Scotland Cruises

Scotland, known for its rugged landscapes, rich history, and distinctive culture, offers an incredible experience for cruisers. This breathtaking region is home to stunning castles, ancient ruins, and scenic coastlines. Did you know that Scotland boasts over 400 islands, many of which are accessible by cruise? With its famous Loch Ness, vibrant cities like Edinburgh, and the majestic Highlands, exploring Scotland on a cruise is an excellent way to delight your senses and uncover some of the country’s hidden gems. Whether it’s sipping whisky on the Isle of Skye or hiking through the heather-covered hills, a cruise to Scotland promises memorable adventures around every corner!

Top Cruise Lines Offering Trips to Scotland

• Holland America Line: With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America features 4 vessels that cruise to Scotland. The Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam are particularly noted for their fine dining and cultural enrichment programs. Departures are commonly from international ports such as Rotterdam or Dover, preparing cruisers for a balanced mix of luxury and local exploration as they navigate Scotland’s diverse landscapes.
• Princess Cruises: This line boasts a fleet of 17 ships, with 6 offering itineraries to Scotland. The Regal Princess and Crown Princess are celebrated for their spacious decks and array of entertainment options. Depending on your preference, you can easily depart from a domestic port like Sydney or Brisbane for international departures at Southampton or Dover, making it flexible for cruisers from Australia.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a total of 20 ships in their fleet, Norwegian has 3 of them sailing to Scotland. Norwegian Star and Norwegian Dawn provide a freestyle cruising experience that allows you to enjoy dining on your terms. Most voyages leave from Southampton or Reykjavik, providing great opportunities for adventure before or after reaching the Scottish shores.
• MSC Cruises: Featuring 23 ships, MSC has 2 vessels that frequent Scotland. The MSC Preziosa and MSC Virtuosa offer stunning designs and a wide range of onboard activities. Departures often take place from ports like Hamburg or Southampton, allowing cruisers to indulge in their Scottish journey seamlessly.
• Cunard: Known for its luxurious experience, Cunard operates 4 ships, with 2 sailing to Scotland. The Queen Anne and Queen Mary 2 are renowned for their elegance, onboard entertainment options, and traditional afternoon tea service. Most sailings depart from Southampton or New York, ensuring a classic cruise experience as you head to Scotland’s enchanting ports.

Luxury and Small Ship Lines to Scotland

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania features 5 that explore Scotland. The Sirena and Vista stand out for their culinary excellence and intimate atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a luxurious cruise experience. Departures frequently occur from Southampton or Reykjavik, setting the stage for a refined voyage.
• Seabourn: This luxury cruise line offers a fleet of 6, with 2 specifically visiting Scotland. Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Venture are recognisable for their all-inclusive experience and high staff-to-guest ratios. Departures usually happen from London or Greenock, making it easy for passengers looking for extra luxury on their cruise.
• Silversea: With 12 ships in its fleet, Silversea has 3 that navigate to Scotland. The Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit are known for their well-appointed suites and exceptional service. Most cruises embark from Lisbon or Dublin, giving passengers the option to enjoy a blend of cultures before reaching Scotland.
• Azamara Cruises: This cruise line, with 4 ships in its fleet, has 2 dedicated to Scotland. The Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest are lauded for their immersive itineraries and longer port stays. Expect departures from Southampton or Copenhagen, allowing plenty of time to savour the local culture.

Top Harbours to Experience in Scotland

• Greenock: Nestled on the banks of the River Clyde, Greenock serves as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of Scotland. Take a short excursion to Loch Lomond or hop on a bus to visit the spectacular gardens of Hill House. Don’t miss tasting local delicacies like haggis while you’re there!
• Belfast, Northern Ireland: This friendly city is known for its Titanic heritage. Visit the Titanic Belfast visitor centre to learn about the famous ship’s history. When time allows, consider a black cab tour to explore the city’s rich political history and gorgeous murals.
• South Queensferry: Located just outside Edinburgh, this port offers fantastic views of the famous Forth Bridge. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the town and visit the nearby Hopetoun House, an impressive stately home dating back to the 17th century.
• Lerwick, Shetland Islands: Lerwick is the perfect place to explore the unique culture and stunning landscapes of the Shetlands. Wander through the charming streets of Lerwick or visit the Shetland Museum to learn about the local history and wildlife. Be sure to look for the iconic Shetland ponies in the area!
• Invergordon: This port is known for its proximity to the breathtaking landscapes of the Highlands, with easy access to iconic spots such as Loch Ness and the picturesque Eilean Donan Castle. Take a tour to explore the ancient battlefields of Culloden and indulge in some whisky tasting at a local distillery.

Best Times to Cruise to Scotland

Scotland remains a stunning destination year-round but offers a unique charm in different seasons. From January to March, temperatures are chilly, averaging between 0°C to 10°C, making it perfect for those who enjoy brisk walks and fewer crowds. April to June brings spring with enjoyable temperatures from 5°C to 15°C, and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring attractions and nature trails. July through September is the peak season, with warmer temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and cultural festivals. Finally, October to December offers stunning autumn colours, and temperatures start to drop again, averaging from 5°C to 15°C, which is fantastic for those seeking a quieter experience steeped in seasonal beauty.

The Cost of a Cruise to Scotland

When planning your cruise adventure, a typical one-week voyage often costs between $1,500 to $3,000 AUD, depending on the cruise line and accommodation type. For luxury cruises, anticipate spending between $3,500 to $6,500 AUD, where you’ll enjoy upscale amenities and extraordinary experiences onboard.

Regarding dining, local meals usually come in around $20 to $40 AUD per person at traditional pubs and restaurants. Expect to pay about $5 to $10 AUD for a local beer or warm beverage, allowing you to enjoy traditional fare without breaking the bank!

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If you’re looking at Scotland but are intrigued by other options, consider these alternative regions:

• Norwegian Fjords – Known for their stunning natural beauty, majestic cliffs, and unique wildlife, this area promises breathtaking scenery and exhilarating experiences with numerous outdoor activities.
• Canary Islands – With their year-round warm climate, the Canary Islands offer volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and a diverse range of cultures to explore.
• Baltic Sea – This region boasts rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cities like St. Petersburg and Tallinn that provide cultural delights and refreshing adventures.
• Ireland – Explore the Emerald Isle, with its lush landscapes, friendly locals, and captivating history. Ireland is full of rich traditions, charming villages, and stunning coastal views.
• British Virgin Islands – Known for their idyllic beaches and incredible sailing opportunities, these islands promise serene retreats and water activities in a laid-back atmosphere.

So, if you’re inspired by the stunning landscapes and rich culture, consider booking a cruise to Scotland with Cruise1st today! Create unforgettable memories, engage with vibrant local cultures, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking Scottish scenery!