A cruise around the British Isles is possibly the ultimate way to see the major cities of Britain and Ireland and allows you to visit all of those places you just didn't have the time to see. Step aboard and you'll see so many fascinating ports from the White Cliffs of Dover to the Orkney Islands in supreme comfort and style.

Many British Isles cruises depart from Southampton, which has great rail and motorway links and is within easy reach of Southampton airport, Gatwick and Heathrow. However, a wide range of local ports, such as Harwich, Greenock and Hull may well provide a better, and more stress-free, option.

Soak up the unmistakable Scottish Highlands, shrouded in myth and folklore. Explore the picturesque fishing villages of Fife from the port of Rosyth, the scenic bay of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull and, amidst conical hills and verdant glens, seek out Loch Ness and scan its glassy surface for the legendary 'monster' at Invergordon.

Belfast, Capital of Northern Ireland, has much to offer, from its grand building to the mythical Giant’s Causeway. Across the border, Dublin is a city which has experienced somewhat of a renaissance to become one of Europe’s premier travel destinations with a gracious and cosmopolitan city. A British Isles cruise may also include Cork's most famous attraction, the legendary Blarney Stone.

Further south, the Channel Islands offer a mild climate, breathtaking scenery and a peaceful, unspoiled ambiance. Guernsey enjoys nearly 2,000 hours of sunshine annually, making it one of the sunniest places in the British Isles.

Of course, a cruise is by no means the only way to explore the fantastic sights closer to home. A tour of our great nation will help you uncover major attractions you've never got around to visiting, as well as unveiling some hidden gems that you didn't know were so close to home. Choose a night at a London theatre, a weekend on the Jurassic Coast or a week off radar in a cosy Scottish bothy.