Summer At Sea

London, a vibrant metropolis brimming with history and culture, is a must-visit destination for cruise travellers. Explore the historic Tower of London, witness the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, and stroll across the majestic Tower Bridge. Art enthusiasts will relish the treasures housed in the British Museum and Tate Modern.

Explore London's culinary diversity at Borough Market, where a variety of international flavors await. Be sure to visit the lively Covent Garden, renowned for its street performers and charming boutiques. From the tranquil Royal Parks to the vibrant West End theatres, London provides a captivating blend of British heritage and modern vitality.

Your cruise is about to begin! It's time to make your way to Southampton, if you haven't already. To reach Southampton from London, you can take a train from London Waterloo to Southampton Central, with the journey taking around 1.5 hours - that's approximately 128 km's (80 miles). Alternatively if you're travelling by coach or have arranged a private transfer, please allow around 2 hours for the journey. Once in Southampton, the cruise terminals are within a short taxi ride from the station.

A centuries-old fishing village, Skagen (pronounced Skain) is perched along the windswept sand dunes at the northernmost point of Denmark. Boasting white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and stunning natural landscapes, the area has lured artists since the mid-19th century. The town’s vibrant art scene is showcased at the Skagen Museum, featuring works by local painters inspired by the area's stunning landscapes.

Stroll through the charming streets lined with yellow houses or visit the iconic Skagen Lighthouse for panoramic views or explore Grenen, where the North Sea and Baltic Sea meet, creating a dramatic natural spectacle.

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.

Stockholm, Sweden's charming capital, spans 14 islands connected by picturesque bridges. Begin your exploration in Gamla Stan, the city's historic old town, where cobblestone streets lead to the majestic Royal Palace and the medieval Storkyrkan Cathedral.

For a dose of modern culture, visit the ABBA Museum on Djurgården Island, celebrating Sweden's iconic pop group. Nearby, the Vasa Museum showcases a remarkably preserved 17th-century warship. Stroll along the waterfront promenade of Strandvägen for stunning views and vibrant cafes. Don't miss the Stockholm City Hall, renowned for its striking architecture and the annual Nobel Prize banquet. Enjoy Swedish cuisine at a local bistro, featuring dishes like meatballs and herring.

Finland's capital is a laid-back but vibrant seaside city, surrounded on three sides by sea and tiny islands. Helsinki is a city of graceful neoclassical buildings, striking modern architecture and spacious boulevards dotted with squares and parks. Ships will dock in either South Harbour or West Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Helsinki:

• take the ferry to the fortress of Suomenlinna
• visit the Kiasma Modern Art Museum
• see the rock church, Temppeliaukio
• shop at Market Square
• stroll through Sibelius Park

Tallinn's fairy-tale castles, cobbled streets and warm hospitality remain one of Europe's best-kept secrets. Ancient convents, steepled churches and handsome guild houses are all preserved as they were in Tallinn’s Old Town area, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ships will dock at the Old City Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Tallinn:

• admire the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• take in the city views from Toompea Hill
• visit the Open Air Museum
• stroll the gardens of Kadriorg Park
  

Centred around a charming UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Town, Latvia’s capital is a quirky and artistic place. It is an architecture buff's dream come true with its collection of Art Nouveau buildings and Gothic structures. Ships will dock at the cruise quay on Daugava River.

Top Things to Do in Riga:

• admire the architecture on Elizabetes street
• take in the views from St Peter's Church
• visit Turaida’s famed castle
• explore the Latvian Ethnographic Museum
• trek along the Kemeri Bog Boardwalk
• visit the resort town of Jurmala

A small town on the island of Gotland, Visby was a popular trading spot during the Viking Age. Today, this pretty medieval city is Sweden's sunniest vacation destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ships will dock at the Visby Cruise Quay.

Top Things to Do in Visby:

• visit the Gotlands Museum
• walk along the medieval Visby Ring Wall
• take in the view from Gallows Hill
• stroll through the Botanic Gardens
• pass through Dalmansporten's gate to explore the medieval city

Berlin, Germany's dynamic capital, is a city steeped in history and modern innovation. Start with the iconic Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of unity and peace. Nearby, the Reichstag Building offers a panoramic view of the city from its stunning glass dome.

Art lovers should not miss Museum Island, home to five world-renowned museums. For a poignant glimpse into the past, visit the Berlin Wall Memorial and the East Side Gallery, where vibrant murals cover remnants of the historic divide. End your visit with a relaxing afternoon in Tiergarten, Berlin’s expansive park perfect for unwinding and reflecting on the city’s rich tapestry.

Warnemünde, a quaint seaside resort in Germany, captures the hearts of visitors with its broad, sandy beaches and the charming promenade of Alter Strom, lined with fishing boats and boutiques. This port town is renowned for its maritime flair and historic lighthouse, dating back to 1898, which offers sweeping views of the Baltic Sea.

Warnemünde offers access to both the historic city of Rostock, just 13 kilometers (8 miles) away, and the vibrant capital, Berlin, approximately 240 kilometers (150 miles) away. Rostock is reachable within 20 minutes by train, while Berlin requires a longer travel time, about 3 hours by train or coach. Explore Rostock's medieval architecture and Hanseatic history or if you're looking to explore Berlin, plan for a full day experience.

Founded during the Viking Age, Aarhus is a compact and vibrant city perfect for history buffs and lovers of the arts and culture. Located on Jutland's east coast, Aarhus is surrounded by dense forests, and provides easy access to Denmark's scenic Lake District. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Aarhus:

• wander through the old Latin Quarter
• visit the Den Gamle By Museum
• spend the day at LegoLand
• visit the old market village of Ebeltoft
• enjoy a scenic drive to the Lake District

London, a vibrant metropolis brimming with history and culture, is a must-visit destination for cruise travellers. Explore the historic Tower of London, witness the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, and stroll across the majestic Tower Bridge. Art enthusiasts will relish the treasures housed in the British Museum and Tate Modern.

Explore London's culinary diversity at Borough Market, where a variety of international flavors await. Be sure to visit the lively Covent Garden, renowned for its street performers and charming boutiques. From the tranquil Royal Parks to the vibrant West End theatres, London provides a captivating blend of British heritage and modern vitality.

Southampton has a long maritime history, it was the departure point for the Mayflower in 1620, and for the ill-fated Titanic in 1912. Today the city is the cruise capital of Northern Europe. During your time in Southampton, explore its medieval architectural spots like Bargate and the Old Town walls, shop at the ultra-modern Westquay and historic sites such as the SeaCity Museum and the Titanic Trail. Southampton is approximately 128 kilometers (80 miles) southwest of London, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by car or train. The port is conveniently located near the city center.

Start your exploration of Dublin with a visit to Trinity College, home to the ancient Book of Kells. A stroll through the cobbled streets of Temple Bar reveals an array of lively pubs, quirky shops, and the fascinating Irish Film Institute.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the solemn beauty of Dublin Castle and the poignant exhibits at Kilmainham Gaol. For a taste of local flavor, visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's famous stout. End your day with a leisurely walk along the River Liffey, enjoying views of the Ha'penny Bridge and the city's charming Georgian architecture.

Cruise ships docking in Dun Laoghaire typically use the Dun Laoghaire Harbour, located about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) south of Dublin. The journey to Dublin takes approximately 30 minutes by train or car. The port area itself is picturesque, featuring a beautiful harbor, Victorian piers, and the historic Dun Laoghaire Pavilion.

One of the oldest continuously inhabited places in Ireland, Londonderry traces its roots to the 6th century. Walls from the 17th century still fortify the city centre where you will find St. Columb’s Cathedral, built in 1633. The geological marvel known as the Giant’s Causeway lies just east of the city.

Top Things to Do in Londonderry:

• view the murals at Bogside
• take a tour of the Giant’s Causeway
• explore Glenveagh National Park
• drive along the Inishowen Peninsula
• visit the Doagh Folk Village

Colourful row houses and red-hulled fishing vessels line the shores of this picturesque port set on the edge of the Outer Hebrides. The gateway to Lewis and Harris Island, Stornoway is a short journey to a natural wonderland of mountains, craggy rocks, moorlands, meadows, and rugged coastlines. Ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to shore.

Top Things to Do in Stornoway:

• explore Lews Castle
• visit the Callanish Stones
• tour the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
• cruise the Uig coastline in a RIB (boat)

Scrabster, located on the northern coast of Scotland, is a charming port town known for its picturesque harbour and rich maritime history. The town serves as a gateway to the stunning Orkney Islands, with regular ferry services providing a scenic journey across the Pentland Firth.

Explore the rugged coastline and visit attractions like Holburn Head Lighthouse for panoramic views of the sea and surrounding landscapes. The nearby Castle of Mey, the former holiday home of the Queen Mother, offers beautiful gardens and insights into royal life.

Where the rivers Dee and Don meet the North Sea, you’ll find the harbour city of Aberdeen. The city is famous for its stunning, sparkling, granite buildings and monuments which shimmer in the sunlight and the warming tones of 'Doric', the local Scots dialect you'll hear in the streets.

Top Things to Do in Aberdeen:

• walk through the Winter Gardens
• visit the Aberdeen Art Gallery
• explore Craigievar Castle or Drum Castle
• play a round at the Royal Aberdeen Golf Club

Nestled between the Highlands and the Border Hills, Edinburgh is a gracious city noted for its superb skyline, its impressive collection of architecture and its beautiful parks. Here you'll find the best of central eastern Scotland: spectacular views, rolling hills and castles. Ships will dock at the Port of Leith Cruise Liner Terminal.

Top Things to Do in Edinburgh:

• explore the Edinburgh Castle
• visit the Holyroodhouse
• wander down the Royal Mile
• play a round at the worlds oldest golf course

Norway’s beauty shines brighter than ever in Bergen, where colourful wooden buildings line every street. From the historic wharf called the Bryggen to the neighbouring fjords just waiting to be explored, a day in Bergen makes for a fun mix of city and seclusion, outdoor adventure and arts and culture. Ships will dock at the Skolten cruise port.

Top Things to Do in Bergen:

• take in the views from atop Mount Floyen
• visit the Bryggens Museum
• explore the famous fish market
• fly over Hardangerfjord in a seaplane

Stavanger offers a blend of nature and culture, with its colorful wooden houses lining Old Town's cobblestone streets. A highlight is the nearby Lysefjord, where the iconic Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) provides breathtaking fjord views after a rewarding hike. The Norwegian Petroleum Museum dives into the region’s oil history, while Gamle Stavanger, the best-preserved wooden settlement in Europe, transports visitors back in time with its charming 18th-century homes.

Set on the shores of a sparkling fjord, cosmopolitan Kristiansand is the largest city in Southern Norway. It has a cultural and tranquil atmosphere, a blend of contemporary and traditional architecture, and a natural beauty woven throughout and beyond the city. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Kristiansand:

• admire the wooden buildings in Posebyen
• cross the bridge to the island of Odderoya
• visit the Christiansholm Fortress
• hop aboard the Setesdal Vintage Railway
• visit the charming village of Lillesand

Lysekil, located on the picturesque west coast of Sweden, is renowned for its stunning archipelago and rich maritime heritage. This charming coastal town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. The granite cliffs and clear waters of the surrounding archipelago provide a breathtaking backdrop for exploring the scenic landscapes.

One of Lysekil's highlights is the Havets Hus, an impressive aquarium showcasing the marine life of the North Sea. Visitors can learn about local marine ecosystems and see a variety of sea creatures up close. The town's historic district features charming wooden houses and cobbled streets, reflecting its long history as a fishing and maritime centre.

Sweden's second largest city and the largest port in Scandinavia is laced with a network of gracious canals lined with elegant buildings. Gothenburg is a cosmopolitan city with a wealth of cultural attractions, from its ancient University to its beloved pleasure garden at Liseberg Amusement Park. Ships will dock at the Port of Gothenburg.

Top Things to Do in Gothenburg:

• visit Tjolöholm Castle
• island hop in the Bohuslän archipelago
• cruise the canals
• stroll down Aveneyn boulevard

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.