DETAILS
Sail around the Emerald Isle at the height of spring, when gardens are in full bloom and the landscapes of Ireland and Northern Ireland are especially lush and green. Aboard the intimate 72-cabin Exploris One, explore UNESCO landmarks, coastal villages, and the wild beauty of the Atlantic coast with expert guides and warm Irish hospitality.
- Pricing from
- $8,990
- Trip Type
- Group Travel Tour, International Ocean & Sea Voyages
- Departure Dates
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May 20, 2026 - May 30, 2026
Previously known as the Silver Explorer and owned by Silversea Cruises, Exploris One began her new life with the French company Exploris Expeditions in 2023. Having known this vessel for many years, we know her to be ideal for small ship cruising; for our exclusive charter, we will be accommodating just 120 guests on board, including staff. The vessel’s shallow draft will allow us to navigate in areas that larger ships would not be able to access and whilst cruising, the vessel benefits from spacious deck areas from where you can watch for passing wildlife and admire the beautiful scenery.
Exploris One, renovated in 2023, combines adventure and an exceptional level of comfort. The 60 staterooms and 12 suites are all outside and finished to high standards. Equipped with 12 zodiacs, all passengers disembark to explore the region at one time. Le Grand Restaurant and the Outdoor Grill offer refined French and International cuisine. The Grand Salon and Panoramic Lounge provide opportunities for breathtaking views. Additional onboard amenities include a dedicated conference room for lectures, hair salon, fitness center, massage room, sauna, and two hot tubs.
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John Meffert
John Meffert, consultant on Heritage Conservation Services, has a long tradition with the National Trust. He has served as the Director for our Southern Office and was the director of the Preservation Society of Charleston, the oldest nonprofit organization in the United States, responsible for preserving the historic resources of Charleston, S.C. John has delighted many study tour groups with his lectures and insights on preservation, and receives rave reviews as study leader.
Upon payment of the $1,000 per person deposit, all reservations are subject to the cancellation provisions set forth below and by which the passenger agrees to be bound. Cancellations shall not be in effect until they are received in writing and confirmed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Deposits are refundable (less a $250 per person administration fee) if written notice of cancellation is received within 30 days of reservation; after that, deposits are 100% nonrefundable. After final payment deadline all payments are 100% nonrefundable, regardless of booking date. Trip cancellation insurance is strongly recommended. NOTE: Neither the
National Trust Tours nor Criterion Travel, the tour operator, accepts liability for any airline cancellation penalties incurred with the purchase of non-refundable tickets.
TOUR MAP
ITINERARY
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day 1 & 2
Depart home city for Dublin, Ireland
Depart the U.S. on an overnight flight to Dublin, Ireland. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel with time to settle in or stretch your legs on an optional guided walking tour of this vibrant capital city. This evening attend a welcome orientation and reception at the hotel.
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day 3
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Begin the day with your choice of two exceptional excursions. Option one visits Hillsborough Castle & Gardens, the official Northern Ireland residence of the British monarch. Explore its elegant Georgian architecture and fascinating royal and political legacy, then enjoy a guided tour of the estate’s remarkable gardens led by one of Hillsborough’s expert gardeners. Option two takes you to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Newgrange, a Neolithic passage tomb that predates both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza. Afterward, continue to Belfast for lunch at The Morning Star, a beloved, award-winning pub and restaurant that has been family-owned since 1810. Board Exploris One later in the afternoon and gather for the Captain’s welcome reception and dinner. End the evening with lively onboard entertainment featuring traditional Irish music and dance.
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day 4
Belfast
Begin the day with a morning lecture, then set out on a guided tour of Belfast, Northern Ireland’s capital. Visit the Titanic Museum, an engaging exhibition located on the site where the famous ship was built, offering powerful insight into its history and legacy. In the afternoon, choose from three curated experiences. Option one is a visit to Mount Stewart House and Gardens, a stately home with some of the most renowned gardens in Northern Ireland. Option two is a whiskey-focused excursion to one of Belfast’s top distilleries, where you’ll learn about the heritage and process of Irish whiskey-making, followed by a guided tasting. Option three invites you to explore Belfast’s complex political past on a Black Cab tour led by local guides, featuring the city’s iconic murals and peace walls. This evening, enjoy dinner aboard Exploris One or take the opportunity to dine ashore and experience Belfast’s vibrant restaurant scene or traditional pub culture.
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day 5
Lisahally
From our berth in Lisahally, choose between two enriching morning excursions. The first takes you to the UNESCO-designated Giant’s Causeway, where you’ll stroll among over 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns shaped by ancient volcanic activity, an awe-inspiring natural wonder steeped in legend. Explore both the science and folklore of this dramatic coastal site at the visitor center, then take in the rugged cliffs and crashing waves. Alternatively, discover the historic city of Derry-Londonderry, Ireland’s only fully intact walled city dating back to the 17th century. Walk along its ramparts for sweeping views and delve into the city’s rich past. Highlights include St. Columb’s Cathedral, a landmark since 1633, and the Tower Museum, which features interactive exhibits illuminating the area’s heritage. Afterward, return to the ship for a leisurely afternoon at sea while our lecture series continues.
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day 6
Killybegs
Today is a full day in County Donegal, a captivating region in Ireland’s northwest known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. You may choose between two excursions. The first is a visit to Glenveagh National Park, where majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and lush valleys surround a 19th-century castle and its woodland gardens. The second option is a scenic drive through the Glen Colmcille area, featuring visits to the Folk Museum and Salthill Gardens. Located just 200 yards from the sea, this historic walled garden has been carefully transformed by master gardener Elizabeth Temple into a truly special retreat.
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day 7
Inishmore Aran Islands/ Galway
After a morning lecture, go ashore on remote Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands, inhabited since the Stone Age. Gaelic remains the native language here, and many ancient traditions continue. Explore the island’s windswept limestone landscape, visit a local goat cheese farm for a tasting, and tour Dún Aonghasa, a dramatic prehistoric cliffside fort overlooking the Atlantic. This afternoon, arrive in Galway, known for its seaside setting, traditional music, cobbled streets, festivals, and vibrant cultural scene. Enjoy a guided orientation of the city, then take free time with the option to dine ashore independently or experience Galway’s lively traditional music venues.
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day 8
Galway, Connemara National Park & Cliffs of Moher
Today, immerse yourself in the landscapes and stories of western Ireland with a choice of two unforgettable full-day excursions.
One option takes you deep into the heart of Connemara, where you’ll visit the stunning Kylemore Abbey to explore its beautifully restored interiors and Victorian walled gardens. Continue to the stately Ballynahinch Castle, where a picnic lunch, guided tour, and time to roam the idyllic grounds offer a relaxing and scenic afternoon.
Alternatively, journey to Kiltumper, the private garden of acclaimed Irish writer Niall Williams, whose work beautifully reflects the spirit of Ireland’s countryside. After a local lunch, head to Burren National Park, where rare wildflowers, ancient tombs, and otherworldly limestone formations reveal a landscape shaped by both nature and history.
Return to the ship in the late afternoon and gather on deck for a special sundowner cruise along the Cliffs of Moher, watching the sunlight fade across one of Ireland’s most iconic coastlines. -
day 9
Valentina/ Skellig Islands
As our lecture series continues this morning, the ship makes its way to Valentia Island, located off the scenic Kerry Peninsula. Upon arrival, choose between two morning excursions. One option offers a guided stroll through Glanleam Gardens, a rare subtropical haven where plants from New Zealand, Chile, and the Himalayas flourish in the mild climate created by the Gulf Stream. The other option features a guided walk to Bray Head, rewarding hikers with sweeping views of the Atlantic, the Skellig Islands, and dramatic coastal cliffs.
Both excursions allow time to explore the village of Knightstown, known for its picturesque harbor, colorful buildings, and welcoming local character.
This afternoon, arrive near The Skelligs, tiny islands just off the dramatic Dingle Peninsula coast, to view Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and early Christian monastery. -
day 10
Cobh
This morning, you’ll arrive in Cobh, a picturesque harbor town steeped in history as the final departure point for countless Irish emigrants. Choose from three enriching experiences:
Option 1: Visit Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens – a magnificent Regency estate celebrated for its elegant architecture and sprawling grounds filled with rare and exotic plant species. Stroll through beautifully designed landscapes that reflect generations of botanical care.
Option 2: Explore the vibrant coastal town of Kinsale, renowned for its brightly painted buildings and reputation as Ireland’s culinary capital. Enjoy a guided walk that includes tastings of local delicacies, followed by free time to discover the town’s charming shops and cafés.
Option 3: Stay close to the port and discover the maritime heritage of Cobh. Walk directly from your ship to the Titanic Experience, delving into the town’s rich history.
In the afternoon, return to the ship for a leisurely sail and take in the coastal views before gathering for the Captain’s farewell reception and dinner.
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day 11
Dublin
Disembark in Dublin for flights home or stay on in Dublin post-cruise extension.
Everything you need to know about the tour
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