It’s a busy time for the United Kingdom: William and Kate, the Duke and
Duchess of Cambridge, are preparing to celebrate their fourth wedding
anniversary April 29 while also awaiting the birth of their second child (the
baby will be fourth in line to the throne, after his or her grandfather, father
and brother). In addition, Queen Elizabeth will celebrate her 89th birthday on
April 21. She is on her way to becoming Britain’s longest-reigning monarch; her
reign will surpass that of Queen Victoria on September 10.
With all of these happy events, the U.K. will celebrate all summer
long, making it a wonderful time to cruise this part of the world. The British
Isles include Great Britain – England, Scotland and Wales – and lots of
offshore islands, as well as Ireland. The coastlines are beautiful, and ships
can move from one port to another quickly, giving you more time to explore the
ports and take day excursions to inland attractions, such as England’s
Stonehenge.
A summer cruise of the British Isles means mild weather (generally in
the 70s during the day) and long hours of sunlight. Spring, when the
countryside is in bloom, and fall, when the leaves change color, are lovely
times to cruise as well. Some cruise lines sail the British Isles through the
winter months, too, when the chilly air is warmed by the lights and aromas of
Britain’s Christmas markets.
Ports that you may visit include Belfast, Ireland, where Titanic
Belfast is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the ill-fated ship. History
buffs will also love the Orkney Islands, just off the northeast coast of
Scotland, which were visited by the Vikings and have wonderful archaeological
sites. In Edinburgh, Scotland, stately Edinburgh Castle watches over the city’s
medieval and Georgian architecture.
London, England, lies inland on the River Thames, so your ship will probably
dock at Southampton, Dover or Tilbury. Each of these ports has its own
attractions, as well as being a gateway to London. To see as much of London as
possible, consider a Thames river cruise, which can take you to the Tower of
London, Tower Bridge, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. If you have time,
you’ll also want to visit Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and some of the
fabulous museums.
To plan your ideal United Kingdom cruise – for this summer or some
future time – talk with Anita, your Cruise Holidays personal cruise expert.
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