European Coastal Cruise: France, Spain & Portugal

Arrive in London, where you meet your fellow guests and Expedition Team. Then transfer to Dover to board your luxurious ship this afternoon. Later this evening, enjoy a welcome briefing and reception aboard.

Arrive in Honfleur, a quaint Norman port town with a rich maritime heritage dating to the 16th century. Stroll the narrow streets, taking in St. Catherine’s Church and the Old Port. Or, you might travel to the D-Day landing site of Omaha Beach, as well as the Normandy American Cemetery and Visitors Center at Colleville-sur-Mer. Alternatively, embark on a culinary adventure in the countryside, sampling local cheeses, hard cider and Calvados.

Arrive in Saint-Malo, a historic fortified port renowned for its walled battlements, idyllic beaches and regional gastronomy. Once ashore, explore the city’s market, 15th-century buildings and Fort National. Then, visit a traditional Breton biscuit maker in Cancale and enjoy a seafood lunch. Alternatively, you might visit Mont Saint-Michel, a stunning village perched atop a tidal island. Here, wander its steep cobblestone streets and climb over 350 steps to reach its famed abbey. Or, visit the town of Dinan and its 14th-century castle, enjoying walks along the estuary, and a guided oyster farm experience.

Unwind during a relaxing day at sea, enjoying the ship’s amenities and engaging presentations by our experts.

Bordeaux offers an exciting mix of castles, vineyards, art and urban street life. Here, explore the Old Town, the 13th-century Cathedral of St. André and the immersive digital art exhibition of the Bassins de Lumières. Alternatively, delve into Bordeaux’s rich wine heritage with a tour and tasting at a local estate. Or, visit the seaside resort town of Arcachon, where you experience its golden beaches, Belle Époque atmosphere and freshly caught oysters. You might also opt for a nature walk through coastal Landes, home to the largest forest in Europe.

Arrive in Bilbao, a medieval city and proud Basque enclave that has transformed itself into a modern cultural mecca. Here, explore Frank Gehry’s spectacular Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. Alternately, transfer to Guernica, a historic Basque city inextricably linked to the Spanish Civil War and immortalized in Picasso’s namesake masterpiece, or take a drive through to the quaint fishing town of Bermeo. Return to your vessel for lunch and a relaxing afternoon sailing scenic coastal Spain.

Today, explore the province of A Coruña and the city of Santiago de Compostela, the terminus of the Camino de Santiago, a network of pilgrimage routes dating to the ninth century. Choose to explore the city’s cathedral and Old Town, followed by lunch with a Galician folklore dance performance. Alternatively, choose a shorter walk to Cape Finisterre, the last stop on the Camino de Santiago, followed by a visit to the medieval castle of Vimianzo. For another option, explore Santiago’s bustling food market and restaurants, tasting local tapas, empanadas, cheeses and wines.

Arrive in Porto, the charming-yet-edgy star of the Iberian Peninsula. Here, explore vibrant Cais da Ribeira, discovering its Stock Exchange Palace and St. Francis Church, followed by a port wine tasting at a famous riverside lodge. Or, opt for a culinary tour of Porto’s vibrant central market and beloved backstreet taverns. Alternatively, visit the enchanting Douro Valley for a winery tour, tasting and lunch at one of the region’s finest wine estates; or see Braga, home of the Baroque Bom Jesus de Braga Sanctuary. You may also visit historic Guimarães and its medieval castle.

Arrive in Lisbon, a charismatic seaside capital renowned for its white-bleached limestone buildings and easygoing charm. Once ashore, tour the iconic Tower of Belem and Jerónimos Monastery, pausing to sample local culinary specialties along the way. Or, drive to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its glittering palaces. Alternatively, set out on an excursion to the enchanting walled city of Évora. You might also opt to learn about the region’s tilemaking tradition with a hands-on experience at a local workshop.

Disembark and continue on your post-tour extension or transfer to the airport for your return flight.