Edinburgh Post-Voyage Extension
From the ancient castle and historic houses of the Royal Mile to the elegant Georgian terraces and crescents of the New Town, Edinburgh embodies much of Scotland’s history and culture. In the words of the historian Murdo Macdonald, “Edinburgh is a city that makes you think about what a city should be." Visit the ancient Edinburgh Castle and see the Stone of Destiny—an oblong block of red sandstone used for centuries in the coronation of monarchs of Scotland. If you are on a departure that coincides with the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, you will enjoy an evening at this celebration of music and culture. At other times we have arranged a wonderful experience at a traditional dinner aboard an elegant and historic long ship. You’ll also see the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Palace of Holyrood House, The Royal Yacht Britannia, and we’ll make sure you have time to explore on your own.
Day 1 - Disembark/Edinburgh
Disembark Lord of the Glens in Kyle of Lochalsh or Inverness and drive south to Edinburgh where you’ll enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. Begin your exploration of this fascinating city with a guided visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia in Leith. Launched April 16th, 1953, the ship has taken members of the Royal Family and their guests over a million nautical miles and is one of the most famous ships in the world. Take in her history from the spacious decks to the nuts and bolts of the engine room. Check in to the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian, in the heart of Edinburgh. The late afternoon is yours to explore. (L)
Day 2 - Edinburgh
Start the day with a hearty Scottish breakfast followed by a panoramic view of Edinburgh, including a stop at Arthur’s Seat, which is actually the peak of an extinct volcano. Visit Edinburgh Castle, and view Scotland’s Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny—recently returned from London after 700 years. From the castle, stroll in the footsteps of Scottish royalty along the Royal Mile to St. Giles Cathedral, where reformer John Knox preached his fiery sermons. Enjoy lunch in a fine local restaurant before walking to the nearby historic Palace of Holyrood House, the Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh and once home to Bonnie Prince Charlie, Mary Queen of Scots and many more. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Edinburgh's old and new towns, together designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Meander medieval streets or explore natural and social history at the National Museum of Scotland. Browse shops on busy Princes Street, hike the green slopes of Arthur’s Seat or stop at a pub for a taste of haggis and a local ale.
Depending on when you travel, we have two wonderful events planned to give you an out-on-the-town evening to experience traditional Scottish culture and history.
JULY DATES
This evening enjoy dinner on Fingal, a luxury ship/hotel with peerless appointments and wonderful views of Leith harbor. (B,L)
AUGUST DATES
This evening experience the pageantry and spectacle of the Military Tattoo’s massed pipe and drum bands, Highland dancers, and fiddlers. (B,L)
Day 3 - Depart
Transfer to Edinburgh airport for your flight home. (B)
Costs & What's Included
Occupancy
Double Occupancy
Single Occupancy
Cost Includes:
Ship and airport transfers; 2-nights accommodation at the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian (or similar); meals as shown; excursions and entrance fees as shown; local guides on all excursions; tips to local guides, porters and service staff for included meals.
Not included:
Accommodation, meals, excursion, and tips other than those listed as included; items of a personal nature such as laundry, internet access, and alcoholic beverages.