We arrived at Tilbury much earlier than expected, but our baggage was taken on board straight away and the terminal was more peaceful than an airport. We were welcomed by our cabin steward and shown to our upgraded cabin and in no time were having lunch in the bistro. Food on board wasa good - we mostl;y ate in the restaurant where we had excellent waiter service and a wide choice of food. We sat at the same table for dinner with 6 ladies whom we got to know well over the holiday. The ship (Marco Polo) was a lovely 820 passenger vessal with mainly Eastern European or Indian crew and a Greek captain. Everyone was helpful.

We visited Invergordon, and Orkney (for prehistoric Skara Brae and other sites), but the gales prevented us landing on th4e Hebrides, which was a disappointment. However, we ended up in Belfast and went to the Giant's causeway instead, so that was good. Then Dublin (Book of Kells and Guinness), next our favourite place in Britain, the Isles of Scilly, then Guernsey (walked round Herm), Portland Bill and back to Tilbury. All in all, a most memorable holiday and one which did us both the world of good.

An unexpected bonus was the presence of Chris Dean's Syd Lawrence Big Band for the whole tour. The entertainment every night was very good. Recommend it!