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Scotland & Ireland Golf Expedition (RCGS Resolute)

Scotland & Ireland Golf Expedition (RCGS Resolute)

From USD $4,595

Description

No places are as linked to the history of golf as Scotland and Ireland. The earliest mention of golf is a 1457 Scottish Act of Parliament where, ironically, it was banned because it distracted from the military sport of archery! Today more than a dozen of the World’s Top 100 Courses (Golf Digest) can be found in the region, a pedigree we are proud to match with the advanced capability and comfort of our expedition ship – RCGS Resolute.

This expedition offers a totally unique take on a traditional golfing holiday. Not only does your ‘floating hotel’ negate the need for constant packing and unpacking, but you’ll also enjoy breathtaking views and convenient access to the golf courses, as we shuttle you effortlessly from one to the next.

Our voyage begins in Dublin. From here we sail north to play The Royal County Down, consistently ranked in the top five courses in the world. We then sail up the west coast of Scotland, passing the picturesque islands of Islay, Mull and Skye and playing golf at the hidden gems of Macrihanish and Askernish. Further north we spend a day in the Orkney Islands before sailing south to Inverness, where we have access to
two outstanding courses. At Aberdeen we find ourselves on the doorstep of both Cruden Bay and the Royal Aberdeen, our final courses before the journey ends in Edinburgh.

Non-golfers will also have plenty to do, with quaint Celtic seaside towns to explore, bike rides, afternoon hikes and some delicious afternoon teas.

Trip Name
Scotland & Ireland Golf Expedition (RCGS Resolute)
Days
8
Overview
Vessel Type: Polar Expedition Vessel Passenger Capacity: 146 Built: 1993 Named after the HMS Resolute, a British Royal Navy Arctic exploration vessel, as well as the Inuit town of Resolute in Canada’s Nunavut Territory, RCGS Resolute will arrive in Canada in November 2018 for its inaugural polar voyage. RCGS Resolute also carries the name of The Royal Canadian Geographical Society (RCGS), since we are exclusive education, environmental science, and expedition partners in Canada’s north. This longstanding partnership works to the benefit of our guests, who have the opportunity to learn from and interact with world-renowned educators, researchers, naturalists, marine biologists, artists, historians and photographers. With an unsurpassed ice classification, a proven track record for stability and safety, large indoor and outdoor viewing platforms, and exceptional maneuverability, RCGS Resolute is ideally equipped to guide guests through the world’s most pristine regions, further expanding our expertise in exploration and discovery. RCGS Resolute will carry a maximum of 146 passengers in unparalleled comfort, with an array of luxury amenities, educational opportunities and activities tailored to guests’ particular interests, and individual, personalized service.  Superb Design and Layout. Throughout the ship there are spaces ideally suited to every need. Spacious outer decks provide 360 degree viewing platforms perfect for photography, wildlife watching, birding and appreciating expansive views.  The salt water plunge pool, large relaxation deck, hot water jacuzzi are all located aft of the wellness centre (massage therapy, Finnish Sauna, steam room) and well equipped gymnasium.  Inside there are multiple areas to explore ranging from our well appointed theatre style presentation room, aft observation lounge and bar, forward observation lounge and bar, and both dining rooms. Add in the One Ocean Expeditions multimedia room, and mobile laboratory and the opportunities are endless.  Six Different Cabin Categories. All cabins feature outside viewing ranging from deck three traditional with port holes, up to decks 4 through 6 offering expansive panoramic windows.  Cabins all have lower berths that have the ability to be single beds, or 1 double bed depending on our guests needs.  Extensive renovations have provided new carpets, high quality cabinetry with soft close drawers, contemporary and spacious bathroom design, all paired with soft accent lighting offering options dependant on our guests daily activities and mood. All cabins offer modern sectional lounge quarters, providing a quiet nook to read or catch up on journalling.  Space is exceptional as each cabin offers 22M squared living space, whilst the One Ocean Suites are absolutely palatial offering 44M squared with enough room to entertain or do back - flips (your choice)! Enjoy Great Dining? So do we. At One Ocean Expeditions, the priority is on the expedition.  However with every activity, option, event, or excursion we find we build up incredible appetites to indulge in superb and extensive menu options.  Our bistro dining room provides early birds the option to get their social caffeine or smoothy start to the day, accompanied by light breakfast style snacks.  Full meal service includes buffet breakfast and lunches incorporating an international flare.  For those with special dietary requirements - no problem, we can accommodate that too.  Dinner is a great opportunity to catch up about the day’s events, as well as look to where we expect to explore next.  Five course menu options are offered a la carte, and seating is open in our business casual dining room featuring 180 degree sweeping views.  There’s also an excellent wine list featuring a range of international wines and other beverages of choice.  Join us on the Bridge. There is an open-bridge policy and guests are welcome to meet the navigating crew at virtually any time of day; there’s always something to learn from the officers on watch and the bridge is one of the best places on the ship for spotting whales and sea birds.  The bridge is closed during times of tricky navigation, pilotage, or weather. Operational Safety. There are no compromises here. The expedition staff and crew onboard RCGS Resolute have the deepest respect for changeable weather in the polar regions and the varying sea and ice conditions. That respect is apparent in every decision made throughout the voyage. The ship carries the most extensive inventory of safety equipment on all excursions and require leaders to undergo vigorous and effective safety training programs. Your expedition team are well prepared, so you can relax and enjoy your voyage.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Dublin, Ireland
Our epic journey begins this afternoon in Dublin. We gather at our central meeting point then transfer to the pier for embarkation. Once on board and settled in our rooms we enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner before casting off and heading north, up the rugged Irish coast.
Day 2 - Day 2 Newcastle, Northern Ireland
During the night we will have sailed north to Newcastle (Ireland) home of The Royal County Down Golf Club; Currently ranked the #1 course in the world by Golf Digest magazine. For non-golfers it is a chance to explore a quaint Irish seaside town. In addition to the shops and pubs, we’ll have the option to bike or transfer to Tollymore Forest Park. On our way back to the ship we can stop at Enniskeen Country House for a traditional afternoon tea.
Day 3 - Day 3 Campbeltown, Scotland
Our first stop in Scotland will be to play either Machrihanish (#61) or adjacent Machrihanish Dunes. These two courses are naturally maintained – so much so, that you may see the odd Hebridean black sheep wandering through the rough. The Dunes is also home to a spa for those who need a little pampering. The peaceful village of nearby Campbeltown was once known as the “whisky capital of the world” as it was home to 34 distilleries. Only three remain today and are all worth a visit.
Day 4 - Day 4 The Hebridean Islands, Scotland
Today we wake up anchored off the shores of South Uist, the second largest island of the Outer Hebrides. Awaiting the golfers is another course of great historical significance; 'The Lost Course'. A true links course providing a challenging test, we play through beautiful rolling dunes alongside the bracing Atlantic Ocean. Golf is not the only history on these ancient isle. Those up for a hike can explore the beautiful white sand beaches while searching for the mysterious Standing Stones. Cyclists can stretch their legs and take in part of the 300km Hebridean Way.
Day 5 - Day 5 Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland
Today we anchor at the beautiful seaside town of Kirkwall, capital of the Orkney Islands. Wander through town exploring local crafts, art galleries, an unexpected collection of silversmith artists, or perhaps a tour and tasting at the Highland Park Distillery! A visit to St. Magnus Cathedral is an absolute ‘must’. Later in the day we head to Skara Brae, an outstanding Neolithic village and UNESCO World Heritage Site established over 5000 years ago. While there is a golf course in Kirkwall, golfers may want to take the day off to conserve their energy for the next two days of golfing challenges.
Day 6 - Day 6 Inverness, Scotland
From our anchorage in Inverness we transfer to play a choice of two courses. Castle Stuart (#53) has dramatic views over the Moray Firth out to the Black Isle. The Royal Dornoch (#2) officially opened in 1616, but the current club was established in 1886 by Old Tom Morris. If you have an interest in local history we’ll head to Culloden Moor, where the Jacobites fought their final battle in 1745. The more curious in the group may want to take a day trip to Loch Ness for a chance viewing of 'Nessie' - the Loch Ness Monster.
Day 7 - Day 7 Aberdeen, Scotland
We anchor today at Aberdeen, where again we have the choice of playing two different courses – Cruden Bay (#56) or the historic Balgownie course at Royal Aberdeen (#71). Those playing Cruden Bay will again find themselves walking in the footsteps of course designer Old Tom Morris. The Royal Aberdeen Golf Club was founded in 1780 and is the sixth oldest golf club in the world. The course hosted the Scottish Open in 2014, won by England's Justin Rose. The green is surrounded by no less than 10 bunkers and wayward tee shots will be punished.
Day 8 - Day 8 Edinburgh, Scotland
This morning we arrive at Edinburgh, the Scottish capital and your disembarkation point. A transfer to downtown Edinburgh, and Edinburgh Airport, is provided for all guests, however Edinburgh is well worth a day or two of exploration if your schedule allows. For those wanting to crown the voyage with a round at St. Andrews, this can be easily done from Edinburgh, and can be arranged at the time of your booking through our golf expert in Scotland.
Day 9 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
06-06-202013-06-2020USD $4,595Triple Private
06-06-202013-06-2020USD $5,595Twin Private
06-06-202013-06-2020USD $6,495Superior
06-06-202013-06-2020USD $6,695Superior Plus
06-06-202013-06-2020USD $7,895Shackleton Suite
06-06-202013-06-2020USD $9,495One Ocean Suite

Inclusions

    • Play six of the world’s Top 100 golf courses
    • in the birthplace of golf
    • Enjoy a unique coastal journey through Ireland and Scotland including the Outer Hebrides
    • Experience Scottish history from its famous clans and subtle whiskies, to 5000 year old Neothithic ruins and Celtic churches
    • Relax and enjoy the superb facilities and amenities on board RCGS Resolute

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