Your Ireland expedition with the HANSEATIC nature begins in an unusual place – on the Iberian peninsula. The Celtic culture stretched this far until almost 2,000 years ago and its legacy is still deeply rooted in the lives of the Galicians in La Coruna. The pilgrimage site of Santiago de Compostela*, a monument to the Romanesque, early Gothic and baroque periods, is a timeless destination for pilgrims worldwide.

The influence of the Celts on culture, religion and the Way of St James will be explained by the experts on board before you arrive in the Isles of Scilly. One day, two islands: Tresco in the “English South Seas” is fascinating on a walk through Abbey Garden with its subtropical plants. The picturesque coastal landscape on the neighbouring island of St Mary’s is perfect for walking. On the subsequent cruise through the Celtic Sea, your anticipation of the circumnavigation of Ireland will increase with every nautical mile.

The rolling hills extend as far as the eye can see. The white misty spray rises up the steep cliffs. Picturesque harbour towns and mighty castles have a history to tell. Every destination on your expedition will help you to get to know the Irish soul better. The HANSEATIC nature prepares the ground for you in Cork. From the ship’s mooring point in the centre of the city, you will be able to experience the light-hearted attitude towards life in the narrow streets of Victorian houses. History is set in stone at the monumental Rock of Cashel*. The medieval castle was the home of the kings of Munster and later became an archbishop’s seat. Legend has it that it is also home to fairies and ghosts. The route takes you through lush green scenery to old fortifications and an idyllic port when you visit Charles Fort and Kinsale*. Here, the Irish defeat by the English invaders in the 17th century destroyed the Irish hopes for independence. On a cruise on the River Lee, enjoy the best views from the many open deck spaces.

In the south-west of Ireland, the colourful town of Bantry sits on the network of inlets that make up Bantry Bay, featuring charming narrow streets and houses in Georgian and Victorian style. Benefiting from the Gulf Stream, the town even has palm trees and agaves, which are well worth discovering on a stroll. The architectural landmark is Bantry House, a grand 18th-century building where you can explore terraced gardens and enjoy marvellous panoramic views. How do you picture the “most fantastic and impossible rock in the world”? This is how the Nobel prizewinner for literature, George Bernard Shaw, described the island of Great Skellig, which you too can admire from the ship and, depending on the wind and weather conditions, from the Zodiacs. At the top of the island, you can see the beehive huts built by the monks. The sister island of Little Skellig is home to the world’s second-largest colony of gannets. Together with puffins, the gannets use this rocky island as a nesting place.

The Dingle Peninsula is extremely appealing and not just because of its beautiful scenery. It is one of the Gaeltachts, or areas in which Gaelic is still widely spoken, and many of the old traditions still live on. A tour of the Ring of Dingle* shows off an impressive combination of Ireland’s many facets, taking in green hills, steep rocky cliffs and impressive mountain passes. Alternatively, a hike along the Irish pilgrim route* is equally inspiring, taking you over hill and dale, along fuchsia-coloured hedges and to the foot of Mount Brandon. Great Blasket Island* is so untouched that you can really enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the beaches and cliffs.

See the “works of art” created by erosion as you cruise off the Cliffs of Moher. The power of the crashing waves has eroded hollows into the rock, with parts of the cliff crashing down to form the 200 m (650 ft) high coastline. On the Aran Islands, you can see fascinating prehistoric artefacts, which your experts will tell you some interesting facts about on a hike.

The Glenveagh National Park* near Killybegs is full of surprising panoramas. Explore the wilderness with its lakes, oak forest and the historic Glenveagh estate. Alternatively, you can embark on a spectacular hike to the cliffs of Slieve League*– amongst the highest in Ireland at over 600 m (1,970 ft).

Rathlin Island is a wonderful place to see kittiwakes and puffins.

Belfast gives you an insight into the heart of Northern Ireland. The city is closely linked with the history of the Titanic*, which was launched from here. Discover the award-winning museum that tells the story of the famous ship. Another masterpiece of engineering can be seen at the Gobbins coastal walk on the cliff face*: bridges, steps and tunnels take you to enjoy amazing views of the sea. The Giant’s Causeway* is a geological marvel. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of over 37,000 mainly hexagonal basalt columns – symbolic of your Ireland cruise with its many multifaceted details. Explore the lively city center with its stores, restaurants and the impressive architecture of the Town Hall. Take a Black Taxi Tour to learn more about the conflicts in Northern Ireland or explore the breathtaking scenery of the Mourne Mountains.