Western Europe Cruise

Day 1 - Southampton

Arrive: Sat 24 August 2024 / Depart: Sat 24 August 2024

The city center is a charming mix of old city walls and a large modern shopping centre. With multiple restaurants, museums, cinemas and theatres there is plenty to be explored. Time spent at embarkation and disembarkation ports may be limited which may restrict availability of shore excursions.

Day 2 - At Sea

Day 3 - Vigo

Arrive: Mon 26 August 2024 / Depart: Mon 26 August 2024

Spains busiest fishing port, Vigo sits on the rugged west coast of the province of Galicia. Over the centuries, this charming town and its resilient residents have been the target for many naval attacks including a couple from Sir Francis Drake. In these more peaceful days, you will still find the best view of Vigo is from the fort (Castillo del Castro) built to defend it from the hill overlooking the harbour. From here, your Vigo cruise tour will lead you through the steep, narrow streets of the atmospheric old town (Barrio del Berbes) to see (and smell...) the daily fish market. Try one of the oysters which are fresh from beds in Vigos 'ria' - one of the sunken sea-filled valleys for which Galicias coastline is renowned. And our Vigo cruises are also a chance to visit nearby Santiago de Compostela, the subject of pilgrimages since the Middle Ages.

Day 4 - La Coruna, Spain

Arrive: Tue 27 August 2024 / Depart: Tue 27 August 2024

The name of Coruna's cruise dock - Transatlantic Quay - reflects its location on the northwestern tip of the Iberian Peninsular making it - you might be surprised to learn - the closest European port to New York. It is a charming mixture of old town and new town also with a couple of beaches along the two-mile stretch of coastline it overlooks. The colonnaded Maria Pita Square is at the heart of the old town, with many shops, bars and restaurants all around. There are various fascinating museums including the interactive House of Mankind plus an aquarium and planetarium. La Coruña is also the main Atlantic gateway to one of the most ruggedly scenic regions in Spain - Galicia. Among its attractions is one of the worlds great pilgrimage destinations: Santiago de Compostela, with its Romanesque cathedral.

Day 5 - Santander

Arrive: Wed 28 August 2024 / Depart: Wed 28 August 2024

Santander, is located on the northern coast of Spain and enjoys a stunning location nestled on a small peninsular jutting between the waters of the Bay of Santander and the seas of the Bay of Biscay. The area surrounding the city is lined with 11 sandy beaches, which are perfect for sun worshipers and water sports enthusiasts alike. The area of El Sardinero in times past was famed as a resort by Spain's richest citizens. Their patronage has resulted in a beautiful area of beaches, divided by the gardens of Piquio, stretching from the Magdalena Peninsula to Mataleas. The area also boasts hotels, cafes and even a casino. Those looking to discover Santander away from the beaches will find a city as historic as it is beautiful. The Cathedral of Santander was built between 13th and 14th centuries on top of proceeding holy buildings and combines Gothic and Romanesque architecture.

Day 6 - At Sea

Day 7 - St. Peter Port, Guernsey

Arrive: Fri 30 August 2024 / Depart: Fri 30 August 2024

A busy port since Roman times and one-time home of Victor Hugo, Guernsey's capital, St Peter Port, is the prettiest town in the Channel Islands with fine Georgian and Regency houses, tumbling terraced gardens, winding streets and hidden leafy alleyways. The best way to discover the true beauty of Guernsey is on foot, exploring the Ruettes - tranquil, quiet lanes that are dedicated to walkers, cyclists and horse riders. And history lovers will be in their element exploring Castle Cornet, the last Royalist stronghold of the English Civil War and now home to several museums and theatrical events. Fort Grey was a bastion against Napoleon and is now a fascinating Shipwreck Museum while the German Occupation Museum gives a vivid account of island life during WWII. When you have finished sightseeing, do leave time for shopping, as Duty Free Guernsey offers some of the world's best bargains on cameras and electrical goods, jewellery, perfume and wine (please note opening times might change during the weekend).

Day 8 - Southampton

Arrive: Sat 31 August 2024 / Depart: Sat 31 August 2024

The city center is a charming mix of old city walls and a large modern shopping centre. With multiple restaurants, museums, cinemas and theatres there is plenty to be explored. Time spent at embarkation and disembarkation ports may be limited which may restrict availability of shore excursions.