West Indies to Spain

Arrive in San Juan to embark your ship today. This afternoon before our departure, you will have time to explore El Viejo San Juan, or Old San Juan, with its seductive colonial charms, easy island tempo and authentic culture. Wander its narrow lanes, literally paved with history, laid with blue adoquín stone once used to ballast Spanish galleons.

St. Martin is a fascinating mix of France and Holland and the island has been shared by the two nations since 1648. The early economy relied on cotton, tobacco, salt and sugar. A large salt pond remains, once harvested by the Dutch East India Company for trade. Today, the Dutch side of the island, anchored by its capital, Philipsburg, is dotted with resorts and casinos. The renowned Rotary Lookout Point offers stunning panoramic views of the Simpson Bay Lagoon and surrounding islands. Further north, the 1.5-mile swath of white sand at Orient Beach is ideal for sunbathing.

As you sail eastward into the Atlantic, take advantage of the many amenities of your ship. You might find your inner calm with yoga on the Sports Deck. Lounge by the Main Pool with its retractable roof and enjoy a cocktail at the Aquavit Bar.

Relax to the rhythm of your trans-Atlantic crossing. During your second day at sea, you might indulge in a massage or facial or take a sauna in The Spa. Tonight, try some food and wine pairings at The Chef's Table.

Begin your day with coffee and a real Norwegian waffle at Mamsen's gourmet deli. Later, perhaps you will swim in the Infinity Pool or mingle with newfound friends over tea in the Wintergarden. This evening, enjoy soft piano music in the Living Room or lively jazz in Torshavn.

Perhaps you will get a morning workout at the Fitness Center and soothe your body with a hot sauna and a few minutes amid the refreshingly chilled air of the Snow Grotto. In the evening, enjoy cocktails in the Explorers' Lounge and an authentic Italian meal at Manfredi's Italian Restaurant.

Start your day with a walk around the Promenade Deck; once around measures ¼ mile. Later, you might indulge in a manicure or pedicure at The Salon and enjoy a first-run or classic movie in The Theater, popcorn included. Tonight, enjoy an elegant meal in The Restaurant.

As you approach Europe, you might attend an illuminating enrichment lecture about an upcoming destination in The Theater. Relax in The Viking Living Room with a complimentary espresso and a good book from our thoughtfully curated Library.

Arrive in Europe today on Portuguese Madeira, often called the 'Garden Island' for its rich agriculture, terraced hillsides and beautiful flowers. Disembark to witness this beguiling paradise of craggy peaks and dramatic rocky coasts during a mountain drive. Alternately, you can explore Funchal. This grand capital exudes all the historic air of Lisbon with its harborside Old Town, iron balconies and blue azulejo tiles. There will be time to explore its inviting cobblestone streets.

After your exploration of Madeira, you might sample the Madeira wine that is produced on the island during your day cruising the Atlantic. You can also learn about your upcoming port, Cádiz, Spain, during a lecture. Tonight, choose from one of our fine dining venues.

Cádiz lies on Spain's breathtaking province of Andalusia and gained incredible wealth during the 18th century; riches from the Americas were unloaded here after the Guadalquivir River to Seville silted up. This scenic southern region is home the matador and world-class equestrian art. Seville, city of polyamorous suitor Don Juan, boasts plenty of its own glories. Its grand cathedral, Alcázar Palace and Tower of Gold were built from the coffers of Spanish kings, but its fiery flamenco defines its true spirit. It is best to ponder it all while sipping sherry at a bodega.

Sail the gateway between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. Its defining landmark, the soaring Rock of Gibraltar, was one of the Pillars of Hercules of ancient myth. As you sail, explore our well-curated library, tucked in a private alcove of The Living Room, and select from a broad range of titles. Read a book by the Main Pool, a calming oasis in any weather with its retractable roof, allowing for year-round swimming.

Valencia is steeped in 2,000 years of history and culture. Its Old Town is one of Spain's largest, a diverse medley of ancient buildings, wide-open plazas and cultural monuments. The Gothic Silk Exchange, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bears witness to Valencia's Renaissance trading power. A literal taste of Valencia's past bubbles up in every skillet of paella. The centuries-old rice dish was invented here and perfected by farmers; barracas throughout the city offer demonstrations and tastings of this famously rustic cuisine.

Arrive in Barcelona today, Spain's marvel of architectural wonders. Disembark your ship this morning to return home, or you can extend your stay here to absorb the city's laid-back culture.