Channel Islands come out on top for cruising

The island of Guernsey is hoping to once again scoop the accolade of most popular port of call in the British Isles for day stops. More than 70 ships are due to include the destination in their itineraries for this season, including Cunard's new vessel, the Queen Elizabeth.

Apart from being one of the prettiest seaports in Europe, Guernsey's capital, St Peter Port, is heaving with history – which is being celebrated in a new St Peter Port Trails map, including self-guided walks focusing on different aspects of the town's heritage.

Cruisers will also have the opportunity to explore the Ruettes Tranquilles, which takes them on a tour of the 13th-century Castle Cornet. So, if you're planning a cruise this year, make sure the islands of Guernsey are included in your itinerary.

Meanwhile, the neighbouring Channel Island of Sark has today been named the first 'dark sky island' in the world by the US-based Dark Sky Association.

The extent of the blackness of the night sky over the island means that on a clear night it is possible to enjoy the sight millions of stars and many meteors against a beautiful backdrop of the Milky Way.

Already a popular summer destination, it is hoped that the award will now attract more visitors in the winter, when the night skies are at their best.

And this spectacular sight is made possible by the fact that there are no streetlights, few floodlit buildings and no cars on the two-square-mile island.

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