cultural cruising - National Trust for Scotland

CULTURAL CRUISING
AUTUMN 2017
CULTURAL CRUISING AUTUMN 2017
Pearl II
COLOURS OF THE CELTS
Page 4
SUNDAY 10 TO FRIDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2017
An autumn cruise along the western fringes of Scotland and Ireland
INFORMATION ABOUT PEARL II
Page 14
Learn all about the ship
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Inishmore
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Cultural Cruising - Autumn 2017
Since 1953 our cruises have sailed to Scotland’s most spectacular islands and
picturesque ports. The years have passed but we’ve held on to the atmosphere
of seafaring elegance, combined with traditional Scottish hospitality, to create
cruises that draw passengers back year after year. Over 60% of our passengers
return to sail with us, alongside our well-established team of staff, officers
and crew. Our cruises give passengers the chance to share extraordinary
experiences in awe-inspiring landscapes with friends old and new.
Cruising with us is also a hugely rewarding way to support the work of the Trust. Every
penny of profit goes back into our conservation work, including projects to preserve islands,
coastlines, marine habitats and bird life.
‘Everyone was very helpful and friendly. A great atmosphere.’
Following the overwhelming popularity of 2016’s Isles of My Heart cruise, we’re adding to
our usual summer itineraries in 2017 and setting off for another September voyage aboard
the luxurious Pearl II. Celebrating Scotland, Ireland and the Isle of Man at this beautiful time
of year, we’ll travel to coastlines ancient and remote, enjoying the sun-speckled sea as the
colours on land grow rich and warm. As its name suggests, Pearl II is a jewel of a ship, pairing
gleaming contemporary design with the cosy familiarity of a home away from home. A 4-star
ship famed for its culinary expertise, Pearl II is small enough to navigate the waters of small
ports or drop anchor off tiny remote islands.
Our itineraries are thoughtful and creative. Our small Edinburgh-based team travels to each
port in advance, to meet with local guides and research the best excursions. Whether you
enjoy hearty hikes to beauty spots or relaxing drives through lush countryside, our full- and
half-day tours will help you get the most from the places we visit. We also make sure that even
seasoned travellers can discover new things by preparing information to help you explore the
ports by yourself.
‘The way passengers travelling on their own were looked after was
excellent – there was no feeling of being uncomfortable as a lone
traveller.’
We have assembled a team of leading experts who will sail with us to share their knowledge
of archaeology, botany and natural history. As well as organised talks and discussions, our
lecturers accompany trips ashore and are always happy to discuss the sights and landmarks
through the lens of their expertise.
The spirit of our cruises wouldn’t be complete without a stellar line-up of traditional and
classical musicians to fill the evenings with concerts and ceilidhs. For more information,
visit our website www.culturalcruising.com to watch a video of life on board a National
Trust for Scotland cruise.
‘Overall an exceptionally well managed and organised cruise. I have
nothing but praise for the captain and crew and the hard working
National Trust for Scotland staff. Excellent!’
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An autumn cruise along the western fringes of Scotland and Ireland
Laxey Wheel
4
Tobermory
Garinish
Golden eagle
St Kilda
COLOURS OF THE CELTS
SUNDAY 10 TO FRIDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2017
Wild Atlantic Way
5
St Kilda
COLOURS
OF THE
CELTS
Lochmaddy
As autumn approaches, the sea shimmering with the last
of the summer sun, we will set sail to discover the natural
and built heritage of our ancestors. From Stone Age
masons to Christian pioneers, from Georgian elegance to
Edwardian excess, we’ll discover the historical artisans
and present-day custodians of our heritage.
Inverewe
Knoydart
Isle of Rum
Tobermory
Greenock
Killybegs
Isle of
Man
Our journey will take us along the Celtic sea paths that surround the Isle of Man to
Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, a dramatic coastline rich with lush gardens in their prime.
We will trace the shores of Scotland’s Wester Ross and finish up in the Hebrides, where
ancient monuments and medieval castles have become part of the landscape. Along the
way we’ll discover how manmade landmarks have shaped our identity since Neolithic
times, expressing wealth, extravagance, spirituality and beauty. We will be joined by
experts in horticulture, archaeology, wildlife and built heritage to help further our
understanding of the values and aesthetics from which modern-day Scotland has evolved.
Inishmore
Waterford City
Bantry Bay
ARRIVE
DEPART
Sunday 10 September
Greenock
Monday 11 September
Douglas, Isle of Man
08.00
17.00
Tuesday 12 September
Waterford City, County Waterford
11.00
22.00
10.00
17.00
Wednesday 13 September Bantry Bay, County Cork
18.00
Thursday 14 September
Inishmore, Aran Islands
12.00
18.00
Friday 15 September
Killybegs, County Donegal
08.00
17.00
Saturday 16 September
Tobermory, Mull
09.00
17.00
Sunday 17 September
St Kilda
09.00
18.00
Monday 18 September
Lochmaddy, North Uist
08.00
18.00
Tuesday 19 September
Inverewe, Wester Ross
08.00
18.00
Wednesday 20 September Isle of Rum
08.00
17.00
Thursday 21 September
Knoydart
08.00
14.00
Friday 22 September
Greenock
07.00
= ship will be at anchor and landing will be via ship’s boats
North Uist
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Peel Castle, Isle of Man
Cashtal yn Ard
Isle of Man
Setting sail from Greenock, we start our voyage by travelling to one of the six remaining
Celtic nations, where communities have long stamped their unique mark on the land:
the Isle of Man. The Manx language, folklore, ancient monuments and parliament have
kept alive a strong sense of identity here. We will take the ship’s tenders into Douglas,
the capital and a busy seaside town. Challenging hikes are to be found in some of
the island’s 22 nature reserves, as well as gentler rambles through its legendary glens,
nourished by waterfalls and deep rockpools. Head to the village of Laxey to see the
19th-century waterwheel, or step aboard one of the island’s quirky railways. The
Victorian steam train will whisk you back to a golden age of travel, while the Snaefell
Mountain Railway traverses extraordinary scenery to reach the summit, 620m (2,036ft)
above sea level.
After crossing the Irish Sea, our next call is at Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city. Founded
in AD 914 by Vikings, for over a millennium Waterford has been a hub for maritime
trade. In the 18th century the town became synonymous with beautifully crafted crystal,
and in recent years has attracted collaborations from couture designers including John
Rocha and Jasper Conran. There’s a wealth of stately gardens to explore in the area, all
part of the Waterford Garden Trail. Mount Congreve is a splendid, bright white paean
to Georgian grandeur, perched above the River Suir, where 28 hectares of woodland
encase a lush walled garden. In Lismore Castle Gardens a 17th-century walled garden
is set alongside the Yew Tree Walk, where it’s said that Edmund Spenser penned The
Faerie Queene.
The next day we will strike out round Ireland’s southern tip to cruise along the Wild
Atlantic Way. Following the footsteps of Ireland’s Neolithic immigrants, we’ll trace a path
to Bantry Bay. Ancient Irish books list Bantry as the first inhabited place in Ireland. Over
the next four millennia it saw an influx of new communities, whose legacies can be seen
Lismore Castle
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in stone circles, standing stones and burial sites. Bantry’s sheltered position between the sea
and mountains nurtures sub-tropical plants, palm trees and fertile pastures. An architectural
highlight is Bantry House, the seat of the Earls of Bantry, with terraced gardens inspired by
the 2nd Earl’s European travels in the early 19th century. There will also be the chance to
take a boat to Garinish, an island garden that was created in 1910 and filled with temples,
follies and exotic flora.
We will then anchor in Galway Bay to visit Inishmore (Inis Mór), the largest of the Aran
Islands. The three islands that make up the archipelago are distinctive for their stepped
limestone appearance, creating long plateaus and sheer cliffs that stretch for miles.
Inishmore is a green and rocky patchwork of stone walls and archaeological sites. There
will be the chance to visit the prehistoric Dun Aengus, where concentric stone rings form
the remains of a fort that perched 100m above the crashing Atlantic waves. The wetlands of
Kilmurvey beach are a paradise for wildfowl and rare birds, while at the village of Kilronan
you can admire traditional Irish fishing boats or browse the Aran Sweater Market.
Our cruise then takes us into the welcoming Donegal Bay. We’ll dock alongside Killybegs,
a working harbour, where trawlers land tonnes of fish every morning. With the heather in
bloom, early autumn is the perfect time to hike the Bluestack Mountains or go in search of
golden eagles and peregrine falcons in Glenveagh National Park. As well as wild moorland,
the park is home to Glenveagh Castle and Pleasure Gardens, a late-Victorian confection of
terraces and tree-lined paths. Alternatively, head with us to explore the almost-2,000ft-high
sea cliffs at Slieve League, which have links to Irish mythology and views that soar across
Donegal Bay. Other tours will take us to Glencolmcille, where Columba established a
monastery before setting sail for Scotland, or by waterbus into Donegal Bay, to admire the
huge seal colony.
Inishmore
Garinish Island
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Dun Aengus
Slieve League
St Kilda
We will cross back into Scottish waters overnight, and the next day finds us in Tobermory.
This lively village, the heart of Mull’s fishing industry, is unmissable from the sea with its string
of gem-coloured cottages lining the shore. Mull’s valleys and high mountains are golden
eagle territory. If you join us on a drive inland keep your eyes peeled for their 2m-wingspan
circling above. This rugged landscape featured in Robert Louis Stevenson’s adventure novel
Kidnapped, while the rocky shores are home to a healthy population of otters. Mull was once
land of the Maclean clan, who were part of a loose coalition of families that supported the
Lords of the Isles in medieval times. Their stronghold, Duart Castle, is a formidable fortress
atop the craggy cliffs and in part dates from the 13th century. A tour will introduce us to its
fascinating history, the family portraits, dungeons and wooded grounds.
From Mull we will head back into the open Atlantic towards the high cliffs of St Kilda,
the archipelago renowned for its isolation, unique wildlife and formidable geological
structures. St Kilda is made up of four main islands – Hirta, Soay, Dun and Boreray – and
is the only dual UNESCO World Heritage Site in the UK, recognised for both its natural
and cultural significance. Almost a quarter of the world’s population of gannets live here;
as we circumnavigate the outlying sea stacks, thousands will swoop along with us. If the
weather and sea conditions are in our favour we will drop anchor and take the ship’s
tenders into Village Bay on Hirta. Here we can explore the remains of the 19th-century
village lived in by the island’s community until 1930.
Tobermory
9
North Uist
Inverewe
The next day brings us along the craggy coast of North Uist, to come ashore at Lochmaddy.
Popular with pirates in the 17th century and later a major herring port, the village is now
a peaceful spot on the eastern edge of a geologically fascinating island. North Uist has
some of the most ancient rocks in the world – look out for chinks of gleaming gneiss while
rambling through the moorland and its network of lagoons and bogs. Landmarks left by
earlier settlers include the Neolithic giant chambered cairn Barpa Langass and the ‘False
Men’ standing stones, shrouded in local lore. Otters are frequent visitors to the island, and
you may see them splashing around in the last of the summer sun.
We will then sail back towards the mainland, and in the morning come to Inverewe, site of
the extraordinary gardens of Osgood Mackenzie. Mackenzie began planting here in 1862,
importing tonnes of topsoil, hewing open the bedrock and constantly sourcing new and
exotic species to create a metropolis of weird and wonderful botanicals. You’ll find giant
blue poppies, dangling Chilean lantern trees and tropical-sized leaves; in the autumn the
katsura tree turns a fiery red-gold and gives off a burnt sugar scent. The gardens are offset
by Highland landscape, with shingle beaches, mountains and views across Loch Ewe.
The Trust’s Corrieshalloch Gorge is a short scenic drive away. This plunging box canyon,
cleaving through the forest, is spanned by a Victorian suspension bridge that was built by
John Fowler, joint designer of the iconic Forth Bridge. There will also be the chance to
visit the Torridon estate. In this walkers’ paradise, five Munros dominate the skyline, and
Highland cattle and red stags roam the land.
We’ll begin to sail south from here to the largest of the Small Isles, which lie south of Skye.
Rum’s diamond shape and volcanic hills cast a striking silhouette on approach. Inhabited
since Mesolithic times, the island is now a National Nature Reserve managed by Scottish
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Kinloch Castle
Natural Heritage, and a Special Protection Area for birds. Rum is also known for its slice
of eccentric British history: the Victorian-Edwardian sporting estate of Kinloch Castle. The
castle boasted legendary extravagance in its heyday with hummingbirds flitting through
air vents, a Jacuzzi and scandalous balls, from which servants were barred. We will take
the ship’s tenders into Rum where guided walks will take us around Loch Scresort or to
tour Kinloch Castle. The rutting season will be underway and we may catch sight of stags
strutting across the moorland or hear their distinctive primal roar.
The following day we are planning a call to Britain’s last wilderness, the Knoydart
peninsula. Known traditionally as the ‘Rough Bounds’ and accessible only by sea or via a
16-mile hike over mountainous terrain, the peninsula is renowned for its stunning beauty,
rugged grandeur and blissful tranquillity. Much of the peninsula is today owned by the
Knoydart Foundation – a partnership of local residents, the Highland Council, John Muir
Trust and Chris Brasher Trust. The peninsula covers an area of around 85 square miles and
has a population of only 100, but its four Munros, broad glens, rivers and lochs make it
an appealing, if challenging, place to visit. Anchoring in Loch Nevis, we will come ashore
at the small village of Inverie where we find a small visitor centre, pottery, tearoom, shop,
post office and pub. The Old Forge is classified as the most remote pub in mainland Britain
by Guinness World Records. The area is great for walking, with coastal strolls, woodland
rambles, nature trails and challenging hikes all on offer.
Knoydart
Ceilidh
A sail into the evening will accompany our Final Fling ceilidh, as the autumn sun sets on
our journey. We’ll arrive in Greenock the next morning to say farewell to the friends with
whom we’ve sailed.
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INFORMATION
COLOURS OF THE CELTS
An autumn cruise along the western fringes of Scotland and Ireland
SUNDAY 10 TO FRIDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2017
Lecturers
A series of illustrated talks will bring to life the ports we visit on our
cruise. Our team of eminent speakers will help us to discover the
great gardens, wildlife, history, archaeology and cultural heritage
of our destinations. Lecturers will include archaeologist Derek
Alexander, art historian Frances Fowle and naturalist John Love.
Derek Alexander studied prehistoric archaeology at the
University of Edinburgh, specialising in the later prehistory of
temperate Europe. On graduation he worked for the university’s
newly established Centre for Field Archaeology, undertaking
archaeological research and excavation. He joined the National
Trust for Scotland in 2000 as the West Region Archaeologist with
responsibility for providing advice on the archaeological aspects
of all properties in the region, for conducting small-scale research
projects and for commissioning and managing larger projects.
Derek was appointed as Head of Archaeological Services for the
Trust in September 2011 and is responsible for the archaeology on
many of our island properties. He has recently carried out research
and excavations on Iona, Staffa and Canna and has contributed to a
recent publication on the archaeology of Bute.
After gaining an Honours degree in zoology from Aberdeen
University, John Love lived on the Isle of Rum for nearly 10 years,
managing the reintroduction of the sea eagle which he recounted
in The Return of the Sea Eagle. He spent two years as a Nature
Conservancy Council warden in the Cairngorms before becoming
SNH Area Officer for the Uists, Barra and St Kilda. As well as books
on eagles, sea otters and penguins illustrated with his own pen
and ink drawings, in 2001 he published Rum: a landscape without
figures telling the island’s human story. After retiring in 2006,
John published A Natural History of St Kilda and then updated
the reintroduction story in A Saga of Sea Eagles, illustrated by his
own drawings and photographs. In 2015 John published A Natural
History of Lighthouses, celebrating the many keepers who were also
naturalists. He spends several months a year lecturing and guiding
on expedition cruise ships in various parts of the world and has
sailed on two previous NTS cruises.
Dr Frances Fowle is Senior Curator at the Scottish National Gallery,
Reader in History of Art and International Director of Edinburgh
College of Art (University of Edinburgh). Frances is a specialist in
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French and Scottish 19th-century art and an expert on the Celtic
Revival. She has curated numerous international exhibitions,
including the highly successful Celts: Art and Identity (British
Museum and National Museums Scotland 2015–16). Other recent
publications and exhibitions include The Glasgow Boys (Drents
Museum, Assen 2015–16); Van Gogh to Kandinsky: Symbolist
Landscape in Europe 1880–1910 (2012); and Van Gogh’s Twin:
the Scottish Art Dealer Alexander Reid (2010). She is Chairman
of the Trustees of the Burrell Collection and sits on the Burrell
Renaissance Board. She is also on the steering committee of the
European Revivals research network, initiated by the Ateneum art
museum in Helsinki.
Artistes
The National Trust for Scotland is proud to present our own
special entertainment team as part of the unique appeal of our
cruises. These performers are some of Scotland’s most popular
and highly acclaimed entertainers, bringing a wealth of talent
to the evening concerts. There will be the usual mix of variety
shows, solo concerts, ceilidhs and Scottish dancing, and we are
sure that there is something that everyone will enjoy within this
great team.
Robert Lovie is the entertainment manager and has brought
this team together. Robert comperes the shows each evening
and is himself a well-known and respected public speaker and
singer. Robert also works full time with the Trust as the property
manager at Fyvie Castle, Garden & Estate, making him our
perfect cruise host.
Gordon Cree is an extraordinarily talented musician and allround entertainer from Ayrshire. He is a pianist, singer, organist,
trumpeter, arranger, conductor and composer! Gordon’s many
skills very often mean that his abilities as a singer have been
overlooked, but over a long career he has worked both as a
serious classical singer and as a cabaret artist.
Cheryl Forbes is an award-winning mezzo-soprano who has
enjoyed a brilliant career at home and abroad. She has worked
with leading UK orchestras and has sung with many great
fellow Scottish celebrities, ranging from Moira Anderson to Jack
Milroy. During the cruise Cheryl will share with us her amazing
repertoire, from opera to popular musicals.
The Rhona MacKay Trio features Rhona MacKay on concert harp
and clarsach, Eddie McGuire on flute and whistle and David
Munn on cello. This group come together especially for the
Trust cruises and perform a relaxing blend of music specifically
arranged for their fine instruments.
Richard Morrison is a prize-winning graduate of the Royal
College of Music in London and a celebrated baritone. He
regularly performs in operas and classical concerts throughout the
world, but never forgets his roots: he has a wonderful repertoire of
traditional Scottish songs. He has appeared on Classic FM, both
as a soloist and as a presenter.
Alastair McDonald, one of Scotland’s favourite musical
personalities, is a highly talented international performer, singer,
songwriter, recording artist and broadcaster. His special blend
of music and song ranges from traditional Scottish to jazz, and
will add an exciting variety of styles to the cruise entertainment
programme.
Claire Telford is a former Scottish fiddle champion from
Aberdeenshire and today is much in demand as a solo player of
both Scottish fiddle music and classical violin. When not playing,
she teaches at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and at St
Mary’s Music School in Edinburgh.
Wayne Robertson is a former Scottish champion accordionist.
Having played since he was seven years old, Wayne is now
much sought after both as a soloist and with his Scottish dance
band. His style is truly international, with a mix of Scottish, jazz,
continental and classical.
INFORMATION
CABIN
PRICES (£)*
1D/T
8,550
8,040
2D/T
3D/T COLOURS OF THE CELTS
An autumn cruise along the western fringes of Scotland and Ireland
SUNDAY 10 TO FRIDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2017
4T
4S
5D/T
5S
6T
6S
7D
7S
8T
8S
Malin Beg
North Uist
Isle of Man
PASSPORT AND VISA REQUIREMENTS
As we are visiting Ireland, passports are required by all passengers. Visas are not required for
most nationalities, but non-EU passport holders should check any requirements.
PRICING
See pages 16-20 for deck plans and descriptions of cabins.
* All prices are per person and inclusive of gratuities.
Book before 24 February 2017 to receive a 5% discount.
DEPOSIT
A deposit of £200 per person is required to confirm your booking.
BALANCE OF FARE
This should be paid by 30 June 2017.
Mount Congreve
9T
9S
10T
11D
11T
11S
12D
12T
12S
12D Aft
12T Aft
12S Aft
13D
13T
13S
14D
14T
14S
14D Aft
14T Aft
14S Aft
7,440
6,750
7,680
6,520
7,440
5,820
6,720
6,160
7,080
5,700
6,600
5,700
6,600
5,580
5,070
5,070
5,930
4,950
4,950
5,810
4,420
4,420
5,280
3,900
3,900
4,560
3,780
3,780
4,440
3,260
3,260
3,780
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PEARL II
INFORMATION ABOUT THE SHIP
14
PEARL II
Library
The library on Pearl II is stocked with over 3,400 books, along with a good selection of
DVDs, jigsaws, puzzles and newspapers. There are books on wildlife, botany and our
cruise destinations to help you get the most out of your holiday, and computers with
internet access allow you to keep in touch with those at home. Comfy sofas along with
a quiet restful atmosphere ensure that this is always a popular place to relax on board.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is now available throughout the ship.
Lounges
The spacious, elegant Discovery Lounge on the Promenade Deck is the venue for most of
our lectures and concerts. The lounge is equipped with comfortable chairs and table service
to make sure you enjoy every performance.
round-the-clock room service, late-night gourmet bites and 24-hour self-service tea and
coffee; all are included in your fare.
Special dietary requirements are well catered for, so please advise us of your needs at the time
of booking.
Other facilities
The ship’s leisure facilities include an outdoor and an indoor swimming pool. Also available
are a sauna and fitness equipment, as well as a range of spa treatments. An outdoor shorttennis court and table-tennis table can be found on the Sun Deck. There is an onboard
cinema, hairdresser, gift shop and self-service laundrette.
Along the hallway, Shackleton’s Bar provides a light and airy venue for more intimate
gatherings, while the cosy Sundowner Bar on the Bridge Deck opens out onto a wide aft sun
deck, letting you soak up the atmosphere in the open air.
Cabins
Dining
There are a variety of inside and outside cabins to choose from, some of which are equipped
with balconies and bathtubs. Cabins are graded depending on their size and location on the
ship, and on the facilities they offer, with the suites benefiting from a butler service.
Pearl II’s cuisine is a highlight of our cruise. A fine dining menu incorporates the best of land
and sea ingredients, using local delicacies from ports where possible. Meals on board are
served in a single sitting with no fixed seating plans, allowing you to dine with new friends
every night at a time to suit you. The relaxed, stylish Verandah Restaurant on the Boat
Deck offers buffet-style dining, and there are plenty of outdoor tables for alfresco dining if
the weather permits. Downstairs on the Promenade Deck, the Dining Room offers a more
traditional dining experience with chic classic décor and friendly waiter service.
In addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner are indulgent afternoon teas, complimentary
The friendly atmosphere of our cruises makes them very popular with single travellers. Around
a quarter of the cabins on Pearl II are single cabins. Alternatively, we would be pleased to find
you a like-minded travelling companion with whom you could share a twin cabin.
All cabins are air-conditioned and have an en suite bath/shower room with wash basin and
WC. They are all equipped with a television, DVD player, refrigerator, telephone, binoculars,
hairdryer, bathrobe and complimentary luxury toiletries. All cabins offer the convenience
and comfort of fixed beds. Outside cabins have double windows, letting the light flood in
and allowing you to enjoy the passing scenery while you are in your cabin. Inside cabins are
bright and well lit, offering comfort and value for money.
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CABIN GRADES
1D/T – Grand Suite with balcony
The Grand Suites on Pearl II are the ultimate
in luxury, an open-plan loft-style space with a
private balcony, lounge and dining area. They are
immaculately styled with chic furnishings, walk-in
wet-rooms and standard-size bathtubs. The beds
can be separated as twins or offered as a king-size
double, and the angled windows mean that the
sea is visible even when relaxing in bed. Grand
Suites benefit from complimentary mini-bars and
butler service.
2D/T – Owner’s Suite with terrace
The Owner’s Suite, as its name suggests, is designed
as a home away from home, with all the comfort
and space of an elegant studio apartment. There is
an open-plan lounge and bedroom area (twin or
king-size double) which leads out onto a large private
terrace with table and chairs for relaxing outdoors.
A walk-in shower and separate bathtub complete
the suite, which also benefits from a complimentary
mini-bar and butler service. The view from the cabin
is partially restricted by equipment on the deck area.
3D/T – Suite with balcony
Pearl II’s Suites are spacious and lavish, with
custom-built sofas and lounge chairs, private
balconies and king-size beds, which can also be
separated into twins. There is a small table for
private dining, and the bathrooms boast a separate
walk-in shower and standard-size bathtub. Butler
service and a complimentary mini-bar are offered
with the Suites.
4T – Twin Junior Suite with terrace
These twin cabins offer compact extravagance, with
sofas and coffee tables for lounging and a terrace with
table and chairs for enjoying the fresh air on deck.
Junior Suites feature stylish bathrooms with a rain
showerhead suspended over a standard-size bathtub.
Butler service and a complimentary mini-bar are
included with these cabins. These cabins have partially
restricted views.
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4S – Single Junior Suite with terrace
Our Single Junior Suite consists of a king-size double
bed, a coffee table area with lounge chairs and a
writing desk, and a wide terrace accessed by a fulllength glass door, allowing sunlight to fill the room.
The bathroom is equipped with a standard-size bathtub
with a rain showerhead above. The suite benefits from
a complimentary mini-bar and butler service. This
cabin has a partially restricted view.
5D/T – Deluxe Twin with balcony
These chic Deluxe cabins have twin beds (which can
be made into a king-size double), a sizeable dressing
table and a writing desk for keeping up with your
correspondence while at sea. Their private balconies
are irresistible for catching the sunrise or enjoying the
sunset, and the bathrooms offer a standard-size bathtub
with a rain showerhead above. Butler service and a
complimentary mini-bar are included with these cabins.
5S – Deluxe Single with balcony
Amply spacious with a dressing table and writing desk,
these Deluxe single cabins open out onto a private
balcony for alfresco reading and relaxing. A king-size
bed is the centrepiece, while the bathroom is equipped
with a standard-size bathtub with a rain showerhead
above. Butler service and a complimentary mini-bar
are included with these cabins.
6T – Deluxe Twin with lounge area
Our Deluxe twin cabins have a two-room feel to
them, with the twin beds tucked away in a separate
alcove. This leaves plenty of space for relaxing on
the sofa or at the writing desk in the lounge area.
They benefit from a double set of windows and a
bathroom with a shower over the bathtub. These
cabins look out onto the open deck and have a
partially restricted view.
6S – Deluxe Single with lounge area
These large cabins are divided into a bedroom
niche and a lounge area with a coffee table, sofa
and writing desk. A double set of windows let the
light flood in, while the bathrooms have a shower
over the bathtub. These cabins look out onto the
open deck and have a partially restricted view.
CABIN GRADES
7D – Deluxe Double with balcony
These are light and airy cabins with a spacious
double bedroom and private balcony, accessed via
a glass patio door. The bathrooms have a separate
walk-in shower and standard-size bathtub.
7S – Deluxe Single with balcony
Deluxe single cabins offer a double bedroom,
dressing table and private balcony. They are given
a distinct nautical feel by their sloped windows.
The bathrooms are large and luxurious, with
a separate walk-in shower and standard-size
bathtub.
Disabled Access
Cabins 232 and 233 in grade 10T are fully
equipped for disabled access, with wide doorways,
ramp access over the threshold, space between
two low twin beds, and a shower room equipped
with handrails and an emergency cord. We ask that
wheelchair users have their own assistance when
embarking and disembarking the ship and regret
that it may not be possible to take wheelchair users
aboard the ship’s tenders.
9S – Superior Single with lounge area
Divided into a sleeping recess and lounge area,
these Superior single cabins offer both style and
space. They are equipped with a coffee table and
a writing desk. The bathrooms have a bathtub
with a shower above.
8T – Superior Twin with French doors
Pearl II’s Superior twin cabins are bright and
spacious bedrooms. French doors open out onto
a promenade shared only with the other cabins
in this grade and offer direct access to the outside
deck. The bathrooms have a bathtub with shower
above. Due to the position of the lifeboats, these
cabins have obscured views.
11, 12 and 12 Aft – Standard Outside
There is a choice of twin, double and single
Standard outside cabins on A and B Decks. They
are all elegantly finished with wood panelling
and rich cotton bed linen, and have double
windows, ample wardrobe space and en suite
shower rooms.
8S – Superior Single with French doors
These Superior single cabins offer a spacious
double bedroom. French doors open out on to a
promenade shared only with the other cabins in
this grade and allow direct access to the outside
deck. The bathroom has a bathtub with a shower
above. Due to the position of the lifeboats, these
cabins have an obscured view.
13, 14 and 14 Aft – Standard Inside
The Standard inside twin, double and single cabins
are situated on A and B Decks. They offer an
economical option in cruising. They are bright and
well lit with en suite shower rooms and the same
fixtures and fittings as the Standard outside cabins.
9T and 10T – Superior Twin with lounge area
These Superior twin cabins are divided into a
bedroom alcove and lounge area with dressing table.
The bathrooms have a bathtub with a shower above.
9T cabins are located on the Boat Deck while 10T
cabins are on A Deck.
Passengers in Aft cabins on B Deck may at
times notice the noise from the ship’s engines,
and we have reflected this in the lower cost of
Aft cabins.
17
Pearl II
PORT OF REGISTRY
Malta
QUALITY RATING
★★★★
TONNAGE
18,621
DRAUGHT
6.1m
LENGTH
164m
BREADTH
22.6m
AIR-CONDITIONED AND STABILISED
Yes
MAIDEN VOYAGE
1981
LAST REFURBISHMENT
2010
PASSENGER CAPACITY
446
OFFICERS AND CREW
252 (European officers and Filipino crew)
PASSENGER DECKS
7
PASSENGER LIFTS
3
This will be our sixth year of chartering this ship, now called Pearl II and previously named
Quest for Adventure. There will be a host of familiar faces amongst the officers and crew.
The standard of onboard service, food, facilities and furnishings is superb, with balcony
cabins, a cinema and spacious public areas adding a little extra luxury to this stately liner.
Sun Deck
Bridge Deck
Boat Deck
Promenade Deck
A Deck
B Deck
C Deck
SUN DECK
WC
SPORTS DECK
WITH SHORT
TENNIS COURT
WC
WC
SPORTS DECK
WITH SHORT
TENNIS COURT
WC
18
22
4S
Single Junior Suite
7S
Deluxe Single
7D
Superior Double
8T
Superior Twin
8S
Superior Single
4
1
6
OWNER’S
SUITE ONE
1
3
5
7
9
OWNER’S
SUITE ONE
98
100
102
104
98
100
104
102
106
99
101
103
107
105
111
109
LIFT
108
LIFT
106
110
LIFT
108
110
112
113
114
115
116
117
WC
WC
LIFT
112
WC
114
116
WC
VERAND
POOL
VERAND
WC
2
LIFT
11
VERANDAH
POOL
VERANDAH
18
2
Twin Junior Suite
8
3
10
12
5
14
7
16
9
11
17
4T
LIFT
LIFT
Owner’s Suite
LIFT
LIFT
LIFT
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
LIFT
18
SUNDOWNER
SUNDOWNER
22
BAR
17
BAR
SUN DECK
SUN DECKAND BARBECUE
AND BARBECUE AREA
AREA
BRIDGE DECK
GRADE
2D/T
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
1
3
5
7
9
SUNDOWNER
BAR
11
OWNER’S
SUITE ONE
17
18
22
98
100
102
2 104
4 106
108
110
6
8
10
12
14
16
1
1123
5
114
7
116
9
SUNDOWNER
BAR
11
17
113
115
117
VERANDAH
99
101
103
105
107
109
111
18
22
2
4
98
100
102
104
106
108
6
110
8
10
12
14
16
112
1
3
114 5
116 7
9
113
115
117
99
101
103
105
107
109
111
11
DINING
17 ROOM
VERANDAH
SUNDOWNER
BAR
SUN DECK
AND BARBECUE
AREA
98
100
102
104
106
108
110
112
114
116
200
202
204
206
208
210
212
214
216
218
220
222
224
226
228
230
113
232
234115
236
117
238
240
242
244
246
300 301
203
201
315
313
311
309
307
305
223
221
219
217
215
213
211
209
207
205
304
99
306
101
308
103
310
317
302 303
105
312
107
314
319
336
338
229
227
225
316
109
318
111
320
334
332
330
248
322
DINING
250 ROOM
324
252
326
VERANDAH
254
328
256
258
260
262
POOL
264
231
233
235
237
239
241
243
247
245
321
255
249
329
257
323
331
259
251
333
261
253
335
263
327
337
265
325
339
267
269
271
13T
Standard Inside Twin
13D
Standard Inside Double
228
230
232
234
236
238
240
242
422
424
426
430
428
434
432
438
436
440
442
444
446
448
450
452
454
456
458
321
518
323
520
325
522
327
524
329
526
331
528
333
244
460
320
462
322
464
324
DINING
466
ROOM
326
468
328
470
330
472
332
256
254
252
250
248
246
260
258
337
335
339
334
338
336
262
264
266
270
268
227
229
226
425
228
427
431
429
231
435
230
437
433
233
439
232
441
234
443
241
239
237
453
240
455
449
238
451
445
236
447
235
243
502
305
504
307
506
309
508
311
510
313
512
315
514
317
516
319
470
328
472
330
466
324
468
326
462
320
464
322
333
526
329
528
331
522
325
524
327
518
321
520
323
337
339
271
269
267
265
263
261
259
527
255
529
257
523
251
525
253
519
247
521
249
245
243
241
239
237
235
233
231
229
227
225
513
219
515
221
517
223
SAUNA
332
252
469
254
471
429
427
425
423
421
419
417
503
209 407
505
211 409
507
213 411
509
215 413
511
217 415
203 403
402
300 301
205
405
404
302 303
500 501207
406
304
408
306
410
308
412
310
414
312
416
314
418
316
420
318
422
424
428
426
430
432
434
436
438
440
444
442
446
448
450
452
454
456
458
256
473
258
334
460
260
336
248
465
250
467
262
338
266
270
268
335
264
244
461
246
463
457
242
459
245
247
519
249
521
251
523
253
525
255
527
257
529
259
261
263
265
267
269
271
201 401
Standard Inside Single
400
13S
201
200
401 200
400
203
202
300 301
202
403
402
204
205
204
302 303
206
207 405
206
404
500 501
305
304
209
208
208
503
502
407
406
306
307
211
210
210
505
504
409
408
308
309
213
212
212
507
410
411
506
310
311
214
215
214
413
509
508
412
313
217
216
312
216
415
511
414
510
218
315
219
314
218
417
513
512
416
220
221
316
317
220
419
418
515
514
222
223
319
318
222
421
420
517
516
224
225
224
423
226
Standard Outside Double
439
437
435
433
431
LIFT
Superior Twin
SUN DECK
AND BARBECUE
AREA
POOL
266
270
268
VERANDAH
11D
473
471
469
467
465
463
461
459
457
455
453
451
449
447
445
443
441
GYM
400
402
404
504
506
502
410
510
508
406
412
514
516
512
420
416
414
408
500 5
19
418
424
422
426
430
428
434
432
438
436
440
442
446
444
450
448
452
456
454
458
460
462
464
466
468
472
470
LAUNDERETTE
SAUNA
CINEMA
Standard Outside Twin
LIFT
LIFT
LAUNDERETTE
11T
LIFT
LIFT
RECEPTION
HAIR AND
ROOMS
CINEMATREATMENT
BEAUTY
SALON
WC
POOL
LIFT
Standard Outside Single
MEDICAL
CENTRE
LIFT
TREATMENT
HAIR AND ROOMS
528
526
524
522
520
518
MEDICAL
CENTRE
11S
LAUNDERETTE
Superior Twin
WC
LAUNDERETTE
10T
LIFT
CINEMA
LIFT
Superior Single
GRADE
9S
LAUNDERETTE
WC LIFT
HAIR AND
BEAUTY
SALON
LIFT
LIFT
LAUNDERETTE
LIFT
SHOP LIFT WC
RECEPTION
CARD
ROOM
WC
9T
POOL
VERANDAH
LIFT
LIFT
NTS OFFICE
DISCOVERY
LOUNGE
LIFT
LIFT
SHACKLETON’S
BARNTS OFFICE
WC
WCSHOP
NTS
LIBRARY
LIBRARY
CHART
ROOM
WC
SHOPLIFT
RECEPTION
CARD
ROOM
Deluxe Twin
VERANDAH
WC
WARD
ROOM
WC
6T
WC
DISCOVERY
LOUNGE
LIFT
LIFT
LIFT
LIFT
LIFT
LIFT
WC
WC
NTS SHOP
LIFT
LIBRARY
WC
LIBRARY
CHART
ROOM
LIFT
WC
SHOP
CARD
ROOM
WARD
ROOM
SHACKLETON’S
BAR
NTS OFFICE
WC
WARD
ROOM
A DECK
WC
PROMENADE DECK
Deluxe Single
LIFT
DISCOVERY
LOUNGE
LIFT
6S
LIFT
LIFT
OWNER’S
SUITE ONE
LIFT
LIFT
WC
Deluxe Single
WC
WC
NTS SHOP LIFT
LIFT
WC
5S
WC
LIFT
LIFT
LIFT
LIBRARY
LIBRARY
CHART
LIFT
ROOM
Deluxe Twin
LIFT
OWNER’S
SUITE ONE
5D/T
WC
SHACKLETON’S
BAR
LIFT
WC
WC
Suite
WC
LIFT
SUN DECK
AND BARBECUE
AREA
BOAT DECK
3D/T
LIFT
Grand Suite
GRADE
1D/T
SPORTS DECK
WITH SHORT
TENNIS COURT
LIFT
WITH SHORT
TENNIS COURT
LIFTWC
200201
305
208
209
304
307 408211 504
305 406209 502
300 301 202 203 300 301
204 205
302 303 206 207 302 303
304
211
306
309 410213 506
503406 407502
505408 409504
507410 411506
509412 413508
511
414 415510
513
416 417512
515
418 419514
517
420 421516
422 423
424 425
426 427
428 429
430 431
432 433
434 435
436 437
438 439
440 441
442 443
444 445
446 447
448 449
450 451
452 453
454 455
456 457
458 459
466 467
523
522
468 469
525
524
462 463
519
518
464 465
521
520
460 461
503
411
409
407
413
505
509
417
415
421
419
511
517
519
521
523
525
527
431
429
427
425
423
515
513
507
201
401
400
401
400
203
403
402
403
402
205
405
405
404207
500 501 404
500 501
306
311 412215 508
313 414217 510
444
237
446
442235
438
233
440
434
231
436
432
430
428
426229
424227
422225
319 420223 516
315 416219 512
217
312
213
308
311
214
313
216
317 418221 514
310
215
315
218
219
314
221
316
307
210
309
212
308
312
310
314
220
317
223
318
225
222
319
227
316
224
229
235
Standard Inside Double
14T
529
435
433
439
437
441
447
443
SAUNA
445
451
449
453
455
459
457
463
461
467
465
471
469
473
14D Aft Standard Inside Double
SAUNA
2
12D Aft Standard Inside Single
527
526
470 471
472 473
529
528
LIFT
226
231
234
237
448
239
450
452
241
454
456
243
458
460245
321 462247 518
323 464249 520
325 466251 522
327 468253 524
265
263
261
329 470255 526
331 472257 528
259
333
335
337
267
GYM
228
230
236
239
233
238
241
232
240
245
243
244
242
246
321
261
334
263
336
257
330
259
332
253
326
255
328
247
320
249
322
251
324
248
323
250
325
252
327
254
329
331
256
333
258
335
260
262
337
339
269
271
LIFT
318
320
24
322
326
328
330
332
334
336
338
339264 265338
266 267
270271
268 269
20
6
5
3
7
POOL
Standard Inside Twin
14S
Standard Inside Double
14D
The Verandah Restaurant
The Discovery Lounge
Shackleton’s Bar
The Sundowner Bar
The Dining Room
The Spa
The Library
1
LIFT
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
4
TREATMENT ROOMS
MEDICAL
CENTRE
14T Aft Standard Inside Double
TREATMENT ROOMS
MEDICAL
CENTRE
LIFT
14S Aft Standard Inside Double
LAUNDERETTE
LIFT
GYM
Standard Outside Single
12T
WC
LAUNDERETTE
LIFT
HAIR AND
BEAUTY
SALON
CINEMA
LIFT
Standard Outside Double
12D
LIFT
12S Aft Superior Twin
LIFT
RECEPTION
LAUNDERETTE
LIFT
POOL
C DECK
12T Aft Standard Outside Twin
LAUNDERETTE
LIFT
HAIR AND
BEAUTY
SALON
CINEMA
Superior Single
GRADE
12S
LIFT
WC
NTS OFFICE
LIFT
LIFT
RECEPTION
WC
B DECK
LIFT
NTS OFFICE
LIFT
CULTURAL CRUISING AUTUMN 2017
COLOURS OF THE CELTS
CONDITIONS OF BOOKING
INSURANCE
All passengers must have adequate and valid travel insurance including cover for cancellation, medical expenses
and repatriation. Please provide us with details of your cover, including the name of the insurance company, policy
number and 24-hour emergency telephone number.
DEPOSIT
A deposit of £200 per person should be sent with the booking form. Remittances should be in favour of The National
Trust for Scotland Enterprises Ltd Trust A/C. If you decide to cancel your cruise before the balance of fare is due, we
will return your deposit, less a £50 per person cancellation fee.
If you do not already have your own insurance, we are delighted to recommend Saga Travel Insurance. They offer
cover for many pre-existing medical conditions with no upper age limit. If you are aged 50 or over, call 0800 096
0460 or visit www.saga.co.uk/travelinsurance for a quote. Please mention reference CR2411.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
The cruise fare includes your accommodation, onboard meals and gratuities. The ship is one class, and fares are
graded according to cabin and facilities available. All passengers, irrespective of fare, can enjoy the public rooms and
decks. Extras that are not included in the cost of your cruise are onboard purchases (drinks, cigarettes, beauty salon,
etc), shore excursions, transport to/from the ship, parking and insurance.
CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING
Applications will be dealt with and reservations confirmed in order of receipt. Confirmation of booking is subject to
the General Cruise Booking Conditions sent out with this brochure.
The balance of fare must be paid on or before 30 June 2017. After this date, if the balance is not received, we reserve
the right to retain the deposit paid and, further, to claim the balance of fare. If you wish to cancel your booking you
must immediately write to The National Trust for Scotland Enterprises Ltd. We reserve the right to retain any deposit or
full fare received and passengers will be expected to claim from their travel insurance.
The completion of the booking form shall constitute an offer only and no contract shall exist until the relevant deposit
(or where required the full amount due) has been received by The National Trust for Scotland Enterprises Ltd and the
Trust has issued a written confirmation of the booking to the passenger.
All bookings are accepted, and the conveyance of passengers, their baggage and personal property is made, subject
to the terms of the said General Cruise Booking Conditions. The National Trust for Scotland Enterprises Ltd reserves
the right to cancel the cruise, in which case the passage money will be refunded. We reserve the right to vary,
without notice, the advertised itinerary of the cruises, to cancel landings and shore excursions, and otherwise vary
arrangements previously advertised, in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
Prices quoted are based on the operating costs and prevailing rate of exchange when this brochure was printed and
the right is reserved to alter the prices at any time prior to sailing as circumstances dictate.
While every effort has been made to determine an accurate fare structure, we reserve the right to implement a fuel
surcharge should world fuel prices escalate beyond those predicted.
EARLY-BIRD SCHEME
We do not give last-minute discounts on our holidays. We feel that benefits should go to our early bookers, so if you
book before 24 February 2017 you will qualify for a 5% discount.
HOW TO BOOK
We are happy to accept provisional bookings by telephone or email. For reservations please telephone 0131 458 0234
or email cruises@nts.org.uk during normal office hours (Monday to Friday).
To confirm your booking please complete and return the booking form, with deposit, to The National Trust for
Scotland, Cruise Department, Hermiston Quay, 5 Cultins Road, Edinburgh EH11 4DF.
MEALS
Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and late-night gourmet bites are served on board for your pleasure. Meals
throughout the cruise, including meals taken on board while the ship is in port, are included in the cruise fare.
However, meals not taken on board cannot be refunded. Packed lunches can be requested free of charge. Cabin
service is available 24 hours a day at no extra cost.
SHORE EXCURSIONS
Details of shore excursions, with costs, will be sent to passengers approximately 12 weeks prior to the cruise. We offer
a wide range of excursions at each port where transport and guides are available. These range greatly in duration, cost,
theme and activity level and our aim is to have a tour to suit everyone. The shore excursion brochure will have full
details of all the tours along with information about our ports of call and ideas for exploring on your own. Tours are
offered at cost price; for guidance, a half-day excursion usually costs between £30 to £50.
TRANSPORT & PARKING
Transport will be arranged for passengers from central Edinburgh (Charlotte Square), central Glasgow (Buchanan Bus
Station) and Edinburgh and Glasgow airports. Passengers will be asked to book and pay for transport when paying the
balance of fare. Secure parking will be available at Greenock docks.
JOINING INSTRUCTIONS
These will be issued about three weeks prior to the date of embarkation, together with all tickets, luggage labels and
confirmation of transport timings to and from the ship.
FINANCIAL PEACE OF MIND
All monies paid to the National Trust for Scotland for the cruise and associated transport, shore excursions and car
parking are held in a bonded trust account and will not be released to the National Trust for Scotland until after the
cruise has taken place.
‘I have thoroughly enjoyed my first National Trust for Scotland cruise. The service on the ship has been exemplary.
The excursions have been well researched and executed. The food has been excellent. Well done everyone!’
The National Trust for Scotland, Hermiston Quay, 5 Cultins Road, Edinburgh EH11 4DF
Tel: 0131 458 0234
The National Trust for Scotland for Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty is a charity registered in Scotland, Charity Number SC 007410
www.nts.org.uk
and www.culturalcruising.com
PHOTOGRAPHIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Cover Image: Bantry House – Brian Lynch/Failte Ireland
Inside front cover: St Finbarr’s Oratory, Inishmore – Chris Hill/Tourism Ireland; Ben More – VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint; Knoydart – Shutterstock; Dancing – Elaine Bruges/NTS; all other images – Acromas Shipping Ltd
Page 1: Pearl II – Acromas Shipping Ltd
Pages 2 & 3: Seal – NTS Photo Library; Inishmore, Duart Castle – Shutterstock; Garinish – Tourism Ireland; Castletown – Isle of Man Tourism; St Kilda – John Sikorski; Piper – Elaine Bruges/NTS
Pages 4 & 5: Laxey Wheel – Isle of Man Tourist Board; Tobermory – VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint; Garinish Island – Tourism Ireland; Golden eagle – P Tomkins/VisitScotland/ Scottish Viewpoint; St Kilda – NTS Photo Library; Wild Atlantic Way – Shutterstock
Pages 6 & 7: North Uist, Peel Castle – Shutterstock; Cashtal yn Ard, Isle of Man – Isle of Man Tourism; Lismore Castle – Tourism Ireland
Pages 8 & 9: Garinish Island – Tourism Ireland; Inishmore – Brian Morrison/Tourism Ireland; Dun Aengus – Elaine Bruges/NTS; Slieve League, Tobermory – Shutterstock; St Kilda – NTS Photo Library
Pages 10 & 11: North Uist, Knoydart – Shutterstock; Inverewe – NTS Photo Library; Kinloch Castle – SNH
Page 13: Malin Beg – Raymond Fogarty; Lochmaddy – P Tomkins/VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint; Isle of Man – Isle of Man Tourism; Mount Congreve – Tourism Ireland
Pages 14-20: All images – Acromas Shipping Ltd
Back Cover: Bantry Gardens – Failte Ireland; Peel Castle, Tobermory, North Uist – Shutterstock; St Kilda – NTS Photo Library
4074 GPS 9m 3/16