Sitting somewhere between England and France, the Channel Islands offer a charm that’s all their own. They’re known for their wild, windswept coastlines, delicious local seafood and mild climate.
On our northern European and Channel Islands cruises, we sail to St. Peter Port on the island of Guernsey, which is the second largest in this archipelago. Guernsey is home to miles of idyllic beaches and a rich history. On your Channel Islands cruise, you’ll discover scattered remnants of the past, from Victorian forts to Neolithic graves. In St. Peter Port itself, stroll through the winding venelles (passageways) lined with museums and world-class restaurants.
Your Channel Islands cruise will reveal a proudly independent archipelago, where natural wonders steal the show. Delve deeper into the history of these islands at the many immersive museums.
The well-preserved Castle Cornet has stood guard over St. Peter Port for over eight centuries. It’s seen it all: from the Napoleonic Wars to WWII. Take a wander around the ancient courtyards and passageways or check out one of the five on-site museums.
Speaking of museums, there are plenty to choose from in Guernsey. The Fort Grey and Shipwreck Museum makes for an interesting and educational afternoon. Learn all about the famous wrecks buried in the depths around Guernsey. There are plenty of salvaged objects on display to take a look at, too.
If you like your beaches rugged and secluded, you’ll love the coves and sandy stretches on the coastline of Guernsey. La Pied du Mur (also known as Marble Bay) is a salt-soaked rocky cove facing Sark and Herm. Sun bathers should head to Ladies Bay, while those looking to catch the waves can check out Vazon.
Discover the old-world charm of St. Peter Port on your Channel Islands cruise. Stroll the picturesque harbour, go souvenir shopping in the snaking cobbled streets and admire the formidable Castle Cornet.
Immerse yourself in the culture and history of this charming archipelago on your Channel Islands cruise with one of our shore excursions. Activities range from laidback walks to adrenaline-fuelled water-sports.
Explore the lush island of Sark, which is around 55 minutes from Guernsey by ferry. On a bicycle tour, you’ll take in miles of wild, unspoilt coastline and awe-inspiring cliffs, as well as the rolling inland countryside. Feel the mild wind blow past you as you experience this hidden gem from a unique vantage point.
Discover the lively and vibrant capital city of Guernsey. On our Juniper and Jewels tour, you’ll visit a gin cellar as well as a gold and silversmith showroom. Meanwhile on our German Occupation tour, you’ll learn more about the role of the port in WWII.
Get to know the unique eco-system of the Channel Islands and explore the surrounding waters by boat. You’ll have the chance to take an expedition by powerboat for an adrenaline pumping tour. Look out for seals, dolphins, whales and plenty of other wildlife.
The Channel Islands have their own bank notes: the Jersey pound and the Guernsey pound. Both are equivalent in terms of value to the UK pound. You can also use English money in the Channel Islands (just expect that you might be given change in Jersey/Guernsey money). All major debit and credit cards are accepted in most restaurants and shops, and ATMs are freely available, but it’s a good idea to take some cash with you just in case.
The Channel Islands have a Mediterranean-like, mild climate that’s generally warmer than the UK. We sail to the Channel Islands between May and September, when temperatures tend to hover around 20 degrees. If you’re going on a Channel Islands cruise in the summer, pack sun-cream, a sun hat and plenty of light, breathable layers to keep you cool. If you plan on joining us on some of our more active shore excursions, comfortable walking shoes and waterproofs are also a good idea.
