Old World Gateways to the Atlantic

Arrive in Lisbon, relax, and spend the overnight preparing for your adventure.

*specific hotel and location to be announced

One of the oldest cities in the world, Lisbon’s technicolored past is evident just about everywhere. The medina-like streets of Alfama still bear Moorish influences. Baroque architecture surrounds you in Baixa, and the scars of the Great Lisbon Earthquake of 1755 can still be found throughout the city. It’s estimated that over 100,000 people died in what became one of history’s deadliest earthquakes. Today, Lisbon is a delightful mix of colorful neighborhoods brimming with history, culture, and tradition.

Portugal's second city, Oporto, is a city of two halves, known for stately bridges over Douro. On the left bank is Gaia, best known for its port houses such as Graham's and Taylor's, where you can enjoy a cellar tour or port tasting. On the right bank, Ribeira has rows of colorful old houses that line the riverfront and narrow streets. Head to the top of the hill to admire the blue azulejo tile murals in the Igreja de Carmo church, or ride a vintage tram to the Foz district.

Gateway to the Atlantic, the Spanish Atlantic city of Vigo is one of Europe's major fishing ports, known for its freezing and canning industry. Wander around the steep, narrow streets and picturesque squares of Casco Vello, the old town, towards the fish market. Hike to the top of Monte O Castro Hill, encompassing an ancient fortress and Castro's 3rd-century BC archaeological site. The Outlying Cies Islands are part of the Atlantic Islands National Park, renowned for its birdlife. Inland Santiago de Compostela, an important pilgrimage center, is a short bus ride away.

Ferrol is a city in the province of A Coruña in Galicia, Spain. It is on the Atlantic coast and has a rich history and culture. You can enjoy exploring the city’s many historic sites and museums, including the Ferrol Naval Museum, the San Felipe Castle, and the Jofre Theater. The city is also known for its beautiful beaches and natural scenery. Some popular attractions include the Playa de Doniños, the Playa de San Xurxo, and the Parque Reina Sofía.

With its colorful old houses, the Asturian port city of Gijon is surrounded by rolling green hills and is home to the Atlantic Botanical Gardens, packed with over 2,000 plants. Wander around the fisherman’s old quarter of Cimedevilla to see the monumental Eulogy to the Horizon sculpture, crafted from cement blocks by Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida in 1990, and the Campo Valdés Roman Baths dating from around 100 AD. Local ciders are a specialty, best enjoyed in a traditional sideria.

Santander is renowned for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums and galleries, including the Centro Botín, the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria, and the Museum of Fine Arts. The city also has many beautiful parks and gardens, including the Jardines de Piquío and the Parque de la Magdalena.

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea allows you to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip, or head to the library full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of the on-board lectures, or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from professional photographers.

The enchanting coastal city of Saint-Malo is a labyrinth of medieval streets filled with history and culture. Dating back to the 12th century, Saint-Malo was once a haven for pirates and a stopping point for merchant ships. Today, you can find colorful shops and outdoor markets alongside aromatic markets, cafes, and restaurants. Oysters and crêpes are the local delicacies; sample some while here. The ancient walled town of Intra-Muros forms the heart of Saint-Malo. The striking Gothic and Romanesque Cathédrale de St. Malo dominates the skyline.

Cherbourg is a port town in the Manche department of Normandy, France. You can explore the city’s many museums and galleries, including the Cité de la Mer, the Musée Thomas Henry, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. The city has many beautiful parks and gardens, including the Jardin Public de Cherbourg-Octeville and the Parc Emmanuel Liais. Some popular attractions include the Fort du Roule, the Basilique Sainte-Trinité, and the La Glacerie Golf Course.

Your port of call today is Honfleur, Normandy’s most charming port town. If it looks familiar, that’s because Honfleur was a favorite subject of Monet and many other artists, including Boudin, Corot, Courbet, Dubourg, Sisley, Bazille, and Daubigny. Thanks to landscapes by these masters, the town’s timber-framed houses and the appealing Vieux Bassin (Old Harbour) are part of your collective consciousness. Before the city became a refuge for 19th-century artists escaping Paris, in the 16th and 17th centuries, Honfleur was one of France’s most important ports.

Your cruise ends in the UK’s only island city and the world’s oldest dry dock. With easy access by rail and road from airports in London and Southampton, Portsmouth has a long and proud naval heritage. Boarding your boutique ship, follow in the footsteps of Admiral Nelson and Henry VIII as you settle in for your voyage. If time permits, the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is worth a visit.