Discover the Channel Islands and northern France on this five-night sailing over the summer Bank Holiday weekend, visiting destinations chosen for their scenic landscapes, island life and delicious local produce.
You'll enjoy the benefits of the Isles of Scilly's subtropical microclimate as you wander the lovely island of St Mary's, exploring the shops and eateries of Hugh Town.
The Channel Islands were the only part of the British Isles under German control during World War II, and a visit to the picturesque St Peter Port in Guernsey will give you the chance to uncover the islands' fascinating wartime history.
You'll have the chance to spot incredible wildlife as you sail around the islands too, with seabirds such as gannets and puffins soaring overhead, and pods of dolphins often spotted frolicking in the warm waters.
A visit to Honfleur in northern France's Normandy region follows, where you'll sample local camembert and Calvados, a rich local brandy made from apples and pears. This enchanting town has attracted artists for many years, and it was where a young Claude Monet first started painting landscapes outdoors.
Throughout the cruise you'll be sailing on board comfortable ship Borealis. On board, you'll enjoy exploring the ship's extensive facilities, including a beautiful two-tiered entertainment theatre and an all-season pool. Every evening, you can enjoy a delicious five-course, á la carte menu, freshly prepared and cooked by an expert team of chefs.
Today you'll board your ship in Southampton in the early evening and begin your cruise.
You'll spend a full day today on your ship, Borealis, as you sail towards the Isles of Scilly. Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea, where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful facilities on the ship, and the exciting schedule of events and activities taking place on board.
Today you'll dock on St. Mary's, the largest of the five inhabited islands that make up The Isles of Scilly. St Mary's has a fascinating heritage, where traces of life go back at least eight centuries.
Visit Hugh Town and explore its shops, cafes and galleries, as well as the quayside where you'll be tempted to try the Catch of the Day, or opt for a lovely coastal walk.
The entire archipelago is a designated area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Marine Conservation Zone, where there is an abundance of marine life and migrant birds, such as Atlantic grey seals, gannets and cormorants, and even puffins, from April onwards.
Today you'll sail into the main port town of the Channel Islands, St Peter Port on the island of Guernsey. You'll see elegant Georgian and Regency architecture in the town, heavily influenced by the French.
Occupied by the Germans during World War II, St Peter Port still has many historic fortifications standing today, including the 800-year-old Castle Cornet.
After exploring the town, you'll cruise past the tiny island of Brecqhou, where you'll see Fort Brecqhou high on a cliff, a castle built by the reclusive identical twin billionaires, the Barclay brothers.
You will also cruise by Sark and the island of Alderney, whose diverse landscapes are a haven for various species of flora and fauna. Flat farmlands are fronted by golden beaches, and cliff-top fortifications overlook craggy cliffs, protecting the island's natural harbours and coves.
You'll arrive in Honfleur today, a city in the department of Calvados in Normandy, France.
Originally occupied in the 9th century by the Vikings, Honfleur has attracted artists for many years, with masterpieces housed in its museums and art galleries.
Under the guidance of Eugène Boudin, a young Claude Monet and his friend Alfred Sisley began studying light effects and painting landscapes outdoors, rather than from memory, trailblazing for artists of the future.
You'll sail back home overnight, arriving in Southampton early this morning.
While Borealis is one of the largest of Fred Olsen’s ships by size, she carries fewer than 1,400 guests, meaning you’ll have more space in which to relax. Enjoy a calm atmosphere in public areas such as the all-season pool, the Atlantis Spa, and the beautiful viewing Observatory. You’ll experience a premium level of comfort and exceptional service in the ship’s many elegant lounges, bars and dining venues. You can choose between an Interior or Ocean Cabin, Balcony or Suite, all equipped with a Smart TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee-making facilities, a fridge and individually controlled air conditioning.
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