A cruise is an opportunity to embark on a journey to new and exotic lands, exciting landmarks, picturesque surroundings and stunning geographical/geological features. What comes as a surprise to many people is that most of these can be seen without having to leave the United Kingdom. A cruise around the islands of Britain can take you to an array of stunning locations and islands, some of which you may have never even known existed.

Rather than sailing to the Caribbean, Mediterranean or Far East Asia; why not instead enjoy an experience a little closer to home.

Still not convinced? We at GoCruise take a closer look at some of the islands that may just change your mind.

Guernsey

Despite being closer to France, the Channel Islands reflect a fine mix of everything great about Britain combined with a taste of Mediterranean architecture and weather. St Peter Port is the largest town on the island and is where your ship will dock. This town is filled with stunning, pure sand beaches that are different to those you might find elsewhere in the UK.

Wander into the town and visit the beautiful centrepiece church, which is thought to be the closest church to a pub in the British Isles – speaking of which, there are no shortage of fantastic pubs and restaurants on the island, all of which serve a stunning array of delicious food. If you fancy something a little more peaceful; you can venture into the stunning Candie Gardens, which is filled with many beautiful flowers.

Isles of Scilly

Situated 28 miles south west of Land’s End are the Isles of Scilly; a unique cluster of islands that attract more than 120,000 visitors every year. St Mary’s is the largest and most populated of the five inhabited islands. The beautiful untouched beaches here are complimented by the islands’ status as an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The climate here is oceanic and warm, yet mild and pleasant and boasting a wide range of beautiful flora. This is extended to the Abbey Gardens, which is home to a range of tropical plants – each of which are growing healthily outdoors. You’ll be left pinching yourself to believe you’re still in the British Isles.

Isle of Man

Located in the Irish Sea, between Northern Ireland and Cumbria, lies the Isle of Man. A visit to the Isle of Man will allow you to discover this island, which was cut off from the rest of the United Kingdom after water levels rose around 8,000 BC. This island is steeped in both Celtic and Viking history and this is still reflected today through Celtic crosses and ancient Viking burial grounds.

One of the most unique features of the island is the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway; a tram carried by horses along a 1.6 mile stretch of promenade. It is one of only two horse drawn trams left in the world.

Hebrides

The Hebrides are made up of hundreds of islands and split into two sub-groups, the Inner Hebrides and the Outer Hebrides. Hebridean Island Cruises can take you to visit a large collection of these islands, allowing you to access parts of the UK you would never have previously thought to visit. It would be impossible to describe every single island, so we’ve decided to take a closer look at one island from each of the subcategories.

Barra, of the Outer Hebrides, is a very small island with much to offer both naturally and architecturally. There are many golfing opportunities on the island and the airport is well worth a visit, just to be able to witness a plane land on the sand. Additionally, a short boat trip can take you to the amazing Kisimul Castle of Castlebay.

Eigg, of the Inner Hebrides, is great for walkers as it presents the opportunity to climb a mountain as soon as you disembark your ship. An Sgurr is a very easy mountain to climb, with the height at the summit being 393 metres. It is also possible to hire out bicycles in order to explore everything this picturesque island has to offer.

Orkney Islands

70 little islands form the Orkneys, which were initially conquered by 9th century Norsemen before being returned Scotland following the failed repayment of a loan.

The St Magnus Cathedral was founded in 1137 and has a glowing red sandstone exterior. If you fancy something to whet your whistle, the Highland Park Distillery provides insight into the making of the local whiskey and even offers free samples.

The islands of the United Kingdom offer much more than you may think. All of the islands mentioned above and many more can be easily accessed via a cruise. Whether you want to experience the fine blend of British and Mediterranean culture in Guernsey; or experience the tranquil peacefulness of the highland islands – you can do it all with a cruise.

Additionally, travellers sailing with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines around the UK this summer are no longer required to carry a passport. A passenger may submit an alternative form of acceptable ID such as: an EU national ID card, driving licence, council-issued bus pass or travel cards, or firearms licences. Passports will remain an acceptable form of ID.