Which Cruise Lines Go to Ireland and Scotland for Stunning Coastal Views

Cunard, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line are among the top cruise lines offering unforgettable voyages to Ireland and Scotland’s dramatic coastlines, featuring stops at iconic ports like Dublin, Edinburgh, and the Isle of Skye. These itineraries showcase rugged cliffs, historic castles, and charming villages, perfect for travelers seeking natural beauty and cultural immersion.

Key Takeaways

• Cunard offers luxury voyages to iconic Irish and Scottish ports.
• P&O Cruises features affordable UK-focused itineraries with coastal stops.
• Holland America combines scenic routes with immersive cultural excursions.
• Princess Cruises highlights dramatic cliffs and historic sites on select sailings.
• Regent Seven Seas delivers all-inclusive, small-ship access to hidden gems.
• Oceania Cruises prioritizes gourmet dining and intimate coastal exploration.

Discovering the Emerald and Granite Shores: Why Ireland and Scotland Are Must-See Cruise Destinations

Imagine standing on the deck of a luxury cruise ship as the mist rolls in from the Atlantic, revealing the jagged cliffs of the Scottish Highlands or the emerald green hills of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. The air is crisp, the silence profound, broken only by the cry of a seabird or the distant toll of a church bell in a coastal village. For travelers seeking breathtaking coastal views, rich cultural heritage, and a sense of timeless beauty, Ireland and Scotland offer some of the most unforgettable maritime experiences in the world. Cruising to these storied islands is not just a vacation—it’s an immersive journey through myth, history, and nature’s raw power.

From the dramatic sea stacks of the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland to the ancient castles of the Scottish Hebrides, the coastlines of Ireland and Scotland are a visual feast. These destinations are increasingly popular with cruise lines, thanks to their compact size, accessible ports, and growing appeal among travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures. Whether you’re drawn to the poetic landscapes of County Kerry, the whisky trails of Islay, or the rugged beauty of the Orkney Islands, a cruise to Ireland and Scotland delivers a unique blend of natural wonder and cultural depth. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore which cruise lines go to Ireland and Scotland, what itineraries they offer, and how to choose the perfect voyage for your interests and travel style.

Why Cruise to Ireland and Scotland? The Allure of the British Isles

Natural Beauty and Dramatic Landscapes

Ireland and Scotland are renowned for their stunning coastal scenery, which varies from the soft, rolling hills of County Clare to the towering sea cliffs of the Scottish Outer Hebrides. The Cliffs of Moher, rising 700 feet above the Atlantic, and the Cuillin Hills of Skye, with their jagged peaks and misty valleys, are just two examples of the region’s dramatic topography. Many cruise itineraries are designed to maximize these views, with ships sailing close to shore or offering scenic cruising through narrow sea lochs and fjords.

For nature lovers, the region is a haven for wildlife. You might spot puffins nesting on the Rathlin Island cliffs, dolphins playing in the wake of the ship, or even minke whales breaching in the Minch—the strait between Skye and the Outer Hebrides. Seabird colonies, such as those on the Skellig Islands (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), are best accessed by small ships or tender boats, which many cruise lines now offer as shore excursions.

Rich Cultural Heritage and Historical Depth

Beyond the scenery, Ireland and Scotland boast a deep cultural tapestry woven from centuries of Celtic traditions, Viking raids, and British influence. In Ireland, you can explore ancient monastic sites like Glendalough, walk the streets of Dublin—birthplace of literary giants like Joyce and Yeats—or attend a traditional seisiún (music session) in a Galway pub. Scotland, meanwhile, offers the haunting ruins of Iona Abbey, the historic city of Edinburgh (with its castle perched on a volcanic rock), and the mysterious standing stones of Callanish.

Cruise lines often include guided tours led by local historians or cultural experts, giving passengers a deeper understanding of the region’s past. Some even collaborate with local artisans to offer onboard workshops—think Irish knitwear demonstrations or Scottish bagpipe performances—adding a personal touch to the experience.

Accessibility and Port Infrastructure

Despite their remote feel, the ports of Ireland and Scotland are surprisingly well-equipped for cruise tourism. Major cities like Dublin, Cork, Glasgow, and Edinburgh have modern cruise terminals, while smaller harbors such as Dún Laoghaire, Oban, and Stornoway have upgraded facilities to accommodate growing demand. Many lines now offer overnight stays in key ports, allowing for evening exploration and a more relaxed pace.

Additionally, the region’s compact size means you can experience multiple destinations in a single cruise. A 10-day itinerary might include stops in Belfast, the Orkney Islands, Invergordon (gateway to the Highlands), and the Isle of Skye—all without the need for long overland transfers.

Top Cruise Lines That Sail to Ireland and Scotland

Luxury and Expedition: Regent Seven Seas and Silversea

For travelers seeking all-inclusive luxury and intimate ship experiences, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises are standout choices. Both lines offer small- to mid-sized ships (carrying 500–700 passengers) with spacious suites, gourmet dining, and personalized service.

Regent’s Seven Seas Explorer and Navigator frequently include Ireland and Scotland in their Northern Europe and British Isles itineraries. A typical 11-night voyage might depart from Southampton, stop in Dublin and Cork (Ireland), then head to Oban, Invergordon, and the Orkney Islands (Scotland), before ending in Reykjavik. Regent’s “Free Unlimited Shore Excursions” program allows passengers to explore sites like the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Culloden Battlefield without extra cost.

Silversea, known for its ultra-luxury and expedition-style voyages, operates the Silver Muse and Silver Spirit in the region. Their itineraries often include overnight stays in Edinburgh and Dublin, with excursions like a private tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia or a whiskey tasting in Islay. Silversea also offers “Zodiac landings” in remote areas like the Outer Hebrides, where larger ships cannot dock.

Premium and Mid-Size: Viking Ocean Cruises and Holland America Line

Viking Ocean Cruises has become a favorite for culturally curious travelers. Their sleek, 930-passenger ships (like the Viking Sky and Viking Orion) focus on destination immersion, with included shore excursions, enrichment lectures, and no children onboard. Viking’s “Inclusive Value” pricing covers drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities.

Their 12-night “British Isles Explorer” itinerary includes stops in Dublin, Cobh (near Cork), the Isle of Skye, Invergordon, and Edinburgh. Unique excursions include a private visit to the National Gallery of Ireland and a guided hike through the Cairngorms National Park. Viking also offers “Overnight in a Port” options, allowing for evening exploration of cities like Glasgow.

Holland America Line offers a more traditional cruise experience with mid-sized ships (2,100–2,600 passengers). Their Zuiderdam and Noordam sail British Isles itineraries from May to September. A 14-day “British Isles” cruise might start in Amsterdam, visit Belfast, the Giant’s Causeway, Oban, and Invergordon, then end in Edinburgh. Holland America’s “Taste of the British Isles” program includes onboard cooking demos and regional cuisine nights.

Adventure and Small-Ship: Ponant and Hurtigruten

For intrepid travelers who want to get off the tourist trail, Ponant and Hurtigruten offer expedition-style cruises. Ponant’s Le Dumont-d’Urville (264 passengers) sails 11-night itineraries focusing on the wilder parts of the region, such as the Shetland Islands, the Outer Hebrides, and the Skellig Islands. Their “Expedition” program includes kayaking, Zodiac landings, and lectures by marine biologists.

Hurtigruten, known for its Norwegian coastal voyages, now offers British Isles itineraries with their MS Maud and MS Roald Amundsen. Their “Expedition” cruises emphasize sustainability and wildlife encounters. A 12-day “Wild Scotland & Ireland” voyage might include stops in the Orkneys, the Isle of Mull, and the Aran Islands, with opportunities to see puffins, seals, and even orcas.

Key Itineraries and Port Highlights

The Classic British Isles Loop: Dublin to Edinburgh

One of the most popular itineraries is the 10- to 14-day loop that starts in Dublin or Southampton and circles through key ports in Ireland and Scotland. This route typically includes:

• Dublin, Ireland: Explore Trinity College and the Book of Kells, then take a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher (1.5 hours by coach).
• Cobh (Cork), Ireland: Gateway to the Titanic’s last port of call and the historic Blarney Castle.
• Belfast, Northern Ireland: Visit the Titanic Belfast museum and the Giant’s Causeway (a UNESCO site).
• Oban, Scotland: Known as the “Gateway to the Isles,” Oban is a jumping-off point for ferries to Mull and Iona.
• Invergordon, Scotland: Base for excursions to Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield, and the Cairngorms.
• Edinburgh, Scotland: Spend two days exploring the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, and Arthur’s Seat.

Many lines offer “scenic cruising” through the Firth of Clyde or the Sound of Mull, with onboard commentary highlighting landmarks like Dunvegan Castle and Staffa Island’s Fingal’s Cave.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Orkney, Shetland, and the Hebrides

For a more immersive experience, consider itineraries that focus on Scotland’s remote archipelagos. The Orkney Islands (stopping in Kirkwall) are a UNESCO site with Neolithic villages like Skara Brae, while the Shetland Islands (Lerwick) offer Viking ruins and puffin colonies. The Outer Hebrides (Stornoway) are known for their Gaelic culture, white-sand beaches, and the Callanish Stones.

Cruise lines like Ponant and Hurtigruten specialize in these routes, often including overnight stays and Zodiac landings. A highlight is a visit to Staffa Island, where you can walk through basalt columns and listen to the acoustics of Fingal’s Cave—a natural wonder that inspired Mendelssohn’s “Hebrides Overture.”

Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way: From Cork to Donegal

Ireland’s western coast is a highlight of many cruises, especially those that follow the Wild Atlantic Way. Ports like Killarney (gateway to the Ring of Kerry), Galway (cultural hub with lively music scenes), and Ballycastle (near the Giant’s Causeway) offer a mix of natural beauty and vibrant local life.

Unique excursions include a boat trip to the Skellig Michael (a 6th-century monastic site featured in Star Wars), a sheepdog demonstration in Connemara, or a visit to the Cliffs of Moher at sunset. Some lines even offer overnight stays in Dingle, a charming fishing village with award-winning seafood.

When to Go: Best Times for Cruising Ireland and Scotland

Seasonal Overview: May to September

The peak cruise season for Ireland and Scotland runs from May to September, with the best weather in June, July, and August. During these months, you can expect:

• Daylight: Up to 18 hours in the summer (especially in northern Scotland), perfect for extended shore excursions.
• Weather: Average temperatures of 15–20°C (59–68°F), though rain is common—pack a waterproof jacket!
• Wildlife: Puffins, seals, and whales are most active in summer.

May and September are ideal for avoiding crowds and securing better prices. In May, you’ll see blooming wildflowers and fewer tourists, while September offers crisp air and autumn colors in the Highlands.

Shoulder Seasons: April and October

For travelers willing to brave cooler temperatures (8–14°C / 46–57°F), April and October can be rewarding. These months offer:

• Lower Prices: Cruise lines often discount itineraries by 15–25%.
• Fewer Crowds: Popular sites like the Giant’s Causeway or Edinburgh Castle are less crowded.
• Unique Experiences: In April, you might catch the start of the puffin nesting season; in October, enjoy the haunting atmosphere of Halloween in Ireland.

However, some small ports may have reduced services, and daylight hours are shorter (10–12 hours).

Weather and Sea Conditions

While the region is generally safe for cruising, the North Atlantic can be rough. Ships with stabilizers (like those from Regent and Viking) handle waves better. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider itineraries that focus on the Irish Sea (sheltered by land) or book a cabin in the middle of the ship.

Always check the Met Office (UK) or Met Éireann (Ireland) forecasts before departure. Most lines will adjust itineraries for safety, but this could mean missing a port.

Planning Your Cruise: Tips and Practical Advice

Choosing the Right Cruise Line

Consider your priorities:

• Luxury and comfort: Opt for Regent, Silversea, or Viking.
• Cultural depth: Choose Viking or Ponant, which emphasize lectures and local guides.
• Adventure and wildlife: Go with Hurtigruten or Ponant’s expedition ships.
• Family-friendly: Holland America or Princess Cruises (which also sail the region).

Read recent passenger reviews on sites like Cruise Critic to gauge service quality and excursion value.

Packing Essentials

Ireland and Scotland are famously unpredictable. Pack:

• Waterproof jacket and sturdy walking shoes
• Layered clothing (temperatures vary daily)
• Binoculars for wildlife spotting
• Adapter plug (Ireland/UK uses Type G)
• Small backpack for shore excursions

Visa and Travel Requirements

Most nationalities need a UK visa (for Scotland) and/or an Ireland visa (for the Republic). If you’re a U.S., Canadian, or EU citizen, you can typically enter both countries visa-free for up to 90 days. Check the UK Visas and Immigration and Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service websites for updates.

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date.

Onboard and Shore Excursion Tips

• Book excursions early: Popular ones (e.g., Loch Ness boat tour, Skellig Michael) sell out.
• Ask about included options: Lines like Regent and Viking include most excursions.
• Try local cuisine: Sample Irish stew, haggis, or seafood chowder on shore.
• Respect local customs: In rural areas, greet people with a smile and “hello” in Gaelic (“Dia dhuit” in Ireland, “Halò” in Scotland).

Data Table: Cruise Lines, Ships, and Sample Itineraries

Cruise Line	Ship	Passenger Capacity	Sample Itinerary	Unique Feature
Regent Seven Seas	Seven Seas Explorer	750	11 nights: Southampton → Dublin → Cobh → Oban → Invergordon → Edinburgh	Free unlimited shore excursions
Silversea	Silver Muse	596	12 nights: Edinburgh → Orkney → Skye → Dublin → Galway	Zodiac landings in remote areas
Viking Ocean	Viking Orion	930	12 nights: Amsterdam → Belfast → Oban → Invergordon → Edinburgh	Enrichment lectures and overnight stays
Holland America	Zuiderdam	2,100	14 nights: Amsterdam → Dublin → Giant’s Causeway → Oban → Edinburgh	“Taste of the British Isles” cuisine program
Ponant	Le Dumont-d’Urville	264	11 nights: Glasgow → Orkney → Shetland → Outer Hebrides → Dublin	Expedition team and kayaking
Hurtigruten	MS Maud	530	12 nights: Edinburgh → Skye → Mull → Orkney → Shetland	Sustainability focus and wildlife tracking

Conclusion: Set Sail for the Emerald and Granite Shores

Choosing a cruise to Ireland and Scotland is more than selecting a vacation—it’s committing to a journey through landscapes that have inspired poets, warriors, and dreamers for centuries. Whether you’re drawn to the cliffs of Moher, the whisky trails of Islay, or the ancient stones of Orkney, the cruise lines we’ve explored offer something for every traveler. From the all-inclusive luxury of Regent and Silversea to the cultural depth of Viking and the adventurous spirit of Ponant and Hurtigruten, there’s a ship and itinerary to match your dreams.

As you plan your voyage, remember that the magic of Ireland and Scotland lies not just in their famous sights, but in the quiet moments: a pint of Guinness in a Galway pub, a bagpiper’s lament in Edinburgh’s Old Town, or the silence of a Hebridean beach at dawn. By choosing a cruise that aligns with your interests—whether it’s history, nature, or relaxation—you’ll return home with memories as enduring as the cliffs and castles you’ve explored. So raise the anchor, set course for the North Atlantic, and let the emerald and granite shores of Ireland and Scotland reveal their timeless beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines go to Ireland and Scotland for coastal exploration?

Major cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Holland America offer itineraries to Ireland and Scotland, featuring stops in ports like Dublin, Cork, Edinburgh, and Invergordon. These lines focus on showcasing the region’s dramatic cliffs, historic castles, and rugged coastlines.

Are there luxury cruise options for visiting Ireland and Scotland?

Yes, luxury lines such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, and Oceania Cruises sail to Ireland and Scotland, providing high-end amenities and immersive shore excursions. These cruises often include scenic routes along the Scottish Highlands and Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

Do any small-ship cruise lines go to Ireland and Scotland?

Small-ship lines like Viking Ocean Cruises, Azamara, and Ponant specialize in intimate voyages to Ireland and Scotland, allowing access to smaller ports like Oban and Killybegs. Their smaller vessels offer closer views of coastal landscapes and fewer crowds.

What’s the best time of year for a cruise to Ireland and Scotland?

The prime cruising season runs from May to September, offering milder weather and longer daylight hours for sightseeing. This period also aligns with peak departures from lines like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises.

Can I take a round-trip cruise to Ireland and Scotland from the UK?

Several cruise lines, including P&O Cruises and Cunard, offer round-trip sailings from UK ports like Southampton or Liverpool, visiting both Ireland and Scotland. These itineraries often last 7–14 days and highlight coastal gems like the Giant’s Causeway and the Isle of Skye.

Do these cruises include guided tours of historic sites in Ireland and Scotland?

Yes, most cruise lines provide optional excursions to UNESCO sites like Edinburgh Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, and Skellig Michael. Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line even partner with local experts for in-depth cultural and historical experiences.