Porto, Bordeaux and Bergen: Wonders of Western Europe

Arrive in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal and one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. Spend the day at your leisure, exploring the city's history, art and cuisine before embarking the ship in the late afternoon.

Arrive in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Porto. The birthplace of port wine, Porto straddles a gorge on the beautiful Douro River, linked by numerous bridges and filled with medieval architecture. See the region’s famous azulejo tiles and take in the views from the Ponte Dom Luis bridge, an iron masterpiece completed in 1886. Choose from options within the city or in the countryside to gain a better understanding of the layers of Portuguese history and culture before taking in the city at your own pace. 

Spend a relaxing day at sea entering the Bay of Biscay. Join your officers on the Bridge and learn about navigating through the region, the history of the waterway and connectivity of the oceans. Attend a presentation led by your naturalists or take advantage of the onboard amenities.

The largest and one of the most notable cities in the Basque country, Bilbao has transformed from an old-world hub of industry to a thriving metropolis filled with arts and culture. Soak in architectural marvels such as the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, or spend time wandering the old town and tasting the local flavors of Basque cuisine. Alternatively, hike along the coast and witness the strength of the Bay of Biscay on one of the converted rail trails in the region. 

After a scenic sail up the Garrone River, arrive in the famed vineyard region surrounding Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed city. On the fertile banks of the Garrone, vintners produce some of the world’s best wines, from rich merlots to bold cabernet sauvignons. Explore on your own, strolling through the city’s iconic farmers markets and savoring a colorful array of regional delicacies such as fresh-caught oysters and locally made cheeses. 

Spend another relaxing day at sea as you round the Brittany Peninsula. Edit photos with the help of your certified photo instructor, or cozy up with a book in the library or lounge, enjoying views of this scenic peninsula.

Wake up in charming Saint-Malo and take a walking tour of this fortified city, known for its 15th-century privateer history and surrounded by ramparts dating from the 12th century. This afternoon, choose to visit a local oyster farm, or practice your photography in Dinan, with its half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets—all enclosed by nearly two miles of medieval ramparts.

Sail past the famed whitewashed Cliffs of Dover, a beacon to many World War II pilots returning home from battle on the continent. Walk the wartime tunnels deep beneath Dover Castle and immerse yourself in the drama of the 1940 Dunkirk evacuation—“Operation Dynamo.” Then, explore this historic seaside town, known as the “Gateway to England,” and its tranquil nature reserves in the surrounding area, enjoying hikes on cliffside paths with panoramic views of the English Channel. 

Experience a day at sea as you sail to Scotland. Attend onboard talks to learn more about the migratory wildlife routes along this rugged coastline. Relax in a sauna or infinity hot tub with views of the remote islands that dot your route. 

Known for its hill fort, the iconic Edinburgh Castle, this vibrant city offers a variety of experiences amid its charming medieval streets. Walk the Royal Mile and capture the iconic photo of a bagpiper dressed in traditional regalia, or join a guided neighborhood walk to discover the hidden gems of this storied city. Alternatively, explore the various homes of the royal family through the ages. 

This afternoon, arrive in the Shetland Islands, a North Sea archipelago known for its wild beauty, untamed landscapes and ancient history. Choose from a variety of options to gain a deeper understanding of these dynamic islands, whether that's hiking along a cliff with beautiful vistas, kayaking in a fjord or connecting with locals. 

Enjoy a final day at sea as you sail toward Norway. 

Disembark in Bergen after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight home.