Hamburg
Hamburg 10/06/2025
Begin your cruise in Germany’s second cityYour expedition cruise starts in Hamburg, the second-largest city in Germany and one of the greenest urban areas in Europe.There’s a lot to see and do in Hamburg. If you have time, you’ll find many attractions in the Altstadt district, including the St. Nikolai Memorial and the historic street of Deichstraße.Hamburg is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Chilehaus, and the world’s largest historic warehouse district in Speicherstadt. Art lovers should head to Kunsthalle, the nation’s foremost art museum.
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Hamburg – Gem of the Elbe river (6 hours walking tour)
Highlights:
Meet your hand selected driver-guide to discuss your interests for the day before getting started into the famous 800 year old Hanseatic port city, the second largest port in Europe after Rotterdam
Pass the container and cargo terminals of the world’s largest ware house complex ‘Speicherstadt’ built in the late 19th century with gabled roofs and small towers
Drive along Inner Alster Lake and the main shopping and financial area before reaching the Outer Alster Lake, one of Hamburg's finest residential areas surrounded by lovely promenades and elegant villa gardens
See the impressive Elbphilharmonic hall, designed by the star architect team Herzog & de Meuron and inaugurated as Hamburg´s main concert hall in the year 2017
Continue touring the city center with its mixture of modern and historic architecture, the ruins of St. Nicolai, St. Peter's Church and the incredible old City Hall, built in Neo-Renaissance style, as well as the Reeperbahn of St. Pauli, one of the world's largest red-light district
Stop at the lively Fish Market and watch traders while enjoying a snack of fresh catch
Time permitting attend a short organ recital at 12:00 noon at the baroque St. Michael´s Church, the emblem and landmark of Hamburg
End of tour at the ship or at place of interest
You might want to visit Miniature Wunderland the model railway attraction, the largest of its kind in the world (we will gladly arrange timeslots for you)
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour can operate: All day
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Touring with one of our excellent driver-guides
- Transportation in luxury car
- All taxes
Not Included:
- Meals
- Optional admissions
- Tipping at your discretion
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10/06/2025 |
10/06/2025 |
Harlingen
Harlingen 10/07/2025
Get to know the Frisian port of HarlingenWalk or bike around Harlingen, a town of canals and pretty harbors, and home to the last traditional pottery factory in the Netherlands. It lies on the shores of the Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.You’ll find traditional sailing ships and historic warehouses around the old harbors of Noorderhaven and Zuiderhaven. Don’t miss the Harlingen Aardewerk Museum, where you can admire displays of distinctive Frisian pottery.
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10/07/2025 |
10/07/2025 |
Oostende
Oostende 10/08/2025
Rich medieval architecture among winding streetsThe strategic port of Oostende was first a fishing village, then a medieval city, and later a royal seaside resort; this place is steeped in European history. Despite the ravages of war and time, many of its medieval features have survived to the present day.It’s a great base from which to visit Bruges. Lose yourself in this beautifully preserved medieval town as you explore winding streets, picturesque canals, and grand 14th-century buildings.
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10/08/2025 |
10/08/2025 |
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Bruges
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10/08/2025 |
10/08/2025 |
At Sea
At Sea 10/09/2025
Reflect and relax on a calming day at seaEnjoy the day relaxing while we navigate the channel separating continental Europe from the British Isles.While the British call it the ‘English Channel’, it’s more commonly known on the continent as ‘La Manche’, or derivations of that. The Dutch may have the most diplomatic name for it, as they simply call it ‘Het Kanaal’ (‘the Channel’).Whatever the name, a quarter of the world’s maritime trade navigates through this passage, and our Expedition Team will be happy to share their knowledge about these historic waters with you.
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10/09/2025 |
10/09/2025 |
St. Malo
St. Malo 10/10/2025
A beautiful Breton town steeped in historyViewed from the sea, Saint-Malo is an impressive sight, fringed by fortified bastions and gently sloping beaches.A circular walk along the ramparts offers the best views of the?town and surrounding islands. Follow the historical trail within the old city walls through a maze of cobbled streets and visit Demeure De Corsaire to learn about the feared corsairs and the?town’s pirate heritage. You can walk to Île de Grand Bé at low tide or join an excursion to visit the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel. The island holds the remains of an ancient fort, where renowned local writer Chateaubriand is buried.
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Saint Malo Shore Excursion - Brittany Coast and Saint Malo - 8 hours
Meet your private English speaking driver guide who will wait for you with a nominative board at the main exit of your ship and depart for a visit of Saint Malo
HIGHLIGHTS
- St Malo: Walled and built with the same grey granite stone as Mont St Michel, ST-MALO was originally in the Middle Ages a fortified island at the mouth of the Rance, controlling not only the estuary but the open sea beyond. In later centuries it became notorious as the home of a fierce breed of pirate-mariners, who were never quite under anybody's control but their own; for four years from 1590, St-Malo even declared itself to be an independent republic. The corsaires of St-Malo not only forced English ships passing up the Channel to pay tribute, but also brought wealth from further afield.
- Britanny Coastal Road
- End of the tour at your ship
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: NO
Physical Activity Level: Light
Package includes
- Transportation: pick up/drop off at the Port
- English speaking licensed driver guide with a deluxe car with AC at disposal
- All entrance fees
- All tax and Vat
Does not include
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Travel insurance and personal expenses
Departure dates : all day , all year
May 1st - due to French law, cost double
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10/10/2025 |
10/10/2025 |
Douarnenez
Douarnenez 10/11/2025
Inspiring coastal scenery and maritime historyWe’ll use our small boats (RIBs) to go ashore at the picturesque seaside town of Douarnenez, where we’ll find colorful quaysides, sandy beaches, and steep cliffs that inspired famous painters like Renoir and Boudin. Douarnenez hosts a wonderful maritime museum with boats from around the world, as well as fishermen’s huts and seamen’s chapels.If conditions don’t allow a visit to Douarnenez, we’ll head to nearby Brest, a fascinating city containing remnants of medieval fortifications. Here, you can visit the National Maritime Museum inside the military fortress of Château de Brest. It’s also a modern city, with lively quays and docks that are perfect for a scenic stroll and some food.
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10/11/2025 |
10/11/2025 |
At Sea
At Sea 10/12/2025
Unwind and enjoy the natural world around youToday is a perfect day to relax on deck with your binoculars and watch for whales, dolphins, and porpoises. This is one of the few places in the world where you can spot beaked whales. They’re drawn to the bay’s nutrient-rich waters.You can learn about the marine biology of the seas we’re sailing, with hands-on demonstrations and in-depth lectures about the history, geography, and environment of the destinations to come. Don’t forget about the leisure amenities on board the ship. This is the perfect time to rejuvenate in the panoramic sauna.
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10/12/2025 |
10/12/2025 |
El Ferrol
El Ferrol 10/13/2025
Explore Ferrol and get a taste of GaliciaOur next stop is Ferrol, on the rugged coast of Galicia. Once a small fishing hamlet, for the past three centuries it has been Spain’s main naval base. There are more forts, citadels, and barracks here than any other harbor in the country.An overnight stay in Ferrol gives us two full days to explore the highlights of northern Galicia. Get to know the historic downtown areas of Ferrol and A Coruña on guided tours, walk a section of the ancient pilgrimage trails that crisscross Galicia, or join optional excursions to the UNESCO-listed towns of Lugo and Santiago de Compostela.
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10/13/2025 |
10/13/2025 |
El Ferrol
El Ferrol 10/14/2025
Explore Ferrol and get a taste of GaliciaOur next stop is Ferrol, on the rugged coast of Galicia. Once a small fishing hamlet, for the past three centuries it has been Spain’s main naval base. There are more forts, citadels, and barracks here than any other harbor in the country.An overnight stay in Ferrol gives us two full days to explore the highlights of northern Galicia. Get to know the historic downtown areas of Ferrol and A Coruña on guided tours, walk a section of the ancient pilgrimage trails that crisscross Galicia, or join optional excursions to the UNESCO-listed towns of Lugo and Santiago de Compostela.
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10/14/2025 |
10/14/2025 |
Vigo
Vigo 10/15/2025
The beautiful city of Vigo in the heart of Galicia?Our cruise continues to Vigo, once the gateway to the Americas. Protected by the beautiful Cíes Islands, Vigo has one of the best natural harbors in Galicia and is the country’s main trading and fishing port.Vigo is perfect for exploring on foot. Visit the bustling Rúa do Príncipe, which has an eclectic mix of Neoclassical and Art Nouveau buildings. Or see the impressive 16th-century Castro Castle and park.On your way to the old town and the Neoclassical cathedral, stop by Rúa da Pescadería, the best street in town to sample the delicious seafood Galicia is famous for.
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10/15/2025 |
10/15/2025 |
Oporto (Leixoes)
Oporto (Leixoes) 10/16/2025
Explore the UNESCO-listed historic center of Porto?In Portugal, we’ll dock at Leixões. From here, you can see the Leça Lighthouse, Boa Nova Chapel, and the beautiful beach of Praia Azul.You can also take a shuttle bus to Porto, famed for its port wine and UNESCO-listed historic center. This city of undulating terrain is perfect for strolling. Fall in love with the pastel houses, colorful tiled façades, street art, ornate churches, and panoramic views across the Douro River.Stroll along the bustling Ribeira Docks promenade, cross the Dom Luís I bridge, snack on delicious petiscos, and enjoy wine tastings at the port cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia.
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10/16/2025 |
10/16/2025 |
Lisbon
Lisbon 10/17/2025
End your cruise in this enchanting cityYour cruise along Europe’s Atlantic coast ends in Lisbon, one of southern Europe’s most enchanting cities.The Portuguese capital is rich in history and culture. Take a stroll through the classical districts of Baixa and Bairro Alto, Chiado, and Alfama, the old Islamic quarter, where there are remains of a Roman theater and a Moorish fortress.A bit outside the city center, you can visit the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Belém Tower and?Jerónimos Monastery.With so much to see in and around Lisbon, why not stay longer and join our optional Post-Program.
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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An Exploration of Lisbon (8 hours)
Highlights:
Lying north of the River Tagus estuary and stretching over seven hills, Portugal's capital city has much to offer. Receive a warm welcome at the port by your private guide and driver and from here commence your engaging tour of Lisbon.
Explore the Belem district with its magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, an extraordinary example of Portugal's 'Manueline' style of architecture. Once populated by monks, the UNESCO-listed monastery was commissioned by King Manuel I to celebrate Vasco da Gama's discovery of a sea route to India in 1498. Time permitting, visit Torre de Belém (Belém Tower), one of Lisbon's most iconic buildings and symbolic of Portugal's great Age of Expansion.
Next, it's time for a refreshment stop, where you may wish to sample the famous and scrumptious Pastéis de Belém (Portuguese custard tarts). From here you return to your cruise ship.
- Discover the beautiful Belem district with its magnificent Jeronimos Monastery
- Behold the priceless treasures on display at the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and try the exquisite pasteis de nata local pastries
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Not Included:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
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Queluz, Sintra and Estoril (8 hours)
Highlights:
Venture outside of Lisbon to explore Queluz, Sintra and Estoril during your private shore excursion. Take the short driver to the sumptuous 18th-century Queluz Palace, where you can admire the magnificent formal gardens and azulejo-lined canals.
Afterwards visit Sintra, the summer retreat of Portuguese monarchs and Moorish emirs before them. Today, this town, nestling on the north side of the Sintra Mountain, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stroll through the town where charming streets are filled with fine handicraft shops. You then descend to Guincho beach for a fabulous view of Cape Rock, the westernmost point of the European continent and continuing to the resort town of Estoril on the scenic coastal road with fantastic views, en route back to your cruise ship.
- Explore Queluz Palace, the summer residence of the Portugese Royal Family
- Take a short drive to Sintra, the summer retreat of Portuguese monarchs and a UNESCO Word Heritage Site
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Not Included:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
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Highlights of Lisbon (4 hours)
Highlights:
See Belem Tower, one of Lisbon's iconic buildings and symbolic of the nation's Age of Expansion. Admire the impressive collection of painted and gilded Baroque coaches at the National Coach Museum.
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Not Included:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
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10/17/2025 |
10/17/2025 |
The Signature Collection – Exclusive Amenities
