Epic Northern Adventure - London to London Cruise

Day 1 - Southampton

Arrive: Tue 16 July 2024 / Depart: Tue 16 July 2024 at 17:00

Take a trip up to London and get a bird’s eye view of the city from the London Eye. See sights like Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Piccadilly. Stroll along Lower Regent Street or visit the British Museum.

Day 2 - Cruising the North Sea

Day 3 - Gothenburg

Arrive: Thu 18 July 2024 at 10:00 / Depart: Thu 18 July 2024 at 19:00

One look at the abundance of canals and gabled houses in Gothenburg, and it's clear that the Dutch founded this robust city on the Göta River. That was in 1621, close to the time that mighty Elfsborg Fortress was built at the harbor's mouth. Touring the citadel is fascinating, as are the 17th-century Crown House, Maritiman ship museum, and Gothenburg Art Museum, with masterpieces from Edvard Munch to Picasso. Gothenburg is one of Sweden's greenest cities, compliments of parks such as Slottsskogen. For a vibrant atmosphere, walk along Kungsportavenyn, Gothenburg's main street, which is a hive of cafés, boutiques and plazas.

Day 4 - Kiel, Germany

Arrive: Fri 19 July 2024 at 09:00 / Depart: Fri 19 July 2024 at 22:00

The grand harbor and seaside promenade take center stage in this historical maritime city that’s the gateway to the famed Kiel Canal. Everywhere you go – the Kiel Fjord, the museums and memorials in the city center, the bustling waterfront known as Kiellinie – you’ll feel the seafaring and naval influences. Top choices include the maritime-focused Schifffahrtsmuseum, Aquarium GEOMAR, Botanical Gardens Kiel and of course, stopping at a café along the promenade to enjoy the ever-changing vista of the harbor. Just outside of Kiel in Laboe, you can explore a restored German submarine U-995 on Ostsee beach, a somber reminder of the city’s role as the main German submarine base during World War II.

Day 5 - Berlin

Arrive: Sat 20 July 2024 at 06:00 / Depart: Sat 20 July 2024 at 10:00

Enjoy a scenic drive to the German capital and savor landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the glorious Charlottenburg Palace. Stroll down Unter den Linden, see the site of the Berlin Wall and take a boat ride along the city's canals. Explore on your own and visit one of the many museums. Or discover charming Warnemünde and its lovely Gothic church, market square and seaside promenade.

Day 6 - Ronne, Bornholm

Arrive: Sun 21 July 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 21 July 2024 at 17:00

Largely rebuilt after World War II, Rønne still feels historic because even the new buildings reflect the older architecture. As a result, walking from more modern areas into the charming Old Town (Gamle Stan) is less noticeable. Don't miss the 14th-century St. Nicholas Church, one of the more historic buildings on Bornholm Island, or the massive round-tower castle and its fascinating military museum in the south of Rønne. To better understand the island's seafaring and natural history, visit Bornholm Museum.

Day 7 - Visby, Sweden

Arrive: Mon 22 July 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 22 July 2024 at 17:00

Enjoy the lovely countryside beyond the towered walls and take in the view of this former Hanseatic League town before exploring its narrow, winding lanes, marvelous ruined medieval churches and impressive St. Mary's Cathedral. Or visit an intriguing Bronze Age burial in the midst of farmland and take in the cliff-top view of the precipitous coastline.

Day 8 - Stockholm

Arrive: Tue 23 July 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 23 July 2024 at 16:00

Spend a marvelous day discovering this lovely city and its beautiful buildings. Visit the charming Old Town, medieval Gamla Stan, the elegant royal palace, the wonderful parks and the impressive Vasa, the magnificently restored 17th century warship that sank in the harbor on her maiden voyage.

Day 9 - Klaipeda

Arrive: Wed 24 July 2024 at 11:00 / Depart: Wed 24 July 2024 at 20:00

Lithuania’s third largest city, Klaipeda has been in and out of the hands of the Russians, Swedes and Germans. Marvel at the impressive, and verbosely christened, St. Mergeles Marijos Taikos Karalienes Church tower and walk through Anika Square. Head to the pristine Baltic waters lapping at the broad sands of Smiltyne Beach. Or duck into the Clock Museum or Castle Museum

Day 10 - Gdansk, Poland

Arrive: Thu 25 July 2024 at 06:00 / Depart: Thu 25 July 2024 at 14:00

Enjoy the old medieval quarter of this Baltic jewel and see the lovely Golden Gate, the astonishing 15th century Artus Court, beautiful St. Mary's Church and Oliwa Cathedral, renowned for its three pipe organs. Then see Solidarity Monument Square and the famous shipyard where workers rallied against the communist government. Or drive into the countryside and see the fascinating 13th century Malbork Castle, once home to Polish kings.

Day 11 - Copenhagen, Denmark

Arrive: Fri 26 July 2024 at 07:00 / Depart: Fri 26 July 2024 at 18:00

See another side of this lovely city with a cruise along its charming canals. Visit the quaint old harbor at Nyhavn and beautiful Rosenborg Castle and, of course, the famed statue of the Little Mermaid. Or venture into the countryside and enjoy its panoramic vistas, fairy tale castles and the village of Fredensborg.

Day 12 - Oslo

Arrive: Sat 27 July 2024 at 11:00 / Depart: Sat 27 July 2024 at 21:00

Overlooking a gorgeous fjord, Norway's capital and largest city simply radiates with natural beauty and sophistication. Oslo's rich seafaring history is on display at the Viking Ships Museum, rivaled only by the Kon-Tiki Museum, which holds the balsawood raft that Norwegian adventurer Thor Heyerdahl used to sail from Peru to Polynesia. History aside, Oslo exudes a love of the outdoors in city parks like Vigeland, which is adorned with over 200 life-size sculptures by artist Gustav Vigeland. Much of Oslo is heavily forested with pines, making it one of Europe's greenest cities.

Day 13 - Kristiansand, Norway

Arrive: Sun 28 July 2024 at 10:00 / Depart: Sun 28 July 2024 at 19:00

Founded in 1641 near the southern tip of Norway, Kristiansand once claimed the world's largest fleet of sailing ships. Today the proud city exudes an energy that peaks in summer, when your ship calls. The Posebyen old quarter boasts a collection of historic wooden houses surrounded by shops and restaurants. Museums abound and include the Agder Museum of Natural History and Botanical Garden, which opened in 1828. Kristiansand Zoo, said to be Norway's most visited attraction, covers 150 acres of Nordic terrain where animals like red pandas, moose and Bactrian camels roam in wide-open spaces.

Day 14 - Bergen

Arrive: Mon 29 July 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 29 July 2024 at 18:00

Norway's medieval capital pays homage to its past with wooden houses and cobbled streets that grace the historic Bryggen area around the wharf. Here the Hanseatic Museum reveals a glimpse of working life in the Middle Ages, and the eerie 13th century Rosenkrantz Tower offers a phenomenal view of the seaport. But Bergen is also contemporary. The modern city stretches inland from the harbor, tempting visitors with attractions such as Bergen Aquarium and Trolls' Hill, the romantic summer villa of Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg, who is buried on the estate.

Day 15 - Cruising the Norwegian Sea

Day 16 - Leknes, Lofoten

Arrive: Wed 31 July 2024 at 07:00 / Depart: Wed 31 July 2024 at 17:00

Sailing into the dramatic Lofoten Islands among towering jagged peaks and sheltered bays sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. Nothing short of stunning, the main islands – Austvågøy, Vestvågøy, Flakstadøy and Moskenesøy – are separated from the mainland by a long fjord, but all are connected by bridges and tunnels. Located on Vestvågøy, Leknes is a gateway to unspoiled beaches and the Lofotr Viking Museum as well as traditional fishing villages and outdoor adventures on nearby islands. The unique quality of light has long drawn artists to the archipelago, so you’ll also find myriad galleries featuring everything from glassware and sculptures to jewelry. If you’re yearning to experience a Lofoten-style city, head to the unofficial capital of Svolvaer.

Day 17 - Harstad

Arrive: Thu 01 August 2024 at 09:00 / Depart: Thu 01 August 2024 at 18:00

Located on Hinnøya, Norway's second largest island, prosperous Harstad is considered the country's northern culture capital. It's also distinguished by its superlative attractions. The Anna Rogde, the world's oldest schooner still in operation, sails from the harbor. The world's most northerly stone church, dating to 1250, is just outside town. Nearby lies the world's largest battery of Adolf guns, the heavy artillery used by the Germans during World War II. Harstad is also blessed with natural beauty, as seen by walking the gentle slopes to Keipen for a breathtaking view. To see a historic trading center from 1750, visit Røkenes Farm.

Day 18 - Alta, Norway

Arrive: Fri 02 August 2024 at 09:00 / Depart: Fri 02 August 2024 at 18:00

Day 19 - North Cape

Arrive: Sat 03 August 2024 at 07:00 / Depart: Sat 03 August 2024 at 23:00

While the Midnight Sun will soon dip below the horizon, Honningsvåg should be illuminated throughout the evening spent here. It's an awe-inspiring setting in northernmost Norway, surrounded by dense forests and fjords, inhabited by reindeer and held sacred by the indigenous Sami people. One of the world's most memorable, otherworldly experiences is standing atop the precipitous North Cape, the late-night sun eerily hanging over the Arctic Ocean. There is even a museum in town devoted to the North Cape. The area is also famous for the Gjesværstappan Nature Reserve, where literally millions of arctic birds flourish during the summer nesting period.

Day 20 - Hammerfest

Arrive: Sun 04 August 2024 at 07:00 / Depart: Sun 04 August 2024 at 15:00

Founded in 1838, Hammerfest was razed repeatedly over the years by storms, fires and most savagely by retreating German soldiers at the end of World War II. Now almost completely rebuilt (it was Europe's first city with electric street lights), Hammerfest is known for its colorful homes lining the sea, contemporary attractions and passion for welcoming visitors to its pristine Arctic environs. The most avant-garde building is the striking Kirkegata church with its tent-shaped gable. But don't miss the whaling artifacts in the museum in Market Square, or the panoramic view atop Salen ridge.

Day 21 - Tromso, Norway

Arrive: Mon 05 August 2024 at 06:00 / Depart: Mon 05 August 2024 at 18:00

As you admire the striking architecture of the Arctic Cathedral and Polaria aquarium overlooking Tromsø Sound, you may get the sense that this city, 250 miles north of the Arctic Circle, has an edgy streak. This should come as no surprise in a place where the sun never sets – or rises – depending on the month. The area’s biggest draw is its majestic fjords and mountains, an untouched wilderness that you can explore by boat, bus, foot and more. At the Polar Museum, you’ll discover what it takes to survive in the Arctic, and at the Roald Amundsen Monument, you’ll witness a city that honors the lives – and death – of those who live on the edge.

Day 22 - Cruising the Norwegian Sea

Day 23 - Longyearbyen

Arrive: Wed 07 August 2024 at 08:00

More than half of Spitsbergen is covered with glaciers, the ideal landscape for viewing the abundant reindeer, especially since your ship calls here during the Midnight Sun, when daylight lasts through the evening. Discovered by the Vikings in the 12th century, Spitsbergen enjoys a comparatively mild climate due to the Gulf Stream, so you should be comfortable outdoors taking in the spectacular scenery. The main town of Longyearbyen, one of the world's northernmost, was founded in 1906 to accommodate the coal mining industry.

Day 24 - Longyearbyen

Depart: Thu 08 August 2024 at 14:00

More than half of Spitsbergen is covered with glaciers, the ideal landscape for viewing the abundant reindeer, especially since your ship calls here during the Midnight Sun, when daylight lasts through the evening. Discovered by the Vikings in the 12th century, Spitsbergen enjoys a comparatively mild climate due to the Gulf Stream, so you should be comfortable outdoors taking in the spectacular scenery. The main town of Longyearbyen, one of the world's northernmost, was founded in 1906 to accommodate the coal mining industry.

Day 25 - Cruising the Norwegian Sea

Day 26 - Husavik

Arrive: Sat 10 August 2024 at 09:00 / Depart: Sat 10 August 2024 at 19:00

Renowned as Iceland’s whale-watching capital, the picturesque fishing village of Husavik offers unforgettable adventures to witness a variety of extraordinary whale species. Skjálfandi Bay is home to a diverse array of whales and other sea life, including minke, humpback and blue whales; white-beaked dolphins and harbor porpoises. The Husavik Whale Museum makes an excellent accompaniment to whale watching, shedding light on the ecology of these fascinating creatures as well as the history of whaling. Meanwhile, the Culture House provides an interesting look at the folk, maritime and natural history of northern Iceland. Lake Myvatn and Jökulsárgljúfur National Park make equally compelling day adventures.

Day 27 - Siglufjordur

Arrive: Sun 11 August 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 11 August 2024 at 18:00

Day 28 - Labrador Sea cruising

Day 29 - Prince Christian Sound Cruising

Day 30 - Paamiut, Greenland

Arrive: Wed 14 August 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Wed 14 August 2024 at 17:00

This colorful fishing village is rich with Inuit culture and a strong connection to the sea. Learn about the town’s history and culture on a guided tour revealing archaeological discoveries that indicate the area was inhabited as far back as 1500 BC. Explore the stunning coastline on a ferry and perhaps catch a glimpse of the minke whales, fin whales, humpback whales and orcas that swim in pods in the surrounding waters.

Day 31 - Nuuk

Arrive: Thu 15 August 2024 at 07:00 / Depart: Thu 15 August 2024 at 16:00

The largest city in Greenland, Nuuk is the cultural and economic center of the country. Explore the picturesque colonial harbor with its quaint old buildings and the newly renovated market where locals sell their daily catch. Greenland’s history comes alive in the National Museum, and its culture thrives in the Nuuk Museum of Art and the Katuaq Cultural Centre. Nuuk’s extensive fjord system is home to many whales, and the area is also populated by seals, reindeer, arctic foxes, arctic hares and ravens.

Day 32 - Qaqortoq, Greenland

Arrive: Fri 16 August 2024 at 11:00 / Depart: Fri 16 August 2024 at 20:00

This charming, colorful town has a pleasant center with a small square featuring Greenland's oldest fountain. The culture project Stone and Man can be seen as an open invitation to explore the town to find the 30 different motifs that are chiseled into rocks and stones by local and Scandinavian artists. The Church of Our Savior from 1832 and the town's two museums are also well worth a visit.

Day 33 - Labrador Sea cruising

Day 34 - Cruising the Norwegian Sea

Day 35 - Grundarfjordur, Iceland

Arrive: Mon 19 August 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 19 August 2024 at 18:00

Day 36 - Reykjavik

Arrive: Tue 20 August 2024 at 05:00 / Depart: Tue 20 August 2024 at 19:00

Discover this fascinating land where the forces of nature hold sway as you visit the modern capital with its thermally heated outdoor swimming pool, remarkable botanic gardens and folk museum. Explore the starkly beautiful countryside of lava formations, glaciers and incredible waterfalls and the site where the first parliament sat in 930 A.D.

Day 37 - Isafjordur

Arrive: Wed 21 August 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Wed 21 August 2024 at 17:00

Although remotely located in northwest Iceland and surrounded by ruggedly beautiful fjords, Isafjordur is surprisingly cosmopolitan. The capital of the Westfjords has long been a cultured oasis in the midst of this haunting beauty, fueled by the rewards of being one of Iceland's largest fishing centers. The first merchants lived in wooden houses now preserved in the Neöstikaupstaöur section of town, which is alive with shops and restaurants. Two museums are of particular interest - the West Fjords Folk Museum for tools and heritage items and the Maritime Museum for a look at the 19th century fishing industry.

Day 38 - Husavik

Arrive: Thu 22 August 2024 at 07:00 / Depart: Thu 22 August 2024 at 16:00

Renowned as Iceland’s whale-watching capital, the picturesque fishing village of Husavik offers unforgettable adventures to witness a variety of extraordinary whale species. Skjálfandi Bay is home to a diverse array of whales and other sea life, including minke, humpback and blue whales; white-beaked dolphins and harbor porpoises. The Husavik Whale Museum makes an excellent accompaniment to whale watching, shedding light on the ecology of these fascinating creatures as well as the history of whaling. Meanwhile, the Culture House provides an interesting look at the folk, maritime and natural history of northern Iceland. Lake Myvatn and Jökulsárgljúfur National Park make equally compelling day adventures.

Day 39 - Eskifjordur

Arrive: Fri 23 August 2024 at 07:00 / Depart: Fri 23 August 2024 at 16:00

Embrace the traditional Icelandic character of Eskifjördur, a sleepy fishing hamlet tucked into a dramatic fjord of the same name. As you sail into the harbor, marvel at the towering silhouette of Hólmatindur Mountain, an immensely picturesque feature that watches over the town from the opposite shore. Gain a deeper understanding of the region’s fishing heritage at the Maritime Museum and, in the home-turned-museum of a charming local couple, study an astonishing collection of gems, geodes and minerals gathered throughout Iceland. While exploring the surrounding countryside, rejoice at the breathtaking scenery of craggy mountains that rise from vividly green meadows.

Day 40 - Thorshaven

Arrive: Sat 24 August 2024 at 10:00 / Depart: Sat 24 August 2024 at 19:00

Stroll through this picturesque fishing town and admire the views from the headland. Take a drive around this stunning, craggy island of majestic waterfalls, beautiful fjords, farms, villages, enigmatic sea stacks and panoramic views of the neighboring islands. Or visit an ancient Viking settlement in a valley of lakes.

Day 41 - Stornoway (Isle Lewis)

Arrive: Sun 25 August 2024 at 09:00 / Depart: Sun 25 August 2024 at 17:00

Stroll through this village and enjoy the views of Lews Castle before exploring the remote, wild Hebrides countryside dotted will old crofts. Visit the breathtaking Standing Stones at Callanish, a megalithic avenue of 19 stones and 13 stone circle and Carloway Broch, a 2,000-year-old circular fortified tower. Shopping: Buy superb Harris Tweed here, woolens and local crafts. Dining: Enjoy local fish, lamb and delicious breads and pastries.

Day 42 - Greenock

Arrive: Mon 26 August 2024 at 09:00 / Depart: Mon 26 August 2024 at 19:00

Offering some of the finest Victorian architecture in the UK, Glasgow is a major center of commerce and culture. Glasgow Cathedral is one of the only cathedrals in Scotland to have survived the Reformation in tact and houses a celebrated collection of stained glass windows. The Burrell Collection showcases a range of work by major artists such as Rodin, Degas and Cézanne, as well as examples of late medieval, Chinese and Islamic art. When exploring Scotland’s culinary culture, be sure to taste some of the famed single malt whiskies.

Day 43 - Dun Laoghaire, Ireland

Arrive: Tue 27 August 2024 at 07:00 / Depart: Tue 27 August 2024 at 17:00

The coastal suburb of Dún Laoghaire is popular for strolls on the East Pier, and locally caught fish and chips. The National Maritime Museum of Ireland has nautical art and artefacts inside a 19th-century sailors’ church, while the harbour is a busy hub for fishing, water sports and cruises. Nearby Sandycove is home to the James Joyce Tower and Museum, as well as the sheltered beach and bathing spot at Forty Foot.

Day 44 - Cruising the Celtic Sea & English Channel

Day 45 - Southampton

Arrive: Thu 29 August 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 29 August 2024

Take a trip up to London and get a bird’s eye view of the city from the London Eye. See sights like Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Piccadilly. Stroll along Lower Regent Street or visit the British Museum.