Reykjavik to Copenhagen

Formed by volcanic eruptions and settled by Norse Vikings, Iceland is an unforested land of volcanoes, hot springs, mountains, glaciers and northern lights. While its preserved language remains, this is a forward-thinking, eco-friendly country and Reykjavik is its capital where 60% of the population lives. Europe’s second largest island is known for whale watching and its ancient maritime history.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

The outlet for enormous Nuup Kangerlua, the world’s second-largest fjord system, gives Greenland’s capital its name – meaning “cape” in Greenlandic. Nuuk’s natural drama is matched by showstopping cultural attractions, including the Greenland National Museum and Archives, which offer a comprehensive overview of local life from prehistoric times to the modern day. You'll find the museum on the Colonial Harbour, which was founded by Dano-Norwegian missionary, Hans Egede, in 1728, and is home to the nation’s oldest buildings. Also visit Katuaq Cultural Centre, which has a striking design that echoes a rippling Northern Lights display, a natural phenomenon that paints the skies here in winter. It hosts rotating art exhibitions, a cool café and a performance space that taps into the region’s lively local music scene.

Raise your eyes to the skies as you approach Paamiut harbour, because this southern settlement is the home of Greenland’s largest population of white-tailed eagles. The Capital Region port is graced by brightly colored historic houses, and a museum that tells tales of the whaling and fur trading, which formed Paamiut’s nascent economy. Explore a backcountry crisscrossed with ancient hunting trails now welcoming adventurous hikers and cross-country skiers in winter, leading along fjords where glaciers spill down from the Greenland Ice Cap. In warmer months, this is a prime place for whale watching, with minke, fin, orcas and humpback species often seen from shore.

Qaqortoq is your gateway to uncovering Greenland's pristine natural beauty. In the 18th century, European whalers and explorers began to visit the region, leading to increased contact between the Inuit and outsiders. During the island’s Danish colonialization from 1776 to 1945 it became a hub for trade in fur, blubber, and other resources and Danish influences are still evident in the architecture and culture of the town. But this is also a place of vast, natural beauty. Hiking trails await your footsteps amidst untouched wilderness, while kayaking adventures let you glide alongside icebergs glistening in the Arctic sun. With its dramatic landscapes of majestic mountains and serene fjords, this town is a true Arctic gem. The vibrant hues of Qaqortoq's houses stand in stark contrast to the surrounding icy panoramas, creating a picturesque fusion of tradition and modernity. Engage with the local Inuit heritage through art galleries, cultural events, and encounters with friendly residents.

Traversing this waterway at the southern tip of Greenland packs in all the big-hitters of an Arctic voyage: electric-blue glaciers creeping into the calm waters of the fjord, icebergs bobbing like dazzling white deserted islands, tiny clusters of paintbox-bright wooden huts. In places, this 60-mile fjord system narrows to about 1,500ft, so to cruise through it is to slow right down and gaze in awe-struck silence at the towering granite cliffs all around – and perhaps even spot the spouts and flukes of whales in the icy sea.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Tórshavn, named after the Norse god Thor and the most populous of the Faroe Islands, is one of the smallest capitals in the world. Here, classic grass turfed-roof houses and modern buildings stand side by side. This capital may be small in size but Tórshavn's beauty lies in its abundance of mountains and valleys, culinary delights, impressive art scene and an unapologetic love for football---here, Soccer is king.

As the main town of the Shetland Islands, Lerwick offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that appeals to everyone. The town's maritime heritage is everywhere from its bustling harbor to its traditional architecture, creating an authentic, picturesque atmosphere and capturing the very essence of island living in Northern Europe. The island can trace its roots tracing back to Viking times, so visitors should expect a healthy dose of historic charm intertwined with day to day modern living. Quaint streets wind past historic buildings, inviting exploration of local shops, cafes, and cultural sites. The bustling harbor reflects Lerwick's maritime heritage, where fishing boats and yachts create a lively ambiance. Be sure to venture beyond the town, and immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes of the Orkney Islands —ancient standing stones, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches are all within reach. Lerwick's captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and island character makes it a treasure to uncover within the enchanting Orkney archipelago.

For centuries, Stavanger and its surrounding areas have played a leading part in Norway's maritime history - from the time when Viking kings battled in Hafrsfjord, through the period of the "White Sails," steamships and modern super tankers. As a result of its prime geographical location, Stavanger is considered the most important oil city in Norway.

A picturesque gem at the southernmost tip of Norway, Mandal blends glorious beaches with maritime heritage and a vibrant art scene. Just outside the town center, Sjøsanden regularly tops the Norwegian beach charts with its soft sands and shallow waters backed by a nature park and walking trails. Stroll through the Old Town to admire elegant, 19th-century wooden homes and Norway’s largest timber church, Mandal Kirke. Pop into Vigeland House to learn about the celebrated Norwegian artists, Emanuel and Gustav Vigeland, or admire works by painter Amaldus Nielsen alongside seafaring exhibits at the Mandal Museum. For panoramic vistas of the town and coast, head up to the Uranienborg Viewpoint, then mingle with locals in a cozy café over bolle – sweet, pillowy buns – and other decadent pastries.

At the head of the Oslofjord, which boasts many densely wooded islands, lies the impressive Norwegian capital of Oslo. This inspiring city is the site of many of Norway's finest historic and cultural achievements. Towering above our dock near the city center is the imposing Akershus Fortress and Castle. Graceful Viking ships, the Munch Art Museum and Gustav Vigeland's awesome sculpture collection are among the rich treasury of attractions this city has to offer.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Ålesund is of Norway’s most captivating emerging destinations. Nestled along the Norwegian coast, this picturesque town offers a captivating journey through history, culture, and stunning landscapes. The town was ravaged by a devastating fire in 1904 and was thus rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style of the era. Today, Ålesund's architecture is a not only beautifully preserved but a masterpiece of design. Walking its cobblestone streets reveals ornate facades, intricate details, and a palpable sense of history. The Jugendstilsenteret museum provides insight into this architectural renaissance and is well worth a visit. However pretty Ålesund town may be, it is nothing in comparison to the stunning surroundings. Ålesund is a gateway to the majestic fjords and islands of western Norway. Adventurers can explore the Geirangerfjord, while wildlife enthusiasts can spot seals and seabirds on nearby Runde Island.

Situated on the southern tip of Norway about four hours from Oslo, Kristiansand is the country's fifth-largest city and a top vacationer's destination. No wonder: Kristiansand's water-surrounded setting, many parks and museums, family-friendly zoo and vibrant shopping scene bring culture-minded visitors and outdoors enthusiasts together in happy coexistence. A walk in Posebyen, Kristiansand's old town, offers a look at one of Northern Europe's largest collections of characteristic wooden buildings, while the fish quay presents one of Norway's best fish markets and great dining options. If you can bear to pull yourself away from Kristiansand's narrow streets and wide appeal, a boat trip across the waterway brings you to Lillesand, an immaculate town with charming alleyways and a pretty waterfront.

Norway’s raw coastal beauty is showcased by this port on Vagsoy island, overlooked by Kannestenen rock, which has been moulded by the sea over millions of year into a vast mushroom-like cliff. The gateway to mighty Nordfjord, where rugged peaks rise from ice-blue water, Maloy is a buzzing hub for Norway's prized seafood exports. Inland, along the fjord at Sagastad Viking Center, see Myklebust, one of the world’s largest Viking ships, backed by the glacier-topped peaks of Jostedalsbreen national park, where the summit of Mount Hoven can be conquered by all aboard the Loen Skylift cable car.

Mother Nature pulses through Bergen’s veins. The pretty little town is flanked by a mesmerizing canvas of fjords, mountains, and waterways which must be seen to be believed, and cast in the shadow of majestic Mount Fløyen, and visitors who are not afraid of heights should enjoy sweeping views of the valley via the Fløibanen funicular. Bergen is everything you would expect it to be: colorful fishing huts dot the landscape while the vibrant Fish Market, perhaps the beating heart of the town, is where visitors immerse in the flavors of fresh seafood and local produce. Traditional dishes like "klippfisk" and "smørbrød" reveal a deep connection to coastal resources, and are very tasty to boot! Once you have had your fill of sensational landscapes and traditional food, then take a stroll to iconic Bryggen Wharf—a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with vibrantly hued Hanseatic buildings, echoing tales of centuries-old maritime trade.

Situated on the southern tip of Norway about four hours from Oslo, Kristiansand is the country's fifth-largest city and a top vacationer's destination. No wonder: Kristiansand's water-surrounded setting, many parks and museums, family-friendly zoo and vibrant shopping scene bring culture-minded visitors and outdoors enthusiasts together in happy coexistence. A walk in Posebyen, Kristiansand's old town, offers a look at one of Northern Europe's largest collections of characteristic wooden buildings, while the fish quay presents one of Norway's best fish markets and great dining options. If you can bear to pull yourself away from Kristiansand's narrow streets and wide appeal, a boat trip across the waterway brings you to Lillesand, an immaculate town with charming alleyways and a pretty waterfront.

Far from the clamor of the capital, the sleepy towns and dune-backed beaches of Denmark’s Jutland peninsula are where travelers go in search of a slower pace of life. Yet, this is the location of Fredericia, a town that almost superseded Copenhagen as the country’s seat of government because of its strategic position. The fortress town was built by Frederik III in the mid-1600s, when Denmark was a superpower, and is proud of its military roots, which include the extensive, well-preserved, and walkable ramparts, impressive monuments to fallen servicemen, and museums that recount tales of past conflicts. There is more to explore amid its streets, a showcase for architecture as diverse as 17th-century houses that conceal courtyard gardens, and the new canal district, a reimagination of the historic docks. Make time, too, to follow the art and sculpture trails and browse the galleries, and to visit the nearby lakes and forests, as well as one of the country’s finest stretches of sand.

Towards the end of the 19th century, 9,000 workers spent eight years digging the Kiel, inadvertently creating today’s busiest artificial waterway. Today, around 100 ships cruise along it, making the most of a crucial shortcut between the North and Baltic Seas. Much of the canal enjoys green and forested banks, with a path you can cycle or walk along, stopping at a café to watch the vessels go by. Dive further into Kiel’s maritime heritage at the German submarine U-995 museum, the Naval Memorial in Laboe, and Kiel Maritime Museum, housed in a striking former fish market, and make sure to sample a fischbrötchen – fish sandwich – from a street-food vendor. For earthier pleasures, visit the Botanic Gardens, part of Kiel University, or check out the Gothic Revival architecture of St Nikolai Church.

Originally established as a Viking village in the 10th century, Copenhagen comes with a colorful past, traces of which are still visible today – from centuries-old cobblestoned streets to resplendent royal palaces. But this storied Scandinavian city also sits firmly at the forefront of contemporary culture and design, with its world-class architecture, cutting-edge art galleries, and eco-friendly approach to urban living. Do as the locals do and explore the city on two wheels, pausing along the way at notable sites like the Renaissance-era Rosenborg Castle and Gardens, the 19th-century amusement park Tivoli Gardens, and the waterfront hub of Nyhavn, lined with candy-colored townhouses.

Copenhagen captivates with its blend of royal history and modern Scandinavian cool. Visit the 17th-century Rosenborg Castle, home to Denmark’s crown jewels, or stroll through the picturesque Nyhavn harbor with its colorful townhouses and lively cafés.

The iconic Little Mermaid statue sits serenely by the waterfront, while Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, offers charming rides and lush gardens in the heart of the city. Your ship will dock at the Port of Copenhagen, which is a 30 minute drive to Copenhagen Airport and a 15 minute drive into the city centre.