For the first time, Crystal Cruises will sail to and from Dublin, Ireland for two Northern Europe cruises exploring the British Isles this summer.  The new, seven-day itineraries sail between Dublin and London aboard the award-winning Crystal Serenity, exploring the rolling green countryside; medieval monuments, castles and bustling pubs of Ireland and Scotland; England’s maritime history; and even the area’s Viking heritage. Travelers wanting more than seven days have the option to combine the two cruises for a 14-day voyage, roundtrip from London.
 
“CASTLES & KILTS”: August 19, London to Dublin
 
Travelers can immerse themselves in Great Britain and Northern Europe’s vast Viking and maritime heritage, with visits to:
 •Newcastle upon Tyne, England (Crystal’s first-ever call there)
 •Edinburgh, Scotland (ship overnights there)
 •The prominent maritime hub of Stavanger, Norway
 •The former Viking kingdom of Douglas, Isle of Man
 
Lord Andrew Mawson will also be aboard as a World Affairs expert.
 
“EMERALD ISLES ESCAPE”: August 26, Dublin to London
 
This port-intensive itinerary with zero sea days presents a wealth of opportunity to delve into the varied cultures within the British Isles, with visits to:
 •Belfast, Northern Ireland
 •Holyhead, Wales
 •Liverpool, England
 •Cork, Ireland
 •Portland, England
 •Guernsey/St. Peter Port, Channel Islands
 
A golf theme, hosted by golf legend Billy Casper, will also take guests to some of the UK’s most picturesque and legendary golf courses.
 
“We’re excited to offer fascinating Dublin as a destination for Crystal guests to start or end their vacation,” says Jack Anderson, senior vice president, marketing and sales.  “As a gateway to the Emerald Isles, the city makes pre- and post-cruise travel convenient, whether one is returning home or venturing further into the region.  It’s also a great ‘turnaround’ port for guests who may want to combine these voyages back-to-back, for a longer British Isles vacation that doesn’t repeat ports.”
 
All inclusive fares for each 2013 British Isles cruise begin at $4,145 per guest if booked by April 30, 2013, with additional savings available for combining the two, and air add-ons from nearly 100 North American gateways.

Crystal Cruises, 888-799-4625, www.crystalcruises.com