The 15-day British Isles Explorer aboard Viking Saturn is unapologetically both. And that’s precisely why it’s one of No. 1-ranked Viking’s most popular itineraries, combining historic ports with dramatic scenery and sometimes few (if any) crowds. 

Sailing from London to Bergen, the voyage visits six countries and 12 ports in England, Ireland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Norway. Along the way, my wife and I were joined by over 900 mostly retired Americans (and nearly 500 of the most endearing crew and staff) as we cruised the English Channel, Irish Sea, and North Atlantic. We explored ancient capitals, lots of castles, captivating cliffs, remote islands, and sleepy coastal towns that would take weeks to plan on our own.

Some of my favorite stops included Dublin’s delightful downtown, Holyhead’s castle, Liverpool’s massive cathedral, Belfast’s soaring Giants Causeway, Orkney’s dreamy stonewalls and better than Stonehenge ruins, Edinburg’s epic Royal Mile and Castlehill, and Bergen’s colorful historic harbor. We saw and did a lot. And hearing countless English accents never got old. 

As for the ship, Viking Saturn is one of the most elegant and calming “resorts” you’ll find at sea. Scandinavian design, spacious staterooms, panoramic lounges and dining rooms with incredibly cozy and tasteful decor, and my personal favorite: the included spa amenities, sauna, and cold plunge to recharge between all the sightseeing and eating you’ll be doing. 

As for the food, Viking is known for having some of the freshest produce, steaks, seafood, daily regional fare, Scandinavian specialties, and gourmet desserts anywhere on the ocean. Despite our best efforts, my wife and I gained weight and regretted nothing. The Viking ribeye, Scottish fish soup, fresh pasta, massive salad bars, fresh berries and fruit, room service, Norwegian brown cheese, Afternoon Tea, and ungodly amount of made-daily sweets were fantastic — especially the custom celebration and anniversary cakes we requested. 

In between the royal ports and delectable food, my wife and I enjoyed free lectures, playing Mahjong over peppermint tea, listening to live classical music, sleeping in, forgetting our troubles in the soothing spa, soaking it up in the hot tub, and sometimes turning in early to enjoy late night sunsets from our stateroom balcony. 

But if I’m really being honest, the best part of this cruise was the amazing workers (if not new friends) that treated us as if we were, in fact, royalty. Make no mistake, the entire cruise industry is known for making anyone feel like a celebrity VIP. But the crew aboard Viking Saturn are the best I’ve ever experienced on 20 different cruise ships. I smile just thinking about Bertrand, Catalin, Gibson, John Carlo, Gusti, Kasib, Sumeg, Arun, Noel, Shai, Michael, Marnelli, and a dozen others that delightfully remembered and served us throughout our voyage. 

That said, this itinerary isn’t for everyone.

Travelers seeking guaranteed sunshine, beach days, pool parties, the ability to sail with guests under 18, or late-night entertainment may find the British Isles Explorer surprisingly subdued. Weather can change by the hour, even in summer. Rain jackets are often more useful than swimsuits. Some excursions require lengthy coach rides (and extra patience waiting for older passengers) from port to attraction. And because the cruise emphasizes breadth, guests occasionally leave wishing they had more time in destinations like Edinburgh, Dublin, or London. I know I did at times. 

But for history lovers, British empire enthusiasts, and travelers who appreciate culture over crowds, not to mention a waitstaff that makes you feel richer than you really are, few itineraries deliver more highs than this one.

One day you’re standing near medieval castles in Wales. The next you’re listening to bagpipes in Scotland, tracing Viking history in the Northern Isles, or standing awestruck along the emerald cliffs of Ireland. Back on board, you’re then treated to maximum relaxation, comfort, and want for nothing. Meanwhile, the culinary team serves up regional delights nearly every hour depending on the closest port. 

And that’s what makes this one of the most rewarding ocean itineraries aboard the highest ranked cruise line in the industry. A royal affair for the rest of us. How regal is that? 

Blake Snow contributes to fancy publications and Fortune 500 companies as a bodacious writer-for-hire and seasoned travel journalist to all seven continents. He lives in Provo, Utah with his wife, five children, and one ferocious chihuahua.