DAY 1 / BERGEN (NORWAY) / EMBARKATION

Located on the west coast of Norway, Bergen is the gateway to the fjords and an international city packed with history and tradition. Founded in 1070, it’s also Norway’s second-largest city. Bergen became well known in the 14th century, when a group of German merchants formed the Hanseatic League here. Many houses from this period can still be seen on Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Bergen, pay a visit to the famous fish market and stroll through the city center to get a glimpse of modern Norwegian life.

DAY 2 / THE NORTH SEA

This expedition begins with a day spent sailing the North Sea. Take in one of the fascinating lectures prepared by our knowledgeable staff, enjoy a coffee or cocktail in the observation lounge, or simply relax and take in the view from the deck as the ship makes its way south.

DAY 3 / AMSTERDAM (THE NETHERLANDS)

Amsterdam grew from a small fishing village formed in the 13th century to one of the most significant—and charming—cultural hubs in the world. Few cities mix history with  contemporary urban flair like the capital of the Netherlands does. Explore this historic city by foot, bike, or canal boat, and take an opportunity to visit one or more of the many incredible museums found here. The ship moors here overnight, giving you ample time to join excursions and get to know the city and its legendary nightlife.

DAY 4 / THE ENGLISH CHANNEL

The ship sets sail from Amsterdam in the early hours of the morning. The rest of the day is spent sailing across the English Channel, which connects the North Sea with the Atlantic Ocean. This is the world’s busiest seaway, with more than five hundred ships passing each and every day. The observation lounge is a good place to watch ocean liners from all over the world on their way through the Channel.

DAY 5 / GUERNSEY

Located off the coast of Normandy in France, Guernsey is the second-largest of the Channel Islands, a group of land formations which bear a complicated political status. Though they are British-crown dependencies, they do not belong to the United Kingdom. St. Peter Port in Guernsey is considered to be one of Europe’s prettiest harbours, and it has been busy since Roman times. Here, the influence of the Gulf Stream creates a mild, almost Mediterranean climate. During the day, take the time to enjoy a stroll through the town, where you’ll find excellent shopping, museums, and lively pubs. For those who wish to explore, join a hike or bicycle trip to witness the island’s steep cliffs and remarkable vegetation.

DAY 6 / BAY OF BISCAY

Spend this day at sea keeping a lookout for marine life such as dolphins, whales, and seabirds from the deck. Enjoy the lectures offered by the expedition staff about history and biology both in the lecture hall and on deck.

DAY 7 / LA CORUÑA (SPAIN)

La Coruña is sure to be a draw for history and culture buffs. Celtic and Roman heritage gives this city an almost mystical allure. La Coruña had its boom in the 14th and 15th centuries, when it functioned as the port for English pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. On your way into the harbour, you’ll pass the Hercules Tower, the oldest Roman lighthouse still in use today. Take a walk through the historic city centre, noting relics left from the cultures and peoples who once called this storied port home.

DAY 8 / LEIXÕES (PORTUGAL) / PORTO

From Leixões, it’s a short trip to Porto, a city which is yours to explore for the day. See monuments by some of the world’s most famous architects of the past and present, take in stunning baroque carvings, try the internationally renowned sweet wine this city gets its name from, or let yourself be surprised by Porto’s British flavour. This is Portugal’s second-largest metropolis, and one of Europe’s most charismatic cities. Ribeira, its historic center at the northern bank of the Douro River, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a day packed with the sights and sounds of Porto, return to the ship.

DAY 9 / LISBON (PORTUGAL)

Lisbon is Europe’s second-oldest capital after Athens. It’s home to Bélem Tower and the Jéronimos Monastery, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Within walking distance from the harbour, you’ll find the old city, which features numerous famous monuments—including the 45-metre neo-gothic Santa Justa Lift—just waiting to be explored. Join one of our excursions, or stop at one of Lisbon’s many restaurants, cafés, or bars to get a taste of modern life in this Portuguese city.

DAY 10 / CÁDIZ (SPAIN)

After a relaxing morning, the ship reaches the Cádiz harbour around lunchtime. Cádiz is almost totally surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, and only connected with the mainland by a very small isthmus. The Phoenicians founded Cádiz around 1100 BC, and it’s generally considered the oldest continuously inhabited city in Western Europe—in later years, it was inhabited by Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths, and Moors. Take some time to enjoy the seafood, churches, and museums, or explore narrow streets where the waves of the Atlantic crash against the seawalls.

DAY 11 / CASABLANCA (MOROCCO) / DISEMBARKATION

This multi-country expedition ends in Casablanca, Morocco. Experience the view from the deck as the ship sails into the harbour—you’ll notice the majestic Hassan II Mosque coming into view. The mosque is the seventh largest mosque in the world, and 105,000 faithful can pray here at the same time. In the city, try walking through the narrow streets and a visit the souks, or African marketplace, to get a feel for this storied North African city.

• Hurtigruten  Expedition Voyage in cabin category of your choice on a full board basis (daily buffet breakfast, buffet lunch, and set or buffet dinner)
• Wind and water – resistant jacket
• Landings and activities on board and ashore
• Professional English-speaking Expedition Team that gives lectures and accompanies landings and activities
• Complimentary tea and coffee

Please stay tuned for travel tips tailored for this itinerary!

For any immediate questions, please contact us as 905.258.7778.