Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
20% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea – with Smithsonian Journeys
London - Fairlie (Glasgow), Scotland
Dates:
4/5/2025
to
12/5/2025
days
nights on board
Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included
In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.
This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.
Join us for this 9-day cruise aboard Le Bellot exploring the rich history and culture that thrives on either side of the Irish Sea.
Begin with a night aboard ship docked near London Bridge, then set sail in the early morning down the Thames to discover historic Dover Castle, perched high on the emblematic White Cliffs, and perhaps visit the nearby UNESCO Heritage site of Canterbury Cathedral.
Enjoy a morning on the Isle of Wight visiting Osborne House, Queen Victoria's favorite residence, before a relaxing afternoon cruising along the shores of the English Channel. Arrive the following day some 30 miles off the southwest coast of Cornwall in the Isles of Scilly, where you visit the world-famous Tresco Gardens.
Crossing the Irish Sea, you call in Kinsale, Ireland, your gateway to proudly Irish Cork and its iconic Jameson Distillery. Holyhead, Wales, on the Isle of Anglesey, is where you may visit medieval Caernarfon Castle, built in the late 13th century by Edward I as the architectural capstone to the English conquest of Wales, or you may choose to explore the National Trust's Bodnant Garden.
Belfast, Northern Ireland's dynamic capital, is home to Titanic Belfast, a state-of-the-art museum on the site of the yard where the ill-fated ship was built. It is also your opportunity to experience the spectacular unspoiled scenery of the Antrim Coast and the famed Giant’s Causeway of over 40,000 interlocking, hexagonal columns, formed by the cooling of molten lava some six million years ago.
Your final full day is spent exploring the fabled Hebrides, beginning in the charming fishing port of Tobermory, whose distillery produces a renowned single malt scotch whisky, before proceeding to Duart Castle, ancestral home of Clan Maclean on the Isle of Mull, and ending with the mystical abbey of the Isle of Iona, home to the first Christian settlement in Scotland.
Your voyage comes to an end in Fairlie, gateway to Glasgow, Scotland's modern cultural capital.
Ref : LF0345US - EE040525
Your itinerary
A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call. Engaging discussions...
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Your trip in detail
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Included in your cruise
To make sure things run smoothly, PONANT has included certain elements before and after your cruise as part of the price.
Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
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Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Selection of Clarins top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Smithsonian Journeys
Smithsonian Journeys is the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, consisting of 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, education centers, research facilities, cultural centers, and libraries. Drawing on Smithsonian's resources dating back 175 years, these sailings will feature notable experts and experiences that embrace local cultures and dive deeper into a destination’s history, cuisine, language, environment, and wildlife. For more than 50 years, Smithsonian Journeys has been rooted in and focused on cultural immersion and discovery – with a goal of inspiring guests to become global citizens through travel.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call.
- Engaging discussions onboard with two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, including archaeologist Tom Dawson and Darragh Gannon, an expert in Irish studies.
- Experience UNESCO World Heritage sites along the way: Canterbury Cathedral, Edward I's Caernarfon Castle, and the Giant's Causeway on the Antrim Coast.
- Cruise the River Thames from London Bridge to the White Cliffs of Dover.
- Explore Osborne House, Queen Victoria's favorite residence, designed by Prince Albert.
- Wander through award-winning Tresco Gardens and Bodnant Garden at the height of the spring bloom.
- Discover the vibrant Celtic culture of Cork.
- Delve into the misty past of the Hebridean Isles of Mull and Iona.
Ports of Call & Excursions
4 May 2025 - London
Embarkation 4/5/2025 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 4/5/2025 at 8:00 pm
The main residence of the British monarch, financial hub and seat of British government, London is the economic and cultural heart of the country. A city of contrasts, attached to its traditions while buzzing with modernity, the capital of the United Kingdom has countless historic districts and notable sites to explore. From Hyde Park to the City through Westminster and Trafalgar Square, get ready to take on London's frenetic tempo. In between a visit to the National Gallery, a stroll through Covent Garden and a trip to Tower Bridge, you can take a quiet breather in one of London's many beautiful parks and gardens.
5 May 2025 - Dover
Arrival 5/5/2025 early morning
Departure 5/5/2025 early evening
Located in Kent County on the edge of the English Channel, 35 km away from the French coast and Cap Gris-Nez, Dover is the United Kingdom town nearest to France. As the main transit port between the two sides of the English Channel, it is the “Gateway to England”. Dover is famous for its impressive white cliffs, which have inspired many a poet and playwright. Majestically facing mainland Europe, they offer the possibility of a spectacular clifftop walk. Impregnable and perched on a hill overlooking the Channel in the city’s north-east, Dover Castle dominates the city. You will find its network of underground tunnels very interesting.
6 May 2025 - Cowes
Arrival 6/5/2025 early morning
Departure 6/5/2025 early afternoon
Located on the north coast of the Isle of Wight, across from the shores of the port cities of Portsmouth and Southampton, Cowes will win you over with its easy lifestyle, its heritage, verdant landscapes, craggy cliffs, and the crystal-clear waters of the Solent, the stretch of sea separating the island from mainland England. Many have succumbed to the charms of this pristine jewel. This includes Queen Victoria, who, captivated by this natural and authentic setting, had her summer residence built there in 1847: Osborne House, an architectural gem that is now one of the symbols of the town. A shipbuilding centre and the cradle of sailing, Cowes welcomes one of the largest regattas in the world every year during Cowes Week, an event gathering some 10,000 skippers and more than a thousand boats.
7 May 2025 - Isles of Scilly
Arrival 7/5/2025 midday
Departure 7/5/2025 late afternoon
Nestling in the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, at the south west tip of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly form a small British island chain whose climate, landscapes and lifestyle are unlike any other and seem to have come straight from an Enid Blyton story. Here, everything resembles a tropical paradise. The long sandy beaches run alongside lush green meadows teeming with semi-exotic flowers, whilst the ruins of ancient castles loom from the tops of the hills. Veritable havens of peace that inspired the legendary Avalon of King Arthur, they are today listed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the rugged coastline plays host to wildlife that is as varied as it is exceptional, including the very rare Atlantic grey seal.
8 May 2025 - Kinsale
Arrival 8/5/2025 early morning
Departure 8/5/2025 early afternoon
Considered Ireland’s most beautiful village, Kinsale will captivate you with its sublime natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Located at the mouth of the Bandon River in County Cork, this charming little port is home to picturesque streets lined with colourful houses, art galleries and theatres, as well as to a 17th-century fort. Not far away, perched on a rocky promontory, stands the Old Head of Kinsale Lighthouse: still in operation today, it has magnificent views over the Atlantic Ocean.
9 May 2025 - Holyhead, Wales
Arrival 9/5/2025 early morning
Departure 9/5/2025 early evening
In the north of Wales and in the west of the captivating Isle of Anglesey, succumb to the charms of the enchanting small port town of Holyhead. Often called “the mother of Wales” due to its importance in history, Holyhead is a paradise for anyone with a passion for natural landscapes and heritage. They will love exploring the town’s many historical landmarks, among other sites. Among these is Holyhead’s 13th-century church, St Cybi’s Church, nestling right in the middle of the Roman citadel. Finally, you will be able to admire one of the symbols of the town: South Stack Lighthouse, built in 1809. As you pass near the lighthouse, you might have the chance to marvel at numerous species of seabirds, including guillemots and razorbills.
10 May 2025 - Belfast, Northern Ireland
Arrival 10/5/2025 early morning
Departure 10/5/2025 late afternoon
The capital city of Northern Ireland is located on the very tip of Belfast Lough, in the north-east of the Emerald Isle. Along the waterfront, the building shaped like a fragmented liner is non other than the Titanic Belfast, a homage to the famous transatlantic liner, with full-scale reconstructions making for an insightful experience of the Belle Epoque. In the historical centre, you’ll also travel back in time when you see the majestic Edwardian columns of the City Hall, and the imposing neo-gothic towers of Queen’s University for example. The carved wooden façades of the Victorian pubs will certainly entice you in for a pint of beer or chilled cider.
11 May 2025 - Tobermory, Isle of Mull
Arrival 11/5/2025 early morning
Departure 11/5/2025 late morning
Located at the northernmost tip of the lovely Isle of Mull, Tobermory has to be one of the most beautiful natural seaports on Scotland’s West Coast. Founded in 1788, this ancient fishing village has been converted to a leisure port highly appreciated today for its surroundings and the quiet charm it exudes. You will definitely be won over by the row of many-storied houses on the hillside, illuminating the harbour with their vibrant colours. Although the real spectacle is outdoors, no less interesting are the Mull Museum dedicated the local history and the exhibitions at the An Tobar art gallery.
11 May 2025 - Iona, Hebrides
Arrival 11/5/2025 early afternoon
Departure 11/5/2025 late afternoon
Of all the islands in the Inner Hebrides, Iona is by far the most conducive to contemplation and meditation. And for good reason... it is here that St Columba landed from Ireland in 563 and undertook to establish Christianity in Scotland. Now an abbey, the islandﾒs true spiritual centre stands where the ancient monastery founded by the Irish missionary was built. Many kings of Scotland, including the legendary Macbeth, are buried in the nearby cemetery. In sunny weather, arriving on the Isle of Iona is a stunningly beautiful experience.
12 May 2025 - Fairlie (Glasgow), Scotland
Arrival 12/5/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 12/5/2025 at 8:00 am
The village of Fairlie can be found less than an hour away from lively Glasgow. In the north of Ayrshire county, on the western Scottish coast, this charming little town faces the Isle of Arran. The originality of Kelburn Castle, built in the 12th century, stems from its façade covered in graffiti by four famous Brazilian graffiti artists. This artistic statement as well as the castle’s estate and gardens, which can be discovered during a pleasant walk, are well worth a visit.
Le Bellot
Like the other ships in the PONANT EXPLORERS series, Le Bellot has been designed to provide absolute comfort for its passengers, even at the heart of the world's most remote and isolated regions.
Racy lines, state-of-the-art equipment, a refined design, a softly muted and at the same time convivial ambiance together with a deliberately restricted number of cabins all contribute to the modernity of Le Bellot, a unique ship in the world of cruising.
Decks
Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included
PONANT has organized the following included program for you, which starts the day of embarkation.
Included Features:
- A program of onboard enrichment provided by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, including archaeologist Tom Dawson and Darragh Gannon, an expert in Irish studies
- Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in London to the ship on the day of embarkation
- Comprehensive 8-night cruise aboard the deluxe Le Bellot, with all the amenities for which PONANT ships are famous
- One included shore excursion in each port of call (see “Itinerary” for more information and choice of excursions, if applicable)
- Gratuities for ship crew and for guides and drivers on excursions
- Transfer from the ship to the airport in Glasgow at the end of the cruise on the morning of disembarkation
Not included:
- Independent meals and beverages ashore
- Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, etc.)
Notes:
- This voyage is offered on a space available basis
- Program is subject to change without notice
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS (2 NIGHTS)
The Scottish Highlands encompass some of the most romantic and storied landscapes in the world. Famous for their rugged beauty, they are also home to a vigorous Gaelic pride and the site of many battles in the struggle for autonomy from England. This program provides an introduction to all of these aspects of Highland culture, as well as a tasting of local whisky, without which any visit to the region is incomplete.
Day 1 – Disembark | Glasgow, Scotland | Inverness
After breakfast aboard and disembarkation, board your motorcoach for a leisurely journey to Inverness.
Drive northwards through the beautiful scenery of Trossachs National Park to Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater lake in Britain, where your guide will regale you with stories of Rob Roy, the 17th-century Scottish outlaw made famous by Sir Walter Scott. Continue to picturesque Glencoe, situated in a steep-sided valley known for its waterfalls and impressive mountain peaks, where you pause for lunch, before visiting the award-winning Glencoe visitor center to learn more about the history and geology of this region.
As you continue northward through the wonderfully scenic Great Glen, you pass by Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, and stop briefly at the Commando Memorial, dedicated to the men of the British Commando Forces whose training depot the memorial overlooks. Follow the route of the Caledonian Canal, built in the early 19th-century to connect Scotland's east and west coasts, pausing at the small town of Fort Augustus, on the southern tip of Loch Ness, before continuing along the shores of this legendary home of the Loch Ness Monster to Inverness.
On arrival in Inverness, check-in to the Glen Mhor Hotel, your home for the next two nights. Dinner is independent and at your leisure.
Day 2 – Inverness
After breakfast at the hotel, visit the Culloden Battlefield and Visitor's Center, a powerful memorial to the final battle of the 1745 Jacobite Rising. Then, a short drive across the Moray Firth and through the countryside brings you to the Glen Ord Distillery, where the famous Singleton single malt whisky is made. A guided tour of the facility and a nosing and tasting led by an experienced whisky sommelier is followed by time to explore the distillery's exhibition area or browse their gift shop.
Returning to Inverness, enjoy a guided walking tour of this 'capital of the Highlands'. Explore Inverness Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral Church of St. Andrew, and stroll along the River Ness toward the city center, for splendid views of Inverness Castle. Your guide will explain the legend of the encounter between a saint and a water monster that continues to attract visitors to the region, and as you walk up Church Street, lined with many grand buildings, you will also learn about the Jacobite uprising and its end in 1746 at the battle of nearby Culloden Moor.
Reaching the top of Castle Hill, you will enjoy a brilliant view of the River Ness and hear the history of the castle, of Mary Queen of Scot's visit to Inverness, and of Flora MacDonald, the Highland heroine who saved the life of Bonnie Prince Charlie by disguising him as a maid.
Your walking tour ends at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, where you can discover more of the fascinating history and culture of the city of Inverness and the Scottish Highlands as you browse the museum's exhibits celebrating Highland life. The remainder of the day is at leisure, with independent lunch and dinner.
Day 3 – Inverness | Homeward
After breakfast at the hotel and check out, transfer to the airport for flights homeward.
Your hotel:
The Glen Mhor Hotel is a 4-star hotel combining the timeless charm of the Highlands with a dedication to sustainability and contemporary style. Overlooking the picturesque River Ness, the hotel is a 3-minute walk from Inverness city center. The hotel is home to Uile-bheist Brewery & Distillery, the first distillery and brewery in Inverness in 130 years, and a revitalization of the city’s rich distilling history.
Your program includes:
-
2 nights at the Glen Mhor (or similar)
-
Transfer and luggage handling from the ship to the hotel on disembarkation day
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Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the airport on Day 3
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Breakfast on Days 2 and 3
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Lunch on Day 1
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Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary
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Local English-speaking guides
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Gratuities for the drivers and local guides
Your program does not include:
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Transfer from the hotel to the airport on any day other than the scheduled program departure day
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Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program
Please note:
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It is imperative that your flight departure details are communicated at least 90 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the hotel to the airport.
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Late check-out is available depending on availability and at a supplement. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.
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The official currency is the British pound. Credit cards are largely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
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This post-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
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Program is offered on a space available basis.
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Program is subject to change without notice.
Hotel contact information:
Glen Mhor Hotel
Ness Bank
Inverness IV2 4SG
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 1463 234308
Total : AU$2,450
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.