Portugal's capital Lisbon comes alive with a rich history seen in every nook and cranny of the city. From the resting place of famous explorer Vasco da Gama at Jeronimos Monastery to the impressive turrets of Sao Jorge Castle dating all the way back to second century BCE, Lisbon offers a deep dive into the past to satiate the most curious travelers. While Western Europe's oldest city boasts an array of Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, that does not mean it has remained stuck in the past. On the contrary, the colorful culture and vibrant life that runs throughout the city's restaurants, shops, and rooftop bars make it buzz with infectious energy. Taking a tuk tuk through its hard-to-reach passages allows you to experience Lisbon as the locals do. ... Read More
Along the Douro River in the north of Portugal lies Porto, the country's second-largest city. It may be renowned for its port wine - the Ferreira Caves being one such famed cellar and one of the oldest port wine cellars in Portugal - but the city contains so much more for the explorer spirit to discover. Starting in the port of Leixoes, your journey takes you to the Dom Luis I Bridge, a direct link to Ribeira, Porto's oldest district. One of Porto's most significant sites, the Livraria Lello, is filled with historical, architectural, and literary importance, containing a world of books that any bibliophile traveler will find exciting. ... Read More
A province of Galicia, La Coruna (also known as A Coruna) holds a great deal of history that attracts the intellectual traveler. Home of the Spanish Armada and second-biggest port town in the country, it's a city that invites explorer spirits to rediscover all its lost secrets and hidden gems. About an hour away lies Santiago de Compostela, home to a beautiful cathedral to which many make a pilgrimage spanning 500 miles across the top of Spain. If you seek the beauty of nature within the splendor of historic architecture, La Coruna offers the Garden of San Carlos and the Gardens of Mendez Nunez with verdant patches of bushes and palm trees sprinkled throughout paved paths amid cultural landmarks. ... Read More
Friday - May 10, 2024
Day 4
Bilbao, Spain
On the northern edge of the Iberian Peninsula lies Bilbao, a city with historical ties to Basque country. Its best-known museum, The Guggenheim, stands as a shining example of some of the most innovative 20th-century design from renowned architect Frank Gehry. Strolling through the central neighborhood, Indautxu, you'll come across the picturesque Dona Casilda Iturrizar Park. This English-style garden, with its enchanting pond, verdant trees, and decorative fountains adds a touch of refinement and romance. From the Arenal Gardens, the gateway to Casco Viejo (the Old Quarter), to Miguel de Unamuno Square, where a statue of the famed writer stands sentinel, Bilbao's everyday life holds an extraordinary magic. ... Read More
Saturday - May 11, 2024
Day 5
Port Medoc, Le Verdon, France, France
Arrive: 9:30 am
Depart: 6:00 pm
Port Medoc is where red wine is king. Bordered to the east by the Gironde estuary and to the west by the vast pine forest that separates it from the Atlantic Ocean, the soil of Port Medoc is where France's most coveted grapes are grown. There is also quite a bit of French history to be appreciated here as you witness three of the 12 Fortifications of Vauban. ... Read More
Sunday - May 12, 2024
Day 6
Le Palais, France
Arrive: 8:00 am
Depart: 6:00 pm
About a 5.5-hour trip from Paris, Belle-Ile has long been the secret summer getaway for Parisians and it's easy to see why. Its jagged coastline rises out of the Bay of Biscay and has everything experienced travelers could want on an island, from beautiful beaches to a placid pastoral interior. The first landmark you may spot on your entrance to Le Palais, the capital of Belle-Ile, is the imposing 17th-century Citadel Vauban. Sun-worshippers and beachcombers can find a spot on the sand at Plage des Grands Sables, while surfers may prefer to catch waves at Plage du Donnant on the west side of the island. ... Read More
Monday - May 13, 2024
Day 7
At Sea
Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore.
Tuesday - May 14, 2024
Day 8
Honfleur, France
Arrive: 7:00 am
Depart: 8:00 pm
Located along the southern bank of the Seine River, the charming port city of Honfleur is characterized by its picturesque houses with slate-covered facades, a captivating aesthetic that has been many the subject and inspiration for painters through history. Known as the fashion capital of the world and the City of Light, Paris has gained many monikers throughout its long history. Iconic tourist attractions like the Louvre, Versailles, and the Eiffel Tower make it easy to see how the city has enjoyed such lasting power in the minds of wanderers and locals alike, but its smaller neighborhoods like Montmartre and Le Marais are where everyday life truly shines. While France is world-renowned for its cuisine, Normandy stands out as a foodie destination. Local Camembert, Livarot, and Neufchatel cheeses are delicious enough to entice travelers to stay, but a trip to Normandy is not complete without sampling the tripes a la mode de Caen, a French stew combining tripe with ox feet, vegetables, herbs and spices, cider, and apple brandy. ... Read More
London is a fascinating city with storied landmarks, iconic attractions, and countless hidden gems. Photographers often want to head toward central London near the Westminster Bridge. With Big Ben and Westminster Palace on one side and the London Eye on the other side of the river, it's the best spot for the ultimate picture of the English capital. Among the lesser-known highlights of London is the British Library, where you may see a scribbled page of Beatles songwriting or a Leonardo da Vinci notebook. There are some stunning illuminated scripts and landmark-scientific items too. If you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens. ... Read More
Saturday - May 18, 2024
Day 12
At Sea
Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore.
Sunday - May 19, 2024
Day 13
Guernsey, United Kingdom
Arrive: 8:00 am
Depart: 6:00 pm
Legend has it that the enchanted land of St. Peter Port was invaded by fairies once upon a time. For proof, head west to the edge of the island to find a mysterious Fairy Ring known as Pleinmont, walk around it three times and make a wish. Aside from local lore, Guernsey is charmed as the second-largest of the Channel Islands, ideally situated in the bay of St. Malo, a mere 30 miles from the coast of France and 80 miles from the coast of England. Speaking of England, while Guernsey is considered part of the British Isles, it is not a part of the United Kingdom, as it constitutionally owes allegiance to the English Crown, but has its own separate legislature. ... Read More
Monday - May 20, 2024
Day 14
St Mary's, United Kingdom
Arrive: 8:00 am
Depart: 6:00 pm
While you might think you've landed in the Caribbean, the gorgeous oasis of St. Mary's is very much in England. The Isles of Scilly enjoy a climate that is among the mildest, warmest, and sunniest in the United Kingdom. And very few ships visit, making it an ideal remote getaway. Among the smattering of islands strung off the tip of Cornwall is the thoroughly enchanting St. Mary's with a population of almost 1,800 and covering an area of about three square miles, the largest island of the five and the gateway to the rest of the archipelago. While St. Mary's is laid back, you'll find you can still enjoy an active day, whether you rent a boat or go paddle boarding. Hugh Town, St. Mary's central hub, holds plenty of shops, restaurants, galleries, and cafes to spend a leisurely afternoon. Nearby lie three beaches - Porthmellon, Town Beach, and Porthcressa - for a relaxing beach day. ... Read More
Cobh (pronounced Cove) is a favorite destination among history enthusiasts, especially those who have an interest in the world-famous Titanic. It's also the gateway to wondrous County Cork, a land filled with rich heritage. A visit to Blarney Castle requires a quick kiss as here is where the famous Blarney Stone is set in the wall. Whiskey lovers can rejoice, as Cork is the site of the Old Jameson Distillery, a beautifully restored and self-contained industrial complex taking you right to the heart of the cherished whiskey making tradition. Near Cork lies the picturesque sailing town of Kinsale with vibrant streetscapes and delicious restaurants. ... Read More
Wednesday - May 22, 2024
Day 16
Holyhead, United Kingdom
Arrive: 9:00 am
Depart: 6:00 pm
From the charming architecture of St. Cybi's Church to the monolithic structures of Trefignath Burial Chamber, the city of Holyhead in Wales contains a spectrum of landmarks that invite you to explore. Take the South Stack Lighthouse tour for breathtaking views along the rocky coast. Sitting within the RSPB Reserve, the surrounding heathland filled with wildflowers, various species of birds, and grazing sheep creates a bucolic scene to stir a sense of awe. Along the coast at Breakwater Country Park, discover scenic paths with audio trails, themed walks, and even a gallery in the old brick shed. With plenty of restaurants and pubs near the port, it's easy to dive into authentic Welsh cuisines, such as Conwy mussels or Welsh rarebit. ... Read More
Thursday - May 23, 2024
Day 17
Douglas, United Kingdom
Arrive: 8:00 am
Depart: 6:00 pm
Between Ireland and Great Britain in the Irish Sea, there's a small dot of land called the Isle of Man. Douglas is the capital and your gateway to the incredible treasures that this lesser-known Crown Dependency holds. Not only is Isle of Man culturally and historically different from its surrounding islands, it is also linguistically diverse, with Manx, a Gaelic language similar to some types of Irish Gaelic, but unique to the island. The lovely seafront of Douglas can be traversed by horse-drawn trams, but if you prefer speed, this town also delivers with winding roads made for a thrilling motorcycle adventure. After all, this is the home of the International Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy) Race. ... Read More
Ireland's capital, Dublin, is bustling, cosmopolitan, ancient, and young at heart all at once. It is one of Europe's liveliest cities, where medieval and 17th-century buildings stand comfortably amid all the trappings of a 21st-century community. Marvels like the incredible Book of Kells, one of the most beautifully illuminated manuscripts in the world, call out to the curious. A gentle and relaxing cruise along the River Liffey immerses you in the capital's colorful history, from the first arrival of the Vikings to the rapid development of the city during the 18th and 19th centuries. When in Dublin, the Guinness Storehouse, located in the heart of St. James's Gate Brewery, invites you to raise a glass at the Gravity Bar with a 360-degree view of the city skyline. ... Read More
Cruise and Land Value Offers that combine with this sailing.
Pricing Terms and Conditions
Unless otherwise indicated above, all cruise rates are per person, double occupancy, cruise-only without airfare, do not include government taxes and fees and quoted in in U.S. dollars. Ponant Cruises rates are based on foreign currencies that are converted to USD based on today's exchange rates. Rates are subject to availability, can vary by ship and sailing date, and for new bookings only. Fares are capacity controlled, and subject to change without notice. Port charges are included. Prices do not include additional service charges; Travel Insurance; and applicable government taxes & fees unless otherwise specified in the offer. Surcharges and fees implemented by a travel supplier, even after the reservation is made, will be the sole responsibility of each traveler and is due and payable in full prior to departure. Certain promotions which may include amenities like shipboard credits, pre-paid gratuities, drink packages or other packages may be available by category, room type or fare code and may not be combinable with other promotions. For any questions, please consult one of our cruise specialists for applicability and verification. All prices, inclusions & promotions listed on the web-site are current at the time they we published and are subject to change without advance notice. Arrivia, Inc., its subsidiaries, and partners are not responsible for last minute changes to price or itinerary by cruise lines, or for any errors or omissions in the content of this website.