Heritage & Traditions of Western Europe

Depart the USA on your flight to Lisbon, Portugal.

Welcome to Lisbon, the colourful capital of Portugal and a city with a proud seafaring history. Lose yourself in its cobbled alleyways, ancient ruins and white-domed cathedrals. This afternoon you’ll board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse. You’ll be warmly welcomed by the Captain and crew. Meet the butler and settle in your spacious suite. Join your fellow guests in the Sky Bar for a glass of Champagne to toast the start of your fascinating exploration of Western Europe. Please book your flight to arrive into Lisbon prior to 02:00 PM. Meal: D.

Spend the morning getting to know your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht before we arrive in Porto. One of Portugal’s largest seaports, Leixões is just 5 miles from the heart of Porto, where the city shares its name with one of the country’s best-known exports, port wine. Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Porto is a World Heritage-listed city of baroque splendour, Gothic cathedrals, and incredible food. Wander through winding alleys lined with houses decorated with Portuguese tiles,see the city’s street art, and take in the views from the cable car and funicular. Meals: B. L. D.

Start your day relaxing in your suite. Ask your butler to bring you breakfast in bed or alternatively, choose to savor it in the Yacht Club before arriving in Ferrol. Explore the boutiques and Galician-style houses in Ferrol’s Magdalena neighborhood, a declared Historic-Artisticsite, and visit the 18th century San Felipe Castle, where bulwarks and cannons defended the city. Meals: B. L. D.

Sailing into Avilés, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the picturesque harbor and its beautiful blend of medieval and modern architecture. The city’s old town, or Casco Antiguo, features a range of well-preserved medieval buildings and streets. Highlights include the Plaza del Carbayedo, a charming square home to a lively weekly market. For a deeper dive into the region’s heritage, explore nearby Oviedo, a World Heritage site renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture. As you sail out of Avilés, unwind at the Sky Bar and share your travel experiences with fellow guests while enjoying panoramic views. Meals: B. L. D.

Today you’ll explore Bilbao, deemed one of the Basque Country jewels. This vibrant city is famous for its striking modern architecture, home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, which showcases contemporary art and is a must-visit attraction. Bilbao also boasts a rich cultural heritage, which can be experienced by visiting landmarks such as the Basílicade Begoña and the Casco Viejo, or the charming old town. It’s also a culinary hotspot, with a range of pintxo bars and restaurants serving up traditional Basque cuisine. Meals: B. L. D.

Enjoy a relaxed and delicious breakfast in the privacy of your ultra-luxury suite or meet your fellow guests at the Yacht Club. Then, set out to explore the charming San Sebastián. The famous La Concha Beach offers beautiful views of the Bay of Biscay, where the historic old town, known as Parte Vieja, is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus and the San Vicente Church. Less than ten kilometres from San Sebastián is the picturesque fishing village of Pasajes. Meals: B. L. D.

Today, sail inland along the Garonne River, surrounded by lush vineyards while the sun casts a golden glow upon Bordeaux Cathedral. Look out for its gothic spires and the silhouette of the Grand Théâtre, icons of the city. The bustling quayside will be teeming with activity, from charming cafés and markets to street performers. The scent of freshly baked bread and aromatic coffee fills the air. An overnight stay means plenty of time to indulge in Bordeaux’s gourmet delights. Meals: B. L. D.

Enjoy a full day in Bordeaux, soaking in the city’s timeless elegance. Wander picturesque streets lined with majestic buildings, each narrating centuries of stories. Explore vibrant markets with fresh produce and local delicacies. Admire Place de la Bourse and Bordeaux Cathedral’s breathtaking architecture. Be immersed in cultural richness at the CAPC Museum of Contemporary Art and the Grand Théâtre. Your visit to Bordeaux is only complete when you sample its world-famous wines at one of the many charming wine bars or prestigious châteaux. Enjoy another overnight to savour Bordeaux’s delights until late, taking a leisurely stroll along the Garonne River. Meals: B. L. D.

You may choose to venture beyond the city limits, exploring the iconic wine regions of Bordeaux. The rolling hillsides around the Garonne River are adorned with prestigious vineyards, offering a glimpse into centuries-old wine making traditions. Explore the timeless beauty of the Médoc and Saint-Émilion regions, where esteemed châteaux dot the landscape, inviting you to savour the essence of Bordeaux’s famed terroirs. Whether wandering through cobblestone streets or indulging in wine tastings amidst lush vineyards, the opportunities for discovery are endless in this captivating corner of France. Meals: B. L. D.

One of France’s most beautiful islands, Belle-Île boasts a lush countryside, jagged rocky coastlines, quaint seaside hamlets and pastel-coloured homes. It is a mythical destination that has long inspired sailors, authors like Flaubert and Dumas and painters like Claude Monet and Matisse. This pristine location can only be accessed by boat, which means that mainstream tourists are few and far between. Explore the islands rich history and gain anew appreciation of its natural beauty. Meals: B. L. D.

Start your day with breakfast brought to your suite by your butler, or perhaps with an invigorating work out in the gym or a class in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio. Enjoy your time privately or share stories with new found friends. The Azure Bar and Café is ideal for casual but upscale dining and affords you a sea view like no other. Sip a custom cocktail in one of Scenic Eclipse’s nine all-inclusive bars and lounges, including the Whiskey Bar, where more than 130 premium varieties of this beverage available. Meals: B. L. D.

Your cruise finishes in the Irish capital, an ancient city with a vibrant culture and music in its soul. Savour one last breakfast in your suite before saying goodbye to your new friends and the crew who shared this voyage with you,taking with you memories of a truly unforgettable journey. Please book your flight to depart out of Dublin after 12:00 PM. Meal: B.