It is only a 20 minute ride to Edinburgh from South Queensferry and this outstanding city is a different proposition altogether. The incredible architecture and majestic buildings seem to spill over from the extinct volcano now known as Arthur’s Seat. Edinburgh Castle crowns the city on top of the hill and has done so for well over a thousand years. Scottish monarchs commissioned these grand buildings as demonstrations of their wealth, power and sophistication.

From North Berwick we pass the magnificent Bass Rock, an imposing volcanic island about a mile from the shore of the Firth of Forth. It features impressive bird and marine wildlife and a lighthouse.

Have your binoculars and cameras ready for the gannets flying to and fro, before they nestle atop the rock. You can also see the isolated and eerie “Scottish Alcatraz,” a long-disused prison.

As you sail along the edge of the Firth of Forth, you’ll be able to look over the Isle of May. This is home to a magical mix of noisy sea birds and seals, as well as many a Viking or smuggler’s tale.

In early summer, the cliffs are covered with nesting and often boisterous sea birds. This is also home to the unmistakable puffin and its signature brightly colored bill.

The unmistakable Scottish Highlands are shrouded in myth and folklore. Amid the conical hills and verdant glens beyond Inverness, one cannot help but scan Loch Ness for signs of its legendary monster.

Nearby is Culloden Moor is where Bonnie Prince Charlie was defeated and Cawdor Castle, which is forever linked with Macbeth. There are several famous whiskey distilleries in the region, too.

As the largest of the islands (Isle of Skye), this is an opportunity to take in the rugged scenery of the history-rich Inner Hebrides, with endless miles of unforgiving coastline and some impressive inland scenery.

Many have fought for control of this significant Gaelic island in the Inner Hebrides, mainly due to its strategic location, abundance of wildlife and its salmon-rich waters.

Greenock is your gateway to Glasgow, arguably Scotland’s most animating cultural city. It serves as a brilliant stepping-stone to some of Scotland’s most rugged and breathtaking scenery to the north. As you disembark at Greenock to explore Glasgow, you will likely be greeted by the stirring sights and sounds of a traditional Scottish pipe band in full tartan regalia.

Liverpool and its port was once home of Cunard Line. The Cunard Building, Royal Liver Building, and the Port of Liverpool Building, all on Pier Head, are often described as the city’s “Three Graces.”

Liverpool is vibrant and modern, but with a taste of the ‘60s. Take a ferry across the Mersey for some great harbor views, or a Magical Mystery Tour of the city, commemorating The Beatles.

Queen Mary 2 is a remarkable flagship, and her style and elegance are legendary. Above all, it‘s the space she offers and the luxury for you to do as little or as much as you wish which set her apart.

Welcome to a true icon. Our flagship is a truly astonishing liner and you’ll find an incredible sense of freedom in the space she offers. Whether you’re in the mood for complete relaxation or something more active, you can find it. Immerse yourself in enthralling entertainment, be indulged in the on board spa, or simply relax with a book in her vast library. You’ll discover remarkable craftsmanship in the elegant staterooms and suites and savoring her many sumptuous restaurants and bars is always a pleasure.