity to explore a wealth of culture with strong identifies, legends and fascinating stories. Here is a taste of what you can expect.

Explore Ireland, Scotland and England

The idyllic islands of the North Atlantic

The mysterious Giant’s Causeway

Dublin or Cork, an Irish adventure

Gauge Dublin's pulse - Ireland

Dublin has plenty of charm on both sides of the Liffey. There are lots of historic landmarks to visit: while you can see the Custom House and Bank of Ireland from the outside, you should definitely venture into Trinity College . This, Dublin's oldest university, is home to the Book of Kells : a 1,200-year old manuscript and a real illumination masterpiece among thousands of works. Christ Church Cathedral, Saint Patrick's Cathedral and Dublin Castle are also unmissable. But, to appreciate the whole package offered by the Irish capital, you need to gauge its pulse. There's no better way to do this than walking along pedestrianised Grafton Street , or through the Temple Bar district, with its many pubs, restaurants and shops.

Treat yourself to a getaway in Edinburgh - Scotland

Perched in a fabulous location high on Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is a Scottish icon. This fortress which has dominated the city since the 12th century has long been used as a royal residence and for military purposes. The castle offers fantastic views of the surrounding area as well as the chance to immerse yourself in Scotland's eventful history as you view the different architectural styles of the buildings and the Scottish crown jewels in one particular room. Edinburgh is also a vibrant city. To see this for yourself, go to its most famous street: the Royal Mile .

Spend a day in Cork - Ireland

Cork in the south of Ireland is one of those lively cities worth exploring on foot due to its manageable size. It would be impossible to visit Cork without stopping off at the Neo-Gothic Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral or the Church of St Anne (in the Shandon area) which is famous for its bells, which entered Irish popular culture via a 19th-century song: The Bells of Shandon . Foodies will enjoy a trip to the English Market : one of the city's main attractions. For over 200 years, the market has been showcasing the best regional produce, including specialities like drisheen (a kind of black pudding) and pig's trotters. Its 55 food stalls are packed with food products: each more mouth-watering than the last.

Follow in the footsteps of the Beatles in Liverpool - England

It was Liverpool that sealed the Beatles ' fate. Penny Lane, St Peter's Woolton, the university School of the Arts, the Casbah Coffee Club, the Empire Theatre, Arnold Grove, Dovedale School, Quarry Bank School... Retrace the steps of the "Fab Four" during a coach tour that takes in some of the places that contributed to the legend and played a role in their story.

Walk on the Giant's Causeway - Northern Ireland

Legend has it that the Giant's Causeway was the result of a quarrel between two giants: one Scottish and the other Irish. Mocked by the former, the latter threw rocks into the sea to encourage him to come over and fight. Seeing the strapping Scotsman arrive, the Irishman was frightened and disguised himself as a baby. Noticing how brawny the baby was, the "invader" could only imagine what its father might look like, so fled, destroying the pathway between the two countries as he went. Despite this, 40,000 vertical and hexagonal stone columns can still be seen today. In truth, they are cooled lava prisms from a basaltic lava flow 40 million years ago which have been eroded by the sea.

Explore London on a panoramic tour - England

There's nothing better than a panoramic tour if you want to see the English capital's most iconic landmarks . In just a few hours, you can visit Buckingham Palace (the queen's home), Trafalgar Square, the 135-metre big wheel known as the London Eye , the Palace of Westminster, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey (where British royalty is crowned and buried).

Take a breath of fresh air in Connemara - Ireland

Narrow roads that wind between lakes and lands that are green or red depending on the season, and breathtaking endless views. The Connemara region has many legends, always amazes and leaves visitors speechless. Start your trip with a cruise on Lough Corrib with its 365 islands. Exploring Galway, Ireland's most vibrant city, is also a must. Its bohemian and artistic vibes, the flower-covered pubs, the music that emanates from within, the remains of ramparts in the medieval area and the various boutiques all contribute to its charm.

Get away from it all on the Isles of Scilly - United Kingdom

Who would have thought that these dots of land surrounded by turquoise waters would be in the middle of the Celtic Sea? The Isles of Scilly enjoy a microclimate due to the Gulf Stream. Thanks to the latter, a real Garden of Eden has been planted and grown up over the past 170 years on Tresco . Tresco Abbey Garden contains plants from Australia, New Zealand, Africa, South America and the Mediterranean, as well as native species. This exotic flora is simply incredible.

Enjoy the majesty of nature on the Isle of Skye - Scotland

It's impossible not to be moved by the wild beauty on the Isle of Skye . A few pastures sit alongside uncultivated plains. The heathland extends as far as the eye can see, criss-crossed by rivers and waterfalls. Steep cliffs plunge down into turbulent waters and jagged landforms soften out into gentle slopes until they reach deserted pebble beaches or sea lochs. And then sometimes, a shadow looms proud despite the age of its stones, and reminds us that we are in the Highlands . Dunvegan Castle owned by the MacLeod clan is in no way a ruin. A tour is a good idea if you want a moving experience being immersed in Scotland's past.

Go on a magical adventure, Hebrides Islands - Scotland

Stone houses with thatched roofs, white-sand beaches bordered by cropped green vegetation, small ports, peaceful locks and sheep farming... The Hebrides Islands paint the perfect Scottish landscape. See the magic for yourself on Lewis with a visit to one of the most impressive prehistoric sites: the Callanish Stones . This is the second most important site in Great Britain after Stonehenge and dates back to 3000 BC. During the Neolithic, the stone's arrangement vis-à-vis the moon and stars allowed farmers to track the seasons.

Dos. Anyone who wants to make a good impression in Great Britain and Ireland should abide by a few basic principles: always be polite, don't queue-jump, arrive on time and pay for your round at the pub.

Don'ts. In Scotland, it's not the done thing to add soda to your whisky. Instead, use still water to reveal the power of each flavour.

Unique features

Kept at Trinity College Dublin in Ireland, the Book of Kells enthrals lovers of Celtic art and illuminations. Its cover, which was supposedly brimming with gold and precious stones, was torn off when the work was stolen in 1007 and has never been found. The variety of details and colours in the drawings is impressive. In 800, when the book (which brings together the four gospels) was written, only four colours were normally used. However, the Book of Kells contains many more that were made using pigments from materials shipped in from all over Europe and the Middle East. The most expensive, lapis lazuli, was used for blue and came from Afghanistan.

Lexique indispensable

Bonjour / bonsoir : Good morning / good afternoon Au revoir : Goodbye Bienvenue : Welcome Excusez-moi / s’il vous plaît : Excuse me / please Merci : Thank you Oui / non : Yes / No Comment allez-vous ? : How are you? Très bien, merci, et vous : Very well, thank you, and you? Je m’appelle... : My name is...

Fish and chips is known and enjoyed in England, Ireland and Scotland. These sizeable fillets of fried cod are given a lift by lemon zest and accompanied by chips. And the dish's secret? The Irish add stout to the batter.

Myths & legends

More than a symbol, clover (especially four-leaf clover) is seen by the Irish as a lucky charm. For the druids, it had real power against evil spirits. The believed that the first leaf represented hope, the second, faith, the third, love and the fourth, luck. You have to find a four-leaf clover by chance at full moon for the magic to work.

Books. Although mainly known for Treasure Island, good Scotsman Robert Louis Stevenson actually wrote a touching body of work including several travel narratives about his native soil. Walking through Edinburgh, a ramble on the Isle of Mull, exploring the Fife Coast, memories of the Pentland Hills... The French-language À travers l’Écosse , which contains translations of some of Stevenson's English travel writing, provides a nice starting point and nostalgic portrait of the region in the 19th century.

Music. The harp features on Irish coats of arms for a good reason: it represents one of the first instruments played by ninth-century Gaelic clans. Gradually dance music also emerged and was played especially in pubs. This rhythmic repertoire of 6,000 melodies is performed on various instruments: the bodhrán (a traditional drum), the bagpipes, the fiddle (a version of the violin) and the Irish bouzouki (a kind of large mandolin).

Film. Awarded two Palmes d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 2006 for T he Wind That Shakes the Barley , and in 2016 for I, Daniel Blake , Ken Loach is undoubtedly the most-loved British director, as well as the most divisive in his country. The positions he takes and his way of depicting UK society, social deprivation and the dark hours in the country's history raise some people's hackles, while others applaud his efforts. His work always contains nicely British humour, with feature films that are touchingly accurate and moving characters with which the director surprises and stirs his public each and every time.

Facts and figures

Big Ben is definitely one of London's most iconic monuments. This nickname refers to its large bell which comes in at an impressive 13.7 tonnes, 2.2 metres high and 2.7 metres in diameter . The striking hammer weighs 200 kilos .

• Aberdeen, Scotland (United Kingdom)
• Arendal (Norway)
• Ballycotton (Ireland)
• Baltimore (Ireland)
• Bekkjarvik (Norway)
• Belfast, Northern Ireland (United Kingdom)
• Bellsund, Spitsbergen (Norway)
• Bergen (Norway)
• Bilbao (Spain)
• Bordeaux (France)
• Brest (France)
• Bronnoysund (Norway)
• Callanish, Outer Hebrides (United Kingdom)
• Canna, Hebrides (United Kingdom)
• Copenhagen (Denmark)
• Cowes (United Kingdom)
• Dartmouth (United Kingdom)
• Djúpivogur (Iceland)
• Douglas (Isle of Man)
• Dover (United Kingdom)
• Dublin (Ireland)
• EastFjords (Iceland)
• Egersund (Norway)
• Eysturoy Island, Faroe Islands (Faroe Islands)
• Fairlie (Glasgow), Scotland (United Kingdom)
• Falmouth (United Kingdom)
• Fishguard (United Kingdom)
• Flam (Norway)
• Fort William (United Kingdom)
• Foula, Shetland Islands (United Kingdom)
• Fowey (United Kingdom)
• Glasgow, Scotland (United Kingdom)
• Gudhjem, Bornholm (Denmark)
• Guernsey, Channel Islands (Guernsey)
• Göteborg (Gothenburg) (Sweden)
• Heimaey, Vestmannaeyjar (Iceland)
• Holyhead, Wales (United Kingdom)
• Honfleur (France)
• Hornsund (Norway)
• Iona, Hebrides (United Kingdom)
• Isbukta, Spitsbergen (Norway)
• Isle of Noss, Shetland Islands (United Kingdom)
• Isle of Portland (United Kingdom)
• Isles of Scilly (United Kingdom)
• Karlskrona (Sweden)
• Kinsale (Ireland)
• Kirkwall, Orkney (United Kingdom)
• Kyle of Lochalsh, Scotland (United Kingdom)
• Leixões - Porto (Portugal)
• Lerwick, Shetland Islands (United Kingdom)
• Lisbon (Portugal)
• Loch Ewe (United Kingdom)
• Loch Scavaig (United Kingdom)
• Lochmaddy (United Kingdom)
• London (United Kingdom)
• Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen (Norway)
• Lunga, Treshnish Isles (United Kingdom)
• Mousa Broch, Shetland Islands (United Kingdom)
• Oban, Scotland (United Kingdom)
• Olden (Norway)
• Oslo (Norway)
• Portree, Isle of Skye (United Kingdom)
• Portrush (Ireland)
• Quiberon (France)
• Rathlin Island (United Kingdom)
• Reine, Lofoten (Norway)
• Reykjavík (Iceland)
• Roscoff (France)
• Rosyth (Edinburgh), Scotland (United Kingdom)
• Rothesay, Isle of Bute (United Kingdom)
• Sailing along Bjornoya (Bear Island) (Norway)
• Sailing along Cordouan Lighthouse (France)
• Sailing along Faroe Islands Coasts
• Sailing along Jurassic Coast (United Kingdom)
• Sailing along Shiant Islands (United Kingdom)
• Sailing around Surtsey Island (Iceland)
• Sailing in Trollfjorden (Norway)
• Sailing in the Hardangerfjord (Norway)
• Sailing on Loch Linnhe (United Kingdom)
• Saint Kilda, Hebrides (United Kingdom)
• Saint-Malo (France)
• Scalloway, Shetland Islands (United Kingdom)
• Skomer Island (United Kingdom)
• Stockholm (Sweden)
• Stornoway, Hebrides (United Kingdom)
• Streymoy Island, Faroe Islands (Faroe Islands)
• Stromness, Orkney (United Kingdom)
• Suduroy Island, Faroe Islands (Faroe Islands)
• Tobermory, Isle of Mull (United Kingdom)
• Tromso (Norway)
• Ullapool, Scotland (United Kingdom)
• Vigo - Santiago de Compostela (Spain)
• Visby, Gotland (Sweden)
• Warrenpoint (United Kingdom)
• Youghal (Ireland)

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Cruises to Ireland and Scotland

Fascinating history and pastoral landscapes await.

On a cruise to Ireland and Scotland, take in the wonderfully contrasting scenery, from Ireland’s lush, rolling countryside to Scotland’s much starker beauty, where mountains slope down to serene lochs, inlets from the sea carved by ancient glaciers. 

This corner of Europe is packed with culture and history, both ancient and more recent. In Scotland, you’ll come across grand, turreted castles and atmospheric ruins, as well as cosmopolitan cities including Glasgow and Edinburgh, each with world-class art galleries. In Ireland, you’ll find history shaped by everything from the Vikings to the golden age of shipbuilding. Don’t forget those famously cozy pubs—the perfect setting for sampling a pint of Guinness.

Itineraries

Featured ports of call, belfast, ireland.

Dynamic Belfast, once famed as a community divided by “The Troubles”, has reinvented itself as a thriving, modern city with a bustling waterfront, grand Victorian and Edwardian architecture, and a lively pub scene. Take a city tour to see the vivid street art on the Peace Wall, and explore the superb Titanic Belfast to learn about the ill-fated liner. Or head to the Giant’s Causeway, an expanse of 40,000 basalt columns on the wild Atlantic coast, created by an ancient volcanic eruption.

Glasgow, Scotland

As well as being a center of imposing Victorian architecture, the buzzing university city of Glasgow is rich in culture, from the priceless art of Kelvingrove to the archaeological treasures of the Burrell Collection. Edinburgh is just over an hour away, and you’re also close to serene Loch Lomond and the forested mountains of the Trossachs National Park. The shopping in Glasgow is superb, whether you’re in the market for tartan, Scottish whisky and craft gin, or your own set of bagpipes.

Cork (Cobh), Ireland

Immerse yourself in the medieval history and Gothic architecture of enchanting Cork. Visit romantic Blarney Castle, a 15th-century fortress with beautiful gardens, and kiss the legendary Blarney Stone to be granted the “gift of the gab”. Sample the famed Jameson Irish Whiskey, shop for exquisite Waterford Crystal, and get a taste of life in Victorian times on a tour of the imposing Muckross House, located deep in the verdant countryside.

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British Isles Cruises and Cruisetours

Explore castles and countrysides on a uk and ireland cruise.

On a British Isles cruise, fairytales come to life as you explore storybook castles and enchanting countrysides. Admire the stained-glass windows of Glasgow Cathedral. Uncover the mysteries of Stonehenge in England, and ascend the Eiffel Tower in Paris. And legend has it, you'll get the gift of gab after visiting the Blarney Stone at Ireland's iconic castle. With Princess®, feel like royalty amidst noble landscapes.

British Isles Cruise & Cruisetour Options

To legendary lands and beyond

British Isles Cruises

Your British Isles cruise will take you to England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, France, Scotland and fabled lands beyond. Encounter age-old traditions during a performance from the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Mosey down cobbled pathways in Dublin that tell tales of civilizations past. Or walk along Scotland’s famous Loch Ness, and keep your eyes peeled for mythical creatures that call these waters home.

 14 – 16 Nights

Ring of Kerry Cruisetour

1 night Limerick  |  2 nights Killarney  |  1 night Cork

Escorted by a Tour Director

Then board your British Isles cruise

Select sightseeing and most meals included

Scotland, Ireland & UK Cruise Ports of Call

Discover some of the world-renowned destinations that await you on a British Isles cruise with Princess.

• Orkney Islands
• Paris & Normandy (Le Havre)
• Portland for Stonehenge

Teeming with rural villages and vast countryside, Belfast is an explorer’s playground. Cruise to the British Isles and walk through the basalt formations of Giant’s Causeway. Stroll through the Botanic Gardens and observe the park’s Victorian heritage. Or experience true country living in the cottage of a breadmaker, where you can make fresh-baked goods to accompany your afternoon cup of tea.

In a land where fable and fact blend to become folklore, Cork is a beacon of romance among Ireland’s iconic cities. On a British Isles cruise, see the city’s emerald terrains reflected in the lakes of Killarney National Park. Savor an Irish coffee in the 18th-century village of Blarney. Or enjoy a lunch on the hills of Cashel, with the Romanesque architecture of St. Patrick’s Rock as your backdrop.

Experience the best of Irish hospitality on a British Isles cruise to Dublin. Stop by a pub and hear stories of the city from the people who call it home. Tour Trinity College, one of the world’s most famous universities. Or discover the secrets to brewing a stout at the Guinness Storehouse, and sip on a complimentary glass just a few hundred yards from where it’s made.

With centuries of cultural change, Edinburgh is home to a diverse landscape of design. Cruise the British Isles and follow the Royal Mile to the top of Castle Rock, where Edinburgh Castle sits overlooking the city below. Marvel at the expansive collection of artwork in the Royal Yacht Britannia, or shop for souvenirs on Princes Street while admiring the Georgian architecture of New Town.

Once an industrial giant, Glasgow is brimming with treasure. When you cruise the British Isles, wander the halls of Inveraray Castle to see a collection of royal portraits. Watch a kaleidoscopic display in Glasgow Cathedral as the sun pours through the stained-glass windows. Or spend the day admiring armor, weaponry and global gems in the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

Orkney is home to some of the oldest Neolithic sites in Europe. On a British Isles cruise, history buffs can hear World War II stories at the Italian Chapel. Or travel along Scapa Flow for an even deeper look into the region’s history of naval travel and trade. For those seeking mysteries, uncover secrets of the Ring of Brodgar, part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In a land that inspires love stories, reconnect with loved ones on a British Isles cruise to France. Dock in Le Havre and enjoy a breakfast crepe at a sidewalk cafe. Or embark on a day-long adventure in one of two directions. Visit Paris, where famous artwork awaits, or head to Normandy and see the D-Day beaches or the tidal island of Mont Saint Michel. From the painted portraits to the real-life scenery, revel in it all with Princess.

Used to build Buckingham Palace and St. Paul’s Cathedral, the stone extracted from Portland’s quarries has changed history. But there’s more to the city than it’s commodities. Cruise the British Isles to investigate the mysteries of Stonehenge, and learn about the grape-to-glass process at Langham Wine Estate. Or see hundreds of baby swans parading through the grounds of the 600-year-old Abbotsbury Swannery.

Why Cruise the British Isles

The British pubs, Parisian artwork and Irish castles invite you to live like royalty.

Storied and splendid

Castles are the emblem of these regions. Between the chandeliers and tapestries, step into luxury when you visit the British Isles. Cruise to Dublin and parade through the 13th-century halls of the city’s fortress. Experience the grandeur of Urquhart Castle, and search for legendary ghosts in Glamis Castle. Or visit Edinburgh Castle, where kings, queens and nobles once lived and medieval secrets continue to linger.

Melodies of memories past

As the birthplace of many music icons, the British Isles invite you to sing, dance and raise a glass to songs played around the globe. Visit Liverpool to walk in the footsteps of a beloved boyband, and head to a local pub to hear the boys at their best. Cruise the British Isles for an evening of Irish song and dance in Dublin, or watch the Edinburgh Military Tattoo assemble bands, bagpipes and drums for a soul-stirring show.

Globally recognized, historically prominent

The British Isles are a mecca of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Cruise from Southampton to Liverpool, and walk along the Royal Albert Dock, the first structure in Britain to be constructed without wood. Shop along Princes Street in Edinburgh’s New Town. Or travel to Brú na Bóinne in Dublin and get up close to Europe’s largest collection of prehistoric megalithic art.

Raise a glass to adventure

In lands famous for their stouts and ales, pubs are the cornerstone of tradition. Cruise the British Isles and step into age-old establishments that are bustling with spirit. In Dublin, get a taste of true pub “craic” — an Irish term that equates to an atmosphere of fun, entertainment and good company. With festive music playing in the background, sip on world-famous beers that originated nearby while sharing a laugh with locals.

Natural Phenomena

Unexplainable yet undeniable

Discern fact versus fiction on a British Isles cruise, where mysteries and mythologies abound. In Portland, learn about the 5,000-year-old stone circle that displays an advanced understanding of arithmetic and astrology. On itineraries that sail to Cork, search the sea for the Bioluminescence beams created by the region’s gleaming plankton. Or hunt for Invergordon’s legendary monster in the waters of Loch Ness.

Museums & Art Galleries

Ancient artifacts and acclaimed artwork

No cruise to the British Isles is complete without a visit to Paris. See “Venus de Milo” and da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa,” or tour Notre Dame, a work of art in and of itself. Visit the Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin, where interactive galleries invite you to explore. Those departing from London can also stop by the Victoria and Albert Museum which houses over two million artifacts.

British Isles excursions

Our award-winning shore excursions bring you up close to beautiful coasts, monuments and historical wonderlands. On a British Isles cruise, snap photos of Dublin’s iconic sites — like St. Stephen’s Green and Christ Church Cathedral — and taste a world-famous stout at the Guinness Storehouse. Or ride through quaint villages in Belfast on your way to Giant’s Causeway, and revel in the natural structures that surround you.

Local connections

When you cruise the British Isles, meet the diverse personalities that call these lands home. In Dublin, head to a countryside bed and breakfast where a local chef invites you to savor homemade scones and jam. Or set out on a day-long tour in Cork with your loved ones and visit the city’s most iconic sites. Stop by the 18th-century village of Kinsale, and then continue to Blarney Castle, where legends and landmarks await.

More ashore

Enjoy even more history and culture during your British Isles cruise with More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays. Visit several pubs during an evening tour, and hear stories from locals over a pint of local brew. Savor a traditional Scottish dinner in Edinburgh, and see the Royal Mile illuminated by street lamps and the evening light. Or explore Dublin by night, and indulge in Irish entertainment.

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Celebrations galore

With our "Festivals of the World," immerse yourself in the traditions of the region even on board your British Isles cruise. At the Celtic Festival, compete in cultural trivia and learn to penny whistle. During Oktoberfest, adults can sample a collection of brews while kids can try their hand at pretzel making. Or relax during regional music performances and lectures from experts about the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

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From fresh-baked biscuits to hearty pies, the British Isles are notorious for cooking up comforting favorites. On an British Isles cruise with Princess, indulge in a British Pub lunch with delicacies like Bangers & Mash and Shepherd’s Pie. Or enjoy a Sunday Roast at Crown Grill™ with roasted meat, potatoes and vegetables. Savor the comforts of home with specialty dining aboard every Princess ship.

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Find your joy

Embark on adventures by day, and indulge in entertainment by night. Watch Movies Under the Stars® at our 300-square-foot outdoor theater. Attend original productions from Broadway legend Stephen Schwartz, composer of  Wicked . Or learn traditional moves, like Flamenco or Irish stepdance, and listen to popular music from the destinations on your itinerary. On a European cruise with Princess, the choice is yours.

Reset, recharge, relax

Your European cruise should be every bit as refreshing as it is inspiring. Unwind in the Sanctuary, a retreat just for adults, and relish in tranquility. Or book an appointment at the Lotus Spa®, named "Best Spa on a Cruise Ship" by Spafinder Wellness 365™. Enjoy relaxing treatments — like facials, hot stone massages and detoxifying wraps — that will leave you recharged for upcoming adventures.

Vegas hits the seas

Experience the thrill of cards, dice, roulette and blackjack at the casino onboard our European cruises. Learn from experts — like our staff or perhaps other guests nearby — and put your skills to the test. More casual players can pull up a seat at the slot machines for the same adrenaline at their own speed. For an afternoon full of games, join fellow travelers for Bingo, or compete in scheduled group tournaments.

Ships sailing British Isles cruises

Our Princess fleet includes ships that range from small to large vessels. From a balcony stateroom, marvel at breathtaking shorelines passing by before enjoying international cuisine in one of our many eateries during your British Isles cruise.

European Cruise Articles

Read about storied attractions, charming history, diverse cultures and preparation advice for cruising Europe.

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UK, Scotland & Ireland Ocean Cruises 

Behold wild coastlines and rugged islands on a Scenic Eclipse ultra-luxury voyage. 

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Be immersed   in the countless treasures waiting to be uncovered

Marvel at dramatic cliff faces dotted with tiny fishing villages and windswept rocky islands. Allow our expert team to take you back in time, as you explore the rich history and Celtic culture of small towns and fairytale castles.  

Majestic coastlines and a wealth of historical gems await you. 

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The World's First Discovery Yacht has been designed to deliver the ultimate 6-star ultra-luxury cruise experience of a lifetime for only up to 228 guests. From natural to cultural, ancient monuments to sparkling cities, a Scenic Eclipse voyage will inspire and excite you. 

6-Star Ultra-Luxury

Indulge in our all-inclusive experiences and amenities as your highly trained, expert staff and crew take care of every detail of your journey. Each suite includes personalised butler service, and you can rejuvenate in the 550sqm Senses Spa # , yoga and Pilates studio, and gym. Enjoy premium beverages at up to nine bars and lounges and take a culinary journey at up to 10 dining experiences, that go above and beyond. 

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British Isles: Legendary History & Wild Nature

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Ancient Isles: England, Ireland, and Scotland

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Cruising the British Isles: Scotland, Ireland & England

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12 Night Iceland & Ireland Cruise

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The 10 best places to go on a river cruise in Europe 

Jun 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Appreciate the beautiful architecture of Budapest from the Danube © Sanga Park / Shutterstock

Cruising down a quiet, traffic-free river, surrounded by scenic riverfront views is an ideal way to see Europe . You can sip your wine while watching picture-perfect scenery breeze past – taking in castles, medieval villages and fields of flowers. 

By necessity, European riverboats are small and passenger numbers are often fewer than 200, making these cruises a far more social and intimate experience. There’s also plenty to do and see onshore, and with more frequent stops you can enjoy more onshore activities. Cruise lines are now also offering more immersive learning experiences such as cooking classes and home visits, or activities like bicycle trips and long hikes.

The hardest part is choosing where to go — which is why we've rounded up the 10 best places to go on a European river cruise. 

1. Northern Rhine (Germany)

From gorgeous river meanders and noble German cities

The northern section of the Rhine features dramatic landscapes and a host of interesting towns. Cologne (Köln), Germany ’s fourth-largest city, offers numerous attractions starting with its famous cathedral, while Koblenz, at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, is a park- and flower-filled delight. Heading south, the Rhine meanders between hillside castles and steep fields of wine-producing grapes. Idyllic villages appear around each bend, their half-timbered houses and Gothic steeples seemingly plucked from a fairy tale. Scarcely damaged during WWII, handsome Speyer is crowned by a magnificent Romanesque cathedral. 

2. Southern Rhine (France, Germany & Switzerland)

Explore intriguing towns in this border land

The Southern Rhine forms the border between Germany and France before becoming Switzerland ’s northern frontier. Strasbourg is the perfect overture to all that is idiosyncratic about Alsace – walking a fine tightrope between France and Germany, between a medieval past and a progressive future. Further south, the Black Forest spills into Alsace in the German town of Breisach. Unsurprisingly, given its geographical and cultural proximity to France, the locals here have a passion for a good bottle of wine. Basel, at the juncture of the French, German and Swiss borders, is perhaps where Switzerland’s Franco-Germanic roots are most evident.

3. Rhône (France)

Indulge in gourmet experiences cruising the south of France

Commanding a strategic spot at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, grand old Lyon is France’s gastronomic capital. Downstream, the Rhône forges past Vienne’s Roman ruins and the centuries-old Côtes du Rhône vineyards, opening to sunny vistas of fruit orchards, lavender fields and the distant Alps as it continues south. During the 14th century, the Provençal town of Avignon was the center of the Roman Catholic world. Its impressive legacy of ecclesiastical architecture most notably includes the soaring, World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes .

4. Western Danube (Austria & Germany)

Romantic landscapes in the heart of Europe

The baroque streetscapes and imperial palaces set the stage for Vienna ’s artistic and musical masterpieces alongside its coffee-house culture and vibrant epicurean and design scenes. Moving into Germany, the Danube gently winds its way to the Italianate city of Passau . Top billing in eastern Bavaria goes to Regensburg, a former capital and one of Germany’s prettiest and liveliest cities. Nuremberg (Nürnberg), Bavaria’s second-largest city and the unofficial capital of Franconia, is an energetic place with a history that ranges from undeclared capital of the Holy Roman Empire to the trials that judged Nazi war crimes.

5. Eastern Danube (Hungary & Serbia)

Travel a cross-section of Europe’s less-touristed east

The two great cities of this stretch of the Danube are the capitals of Hungary and Serbia respectively. Budapest has something for everyone – from dramatic history and flamboyant architecture to healing thermal waters. Outspoken, adventurous, proud and audacious: Belgrade ("White City") has a gritty exuberance and eclectic architecture making it one of Europe’s most happening cities today. While it hurtles towards a brighter future, its past unfolds before your eyes: socialist blocks are squeezed between art nouveau masterpieces and remnants of the Habsburg legacy contrast with Ottoman relics.

6. Douro (Portugal)

See spectacular terraced vineyards, the home of port wine

The Douro region, home to port wine, is simply one of the most glorious spots on earth. The Douro Valley showcases steep terraced vineyards carved into mountains, granite bluffs, whitewashed quintas (estates) and 18th-century wine cellars that draw visitors from around the world. Humble-yet-opulent Porto entices with its higgledy-piggledy medieval center, divine food and wine, and charismatic locals. Its charms are as subtle as the nuances of an aged tawny port, best savored slowly.

7. Elbe (Czech Republic & Germany)

A little-cruised but picturesque stretch of Central Europe

Covering the Czech Republic and a thick slice of eastern Germany, Elbe cruises are under-the-radar options. Prague , not on the Elbe but usually included on river cruises, contends with cities like Budapest and Paris in terms of beauty. Its maze of cobbled lanes and hidden courtyards is perfect for the aimless wanderer. The classic view of Dresden from the Elbe’s northern bank takes in spires, towers and domes belonging to palaces, churches and stately buildings: hard to believe that the city was all but wiped off the map by Allied bombings in 1945. While the city of Wittenberg is first and foremost about Martin Luther, the monk who triggered the German Reformation in 1517.

8. Seine (France)

Cruise out of Paris through northern France

Paris has a timeless familiarity, with instantly recognizable architectural icons, memorable cuisine and chic boutiques. Dining is a quintessential part of the Parisian experience, and its art repository is one of the best, showcasing priceless treasures in palatial museums. Don't miss Rouen is one of Normandy’s most engaging and historically rich destinations, with its soaring Gothic cathedral, beautifully restored medieval quarter, excellent museums and vibrant cultural life. At the mouth of the Seine, Le Havre is a love letter to modernism, evoking France’s postwar energy and optimism.

9. Main (Germany)

A seductive German river connecting to the Rhine and Danube

Rising in Franconia and joining the Rhine near Mainz, the Main (pronounced "mine") is the longest German-only river. From Bamberg to its confluence, it travels some 400km through locks and picturesque scenery, dotted with historic towns. Frankfurt ’s skyscrapers are quite a contrast to the picturesque towns that follow, though it too has a rather traditional and charming old town. Scenic Würzburg is renowned for its art, architecture and delicate wines. A disarmingly beautiful architectural masterpiece, Bamberg’s entire Altstadt is a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

10. Moselle (Germany)

An intimate stretch of the wine-producing German region

Having traversed France and Luxembourg , the Moselle heads through Germany to meet its destiny with the Rhine at Koblenz. It’s a very pretty stretch of river flanked by vineyards, and makes for great leisurely cruising and exploration. With an astounding nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, gorgeous Trier shelters Germany’s finest ensemble of Roman monuments, and is enlivened by a characterful medieval center and large student population. Bernkastel-Kues are lovely twin settlements in the heart of wine country, while Cochem’s castle and pretty buildings make it a visual highlight of the Moselle .

How do I choose a route for a European river cruise?

The two major rivers for European cruises are the Rhine and the Danube. Together, they were once the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. Rhine cruises often run from Amsterdam to Basel, following the course of the river through Germany. Danube cruises start in southern Germany, wend their way through Bratislava, Slovakia; Linz and Vienna, Austria; and Belgrade, Serbia; then skirt the Bulgarian and Romanian border to reach the Black Sea.

While many first-time European river cruisers stick to these two rivers, there are many other options available. In Western Europe, you can cruise through the French countryside on the Rhône and Seine, or check out the vineyards of Portugal on the Douro. 

Even on the same river, distinct routes can be offered. One company might zip up the Rhine, allowing you to see the highlights in a few days; another might take longer, exploring smaller places along the way and offering more time for onshore experiences. You'll need to decide whether you’d like to get a look at more destinations, or more of a feel for fewer places.

When is the best time to go on a European river cruise?

Cruises on European rivers tend to begin in the spring, around March, and go through to October. Some cruises, operating in areas where Christmas markets are a feature, run right through December but inclement weather or river flooding could put a dampener on plans. Winter cruises tend to focus on places where Christmas experiences are on offer. Shorter daylight hours mean you’ll see less scenery, but the charm of the festive season has its own appeal. 

Choosing your season is very much a matter of personal preference, and there are pros and cons for each season. Summer cruises offer the most spectacular scenery, the longest daylight hours and the best weather, but the towns you visit will be far busier and you won’t be alone in port; in some smaller places, you may have to scramble across the decks of other boats to reach the shore.

Spring and autumn mean less time around the pool on the top deck, but quieter times ashore. Expect rains in spring, but also blooming flowers. Autumn is a great time to cruise the Douro, with grapes being picked and clement temperatures.

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Bring your imagination... expect a little magic... and discover what it was like to live in the 1800s in a small village in Ireland. The houses and shops in the Folk Park are a collection of typical 19th-century Irish buildings such as the school, doctor's house, pawnbrokers, pub, drapery, printworks, grocery, hardware shop, pottery and a post office. From the castle... to a pet farm... to a beautiful walled garden, your family immerses in all things Irish.

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In many countries around the world, the art of sheep shearing – cutting off a sheep's woolen fleece, usually once a year – is not only an important skill on the farm, but a competitive sport among shearers who are typically fit and highly experienced. Ireland has produced many champion shearers, including world-record-breaking Patrick Moran. In a private visit and demonstration on a farm in Derreen, learn how sheep shearing has progressed over the centuries… and meet champion shearer Moran and see him in action, shearing by hand in the traditional style.

Kinsale Pottery and Arts Centre

Private recital at st. fin barre's cathedral, attend a private recital in the triple-spired, gothic revival st. fin barre's cathedral in cork.

The magnificent, three-spired St. Fin Barre's Cathedral in the Irish city of Cork looks every bit like a grand Gothic cathedral from the medieval era, but it's actually a Gothic Revival masterpiece designed in the 19th century by English architect William Burges, and completed in 1879, on a site connected with Cork's patron saint, the 6th-century abbot Finbarr of Cork. But this 19th-century cathedral is no less majestic than its medieval counterparts – it's adorned by more than 1,200 sculptures inside and out, including gargoyles – and is a fitting setting for a private musical recital for Tauck guests only.

Belfast's Titanic exhibit and a Titanic dinner

Belfast's award-winning titanic museum... followed by a 9-course titanic tasting dinner.

Learn insider stories behind Titanic, designed to be one of the finest ships ever to grace the seas, on your visit to Titanic Belfast, built on the site of the former Queen's Island shipyards that produced the ill-fated liner. J. Bruce Ismay, Chairman of the White Star Line, asked Lord Pirrie of shipbuilders Harland & Wolff to construct "a stable ship that will not disturb the sediment in the fine wines" they were drinking together at a planning meeting. And while Titanic was, according to her builders, "as nearly as perfect as human brains can make her," she proved no match for nature. Discover more in modern-day galleries that bring the legendary ship back to life... and enjoy a 9-course Titanic tasting dinner in the Great Room of The Merchant Hotel.

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British Isles cruises

British Isles ports of call

Sail past the ethereal beauty of the Scottish Isles or see the awe-inspiring and ancient cliffs of the Jurassic Coast. Here are just some of the highlights you can experience on a cruise around the UK.

Liverpool, England

South Queensferry (tours to Edinburgh), Scotland

Dublin, Ireland

Belfast, NI, UK

Greenock (tours to Glasgow), Scotland

Isle of May, Scotland, UK

Ringaskiddy (tours to Cork), Ireland

Isle of Skye, Scotland (cruise-by)

Faqs about the british isles.

From the chalky Jurassic coast of southern England to the ethereal waters of Mull, the seas around the British Isles have a lot to offer you. Gaze down at porpoises and seals around the Isles of Scilly, look up at historic grey-stone castles along the cliffs of the Scottish Isles, and see the rugged beauty of the coast of Ireland, all from a unique vantage point on board.

The Gulf Stream means that this part of the world stays relatively mild all year round, with a fair bit of rain thrown in. In the spring months, rain is more frequent, but the coastlines will be in full bloom and are a sight to behold. Summertime is busier thanks to local holiday seasons, with warmer and longer days, from June to August. Autumn brings a chill and beautiful colours (think golden-orange forests), and the winter months between December and February are the coldest, but bring some special marine life to the local waters.

Layers and waterproofs are essential, especially for cruises during the colder months or scenic voyages, where most of your sightseeing will be done from the decks. Wrap up warm in winter, and protect yourself from the summer sun with sunscreen and hat. Sunglasses (and binoculars) are a wise addition all year round, as you scan the skies for birds and the clifftops for medieval castles. Lastly, a Cunard cruise wouldn't be complete without a Gala night or two, so bring your best dress or suit and be ready to dance the night away.

Discover the British Isles

Retracing the Beatles' steps in Liverpool is the highlight of this British Isles cruise

LIVERPOOL, England – Sixty-four years ago the Beatles embarked on a long and winding road toward international superstardom, ultimately becoming what many consider to be the most influential, culturally significant and celebrated band in pop-music history.

All these decades later, Beatlemania has barely missed a beat.  

Nowhere is this more apparent than this city on the River Mersey in northwest England, where John, Paul, George and Ringo were born, raised and played their first gigs together.       

The Beatles’ far-reaching and colorful legacy is one of the main reasons Liverpool attracts more than a million tourists each year – double the city’s population. According to a government report, Beatles-related tourism to Liverpool brings in more than $150 million annually and supports 2,500 jobs.

I recently joined the throng of nostalgia-hungry Beatles fans during a visit to Liverpool, a port stop midway through a two-week cruise around the British Isles on the 2,668-passenger Holland America Rotterdam. 

Day-tripper: Seeing the Beatles sites in Liverpool in 1 day

Unfortunately, I had to cram all of my Beatles sightseeing — including visits to two museums and venues where the group honed their musicianship and the places that inspired some of their songs — into just one jam-packed day before our ship set sail for Wales.

Yes, to borrow the words of Lennon and McCartney, I was a day-tripper.

I was on a sold-out tour with 43 fellow cruise-ship passengers called “In the Footsteps of the Fab Four.” The excursion was led by John Bruce, a Liverpool musician and guide who proudly noted that he was born in the same hospital as John Lennon. 

“She’s got a ticket to ride,” he quipped as a woman boarded the bus at the start of the tour. It was the first in a day full of references to Beatles songs and amusing — and sometimes poignant — stories.

John Lennon's orange glasses and the famous bronze statue of the Fab 4

We started on Liverpool’s waterfront at the Royal Albert Dock, a mid-19th-century complex of dock buildings and warehouses that also houses several museums, hotels, bars and restaurants.

At the dock a sign in front of the popular Beatles Story museum beckoned us inside to learn “the story of the band that changed the world.” It features re-creations of key locations and events in the band’s career and includes fascinating pieces of original memorabilia. There are sections on each band member’s solo career following the group’s breakup in 1970. 

It was especially moving to see John Lennon’s iconic orange-tinted spectacles, which he was wearing when he wrote the 1971 song “Imagine.” Lennon was fatally shot outside his New York City apartment nine years later. 

Two blocks away is the most popular selfie spot in Liverpool: a bronze statue of the Beatles, inspired by a 1963 photo of the group strolling along the River Mersey. The statue was unveiled in 2015 to commemorate the 50-year anniversary of the Beatles' last performance in Liverpool.  

Exploring the Cavern Club and other Beatles haunts on Mathew Street

Many of Liverpool’s must-see sites related to the Beatles are clustered on Mathew Street, less than a mile east of the Beatles statue. You’ll know you’re in the vicinity when you pass the Hard Days Night Hotel, the Hey Jude Hair and Beauty Salon and the Rubber Soul bar.

Mathew Street is home to the legendary Cavern Club, where the Beatles played an astonishing 292 times between 1961 and 1963 when they surged to prominence on the Liverpool music scene. 

The original Cavern Club was demolished in 1973 but reopened 10 years later at a spot 20 yards down the block, using the same dimensions and many of the club’s original bricks. The Cavern Club still hosts live music; McCartney performed there as recently as 2018. 

Across the street is a statue of a young John Lennon and the Wall of Fame, which showcases 58 records from Liverpool-based artists that reached No. 1 on the U.K. singles chart. Besides the Beatles, Liverpool has produced numerous other hitmakers, including Gerry and the Pacemakers, the Searchers and Cilla Black, who once worked as a hat-check girl at the Cavern.

The Liverpool Beatles Museum, another attraction on Mathew Street, has more than 1,000 items of Beatles memorabilia displayed on three floors. I especially enjoyed seeing two of the original seats from Shea Stadium, where the Beatles played a landmark concert in 1965 in front of 55,000 screaming fans. The museum is owned by the family of Pete Best, the Beatles’ original drummer who was fired by the group in 1962 and replaced with Ringo Starr.

Seeing Penny Lane and Strawberry Field in south Liverpool

After visiting Mathew Street, we drove through south Liverpool and passed by the Beatles’ childhood homes and schools. We stopped at Penny Lane, which Paul McCartney immortalized in a 1967 song that was a tribute to his Liverpool upbringing. Over the years, Beatles fans have pilfered so many of the Penny Lane street signs that the city has had to affix them to metal posts.    

We also stopped at the entrance to Strawberry Field — formerly the site of a Salvation Army children's home — where John Lennon played as a child. It inspired him to write the 1967 song “Strawberry Fields Forever.”

Bruce, who has been leading Beatles tours for six years, played the two songs over the bus’s sound system — along with his own recording of “Let it Be” — while he offered his interpretation of the songs' meaning.       

“I’m a musician and I have a passion for the Beatles,” he says. “When you reveal the reasons about why they wrote some of their songs, it’s incredible. Sometimes I’ve had people at Penny Lane with big tears in their eyes because it means so much to them.”

More cruising: See the wilder side of Alaska on an expedition cruise

British Isles cruise on the Holland America Rotterdam

The cruise started and ended in Rotterdam, Netherlands, where the Holland America line was founded 151 years ago. The Rotterdam ship, which took its maiden voyage in 2021, is the newest addition to Holland America’s fleet of 11 ships. 

Our sailing was close to capacity, with more than 2,600 passengers, about half of whom were Americans. There was also a large contingent of Dutch passengers; all of the ship’s announcements were made in both English and Dutch. Cruises to the British Isles typically run from late April through October.    

We stopped in 10 ports over the course of two weeks in such places as Scotland, Wales, Ireland and the Isle of Man, a self-governing British Crown Dependency that was the birthplace of another famous pop group, the Bee Gees.

But it was Liverpool — and my pilgrimage to trace the footsteps of a group that produced so much groundbreaking and enduring music — that I’ll remember the most.     

Fittingly, as our bus returned to the cruise pier at the end of the tour, Bruce ended his commentary with yet one more reference to a popular Beatles song.

“Congratulations,” he told us. “You’ve just spent a day in the life of the Fab Four.”

Cruising Antarctica: A little seasickness and a lot of penguins

Cruise: British Isles and Beatles history

The Beatles Story:  beatlesstory.com .

Liverpool Beatles Museum:  liverpoolbeatlesmuseum.com .

Holland America Line:  hollandamerica.com .

Dan Fellner of Scottsdale is a freelance travel writer. Contact him at  [email protected]  or visit his website at  DanFellner.com .