A World Affairs Voyage from Copenhagen to London

Copenhagen is located on the eastern side of the island of Sealand, not far from the coast of Sweden. The city is known for its canals and historic districts such as Christiansborg and Nyhavn. Several palaces reflect aspects of Danish history. A common local dish is smørrebrød—open-faced sandwiches typically topped with ingredients like ham, cheese, or smoked fish.

Spend time enjoying the facilities and activities available throughout the ship. Unwind in the spa, work out in the fitness center, swim in the pool, or relax on deck. Attend onboard talks, watch live performances, browse the boutique, or connect with the PONANT photography team. Head to the upper deck for wide ocean views and keep an eye out for marine wildlife. This sea day combines leisure, entertainment, and time to enjoy life on board.

Warnemunde sits at the mouth of the Warnow River on the Baltic Sea. Once a small fishing settlement founded in the 12th century, it grew into an important port serving Rostock during the Hanseatic era. Today, former fishermen’s cottages house cafés and shops, while elegant historic residences overlook the waterfront. Nearby Rostock showcases impressive brick architecture, medieval fortifications, and landmarks such as New Market Square and St. Mary’s Church, home to a famous astronomical clock.

Included Excursions
Rostock Highlights on Foot
Duration: 3h00
Begin a guided walk in University Square, the vibrant center of Rostock and home to the University of Rostock, established in 1419. Surrounded by historic buildings, the square reflects centuries of academic tradition. Learn about Rostock’s influence within the Hanseatic League and the university’s contribution to the city’s development. Continue to the 13th-century Holy Cross Convent and explore the courtyard of this former religious site, now a cultural and museum complex.

Continue to Market Square, home to Rostock’s Town Hall, a landmark combining Gothic architecture with Baroque design elements. Colorful merchant houses frame the square, which has served as the city’s commercial and social hub for centuries. Enjoy free time to browse local shops or explore independently before returning to Warnemünde and the ship.

This moderate excursion includes approximately 1.5 miles of walking on mostly flat cobblestone streets. Wear sturdy footwear and dress in layers.

Bad Doberan Minister and Molli Steam Train
Duration: 4h30
Travel from Warnemünde to the historic spa town of Bad Doberan. Explore the renowned Doberan Minster, a 14th-century masterpiece and one of Europe’s finest examples of Brick Gothic architecture. Inside, admire soaring vaulted ceilings and well-preserved medieval furnishings.

Continue to the famous Molli Steam Railway, a historic narrow-gauge train connecting Baltic coastal resorts. Board the train and travel through forests, open countryside, and seaside landscapes, passing the elegant resort of Heiligendamm before arriving in Kühlungsborn. Enjoy coffee and cake at a local venue, then spend free time exploring the resort. Walk along the pier, stroll the beach, or relax by the waterfront before returning to the ship.

This easy excursion includes less than one mile of walking on flat cobblestone and gravel paths. Wear comfortable shoes, dress appropriately for the weather, and bring sun protection.

The Baltic port of Wismar is a historically significant and picturesque harbor in northern Germany. From the time of the Hanseatic League, it was an important center of trade, linking continental Europe with Scandinavia. Its well-preserved old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases German Brick Gothic architecture from the middle ages, and the legacy of its role as naval base under Swedish rule (1648-1803) is still evident along the harbor. Today, Wismar is important as a center of trade, handling goods like timber and steel, of shipbuilding, and of tourism. Its waterfront, historic warehouses, and maritime museums attract the interest of many visitors, and it serves as a gateway to other attractions along the Baltic coast.

Included Excursions
Lubeck, Capital of the Hanse
Duration : 7h00
This full-day excursion to Lübeck, one of northern Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, focuses on its heyday as the capital of the Hanseatic League from the 13th to the 16th century.
Enter Lübeck through the iconic Holsten Gate, symbol of the city’s former power and prosperity, and set off on a leisurely guided walk through the historic center of cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways that look much as they did when they were home to medieval merchants and craftsmen. You will see the skyline formed by the famous “Seven Spires” churches that helped guide sailors approaching the port along the Trave River. Visit the 13th-century Hospital of the Holy Spirit, one of Europe’s oldest social institutions, and admire the richly decorated Town Hall, considered among the most beautiful in Germany for its blend of Gothic and Renaissance architectural motifs. The tour continues with a visit to St. Mary’s Church, built between 1265 and 1352 a masterpiece of Brick Gothic architecture that influenced sacred architecture across the Baltic region. 
A short walk away, another tradition awaits at Café Niederegger, where, centuries ago, the recipe for Lübeck’s world-famous marzipan was perfected. Enjoy a relaxed lunch here, with time to savor local flavors and sample the confection that has become synonymous with the city. After lunch, enjoy some time at leisure to explore at your own pace, visiting additional churches, strolling along the riverside, or browsing boutiques for marzipan and regional crafts.

This is a moderate excursion, involving about a mile and a half of walking over mostly cobblestoned surfaces. The team recommends comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun. 

Willy Brandt's Home Town
Duration : 6h30
This full-day excursion to Lübeck, one of northern Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities, focuses on the life and times of one of the city's most accomplished citizens, Willy Brandt anti-Nazi journalist in the 1930s and 1940s; Governing Mayor of West Berlin in the 1960s; Chancellor of West Germany, 1969-74; and Nobel Peace Prize laureate.
On arrival in Lübeck, enter this UNESCO World Heritage Site through the iconic Holsten Gate and set off on a leisurely guided walk that combines the city's major attractions with visits to sites associated with Willy Brandt. See St. Johannis Monastery, the school that Brandt was allowed to attend despite being working class, and the nearby union hall, where he spent a great deal of time in his youth. As your tour continues, see the famous “Seven Spires” churches whose steeples guided medieval ship captains, visit the 13th-century Hospital of the Holy Spirit, admire the richly decorated Town Hall, and visit St. Mary’s Church, built between 1265 and 1352, a masterpiece of Brick Gothic that influenced sacred architecture across the Baltic region.
Pause for lunch at a local restaurant, before discovering more places associated with Willy Brandt, most notably the Holstentorhalle. It was here that Brandt delivered two speeches that bracket his career: the first in 1933, before fleeing to Sweden to escape what he knew was the coming Nazi takeover; and the second, shortly before his death in 1992, in which he reflected on his hopes for the future after the fall of the Berlin Wall two years earlier.

This is a moderate excursion, involving a bit more than 2 miles of walking over flat surfaces that are a mix of cobblestones and pavement. The team recommends comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun. 

Hanseatic Wismar and its Beer
Duration : 3h00
Meet your guide at the pier and set off on foot for a leisurely walking tour through Wismar's historic old town, where cobbled streets are lined with Gothic townhouses, Baroque buildings, and elegant Renaissance façades. Key landmarks you will encounter include the impressive Town Hall; Wassertor, the last surviving gate of the town's medieval fortifications; and remnants of Wismar's historic drainage system, all of which speak to the wealth Wismar earned as a member of the Hanseatic League and contribute to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of Wismar’s most important exports was beer. From the 13th through the 16th century, the town was renowned worldwide for its “liquid gold,” which was produced by the nearly 200 breweries operating within the city walls. This celebrated brewing tradition continues today at the Lohberg Brewery, the oldest brewery in Wismar, where the brewmaster will share stories of the town’s beer-making heritage while you sample some freshly brewed beers accompanied by a traditional pretzel. After the tasting, you may either walk back to the ship with your guide, the harbor is just a short stroll away or continue exploring Wismar independently.

This is a relatively easy excursion with a total of about a mile of walking over flat cobblestone and gravel surfaces. Comfortable shoes and layered clothing are recommended. 

Spanning around 61 miles the Kiel Canal, links the North Sea to the Baltic Sea, crossing the Jutland peninsula. It is the world’s busiest artificial waterway.

Lying at the mouth of the Harinxma canal in the Frise province of the Netherlands, Harlingen has always had a very close relationship with the sea. Once a whale fishing center and today a port specialised in shrimp fishing, its dynamism has transformed it into a modern city which also offers travellers museums and sites of interest. The local museum, the Hannemahuis, is housed in an 18th-century dwelling and presents a collection of regional furniture and objects retracing the history of the city. The lighthouse and the city hall with their typically Dutch architecture also deserve a visit.

Included Excursions
Woudagemaal
Duration : 4h00
If there is one theme that runs through the entire span of the history of the Netherlands, it is the neverending struggle to tame water. Nearly one-fifth of the country’s surface area consists of water, and nearly a third of the Netherlands lies below sea level. Without its intricate network of ditches, canals, lakes, rivers, windmills, polders, and dikes, half the country would be perpetually flooded.

This excursion takes you to the Woudagemaal steam-powered pumping station, one of the most remarkable inventions in the enduring Dutch battle against water. Built in 1920 to pump excess water from Friesland, it transformed the region, which had previously suffered widespread winter flooding, into usable land. Capable of pumping more than 4,000 cubic meters of water per minute—over six million cubic meters per day—the Woudagemaal remains the largest steam-powered pumping station ever constructed and the only one in the world still in operation. Your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site begins with an orientation movie followed by a guided tour through the station.

This is a moderate excursion, involving about a mile and a half of walking over mostly flat surfaces with some steps. Comfortable shoes and layered clothing are recommended. 

Harlingen Walking Tour
Duration : 3h00
Meet your guide at the pier to begin your walking tour of this important port on the Wadden Sea. Walking along the canals and old quays, note the working locks that still regulate water levels in the town. Making your way to Harlingen's historic center, pass narrow streets lined with elegant 17th- and 18th-century homes, many bearing decorative gables and carved stones that hint at the wealth generated by trade with countries around the world.
Continue your tour past quiet residential streets and remnants of the old city defenses, then, arrive at the Grote Kerk, the town’s imposing former Reformed church. Inside, pause for a snack of orange koek, Friesland’s favorite spiced cake filled with candied orange peel, enjoyed with coffee or tea. Continue on your walk, ending your tour at the pier where you began.  

This is a moderate to difficult excursion, involving about 2 miles of walking over uneven and cobblestoned surfaces. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes and protection from the sun or rain are recommended. 

Rural Friesland
Duration : 3h00
Leaving Harlingen, travel through the Frisian countryside of green pastures, grazing cattle, canals, and traditional farmhouses, as your guide shares insights into Friesland’s unique identity, its language, and the centuries-old relationship between land, water, and community. Along the way, pass through the village of Sexbierum, a typical Frisian settlement with deep medieval roots, known for its historic church mound (terp) and strong connection to the region’s agricultural past.

Continue to Franeker, where you enjoy a guided walk through the charming old town, passing canals, historic merchant houses, and the remnants of a university that attracted scholars from across Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries. A highlight of the visit is an inside tour of Eise Eisinga’s Planetarium, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest working planetarium in the world. Built between 1774 and 1781 by Eise Eisinga, a wool carder, inside his home, this extraordinary mechanical model of the solar system still accurately tracks the movements of the planets. You will have time at leisure at the end of your guided walk to browse the shops in Franeker before returning to Harlingen and your ship.

This is a relatively easy excursion, with about a mile of walking over flat cobblestoned surfaces. Comfortable shoes and layered clothing are recommended. 

The Fried Museum
Duration : 3h18
A short drive from the pier brings you to the town of Leeuwarden and the Fries Museum, the most important provincial museum in the Netherlands, providing a comprehensive survey of Frisian culture from prehistoric times to the 20th century. Among the many exhibits, there are displays of artifacts from Bronze Age Frisian burial mounds and of characteristic clothing throughout the centuries. Grutte Pier, the 16th-century Frisian rebel who is said to have been over 7 feet tall and able to decapitate several men with a single blow, is represented by his enormous sword, and Mata Hari's exploits are chronicled in a separate exhibit. After a guided tour of the museum, you will have time at leisure to explore further on your own.
Leaving the museum, enjoy a guided tour of the town of Leeuwarden, which still retains its 17th- and 18th-century charm, when it was home to the Frisian stadholders, forebears of today’s royal family.

This is a moderate excursion with a total of approximately one mile of walking over cobblestoned and mostly flat surfaces. 

Amsterdam is above all a city of water. Omnipresent, it guides the traveller’s steps, from street to street, from canal to canal, its bridges seeming to bend their arches to form allegiances with him. Let yourself fall in love with the grace and romanticism that emanate from this charming scene. Known around the world for its museums and the finest collection of the Dutch and Flemish masters of the golden age, this city is home to many other treasures. Take a stroll through the old district or pay a visit to a diamond house – do not miss this “treasure chest” of the Netherlands.

Included Excursions
Dutch Resistance Museum
Duration : 5h00
This excursion is designed as somber reflection on Amsterdam’s World War II history, focusing on the Dutch resistance, the Jewish community, and the tragic events of the Holocaust. The experience begins at the Dutch Resistance Museum, where compelling exhibits recount stories of ordinary women and men who chose courage over compliance during the Nazi occupation. Personal testimonies, photographs, and artifacts offer insight into daily life under occupation and the moral choices faced by the resistance. 
Having acquired some perspective on the historical context at the museum, join a guided walking tour through the Plantage District, once the heart of Amsterdam’s Jewish community. As you stroll through its quiet streets and green spaces, your guide highlights memorials, former Jewish institutions, and sites connected to persecution, deportation, and remembrance, offering a respectful retelling of loss, resilience, and the enduring importance of memory in shaping Amsterdam’s identity.

This is a moderate excursion, involving a total of about 2 miles of walking over flat, sometimes cobblestoned surfaces. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun or rain are recommended. Due to museum hours, this tour will operate over lunch. Guests will be provided a snack during the tour and can have a late lunch onboard after returning to the ship. 

Royal Palace Amsterdam
Duration : 4h00
Begin your excursion with a 90-minute guided walking through the heart of Amsterdam, strolling along charming streets and historic canals, passing iconic landmarks like the beautifully-preserved 17th-century Portuguese Synagogue, to reach Dam Square and the imposing Baroque Royal Palace.  Originally built as Amsterdam’s City Hall, the palace was transformed into a royal residence under Napoleon, and it continues to be used for ceremonial functions by the Dutch monarchy today. Led by an expert guide, explore the grand Burgerzaal (Citizens’ Hall), richly decorated with marble floors, classical sculptures, and symbolic maps of the world that emphasize Amsterdam’s global reach. And learn about the building's construction on top of 13,695 pilings sunk into marshy soil—an engineering feat that was hailed on its completion in 1655 as the Eighth Wonder of the World.

This tour involves moderate walking, totaling about 2.5 miles, some of it in the palace, most of it over cobblestone streets and flat ground. Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are recommended. Please note that this tour is only possible if the royal family is not in residence. 

Amsterdam by Foor and by Boat
Duration : 3h00
Your exploration of Amsterdam begins with a guided walk that starts at the beautifully-preserved 17th-century Portuguese Synagogue, once home to a thriving Sephardic Jewish community, before reaching Dam Sqaure. Here, in the heart of the city, you will see the imposing Baroque Royal Palace, built on 13,695 pilings sunk into marshy soil—an engineering feat that was hailed on its completion in 1655 as the Eighth Wonder of the World.
With more than 60 miles of waterways, Amsterdam has more canals and bridges than Venice, and one of the best ways to soak in the ambience of the city is on a cruise along the canals. Aboard a glass-topped motor launch, make your way through the historic canals, passing elegant merchants’ mansions, churches, and warehouses that date back to the 16th and 17th centuries. 

This tour involves moderate walking, totaling about 2.5 miles, over cobblestone streets and flat ground. You will need to negotiate some steps to get in and out of the canal boat. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Comfortable walking shoes and a rain jacket are recommended. 

The Rijksmuseum
Duration : 5h00
A short drive from the pier brings you to the Rijksmuseum, the Netherlands’ national museum and one of Amsterdam’s most celebrated cultural landmarks. Housed in a grand 19th-century building designed by Pierre Cuypers, it showcases over 800 years of Dutch art and history, from the Middle Ages to the modern era. Equipped with an audio guide, explore at your own pace, perhaps focusing on the museums most renowned treasures—masterpieces of the Dutch Golden Age, including Rembrandt’s The Night Watch, Vermeer’s The Milkmaid, and works by Frans Hals.
Following your visit to the museum, join a walking tour of Amsterdam's historic center, Dam Square, where you will see the imposing Baroque Royal Palace, built on 13,695 pilings sunk into marshy soil—an engineering feat that was hailed on its completion in 1655 as the Eighth Wonder of the World.

This tour involves moderate walking, totaling about 2.5 miles, some of it in the museum, most of it over cobblestone streets and flat ground. Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are recommended. 

Scenic Dutch Villages
Duration : 4h30
This excursion provides the opportunity to get out of the city and into the Dutch countryside to gain a sense of life in rural Holland.
Begin in Zaanse Schans, an open-air living museum that recreates what the community was like at the end of the 18th century, with wooden houses and workshops surrounded by windmills, many of which are still in use. Stroll along the streets and watch craftsmen sawing timber, pressing oil, making clogs, or any of a number of other traditional crafts.
A short drive through lush lowlands brings you to the town of Edam, a tranquil 17th-century town best known for its distinctive Edam cheese. Join a guided walk along picturesque canals, over traditional drawbridges, and past charming homes with impressively abundant flower gardens, before stopping at a local cheese farm where you can sample some of the delicious product before returning to your ship.

This is a moderate excursion, involving about 2 miles of walking over mostly flat, cobblestoned surfaces. You will want comfortable and sturdy shoes. Layered clothing is also recommended. 

Scheveningen, a former small fishing village, is the seaside resort of La Hague, which is the seat of the government of the Netherlands and the official residence of its king, and also called the “legal capital of the world”. Only a 20-minute tram ride from the city center, Scheveningen has a holiday feel, with its long fine sandy beach, its kitesurf boards and its windsurf boards. On the promenade that runs along the sea, you can admire the Grand Hôtel Amrâth Kurhaus, a jewel from the baroque era, as well as the De Pier, a 382-meter (1,250-foot) long pier — one of the longest in the world — as well as many trendy restaurants.

Included Excursions
The Hague: City of Peace and Justice
Duration : 5h30
Although Amsterdam is the official capital of the Netherlands, the Hague has been the country's seat of government since the 16th century—home to parliament, the prime minister's office, and key government ministries. Your visit to this elegant coastal city begins with a panoramic tour of its architectural highlights, a blend of historic landmarks and modern government buildings. At the end of the tour, stop at the iconic Peace Palace, home to the International Court of Justice, the primary judicial arm of the United Nations.

Your visit to the Hague concludes with an in-depth guided tour of the International Crimical Court, established by Treaty in 2002 to prosecute genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. Your knowledgeable escort will walk you through the public areas, explaining how the court works, and if proceedings allow, will take you into a courtroom. The court has interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that recount landmark cases, and there is time set aside at the end of the tour for questions.

This is a relatively easy excursion, with a total walking distance of about half a mile on flat surfaces. 

Rotterdam's Floating Farm and Sustainable Brewery
Duration : 5h00
The Netherlands prides itself on being at the forefront of sustainability across a wide spectrum of products and services. This excursion introduces you to two examples of Dutch ingenuity in eco-friendly agriculture, both of them in the city of Rotterdam.
Drive to Rotterdam to visit the world's first Floating Dairy Farm, moored in the city's harbor where it has been in operation since 2019. The farm houses about 40 dairy cows on a three-level floating structure. The cows live on the top deck in the fresh air, while below them milk is processed on site into yogurt and other dairy products, which are sold locally. The cows are fed with urban food waste (brewery grains and leftover vegetables) and their manure is made into fertilizer. In addition to producing food, the farm is designed as proto-type to encourage similar efforts elsewhere.
From the harbor, travel to nearby Merwe-Vierhavens for a guided tour of one of Rotterdam's most sustainable breweries. Follow the entire brewing process as you move among the stainless-steel tanks, learning about the use of energy-efficient equipment powered by renewable sources; about recycling water to reduce its consumption in the brewing process; and about the reuse of spent grain in animal food and baking ingredients. The tour comes to an end with a tasting of three carefully selected beers, paired with a local snack—the perfect way to celebrate eco-friendly brewing.

This is a relatively easy excursion, with a total of less than a mile of walking over flat surfaces. There is a steep ramp at the floating farm. As always, the team recommends comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun. 

Windmills and Kinderijk
Duration : 4h00
Although windmills are disappearing from the Dutch landscape, these ancient machines, designed to harnass the power of the wind, have played an outsized role in the history of the country. The village of Kinderdijk in South Holland is home to the largest concentration of historic windmills in the Netherlands—19 remarkably preserved mills, many still in working order—and recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site precisely because of their role in providing power to reclaim arable land from the water.

Your visit to Kinderdijk begins at a theater, where an immersive, multi-screen presentation tells the story of water management and mill life through the voices of local figures, explaining how the mills work in coordination with dikes and pumping stations. Following this presentation, walk among the windmills and visit inside a working mill, where—weather permitting—you’ll witness the machinery in motion as sails turn, scoop wheels churn, and water is pumped.

This is a moderate excursion, with a total of less than a mile of walking. There are, however, more than 50 steep stairs inside the mill, which should not be attempted except by those in good health. As always, comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun. 

Delft and the Royal Delft Factory
Duration : 4h00
This half-day excursion focuses on Dutch history and craftsmanship with a visits to Delft and the Royal Delft Factory, where exquisite ceramics have been produced for more than three centuries. 

Begin the day at De Porceleyne Fles, the Royal Delft Factory and the Netherlands’ most celebrated producer of Delftware. In a time of mas production of ceramics, Royal Delft  insists on creating its iconic earthenware using traditional techniques unchanged since the factory’s founding in 1653. See skilled artisans at work and watch the delicate hand-painting process that makes each piece of Delft a true work of art.
After your visit at the factory, travel to the city of Delft, where your guide leads a walk through the narrow streets of this enchanting 17th-century city. As you pass rows of red-tiled houses and historic buildings, your guide will tell the story of Delft's role at the center of the 16th-century Dutch struggle for independence from Spain, led by Prince William of Orange, who was assassinated here in 1584. The walk continues to the Markt, Delft’s main square, surrounded by 55 nationally protected historic buildings. Highlights include the impressive Town Hall and the striking 14th-century New Church, which houses the mausoleum of Prince William, and is where nearly every member of the Dutch royal family since has been laid to rest in its royal crypts.

This is a moderate excursion, involving approximately a mile of walking over mostly flat and sometimes cobblestoned surfaces. You should wear comfortable shoes and have protection from the sun or rain gear, depending on the weather. 

Located in the Flemish region of Belgium, Antwerp is worth a visit for its remarkable architectural heritage. In this moderately-sized, cosmopolitan city, you can be able to stroll around the ancient city center, dominated by the most important monument in Antwerp, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The museums of the city retrace the history of Antwerp, including the home of Rubens, containing the works of the painter, and the Plantin-Moretus museum, a print works and publishing house that are UNESCO listed. From Grote Markt, the central square in the city, you can be captivated by the attractive sight formed by the unusual medieval architecture of the guild houses.

Included Excursions
Brussels and the European Parliament
Duration : 8h00
Brussels is, of course, the capital of Belgium, but because it is the site of the European Parliament, it is also the unofficial capital of the European Union. Your visit to this international legislative body begins with a lecture from a staff member on the history, structure, and role of the European Union, with a focus on how the Parliament represents the citizens of the 27 member countries and shapes legislation. You will learn about the parameters of Parliament’s powers, its decision-making processes, and its relationship to other EU bodies. The highlight of the visit will be access to the Hemicycle Gallery, the chamber where Members debate and vote on key issues.

Your visit to Brussels continues with a drive to the city center, where you will then walk to a local restaurant for lunch. After lunch, you may enjoy some free time to explore on your own.

On the return drive to Antwerp and your ship, stop at the Atomium, one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks. Built for the 1958 World Expo, it represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times and has become a powerful symbol of post-WWII optimism and scientific progress.

This is a moderate excursion, involving a total of about 2 miles of walking over flat, sometimes cobblestoned surfaces. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun or rain are recommended. Please note that as it is a government building, tours of Parliament can only be confirmed 30 days in advance. 

Brussels and its Military Museum
Duration : 8h00
Belgium has been a battlefield for countless wars across the centuries, including being literally on the front lines of the 20th century's two World Wars. This excursion explores that history during a visit to the Royal Military Museum in Brussels. On arrival at the museum, you will be treated to a presentation from Colonel Roger Housen, a retired senior office of the Belgian Army and a respected military analyst and commentator, on Belgium’s strategic role in European and global conflicts from the 19th century to the modern era. Following the presentation, explore the museum's galleries, including extensive World War I and World War II collections, reflecting Belgium’s pivotal position during both conflicts, as well as displays dedicated to aviation, armored vehicles, and naval history.
Your visit to Brussels continues with a drive to the city center, where you will then walk to a local restaurant for lunch. After lunch, you may enjoy some free time to explore on your own.

On the return drive to Antwerp and your ship, stop at the Atomium, one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks. Built for the 1958 World Expo, it represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times and has become a powerful symbol of post-WWII optimism and scientific progress.

This is a moderate excursion, involving a total of about 2 miles of walking over flat, sometimes cobblestoned surfaces. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun or rain are recommended. 

Brussels Highlights
Duration : 5h00
This excursion is designed to introduce you to the highlights of Brussels by combining a panoramic bus tour of the city with a walking tour of its central district.
After a scenic drive from Antwerp along the Belgian highway, your panoramic tour of Brussels includes the city's most important landmarks, including the King Baudouin Stadium, Belgium's premier sports venue, and the impressive exhibition halls of Cinquantenaire Park, built in 1880 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Belgium independence. The driving portion of your tour ends at the Atomium, perhaps Brussels’ most famous landmarks. Built for the 1958 World Expo, it represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, and has become a powerful symbol of post-WWII optimism and scientific progress.
Your guided walking tour of the historic Old Town, begins with the elegant St. Hubert Royal Galleries, famous for their glass-covered arcades and boutiques. Then it's on to Grand Place, the city’s most spectacular square and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by richly decorated 17th-century guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the King’s House, Grand Place reflects Brussels’ wealth and power during its golden age. At the conclusion of the guided tour, enjoy time at leisure to shop for Belgian chocolates, lace, and tapestries—or simply to relax at a café while sampling one of Belgium’s many celebrated beers.

This is an easy to moderate excursion, involving a total of approximately one mile of walking over mostly flat cobblestone surfaces. As always, comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from sun and rain are recommended. 

Antwerp Highlights
Duration : 4h30
Your tour of Antwerp's major landmarks begins with visits to three of the newest additions to the city's skyline.  First, stop at the Antwerp Port House, an architectural masterpiece designed by award-winning architects Zaha Hadid as a bold fusion of old and new. This iconic building, officially opened in 2016, serves as the headquarters of the Port of Antwerp–Bruges and symbolizes the port’s forward-looking vision. At the MAS Museum, Antwerp’s emblematic landmark in the docklands, follow your guide to the rooftop terrace of the tower opened in 2011 for sweeping panoramic views over the city. And complete your survey of the city's modern architecture with a visit to Antwerp Central Railway Station. Often referred to as the Railway Cathedral, this monumental station is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Built between 1895 and 1905, it is hardly new, but a major restoration completed in 2009 transformed the complex into a vast, 400-metre-long structure with both a historic domed entrance on Astrid Square and a modern glass atrium at Kievit Square.
Your driver will then drop you off at the City Theatre, where your guided walk begins with a tour of Our Lady’s Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in Belgium and one of Antwerp’s most treasured landmarks. From the Cathedral, stroll through Market Square in the heart of the Old Town, surrounded by the Renaissance Town Hall, richly decorated guild houses, lively cafés, and the famous Brabo Fountain. Your walk concludes at the Vlaeykensgang, a charmingly restored medieval alleyway that offers a glimpse into Antwerp’s past.

This is a moderate excursion with about 1.2 miles of walking, some of it over uneven cobblestones surfaces. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and sun protection or a raincoat (depending on the weather) are recommended. 

The Diamonds of Antwerp
Duration : 2h30
Since the 16th century, Antwerp has been at the center of the diamond trade and today handles an estimated 80% of the world's rough diamonds and about half of all polished stones. Many of these gems continue to be cut, polished, and mounted in Antwerp's historic Diamond District.
Meet your guide at the pier and set out on a short walk, after which you will be welcomed into a jeweler's workshop for an exclusive look behind the scenes exploring how master craftsmen turn raw materials into elegantly designed works of art. An expert gemologist will tell the story of a diamond's journey from its origins deep in a mine to being mounted in piece of jewelry—all while you observe the later stages of this transformation in the workshop before you.

This is a relatively easy excursion, involving less than a mile of walking over sometimes uneven surfaces of cobblestones. As always, comfortable shoes are recommended. 

Located on the Flemish coastline, half way between France and the Netherlands, the elegant city of Ostend is a favorite summer destination for Belgians. You can enjoy the “queen of beaches”, a stretch of fine white sand punctuated by breakwaters, covered by the North Sea at high tide. The seafront boasts sumptuous facades from the Belle Epoque, such as Villa Maritza, which stands witness to this seaside town’s rich past. Art amateurs enjoy the excellent Kunstmuseumaan Zee, where a retrospective of Belgian art dating from 1830 is on display.

Included Excursions
The Atlantic Wall at Raversyde
Duration : 3h30
The Atlantic Wall was a system of defensive structures and lookout posts constructed along the coast of Europe by Nazi Germany between 1941 and 1944. In the Raversyde neighborhood of Ostend, a number of these structures—bunkers, underground passageways, observation posts, and artillery positions—have been meticulously preserved and furnished with authentic objects,  including an Enigma encryption machine, from the two World Wars.
During your visit you will be joined by expert guides who will lead you through these installations and provide historical context for what you see. Most of bunkers and watchtowers are from World War II, but remnants of the Aachen Battery, constructed during the first World War are also visible. As you explore these rooms and passageways, you will gain a sense of daily life in the battery and learn about the defenses from images, models and a 3D reconstruction. And you will come away with an appreciation for the role Raversyde played during both World Wars, as it served as a key site for military strategies and civilian evacuations.

This is a moderate excursion, involving a total of approximately 2 miles of walking over uneven surfaces. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. You should wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing. 

Visit to an Offshore Wind Farm
Duration : 4h00
Belgium ranks among the world's top five countries in offshore wind energy production, operating nine wind farms in the North Sea that provide about 10% of the country's total electricity.

Your visit to one of these farms begins with a short drive to the harbor of Blankenberge, where you will learn how wind turbines are constructed and how they work, before boarding a small boat to head out to sea. As you make your way to the wind farm, your guide explains the scale of the project, navigation safety, and how these turbines are maintained in the harsh marine environment. When you arrive at the farm, the boat cruises among the turbines, giving you an up-close look at these massive structures rising from the sea as you learn about their foundations, maintenance vessels, and monitoring systems that keep the wind farm operating safely.
The tour consludes with a visit to the offshore substation where the electricity generated by the turbines is collected and transmitted back to the mainland through underwater cables.

There is not much walking required on this excursion, but some participants find the boat ride physically demanding. It is not suitable for anyone prone to sea sickness. Sun protection is recommended, as is a waterproof jacket to protect from possible spray during the boat ride. 

Treasures of Bruges
Duration : 5h00
Discover exquisitely preserved historic buildings on this excursion to Bruges, a city that became a leading member of the Hanseatic League in the 13th century, when it established Europe's first stock exchange. A guided walking tour leads you to Market Square, where you will see  buildings that were the medieval homes of Bruges's Guilds, and then on to Burg Square, the religious and administrative heart of the city. Here you will find Provost House, the residence of the official who oversaw the cathderal that once stood here, and the Oude Griffe, a registry of deeds and other legal documents. The most striking building in the square, however, is the Stadhuis (Town Hall), a masterpiece of Gothic architecture dating from the 14th century, with a richly ornamented façade and an interior adorned with murals depicting Bruges’ history. You will also see the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a small church famous for housing a relic believed by some to contain Christ’s blood.
Before returning to Ostend and your ship, see the beauty of medieval Bruges from a different perspective as you board a local boat for a cruise on the canals and waterways of the city, followed by time at leisure to browse the shops in Walplein Square that sell the lace and chocolate for which Bruges is also famous.

This is a moderate excursion, involving a total of a little less than 2 miles of walking over flat, cobblestoned surfaces. Wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing, and use sun protection as appropriate. 

Ghent and Van Eyck's Adoration
Duration : 5h30
In the 15th and 16th centuries, Ghent was one of the largest and wealthiest cities in northern Europe, rivalling Paris in size and influence, its prosperity built on the cloth and wool trade. A great deal of this wealth was funnelled into the cultural flowering we call the Northern Renaissance, as rich patrons commissioned works of art, undoubtedly the most famous of which is Jan van Eyck’s Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.
On arrival in Ghent, enjoy a guided walking tour through the old city. Pass impressive guild houses with distinctive steep, gabled façades; stroll across St. Michael’s Bridge, overlooking the former river port; admire the iconic Row of Three Towers—St Nicholas’ Church, the Belfry of Ghent, and the tower of St Bavo’s Cathedral—and continue past the old harbor, the Meat House (Het Groot Vleeshuis), and City Hall. The tour ends at St. Bavo's Cathedral's visitor center dedicated to The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. Here you will learn about the tortuous history of this masterpiece through war damage, fire, and theft and about its ongoing restoration, as you admire the fully restored panels on display.
After some time at leisure, a canal boat takes you back to your motorcoach for the return to Ostend and your ship.

This is a moderate to difficult excursion, involving about 2 miles of walking over uneven cobblestoned surfaces. It is not suitable for those with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun are recommended. 

Bruges on Your Own
Duration : 4h30
This is your opportunity to design a half-day exploration of Bruges at your pace and tailored to your interests. Equipped with a detailed map and oriented by your guide to the layout of the city, you will begin at Market Square, Bruge's historic center, which is also where you will regroup at the end of the excursion. How you fill the time in the city is entirely up to you.
Perhaps, you'll stroll the city’s cobbled lanes, browsing lace boutiques and small specialty shops. Maybe check out Bruges’ renowned chocolate shops, or stop for a beer at an award-winning brewery. Visit the  Groeningemuseum, home to masterpieces by the Flemish Primitives. Or step inside the Church of Our Lady to see Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child. If you're so inclined, a canal cruise through this "Venice of the North" is always a possibility. But whatever you choose to do, you cannot go wrong.

This excursion is what you make of it. But comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the elements are always recommended. Coaches are not allowed in the city center, so you will be dropped off at a meeting point and return to this meeting point after exploring the city on your own.

Dunkirk (Dunkerque), located on the North Sea near the Belgian border, is one of France’s most important maritime hubs. Established in the 10th century as a center of fishing and trade, it later became a strategic naval base. Best known, perhaps, for the evacuation of some 338,000 Allied troops from its beaches in 1940 during Operation Dynamo, Dunkirk is today France’s third-largest port, handling millions of tons of cargo annually, including oil, coal, steel, and shipping containers. It is also the center of a growing offshore wind energy sector. Dunkirk has a vibrant cultural scene with an historic old town, museums, and the months-long Dunkirk Carnival, one of France’s most famous festivals.

Included Excursions
Operation Dynamo
Duration : 3h00
From May 26 to June 4, 1940, hundreds of civilian vessels, working in concert with the Royal Navy and under constant air attack from German forces, managed to evacuate more than 330,000 British and French soldiers from Dunkirk. This heroic effort, although it was a strategic retreat, became an important symbol of the resilience and determination of the British people as they continued the fight for their survival.
This excursion takes you to the Dynamo Museum, named after the British government's codename for the evacuation (Operation Dynamo).  The museum houses a rich collection of artifacts, photographs, film clips, and interactive displays that tell the story of those nine dramatic days in 1940. You will also have an opportunity to walk to the beach to see the shoreline where Allied soldiers waited to be rescued.

This is an easy to moderate excursion, involving a total of approximately one mile of walking over mostly flat cobblestone surfaces. As always, comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from sun and rain are recommended. 

Le Couple

Duration : 4h00
La Coupole is one of northern France’s most striking World War II sites: a vast concrete bunker built by Nazi Germany near Saint-Omer as a launch base for V-2 rockets aimed at London. Never used as intended, it now houses a fascinating museum exploring the occupation of Europe, the V-weapons program, and the dawn of the space age.

At the museum, you descend into the vast underground galleries beneath an immense concrete dome, where exhibits combine original artifacts, large-scale reconstructions, archival film, and interactive displays to explain the German V-2 rocket program and the strategic importance of the Pas-de-Calais region. Explore the effect of the installation on life under occupation and learn about the activities of the French Resistance. The museum also has galleries on postwar justice and the unexpected legacy of V-2 technology in the emergence of space exploration.

This is a moderate excursion, involving a total of approximately a mile and a half of walking over sometimes uneven surfaces. As always, comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from sun and rain are recommended. 

Discover Dunkirk
Duration : 3h00
Discover the historic city of Dunkirk on a guided walking tour through its lively streets and along its waterfront. Stroll past historic quays and the modern port as your guide shares stories of Dunkirk’s proud maritime heritage, its vital role in regional trade and industry, and the dramatic events that shaped the city during war time.
The tour includes a visit to the Port Museum, housed in a former tobacco warehouse overlooking the harbor. Here, explore thoughtfully curated exhibits that chart the development of Dunkirk’s port from its medieval origins to its modern commercial importance (it is today, France's third-largest port). Step aboard historic ships moored outside the museum, discover artefacts and models that illustrate seafaring life, and gain insight into the daily experiences of fishermen, sailors, and dockworkers. Together, these stories reveal why Dunkirk has long held strategic importance on the Channel coast and remains a symbol of endurance.

This is an easy to moderate excursion, involving a total of approximately one mile of walking over mostly flat cobblestone surfaces. As always, comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from sun and rain are recommended.  

Cabour Dunes and Museum
Duration : 3h45
From the pier, drive to the Cabour Museum, located at the edge of the Cabour dunes in Adinkerke, Belgium. Focused on the history of the area immediately surrounding it, this small military museum chronicles the experiences of the local community during two world wars in which the strategic importance of the nearby dunes made it a center of conflict.
From the museum, step directly into the Cabour Domain, a protected coastal landscape of rolling sand dunes, wetlands, and dune grasslands. As you meander along boardwalks and trails, spotting rare plants and migratory birds, your guide will point out the World War I trenches hidden in the dunes and the remains of an early-20th-century water supply system. You will also see historic Cabour Castle, which was pressed into service as a military hospital during WWI.

This is an easy to moderate excursion, involving a total of approximately one mile of walking over uneven surfaces. As always, comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and protection from sun and rain are recommended. 

Dunkirk (Dunkerque), located on the North Sea near the Belgian border, is one of France’s most important maritime hubs. Established in the 10th century as a center of fishing and trade, it later became a strategic naval base. Best known, perhaps, for the evacuation of some 338,000 Allied troops from its beaches in 1940 during Operation Dynamo, Dunkirk is today France’s third-largest port, handling millions of tons of cargo annually, including oil, coal, steel, and shipping containers. It is also the center of a growing offshore wind energy sector. Dunkirk has a vibrant cultural scene with an historic old town, museums, and the months-long Dunkirk Carnival, one of France’s most famous festivals.