11-Day ~ British Isles and Ireland Knitting Cruise (Jun 2027)

11-Day British Isles and Ireland Knitting Cruise with Jennifer Daley
June 22 - July 3, 2027

Join us on an unforgettable 11-day adventure exploring the British Isles and Ireland aboard Holland America's Zuiderdam with knitting expert Jennifer Daley. This unique cruise combines Holland America Line's exceptional service with inspiring knitting workshops, stunning landscapes from Irish cliffs to Scottish highlands, and rich knitting heritage.

We invite you to pack up your needles and join us on an extraordinary journey through the British Isles and Ireland aboard Holland America's Zuiderdam. This 11-day voyage takes you from the vibrant canals of Amsterdam through the dramatic landscapes of Ireland and Scotlandâ??a knitter's dream destination known for its legendary wool traditions.

Experience the raw beauty of the Cliffs of Moher, the ancient mysteries of the Scottish Highlands, and the colorful coastal towns of Ireland. For a more immersive experience, participants can opt to extend their stay in Amsterdam.

Shop at renowned yarn shops featuring locally-sourced wool from Irish sheep, Harris Tweed from the Outer Hebrides, and Fair Isle patterns from the Shetlands. Discover centuries-old knitting traditions in each port while creating your own masterpieces in our onboard classes.

Onboard, participants will enjoy knitting classes, social gatherings, and being pampered by Holland America's attentive staff. In port, shop for unique souvenirs and take excursions highlighting textile arts, culture, and history. Explore exotic places daily and return to familiar comforts, where you'll have time to rejuvenate before your next adventure.

Jennifer Daley's onboard classes include a variety of techniques spanning the textile traditions of the British Isles. Jennifer looks forward to sharing her passion for knitting with everyone on this cruise. Topics include Irish Aran Islands cable knitting and Fair Isle stranded colorwork. Each class also explores the textile history of its region.

This cruise is perfect for knitters of all skill levels who want to learn new techniques, connect with fellow fiber enthusiasts, and explore the rich textile heritage of the British Isles and Ireland while traveling in style and comfort.

11-Day British Isles and Ireland Knitting Cruise Highlights

Craft Cruises selects itineraries offering various activities to help bring each port to life. Whether you explore on your own or on an escorted tour, these enriching encounters ensure everyone goes home with memories that last a lifetime.

• Depart from Amsterdam, the charming Dutch capital known for its picturesque canals, world-class museums, and exceptional yarn shops including Stephen & Penelope.


• Explore Stornoway in Scotland's Outer Hebrides, the home of authentic Harris Tweed, woven by islanders using traditional methods for over a century.


• Visit Belfast, Northern Ireland, where the Titanic was built and Irish linen traditions thrive. Explore the vibrant Cathedral Quarter and local craft shops.


• Take an optional excursion to Lisburn outside Belfast to visit the Irish Linen Centre and trace the history of linen production from the earliest to the present with the 'Flax to Fabric: the Story of Irish Linen' exhibit and see live spinning and weaving demonstrations.


• Discover Dun Laoghaire, gateway to Dublin, with its Georgian architecture, rich literary heritage, and wonderful yarn shops in the city center including This is Knit Yarn Shop, housed in a gorgeous 18th-century mansion in the heart of Dublin.


• Explore Greenock, gateway to Glasgow and the Scottish Highlands, home to tartan weaving and traditional crafts.


• Tour the New Lanark Mill and World Heritage Site, learn the town's history, see wool spun, shop for yarn, and have traditional high tea with a little free time to explore the grounds and shop.


• Visit Greencastle and Killybegs in County Donegal, Ireland's tweed country. Donegal is famous for its handwoven tweeds and traditional Irish knitting.


• Experience Galway, the cultural heart of the West of Ireland, known for Aran sweaters, traditional Irish music, and colorful streets. Nearby Inis Mór, is birthplace of the iconic Aran sweater.


• Discover Cobh, the historic port near Cork, and explore Ireland's colorful coastal towns with their rich maritime heritage.


• Shop for Hedgehog Fibres at their dyeing studio in Cork.


• Visit the Blarney Woollen Mills in Cork and shop for 100% made-in-Ireland Aran wool.