Scenic Islands of Scotland and Ireland Yarn Cruise

Enjoy a full day of cruising at sea, as you make your way north to Scotland. Whilst sailing, join Mandy for a full-day workshop as well as making the most of the wonderful programme of events and activities onboard ship.

Aberdeen is often referred to as the 'Granite City', due to its many enduring grey-stone buildings. Located on the North Sea coast, it is a vibrant city in northeastern Scotland boasting a rich maritime history, stunning architecture, and beautiful green spaces. Our exclusive excursion will include a visit to the award-winning Wool for Ewe yarn shop, owned by mother and daughter duo, Kathy and Faye. Both are avid knitters who love to inspire and be inspired, their shop stocks an extensive range of wool including The Accidental Shepherd and Di Gilpin (Scottish wool), a vast range of synthetic and fashion yarn as well as items from local dyers.

Lerwick*, the northernmost town in the United Kingdom, is the friendly capital of over 100 islands and islets of the Shetland Isles. It is located roughly 160km off the north-eastern coast of mainland Scotland, known for its picturesque harbour, historic waterfront and unique blend of Scottish and Norse heritage.

During our exclusive excursion, we’ll spend time learning about the importance of textiles and knitwear to the islands’ commerce with visits to the Shetland Textile Museum and Shetland Museum and Archives, as well as enjoying opportunities for yarn shopping!

*Anchor Port

The capital of the amazing Orkney archipelago, the Royal Burgh of Kirkwall sits in the centre of Mainland, dividing the island into East and West. The magnificent St. Magnus Cathedral, a legacy of the town’s rich Viking heritage, dominates Kirkwall’s skyline.

Our exclusive excursion will combine the historic sights of the island with yarn-related highlights from Orkney’s Creative Trail.

'Pinned' just off the southwest coast of Hoy Island, the 230 ft-high Needle is the Orkney archipelago's second-highest rock stack.

Britain’s tallest and arguably most famous sea stack, the Old Man of Hoy rises 450 feet out of the Atlantic Ocean. Originally an arch with two ‘legs’ resembling those of an old man, hence the landmark’s nickname, the erosive power of the weather has reduced the stack to a single pillar which, owing to a huge crack slicing through the middle of it, geologists believe will one day collapse into the sea.

Both are magnificent sights to admire from the comfort of the ship!

Today will be spent at sea, cruising through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish coast whilst participating in Mandy’s full day workshop.

You will have the opportunity to view the Small Isles – Eigg, Muck, Rum and Canna, part of the Inner Hebrides and each with their own dramatic scenery, wildflowers, diverse wildlife and unique charms. Cruising will continue to Loch Hourn, often referred to as the 'Fjord of Scotland', a narrow sea loch flanked by steep mountains and untouched wilderness; Dutchman's Cap (Bac Mor) with its distinctive hat-shaped silhouette rising from the sea with sheer cliffs, grassy slopes and home to many seabirds; and Fingal's Cave on the uninhabited island of Staffa, with its unique hexagonal basalt columns and cathedral-like interior and said to have influenced composer Felix Mendelssohn for the Hebrides Overture composed in 1830.

Home to Ireland’s premier fishing port, picturesque Killybegs in County Donegal is a town with a deep maritime history and a fine harbour. We’ll enjoy an exclusive excursion which will begin with a visit to Studio Donegal in the nearby village of Kilcar, which is dedicated to preserving the tradition of handweaving and will offer a fascinating insight into Donegal's textile heritage.

Our journey will continue to the enchanting Glencolmcille Folk Village, a living history museum set in one of Ireland's most picturesque valleys. The museum will provide a glimpse into the traditional way of life in 18th, 19th, and 20th-century Ireland. Throughout the excursion, the breathtaking Donegal landscape will unfold, with its rugged coastline, rolling hills and tranquil glens!

Departing Killybegs late afternoon, we will sail past Slieve League Cliffs, some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, rising almost 2,000 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and known for their sheer drops and awe-inspiring beauty.

Rich in medieval heritage and marking the halfway point on the 2500km Wild Atlantic Way, Galway* is Ireland’s fifth largest city and is one of the Emerald Isle’s most engaging destinations, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, lively arts scene and warm hospitality. Our local guide will take us on an exclusive two-hour walking tour through the narrow winding streets of this colourful and cultural city, after which you will have free time to explore some of the yarn related shops independently.

Departing Galway late afternoon, we will sail south along the Irish coastline, passing the iconic Cliffs of Moher. Rising out of the Atlantic and running along the coast of Clare for almost 8 miles, the cliffs were formed over 320 million years ago, and today form part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark.

*Anchor Port

Full day at sea as we sail back to Southampton and participate in a final workshop with Mandy.