Designated as England’s first World Heritage Site, putting itself alongside the Great Barrier Reef and Grand Canyon, the Dorset and East Devon coastline is packed with breathtaking scenery and a magical history. Locally known as the Jurassic Coast, its outstanding geology represents 185 million years of the Earths history in just 95 miles of coastline and is one of the best places in the world for fossil hunting.

At the eastern edge of the Jurassic Coast lies the striking Old Harry Rocks. These magnificent chalk stacks are all that remains of the Purbeck Downs, a ridge which one stretched from the main land across the Channel to the Needles at the Isle of Wight.

The town of Poole itself has plenty to offer: ample shops, museums and galleries can be found on the high street and smaller independent boutiques down on the quay and with a fantastic selection of bars and restaurants to tempt all tastes and budgets.

But if you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing and away from the hustle and bustle then why not take the chance to visit some of the areas many stunning golden sandy beaches. Once described as the “Cote d'Azur” of the South Coast try a bit of celebrity spotting on sophisticated Sandbanks beach or enjoy the nature found at Studland beach.

With unrivalled natural beauty, fantastic shopping, historical landmarks, water sports galore and exquisite waterside dining all on your doorstep, Poole is one jewel not to missed on a cruise along the South Coast.