Hafen
Portland (UK)

One of Britain’s most iconic castles and the charming little village of Corfe are the highlights of this half day tour. Enjoy a scenic drive through the delightful countryside of Dorset County to the village of Corfe. Nearly all periods of history are celebrated in and around the village, which is unequalled in the UK.

Visit the ruins of Corfe Castle - the structure has been an important stronghold since before the time of William the Conqueror and was a royal castle during the medieval period. The dramatic ruins stand on a natural hill guarding the principal route through the Purbeck hills where marble was once quarried. Discover 1,000 years of history as a royal palace and fortress. With fallen walls and secret places, there are tales of treachery and treason around every corner.

After visiting the castle you’ll have time at leisure to explore the lovely little village. You’ll find small shops and pubs around the square. Much of the present day village was built in the 1700's to a consistently high standard of craftsmanship and has been used as the backdrop for several historical films.

Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door are two of the best known features of Dorset's Jurassic Coast and one of England’s greatest natural wonders – it is a UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. It spans 95 miles of stunning coastline with rock formations that are 185 million years old.

Put on your walking shoes and explore part of this fascinating coastline! The jaw-dropping scenery is a favorite destination for walkers and nature lovers, alike. Durdle Door is a natural limestone arch on the Jurassic Coast near Lulworth in Dorset. It is privately owned by the Welds, a family who own 12,000 acres (50 km2) in Dorset in the name of the Lulworth. In the distance, you’ll see Lulworth Castle.

Explore the intriguing site of Stonehenge, one of the most intriguing and ancient sites in England. Situated on a vast plain, the site is truly impressive - shrouded in magic and mystery.

Many believe this sacred site emanates a special atmosphere. Radiocarbon dating reveals this incredible monument was built around 5,000 years ago, during the Neolithic period. Although research tells us how Stonehenge was built, it is unable to tell us what its builders thought and believed, and remains one of the most enthralling mysteries in the world!

The question of who built Stonehenge remains largely unanswered although many attribute the monument to the Druids. Your guide will provide explanations and enable you to view the impressive stones up-close as well as provide you with some time to go to the visitor’s centre.

OVERVIEW

Enjoy an introductory look at Portland, the wild and naturally beautiful isle that marks the southernmost end of Dorset County’s fossil-rich Jurassic Coast. Thanks to the isle’s unique geology, creamy limestone created in the Jurassic Period has long been quarried there for buildings such as Buckingham Palace and St. Paul’s Cathedral in London and the United Nations headquarters in New York City. You will see that revered Portland stone up close at the Olympic Rings sculpture, which commemorates the 2012 Summer Olympics held in London and the sailing events held in Portland. At the very tip of the isle, you will find the Portland Bill lighthouse, which opened in 1906. During free time there, you might browse the visitor center and climb the 150 or so steps to the top of the beacon. The views from there are spectacle. Later, you will pass St. George’s Church, an 18th-century landmark built with Portland stone.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Settle in for a panoramic drive around the wild and wonderful isle of Portland.
• Snap photos of the Olympics Rings statue created to honor the 2012 Summer Olympics.
• Spend free time exploring the Portland Bill lighthouse at the isle’s rocky southern tip.
• See St. George’s Church, which was built in the 18th century with Portland limestone.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Magnificent Roman remains, Georgian architecture, a spring water spa and first-class shopping wait your discovery. The Romans got it right when they built this gem of a city, and you’ll understand why during your visit to Bath.

A 2-hour scenic drive takes you to there. A stroll through Bath is like visiting an open-air museum. Admire the charming Pulteney Bridge, built 1769-74, the only bridge in England with shops on both sides and which features three arches and a central Venetian window. Don’t miss the sweeping Royal Crescent, perhaps one of the most beautiful streets in England! The elegant city of Bath with its stately, honey colored Georgian architecture nestled amid rolling countryside, features among England’s most beautiful places to visit. The Romans transformed Bath into England’s first spa resort and it was revived as a chic spa town in the XVIII century.

Visit the Roman baths - from where this ancient city got its name. The Romans discovered Bath’s hot water springs more than 2,000 years ago. Follow your guide through the complex and and learn how the Romans enjoyed the thermal waters thousands of years ago. You’ll be surprised to discover just how big the site really is. During the day, enjoy free time for lunch or shopping or both.

OVERVIEW

Browse a collection of armored vehicles dating to World War I that clearly showcases the significance of tanks in combat over the past century. The British invented the tank in 1915 and following the Great War out-of-service tanks were stored at a military camp in Bovington. It wasn’t until the end of World War II that the Tank Museum officially opened there. Today, it houses a multitude of tanks from all over the world, including Little Willie, a prototype designed to cross the trenches that marked the battlefields of World War I. You can expect to see refurnished tanks from every decade and global conflict such as the Allies’ all-purpose Sherman and the workhorse German Panzer from World War II. Another highlight is the Centurion, an armored vehicle that was such a quintessential tank that it was used in the Iraq war of 2003, nearly six decades after it was introduced.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See a remarkable collection of restored armored vehicles in the Tank Museum.
• Discover how tank design has evolved since the first tank was used in World War I.
• Learn how tanks have shaped world history with their dominance on the battlefield.
• Hear accounts of soldiers that have operated tanks and faced them in combat.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Journey to England's ancient capital, Winchester - a city steeped in history that combines cosmopolitan elegance with rural charm. It offers world class architecture, award-winning pubs and restaurants, plus a wide variety of shops. Follow your guide and explore the centre of this ancient and royal city which still resounds to the echoes of its fabled past.

Admire Winchester Cathedral, dating back to the VII century when a Christian church was first built on this site. Since then it has played a fundamental part in the life of this ancient city and a key role in English history. Enjoy a unique experience of sacred architecture and art as well as an introduction to this important symbol of England. You’ll also visit Winchester Castle and its XIII century Great Hall. The Hall is home to one of the best-known symbols of medieval mythology, King Arthur’s Round Table. You’ll have time for lunch on your own and or some shopping.

Marvel at the exquisite and unique flora and fauna of the Abbotsbury Swannery and Subtropical Gardens during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Portland, Portland Bill, Southernmost Point of Dorset, Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens. En route, take in panoramic views of Portland Bill (weather-permitting), the southernmost point of Dorset, famous for its quarrying of Portland stone and rugged coastline. Established in 1765 by the first Countess of Ilchester as a kitchen garden for her nearby castle, Abbotsbury Gardens has evolved into a magnificent, approximately 20-acre (about eight-hectare) garden filled with rare and exotic plants from all over the world. Many of these plants were first introductions to this country, discovered by the plant-hunting descendants of the Countess.

Formal and Informal Gardens, Rare and Exotic Plants, Guided or Self-Guided Visit, Garden Café

After the great storm of 1990, many new exotic and unusual plants were introduced to Abbotsbury Gardens during its renovation, and it is now a mixture of formal and informal, charming walled garden walks and spectacular woodland valley views. World-famous for its camellia groves and magnolias, Abbotsbury Gardens is also noted for its superb rhododendron and hydrangea collections. Upon arrival, you can tour the gardens with the guide or explore them at your leisure. Should you feel hungry, homemade produce and refreshments are available at the Garden Café at your own expense. Following your visit, re-board your coach and continue on to the nearby Abbotsbury Swannery.

Abbotsbury Swannery, Colony of Swans, Cygnet-Feeding

The unique Abbotsbury Swannery is the only place in the world where you can walk through the heart of a colony of nesting mute swans. The Abbotsbury Swannery was established by Benedictine Monks, who built the Abbotsbury Monastery during the 1040s. The monks farmed the swans to produce food for their lavish banquets. St. Peter's Monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution; some of the ruins are still visible around St. Nicholas' Church in the village. From mid-May to late-June, hundreds of fluffy cygnets hatch from eggs in nests on or near the pathways. Feeding time is between 2 p.m.-4 p.m., and guests are invited to participate. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back through the hills and back to the pier.

Athelhampton is one of England’s finest Tudor Manor Houses. Step back in time and explore this award winning, historic house with its Great Hall (built in 1485), an outstanding collection of English furniture from Jacobean to Victoria and a gallery showing artwork by the Russian artist Marevna. The stunning architectural gardens were built in 1891 and are full of exquisite planting and a recurring water theme throughout and the famous yew pyramids.

Depart Portland through Dorset’s countryside to Cerne Abbas. Here you will have a photo stop opportunity.

Continue to the award winning, historic Athelhampton House. Built in 1485, romantic Athelhampton House’s chief glory is the Great Hall, which is one of the finest examples of 5th Century domestic architecture in the country. Famous author Thomas Hardy’s father, a builder, was involved in restoration works to the Great Hall and West Wing roofs in the 19th Century and it was during these times that Thomas Hardy himself first visited Athelhampton at the tender age of 19.

On arrival sit back and relax to enjoy your Dorset cream Tea. Next; visit the inside of the house at your leisure, view the richly furnished and decorated rooms which all retain their original period features and contents.  Afterwards take time to marvel at the magnificent gardens which are full of variety.  Laid down in 1891 the Grade 1 listed gardens contain famous Topiary pyramids as well as a stunning collection of Magnolias, roses and seasonal plants. Enjoy a stroll along the river walk to the ancient Dovecote.

Located on Poole Harbour, RSPB Arne protects an important area of lowland heath which is home to many rare species of animal and plant. Covering more than 565 hectares, it is one of the best places to spot the Dartford warbler, the species that inspired the RSPB to look after Arne as a nature reserve.

After transferring to the RSPB Arne by coach, join our Silversea Expedition Team for a guided nature walk. More specific information and logistics will be communicated by the Expedition Team on board.  

Delight in an exclusive tour of Minterne House with Lord Digby. The estate is nestled in 1,300 acres of beautiful Dorset countryside and is described by Simon Jenkins in his book England’s 1,000 Best Houses as a "corner of paradise." Minterne House has been the home of the Churchill and Digby families for the last 350 years and is currently the seat of the 12th Lord Digby.

Begin your visit with a warm welcome at Minterne House, where you will be greeted with light refreshments upon arrival. Enjoy the serene ambiance of this historic estate as you prepare for your exclusive experience. Take a personal tour of the historic house with Lord Digby, and explore the extensive grounds, which feature unique gardens and a stunning array of rhododendrons, azaleas, and other botanical delights. Learn about the designs and planting philosophy that make these gardens a true horticultural gem. There will also be an opportunity to engage in a question-and-answer session with Lord Digby, delving deeper into the history of Minterne House.

Lord Digby will host a two-course lunch in the Churchill Tapestry dining room, where he will continue to fascinate you with stories from his beautiful home.

After lunch, re-board the coach for the journey back through the beautiful English countryside to Portland Port, with a photo stop at the Cerne Abbas Giant, also known as the 'Rude Man.' The Cerne Abbas Giant is one of the largest hill figures in Britain, known for its obvious sexuality and virility, which also plays an important part in fertility folk magic and local culture and folklore.

The Jurassic Coast has some of the most stunning scenery in the UK with natural arches, limestone stacks, and towering cliffs.

After transferring to the Jurassic Coast by coach, join our Silversea Expedition Team and explore the spectacular natural beauty and timeless charm of the area on-foot. More specific information and logistics will be communicated by the Expedition Team on board.  

Explore the spectacular natural beauty and timeless charm of the Jurassic Coast on-foot during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Portland, Jurassic Coast, Durdle Door, Rock Arch, Beach, Caves, Green Fields, Limestone Cliffs

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to Dorset, and a visit to the Durdle Door. The Durdle Door, with its massive rock arch, is nestled on the Jurassic Coast. In addition to the Durdle Door, this picturesque locale is home to a sloping beach for bathing, caves and exciting rock strata. Green fields, rugged chalk cliffs and pebbled beaches dominate this stretch of the Dorset Coast Path.

About Durdle Door, Free Time

The natural arch of Durdle Door is a physical feature of the area which has retained its name for over 1,000 years, showing that the coast does not change very rapidly. The natural arch, also known as the 'barn-door', is formed in Purbeck limestone and sufficiently high enough for a good-sized sailing boat to pass through. Upon arrival, some free time is made available to explore your surrounds at your leisure, and take in the splendid views and photo opportunities.

Lulworth Cove, Cottages, Fishing Boats, Wildflowers, Quaint Shops, Tea Rooms, Free Time

Next, proceed for a guided stroll to Lulworth Cove, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its thatched cottages, fishing boats, lobster pots, wildflowers, quaint little gift shops, and tearooms, the charm of Lulworth Cove is timeless. Upon arrival, some free time is made available for independent sightseeing, shopping, exploration and morning refreshments (at your own expense), along with a wealth of exquisite views and photo opportunities. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach for the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier, with panoramic views of Portland Bill (weather-permitting) en route.

A small Langham Vineyard was John Langham’s personal passion. Having acquired the magnificent Bingham’s Melcombe manor house in 1980, it became the centre point for the Langham Agricultural Enterprise. Today, together with his son Justin Langham, the estate has been built up to over 1000 hectares of land, including the Langham Vineyard, now producing some of Dorset’s best wines.

With the ideal south facing microclimate, Langham offers the perfect conditions for nurturing and ripening of the Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grape varieties. Their focus on reducing chemical intervention in the vineyard has created a canopy style management, promoting biological control organisms to keep the effects of disease to a minimum.

Once you arrive at Langham settle down for your picnic lunch. After eating, join a member of the Langham Wine Estate family for a 2 hour Guided Tour of the vineyard, winery, and cellar with a dedicated guide before having the pleasure of a tutored tasting feature. Learn about the fusion of old and new technology from the growing stage all the way through to the bottling stage. After your tour and tasting, enjoy a stroll around the Gift Shop.

Discover the Isle of Portland on this brief scenic tour.

The Isle of Portland

The Isle of Portland sits strategically in the centre of the UNESCO Jurassic Coast.  Steeped in history and famous for its distinctive stone, Portland is connected to the mainland by a long causeway formed by the famous 18-mile-long Chesil beach.  Once a self-governing region, the ancient Royal Manor of Portland is home to one of the largest natural harbours in Europe.  Maritime heritage dating back many hundreds of years is therefore evident at every turn.  From the harbour itself, fortified in the 16^th Century by King Henry VIII to the DDay Mulberry Harbours floating in the port to this day.  Behind Chesil beach, by the mainland, runs the long shallow Fleet lagoon.   Now a nature reserve, this was once the site of Barnes Wallace's testing range for the bouncing bombs.

Portland itself is formed of very special geology; rich in fossils, the quarries here have produced the valuable stone for many of the country's principal buildings. Sir Christopher Wren used six million tons of Portland stone to rebuild London after the Great Fire of 1666.  St Paul's Cathedral, Whitehall, The Cenotaph, Buckingham Palace and numerous other iconic buildings are formed from this isle!

Portland Castle

During an overview of Portland, see Henry VIII's Portland Castle, neatly guarding the harbour before continuing up to “Tophill” via the small town of Fortuneswell.  At the top, pause for fine views of The Jurassic Coast at Portland Heights and hear about the famous prison, the high level gun batteries and how the hill is completely hollow!  In the distance (on a good day!) see Lulworth and Durdle Door.

Portland Museum

Continue through the townships of Easton and Wakeham, flanked by quarries, before pausing outside the quaint Portland Museum.  Founded in 1930 by Dr Marie Stopes, the famous birth control pioneer, it is housed in two picturesque, thatched Portland Stone cottages, nestling above Church Ope Cove. Inspired by one of these cottages, Wessex author, Thomas Hardy, made it the home of Avice, the heroine in "The Wellbeloved", one of his last novels.  Nearby, the remains of William Rufus'

15^th -century castle guards the cove below.

Portland Bill lighthouse

Travelling to the southerly tip of Portland arrive at famous Portland Bill lighthouse.  Successive lighthouses have been built here to warn mariners of the treacherous Portland Race, where the currents combine and mingle fiercely in impressive style at every change of the tide.  Enjoy some free time to take in the views and sea air before continuing the circuit of the isle to Weston.

Here the still-active quarries offer a dusting of white to the land!  Learn of Portland's own breed of sheep and enjoy fine views of Chesil beach and the quarry workings dating back hundreds of years. Pause at impressive St George's Church, built of local stone in 1754, before you continue your brief Portland overview down the hill again and back to the port.

Wir freuen uns, dass Sie mit Mein Schiff ® sowohl die landschaftliche Schönheit als auch die faszinierenden Metropolen, romantischen Schlösser und die kulturelle Vielfalt Großbritanniens entdecken möchten. So wie für viele andere Reiseziele gilt auch hier: andere Länder, andere Sitten.

Trotz der Nähe Großbritanniens zu deutschsprachigen Ländern stehen in vielen Häfen nicht genügend deutschsprachige Reiseleiter zur Verfügung. In diesem Fall werden Ausflüge in englischer Sprache durchgeführt. Wann immer möglich, werden auf Englisch durchgeführte Ausflüge von einem deutschsprachigen Mein Schiff ® Ausflugsexperten begleitet, der die wichtigsten Informationen des Reiseleiters sinngemäß ins Deutsche übersetzt.

Für jene Gäste, die Freude an der englischen Sprache haben und Informationen zu Land und Leuten gern in der Landessprache Englisch bekommen möchten, wird in den meisten Häfen ein Ausflug auf Englisch angeboten. Diese Ausflüge führt jeweils ein englischsprachiger örtlicher Reiseleiter durch - auf Übersetzungen ins Deutsche wird dabei bewusst verzichtet.

Obwohl einige Ausflüge bewusst in englischer Sprache angeboten werden, behält sich der örtliche Ausflugsveranstalter vor, auch andere Ausflüge des nachfolgenden Ausflugsprogramms auf Englisch durchzuführen.

Für leidenschaftliche Radfahrer und sportlich Aktive! Bei den Bike-Aktiv-Touren bezwingen Sie Berge und erleben sportliche Abenteuer.
Freuen Sie sich schon jetzt auf die wohlverdienten Pausen auf Ihrer ausgiebigen Tour.

Sobald Sie den Hafen verlassen haben, fahren Sie über 10 Serpentinen auf die mit 140 Metern höchste Erhebung von Portland. Sportlich geht es weiter südlich zum Portland Bill Lighthouse für eine erste größere Pause. Nachdem Sie die felsige Umgebung erkundet haben, fahren Sie weiter durch kleine Ortschaften über die 180 Meter schmale Landbrücke in die Weymouth Bay an Englands beliebtesten und fast 5 km langen Sandstrand. Entlang der Promenade gibt es unzählige Geschäfte, Bars und Restaurants. Nach Ihrer ausgiebigen Pause fahren Sie entlang der Küste in das Hinterland, um auf dem Rückweg mit einem Besuch im Portland Castle Ihren Ausflug zu beenden.

Wir stellen Ihnen hochwertige Bikes, Helm und Rucksack. Für zu Hause auch im Mein Schiff ® Online-Shop bestellbar.