British Isles Cruises from Riviera Travel by The Travel Village Group

Cruise the British Isles with MS Seaventure World-class voyages, closer to home

Let's explore together

Balmoral Castle

As we enter 2021, we’d like to thank you, our wonderful customers for your support through 2020 and look forward to 2021 being the year we explore the world once more. We have been thrilled with the response we’ve had to our new tours of the British Isles, and can’t wait to explore some fascinating places, a little closer to home. With this in mind we are delighted to launch two brand new and exclusive UK cruises on an elegant small ship, MS Seaventure: Cruising the Emerald Isle and Cruising Scotland’s Highlands & Islands. With only four departures setting sail this July, be sure to book ahead to secure the best price and cabin. Encompassing the best of Ireland or Scotland by sea, both cruises offer

an insight into these fascinating countries from a different perspective. So you’ll explore ports inaccessible to larger ships for a much more authentic experience of the British Isles. With fewer than 160 guests on board, you’ll enjoy a more exclusive and intimate experience than on a traditional ocean cruise ship. When you book a Riviera Travel holiday, you are not just booking an itinerary, you are joining our family and we’ll take care of you as one of our own. It’s the Riviera difference that we’re proud of, and it means you can book your holiday with complete confidence.

Phil Hullah

Chief Executive Officer

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Small ship, big adventures Rediscover the British Isles by sea

World-class voyages, closer to home Discover the best of Ireland or Scotland by sea on our brand new small ship cruises, setting sail for the first time in summer 2021. A truly unique experience, the MS Seaventure is the only ship of her size to cruise the breathtaking waters of the British Isles, offering all the exciting possibilities of ocean cruising aboard a boutique ship with fewer than 160 guests. You’ll be able to dock in smaller harbours that large ships cannot reach, getting right to the heart of the destinations you visit. Plus, with a fascinating tour at every

Isle of Lewis

port of call, there’s so much to see as you sail on this world-class small ship. Newly refurbished in 2019, this contemporary craft boasts a fitness suite, sauna and heated saltwater pool ready and waiting for you to unwind in as you cruise to destinations new. With a capacity of just 158 guests and 90 crew and concierge, there is a less than 2:1 guest to crew ratio. So you’ll always have a friendly and professional member of the team waiting to make your MS Seaventure experience as special as it can be.

Balcony Cabin

What to expect on the MS Seaventure • A small ship cruise experience • An expedition-ready ship, able to explore smaller harbours, such as Cork, Galway and Stornoway • Newly refurbished in 2019 • 82 well-appointed sea-view cabins with a choice of porthole, panoramic window or balcony • On-board fitness suite, sauna and heated saltwater pool • 90 crew on board for an attentive service, day and night • Expert Cruise Director and Concierge

About the itineraries:

MS Seaventure

Belfast

For 2021, we’re delighted to launch two fascinating British Isles cruise experiences, aboard the worldclass MS Seaventure. Encompassing the best of Ireland or Scotland by sea, both cruises offer an insight into these fascinating countries from a different perspective. Cruising the Emerald Isle showcases the historic capital cities of Belfast and Dublin, as well as the cultural gems of Cork and Galway. Discover rugged landscapes which blend imposing cliffs with rolling green hills that have witnessed Ireland’s rich and fabled culture unfold over time. Or perhaps Cruising Scotland’s Highlands & Islands appeals: a chance to explore the outer reaches of this captivating country, with beautiful lochs, historic castles and the magic of the Outer Hebrides along the way.

Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness

If you can’t decide between the incredible itineraries of Ireland or Scotland, it is possible to enjoy both cruises back to back. So why not extend your holiday with a 15 day cruise of arguably the most beautiful ports in the British Isles? 5

S C OTL A N D

Isle of Harris

Cruising Scotland’s Highlands & Islands Soak up Scotland’s stunning landscapes as you experience this diverse country by sea. Taking in Aberdeen and Balmoral Castle, before heading to Inverness, Orkney, Oban and the fascinating Outer Hebrides. Be inspired by Loch Ness, the Ring of Brodgar and Neolithic Orkney, as our first-class small ship explores the less-visited ports of Scotland as well as a taste of coastal Ireland.

Aberdeen

8 DAYS FROM

£1,999

5 July 2021 and 26 July 2021*

Your itinerary DAY 1 – Embark in Edinburgh Arrive in Leith, near Edinburgh, where you will board MS Seaventure for the start of this fascinating cruise of Scotland. The dedicated crew are there to welcome you on board, ensuring you settle in and familiarise yourself with your contemporary surroundings. Perhaps enjoy your favourite drink on the deck as this beautifully made ship elegantly cruises north along the Scottish coast. (D) DAY 2 – Aberdeen and Balmoral Castle As you enjoy a delicious breakfast in the well-appointed restaurant or sip your morning coffee on the deck, cast your eyes ashore to see we have moored in the historic port city of Aberdeen. This morning’s visit has a royal seal of approval, as we visit the breathtaking Balmoral Castle, famously owned by Queen Elizabeth II. Relax and take in the views as we travel by coach through Cairngorms National Park, a haven

Stornoway

for spectacular British wildlife. As if by magic, the iconic Balmoral Castle comes into view, with its imposing grey turrets set back against its verdant surroundings. Enjoy a self-guided visit of Balmoral Castle to learn more about its fascinating past, before returning to the ship for lunch on board. (Note that if the Queen is visiting, there is no access to the public and there will be an alternative activity planned). This afternoon we explore a little closer to our mooring with a guided tour of Aberdeen, Scotland’s third largest city located on the mouths of the River Dee and River Don. This evening, after a delicious meal on board, enjoy the twinkling coastline views before our night time sailing along the North Sea. (B, L, D) DAY 3 – Invergordon and Loch Ness This morning we awake in Invergordon, a town and port in Easter Ross proud of its naval heritage. Nestled in the Cromarty Firth, this charming port is one which larger ships wouldn’t ordinarily be able to access, making it the perfect stop to effortlessly explore Inverness and the famous Loch Ness. Your exploration of this area begins today with a guided walking tour of Inverness. On your walking tour you will visit the main sights of this capital of the Highlands. Get ready to see the Inverness Town House, a stunning baronial house, plus Inverness Castle with its magnificent views over the city. The Victorian Market, another of your stops, is full of quaint boutique shops, as well as the Old High Church and graveyard, as mentioned in the Outlander series of books and the majestic St Andrews Cathedral, built in 1158. Next, we take a scenic drive along Scotland’s most famous waters, Loch Ness, most associated with sightings of the legendary Loch Ness Monster. We uncover stories of a bygone era on a picturesque drive around parts of the loch, stopping to enjoy Ring of Brodgar

spectacular views with commentary from your knowledgeable guide. A favourite calling point for many will be the stop overlooking Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic castle ruins. We return to the ship for a late lunch, with the afternoon free to enjoy as you wish before our early evening departure. (B, L, D) DAY 4 – Kirkwall and Neolithic Orkney Overnight our agile ship has made its way to the most northerly point on our cruise, Kirkwall, the largest town in the Orkney archipelago. Our insight into this stunning part of Scotland begins with a scenic tour of UNESCO-listed Neolithic Orkney, including visits to Skara Brae and Skaill House. We then head west and visit the Standing Stones of Stennes, before visiting the Ring of Brodgar, the mystical stones which form one of the most fascinating prehistoric monuments in the British Isles. Your journey continues on to Maeshowe, where you will enjoy a guided tour of the finest chambered tomb in northwest Europe, more than a staggering 5,000 years old. There will be time to explore Kirkwall, after a late lunch on the ship. Later this afternoon your ship will begin to make its way to spectacular Stornoway, so why not find a spot on deck or by a panoramic window to take in the unforgettable views? (B, L, D) DAY 5 – Stornoway, Outer Hebrides This morning we awake to the sights of the Isle of Lewis & Harris, as we dock in Stornoway. Discover the wild scenery of the Outer Hebrides and learn about the region’s history from the Vikings to World War II. During this half day tour, you will enjoy a visit to Lews Castle, a Victorian-era castle designed by Glaswegian architect Charles Wilson. There will also be a chance to step back in time in the museum here before heading to the Neolithic Callanish Standing Stones. There’s natural beauty at every turn: admire the wild scenery with visit to Carloway Beach and the striking white sand of Bosta Beach. After a morning embracing the history, culture and landscapes of this region, we return by coach to Stornoway for lunch on board. There’s plenty of time this afternoon to explore the town at your leisure before our evening departure as you dine. (B, L, D) DAY 6 – Oban For many today will be an early start, which is worth getting up for, as we sail through the Sound of Mull on the way to the port town of Oban. Surrounded

by a balance of shorelines and lush countryside, this coastal spot makes for a popular fishing bay. This morning we uncover more about this fantastic town, translating as ‘little bay’, on a walking tour. With a local guide, you might spot the likes of the North Pier and Esplanade, Oban War & Peace Museum, the War Memorial, Oban Lighthouse and Dunollie Castle in the distance. We return to the ship by late afternoon, ready for our onward voyage to the northern Irish port of Killybegs. (B, L, D) DAY 7 – Killybegs, Muckros Head and Slieve League Cliffs This morning our ship has effortlessly cruised to Ireland, with spectacular views to enjoy over breakfast. Today we explore the spectacular scenery of the County Donegal, with striking landscapes and arresting cliffsides around every corner. Our day begins by driving west to Muckros Head, where you can enjoy spectacular views across to John’s Point, Ben Bulben and the Slieve League Cliffs. Next, continue west along the coast to visit the Slieve League Visitor Centre, to learn the stories which shaped this historic region. For an even closer look, you could take the shuttle bus to Slieve League Cliffs themselves for some of the best views in the world. Perhaps enjoy a short walk along part of the cliffs before returning back to Killybegs. This afternoon we return to the ship, where conversation might turn to the amazing memories made in these picturesque parts of the world. (B, L, D) DAY 8 – Disembarkation at Greenock Today we arrive at our final port in Greenock, near Glasgow, where we disembark. (B) *Please note: the departure on 26 July 2021 operates in reverse order. You will experience the same tours and visits.

Your tour price includes • Uncover Aberdeen on a guided walking tour, and visit Balmoral Castle • Explore Inverness on a guided tour, as well as Loch Ness on a scenic drive • Experience a tour of UNESCO-listed Neolithic Orkney with guided tours of Maeshowe and Skara Brae • Discover the Isle of Lewis & Harris, with a visit to Lews Castle as well as the Neolithic Callanish Standing Stones • Sail through the Sound of Mull to explore the port town of Oban • Enjoy a scenic drive to Muckros Head and views from Slieve League Cliffs

IREL AND

Connemara

Cruising the Emerald Isle

8 DAYS FROM

£1,999

12 July 2021 and 19 July 2021

Experience the beauty of Ireland by sea, as you travel from the contrasting cities of Belfast and Dublin, onward to medieval Kilkenny and on to Connemara’s Kylemore Abbey, Muckros Head and the Slieve League Cliffs. Discover the fascinating history of ancient Cork, invaded by Vikings in 915 A.D., and the famous Cliffs of Moher over your morning coffee as your ship cruises by.

Dublin

Your itinerary DAY 1 – Embark in Greenock Arrive in Greenock, near Glasgow, where you will board MS Seaventure for the start of this unforgettable cruise of Ireland. The friendly and professional crew are there to welcome you on board, ensuring you settle in and familiarise yourself with your modern surroundings. Perhaps find a spot on deck to enjoy your favourite drink as your contemporary small ship begins its journey to Belfast in Northern Ireland. (D) DAY 2 – Belfast and Titanic Visitor Centre This morning our ship docks in Belfast. Our discovery of Northern Ireland’s capital begins with a fascinating walking tour, where a local guide will take us to Belfast City Hall on Donegal Square, the 19th-century Albert Memorial Clock, St Anne’s Cathedral in the Cathedral Quarter, Queen’s University campus, botanical gardens

and the Big Fish ceramic mosaic sculpture. Not forgetting Great Victoria Street, passing the famous Europa Hotel, known as the “most bombed hotel in Europe” after suffering 36 bomb attacks during the Troubles. For lunch you may return to the ship or stay in Belfast and seek out a local restaurant or café at your leisure. Perhaps treat yourself to a drink in the spectacular surroundings of The Merchant Hotel or wander around St George’s Market, a Victorian covered market, for a bite to eat. After lunch we immerse ourselves in Belfast’s maritime history with a visit to the new Titanic Belfast visitor centre for a self-guided tour. Afterwards, enjoy some free time before returning to the ship for your first delicious evening meal on board. (B, L, D) DAY 3 – Dublin Overnight our incredible ship has made its way south to the lively port of Dublin. After a hearty breakfast on board, we delve deeper into this historic city on a guided walking tour. Our journey begins at the Spire, known as the Monument of Light, before crossing the River Liffey to the south side, to the bustling Temple Bar, Dublin’s nightlife district. Of course a visit to Dublin wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the likes of the Molly Malone statue, Grafton Street and the wonderful St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin’s largest park. Our last stop is Trinity College for a self guided tour, with chance to meander the corridors of the Old Library and marvel at the Book of Kells. For lunch the choice is yours – return to the ship for an included lunch or find a spot in town. If the weather allows, perhaps choose a takeaway treat from Butler’s chocolate café and savour it on St. Stephen’s Green. For those who enjoyed lunch on board, there will be a return afternoon shuttle to the centre for free time in Dublin. (B, L, D) DAY 4 – Kilkenny This morning, we visit the medieval city of Kilkenny and castle, dating back to the 12th century. On this captivating guided tour, first we explore the riverside castle grounds with is large gardens surrounding the grand Castle built by Moher Cliffs

Norman occupiers in 1195. Then walk down the ‘Medieval mile’ and visit the Black Abbey, a 13th-century Catholic priory, as well as St. Canice Cathedral and the Round Tower, a place of Christian worship since the 6th century. Kilkenny is also knows for its crafts, with shops along its winding lanes selling pottery, paintings and jewellery. We return to the ship for lunch. (B, L, D) DAY 5 – Cork By the time you have breakfast, we will have made an early mooring at the picturesque port of Cork. The beauty of small ship sailing means that we can access these smaller, more exclusive ports with ease. With our local guide, we’ll uncover the hidden gems of this city on a guided walking tour, followed by free time to explore at your leisure. Mainly an island positioned between two channels on the River Lee, Cork was expanded by Viking invaders and was once a completely walled city. It’s a place best explored on foot, so look out for some of Cork’s most iconic sights, including the Irish market, Saint Finbarr’s Catholic church, St Anne’s Shandon and St Patricks’ Bridge, before ending at the English Market. After lunch on the ship, enjoy afternoon sailing towards Galway. Perhaps enjoy an afternoon gym session in the fitness suite, a swim in the saltwater pool or simply watch the views with a crisp glass of wine. (B, L, D) DAY 6 – Galway, Connemara and Kylemore Abbey Early risers may want to begin the day by looking out at the striking Cliffs of Moher on the way to Galway this morning – a truly unforgettable sight! After docking in Galway, our tour will take us through ruggedly beautiful Connemara, the largest Gaeltacht (Irish speaking region) in Ireland, known for its jagged, wild landscapes, mountain and sea scenery and otherworldly vistas. We will also pay a visit to the stunning Kylemore Abbey, a Benedictine Monastery founded in 1920. Brimming with tales of romance and tragedy, we will learn about its history, explore the six-acre Victorian Walled Gardens and visit the Gothic Chapel and restored rooms of the Abbey on a tour. Return to the ship for lunch before

Trinity College

a free afternoon to see the sights of Galway at your own pace. (B, L, D) DAY 7 – Killybegs, Muckros Head and Slieve League Cliffs Today will be a highlight for many as we take in the spectacular scenery of County Donegal. We effortlessly moor in Killybegs, the perfect stop to spy some of the most spectacular views in southern Ireland. Our journey begins with a scenic drive west to Muckros Head, where you can enjoy vistas of John’s Point, Ben Bulben and the Slieve League Cliffs. The Slieve League Cliffs are the tallest sea cliffs in Europe, three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher and two times taller than the Eiffel Tower. Next, continue west along the coast to learn more about the history and culture which shaped this scenic region with entrance to the Slieve League Visitor Centre. For those who want to experience some of the best views in the world, perhaps take the clifftop shuttle bus for panoramas a camera could never do justice. This afternoon we begin our journey back to the port of Greenock, with fond memories of the exquisite Emerald Isle. (B, L, D) DAY 8 – Disembarkation at Greenock Today we arrive at our final port in Greenock, near Glasgow, where we disembark after breakfast. (B)

Your tour price includes • Discover Belfast on a guided walking tour, with entry to the Titanic Visitor Centre • Explore historic Dublin on a walking tour with a local guide, plus entry to Trinity College • Discover medieval Kilkenny and its historic castle • Experience the iconic sights of Cork on a guided tour • See Galway, Connemara and Kylemore Abbey • Enjoy a scenic drive to Muckros Head and views from Slieve League Cliffs, the tallest sea cliffs in Europe

Explore your world-class small ship: Whether enjoying a drink at the bar or taking a dip in the heated saltwater pool, the well-appointed MS Seaventure has all you need to relax and recharge as you sail. As you join the ship, you’ll be sure to see a friendly face at the reception, on the same deck as the modern restaurant and gift boutique. As you take the lift or stairs to the next floor, you could find a spot to unwind in the contemporary Seabreeze Lounge and bar or cosy away in the library. As you make your way to deck 7, more excellent amenities await as you find the fitness suite, outdoor pool, sauna and expedition theatre.

Your dining experience from morning to evening:

Sun deck

Restaurant

Whether you’re an early bird looking to enjoy breakfast as the sun rises, or need to know the opening times, here’s what to expect as you dine on the MS Seaventure. Breakfast A hot and cold buffet breakfast will be served in the restaurant, with an early breakfast available in the lounge. Lunch Lunch will be served at the lounge and restaurant, with tables that seat 4-8 people. Afternoon tea will also be available in the lounge. Dinner With a smart casual dress code, an à la carte dinner will be served. Water is free of charge as you dine, additional drinks are available to purchase.

Indulge in a drinks package

Why not upgrade your cruise experience to include a drinks package for just £119 per person? The package, which must be purchased by all guests in the cabin, includes: • Tea, coffee and water all day. • Red, white and rosé house wines; draught beer; non-alcoholic beer; soft drinks and juices at lunch & dinner. Seabreeze lounge bar

Your cabin choices Owner’s Balcony Suite Upgrade to one of our sumptuous Owner’s Balcony Suites on Deck 7. Measuring approximately 30.8 square metres (331 square feet), they allow for a generous living area with sofa, chair and table. They feature a large fixed floor to ceiling panoramic window and fully glazed door which opens out on to a private balcony complete with a table and two chairs for that extra touch of cruising glamour.

Balcony Cabins Balcony Cabins on Deck 6, measuring approximately 20.8 square metres (224 square feet) benefit from a larger living area plus fixed floor to ceiling window and fully glazed door opening on to a private balcony with table and two chairs, where you can take in the views and the fresh ocean breeze without even having to leave your cabin.

Window Cabins Window Cabins and Forward Window Cabins on Decks 4 and 5, measuring approximately 17-17.5 square metres (183-188 square feet) feature a fixed picture window measuring approximately 80 x 93 centimetres. Cabins 406-411 feature a single bed and 2 pullman beds and are available for sole occupancy without a supplement.

Porthole Cabins Porthole Cabins on Deck 3 measuring approximately 17.5 square metres (188 square feet) have 2 fixed porthole windows measuring approximately 40 centimetres in diameter.

Window cabin

Your ship’s facilities • A world-class small ship, able to explore smaller coves and bays for the ultimate cruising experience • Imaginatively designed and appointed to the highest specification, for uncompromising quality and comfort. Enjoy crisp, contemporary yet classically stylish décor with discreet lighting • Crowning the ship on Deck 7 is the magnificent Sun Deck, plus the superb Expedition Lounge to take in the views • Take a dip in the fantastic heated outside saltwater pool • Enjoy breakfast and buffet lunches and à la carte dinner in the stylish restaurant on Deck 4 with tables for 4-8 and panoramic windows affording wonderful views • Converse with your fellow guests in the welcoming Seabreeze Lounge and Bar on Deck 5, with outside terrace area for al fresco dining • Unwind in the on-board library • Relax in the sauna or visit the fitness room on Deck 7 • Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi • Shop at the tasteful boutique for all your souvenirs • A lift operates between all decks • 14 zodiac boats to get closer to shore and nature • Laundry service

Bathroom

Owner’s Balcony Suite

MS Seaventure deck plan Deck 7 Owner’s Balcony Suite 702

704

Sun deck

Cat 7 Deck 7 Owner’s Balcony Suites 30.8sq.m/331sq.ft with large fixed floor to ceiling window and private balcony

Pool

Cat 6 Deck 6 Balcony Cabin 20.8sq.m/224sq.ft with fixed floor to ceiling window and private balcony

Sauna Fitness

Cat 5 Deck 5 Cabin 17.5sq.m/188sq.ft with fixed panoramic window

Expedition Lounge

Deck 6 Balcony Cabins

Cat 4 Deck 5 Forward Cabin 17.5sq.m/188sq.ft with fixed panoramic window Cat 3 Deck 4 Cabin 17.5sq.m/188sq.ft with fixed panoramic window

612 610 608 606 604 602

618 616

Bridge

Cat 2 Deck 4 Forward Cabin 17-17.5sq.m/183185sq.ft with fixed panoramic windows

611 609 607 605 603 601

617 615

Cat 1 Deck 3 Cabin 17.5sq.m/188sq.ft with two fixed porthole windows

Deck 5 Window Cabins 534 532 530 528 526 524 522 520 518

510 508 506 504 502

533 531 529 527 525 523 521 519 517

515 511 509 507 505 503 501

Seabreeze deck

All measurements are approximate

All cabins and suites are sea-facing and appointed with convertible twin/double beds as well as a separate seating area and private en-suite shower. Amenities include flat-screen TV, telephone, safe, independent temperature controls and quality toiletries.

Seabreeze Lounge Bar

Library

408 406 404 402 411 409 407 405 403 401

Internet

432 430 428 426 424 422 420 418 416

Boutique

431 429 427 425 423 421 419 417 415

Deck 4 Window Cabins

Restaurant Reception

Medical

312 310 308 306 304 302

Deck 3 Porthole Cabins

Library

Pricing & departures MS Seaventure - Four-star superior

Cruising Scotland’s Highlands & Islands Departure Dates 05/07/2021, 26/07/2021*

Deck 6

Deck 7

Cat 1 Cabin

Deck 3

Cat 2 Forward Cabin

Deck 4 Cat 3 Cabin

Cat 4 Forward Cabin

Deck 5 Cat 5 Cabin

Cat 6 Balcony Cabin

Cat 7 Owner’s Balcony Suite

£1,999

£2,199

£2,299

£2,399

£2,449

£2,799

£3,099

Cruising The Emerald Isle Departure Dates 12/07/2021, 19/07/2021

Deck 6

Deck 7

Cat 1 Cabin

Deck 3

Cat 2 Forward Cabin

Deck 4 Cat 3 Cabin

Cat 4 Forward Cabin

Deck 5 Cat 5 Cabin

Cat 6 Balcony Cabin

Cat 7 Owner’s Balcony Suite

£1,999

£2,199

£2,299

£2,399

£2,449

£2,799

£3,099

PRICE INCLUDES: The price of these cruises is per person, based on two people sharing a cabin. The price includes full board, tours and visits as per the itinerary and all port taxes. Dates marked with an asterisk * operate a reverse itinerary. SINGLE OCCUPANCY: A limited number of Cat 2 cabins are available for sole occupancy without a supplement. All other cabins are available for sole occupancy at 85% supplement. PLEASE NOTE: You will make your own way to and from the port to join the cruise. For ‘Cruising Scotland’s Highlands & Islands’ Embarkation is at Leith Cruise Terminal (Edinburgh) and disembarkation is in Greenock (Glasgow) or vice versa*. For ‘Cruising The Emerald Isle’, embarkation and disembarkation is in Greenock (Glasgow). PLEASE NOTE: In the event of unsatisfactory weather conditions the Captain reserves the right to alter the itinerary. DEPOSIT: The deposit for this cruise is £400pp. DRINKS PACKAGE: Drinks package is available at £119pp.

Code SE21