Western Europe cruise from Ireland to Portugal

Travel into County Kilkenny roads that twists and turns, passing rural scenes of neat patchwork fields and hedgerows until, biscuit-coloured tower of Jerpoint Abbey protrudes from around the bend. The Abbey is one of the most beautiful religious remains in Ireland. Yet because many of its domestic arrangements are still recognizable, it also gives an intimate picture of monastic life. The present Cistercian structure dates mainly from about 1180 to 1200 and was probably built on the remains of a Benedictine Abbey founded about 1158. The oldest parts are the Irish-Romanesque transepts and chancel. The east window above dates from the 14th century and the magnificent central tower was added in the 15th. The restored cloister piers carry carvings of knights and ladies, bishops and dragons echoing the drawings found on medieval manuscripts. The abbey was dissolved in 1540, and its 1800 acres were presented to the earls of Ormonde. Following the visit to Jerpoint Abbey, continue through the Irish countryside to Thomastown, a truly typical Irish market town dominated by its church, main street of shops, individually styled, each carrying the name of the proud Proprietor and the trade description. Climbing out of the town, you will have splendid views of the River Nore as it threads its way through the valley. The scenery, atmosphere and soft colours of arable land are picture postcard Ireland at its best. A stop will be made in the quaint village of Inistioge. Most famously known as a location for the movie "Circle of Friends" starring Minnie Driver, this tranquil village will give you some beautiful photos to bring home with you. The return drive takes you through the Nore and Barrow Valleys with fine views of the rich farming countryside. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Today's tour brings you to Kilkenny, capital of Ireland in the Middle Ages, seat of the medieval Irish parliaments, and rival to Dublin. The city's origins date back more than 1,500 years. The great building ability of the Normans is very evident in the 11th- and 12th-century buildings they bestowed on the city. Kilkenny is characterized by many beautifully-restored buildings, the most splendid of which is Kilkenny Castle. Stronghold of the Butler family until this century. The castle began life as a Norman fortress and gradually became more domesticated through the centuries. The picture gallery includes portraits by Van Dyck and Lely. A self-guided visit will introduce you to the castle, its splendid antiquities and the stories its historic walls contain. The 13th-century Cathedral of St Canice is the second-longest cathedral in Ireland. The site on which the cathedral stands has been a place of Christian worship since the 6th century. It has undergone many restorations during its lifetime. In 1650, Oliver Cromwell did his best to ruin the cathedral by stabling his horses therein, smashing the font, windows and throwing out monuments and tombs. Enjoy a traditional Irish lunch at a local pub. Make the most of some free time to visit the well-proportioned 18th-century buildings opposite the castle, which have now been converted into an imaginative enterprise called the Kilkenny Design Centre. Local artists produce high-quality crafts here. A large retail outlet fronting the street supplies some of the best goods on sale in Ireland and is an attractive place to do some shopping. Re-join your driver and guide for the return journey to Waterford, which will take you through some of Kilkenny and Waterford's lush green countryside. You'll stop to take photos in the quaint Irish village of Inistioge. This is a charming village with a tree-lined square, lying in a pretty part of the Nore Valley, where the river winds between wooded banks flanked by hills. Inistioge has been the location for numerous films including Widow's Peak and Circle of Friends . Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Departing the ship, your tour begins with a panoramic drive through the Waterford Countryside to Waterford City -- Ireland's oldest tourist destination. Waterford was originally settled by a Celtic tribe called the Deisi, and is still widely referred to as 'the Decies'. The first real tourists were the Vikings, who came in AD 852 and stayed until the Anglo-Normans politely asked them to leave three centuries later. In fact, the city's English name comes from the Norse word Vadrefjord, meaning Water Fjord. Nowadays, Waterford is better known as the Crystal City. Completed in 2010, the Waterford Crystal Center is the heart of all things Waterford. An audio-visual presentation recounts the history of Waterford Crystal from its founding in 1783 to the present. Take a tour that traces Waterford crystal production from mold making and glass blowing to final cutting and etching by master craftsmen. View parts of the process close-up; questions and photographs are welcomed. Your tour concludes at the showroom, where there is ample free time to browse among the world's largest display of Waterford crystal, giftware, craft and jewelry collections. Following your visit to House of Waterford Crystal, enjoy some Tea/Coffee & Scones in a local establishment There will be the opportunity for free time in this historic city before rejoining your coach and guide for the relaxing return journey to Dunmore East.

Step ashore in Waterford and enjoy a relaxing escape into one of Ireland’s most celebrated garden estates, followed by a scenic introduction to the city’s rich heritage. A short drive brings you to the enchanting Mount Congreve Gardens, a world-renowned woodland and ornamental garden set along the banks of the River Suir. Stroll through a living tapestry of vibrant seasonal color, winding paths, and carefully curated plant collections gathered from across the globe. Towering trees, tranquil water features, and sweeping river views create an atmosphere of timeless beauty and quiet elegance, offering countless moments to pause, explore, and admire the artistry of nature. Your visit is complemented by a delightful stop at the Stables Café, where you’ll relax with freshly brewed tea or coffee accompanied by traditional Irish scones. Set within the charming restored stable buildings, this welcoming space provides the perfect setting to savor local flavors and reflect on the garden’s serenity. On the return journey to port, enjoy a short panoramic drive through Waterford City, Ireland’s oldest city. Pass historic streets, elegant Georgian architecture, and notable landmarks that hint at the city’s Viking origins and maritime past, all brought to life through informative commentary from your guide. This gentle and enriching excursion offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, local hospitality, and cultural insight,an ideal way to experience Waterford before returning to your ship.

Enjoy a drive around Cork City before visiting the ‘Jameson Experience Midleton’ to discover the traditions and taste of Irish whiskey. Travel along the shores of Cork Harbour by coach to the charming university city of Cork. Your guide will provide an interesting commentary and point out the local landmarks as you drive past the French Quarter, English Market, Father Matthew's statue and Bishop Lucey Park. You’ll hear about the local history as you pass the Old Courthouse, the impressive limestone City Hall, the renowned Bells of Shandon and the magnificent Gothic style St. Fin Barre's Cathedral. Leaving the city, travel to the village of Midleton, where the famous rare Irish whiskey gets its name. A visit to the Jameson Experience will take you right to the heart of the cherished whiskey making tradition. There will be an hour-long guided tour of this beautifully restored 18th century self-contained industrial complex, unique in Britain and Ireland. There is a fully operational water wheel and a 32,000 gallon copper pot still, which is the largest in the world. Enjoy an audio-visual presentation which will breathe life into the Irish whiskey legend. After the tour there will be the opportunity to sample a glass of whiskey whilst you relax in the atmosphere of a traditional Irish pub. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Enjoy a relaxed walking food tour through the charming coastal town of Kinsale, discovering its rich culinary heritage and vibrant local culture. As you stroll between tasting stops, your guide will share stories about the town’s history, its people, and the traditions that have helped shape Kinsale into one of Ireland’s most celebrated gourmet destinations. Along the way, sample a variety of local specialities which may include artisan cheeses, smoked meats or salmon, Atlantic Bay oysters, Irish coffee, and handcrafted chocolates (tastings vary seasonally). The experience concludes with a light lunch and a locally brewed drink, offering a delicious introduction to the flavours of this renowned food town. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Visit the historic Blarney Castle with its lovely grounds before indulging in an Irish coffee and browsing the craft centre. The medieval Blarney Castle towers above the village of Blarney with its majestic oblong keep and battlements that are typically Irish in form. At the top of the Castle lies the legendary Stone of Eloquence, better known as the Blarney Stone. If you wish, you can hang upside-down over a sheer drop to kiss the stone, which is said to give the gift of eloquent speech. Surrounding the Castle are an extensive array of spectacular gardens, with several paths leading off to some interesting natural rock formations, such as Druid's Circle, Witch's Cave and the Wishing Steps. After a visit of the grounds of Blarney Castle and perhaps taking the time to kiss the Blarney Stone, you’ll stop for a well-deserved Irish coffee, before visiting the Blarney Woollen Mills. This is one of the finest craft and gift centres in Ireland and you’ll have the chance to browse the high quality range of Waterford Crystal, Irish linen, hand-loomed Donegal tweed, knitwear, bone china and Celtic jewellery. Following your visit to Blarney Castle, you’ll travel to Cork, for a short panoramic drive around the main city sights. You’ll be able to see how this large city still manages to retain the pleasant charm of a country town. On the return journey, you will be able to see landscapes of rivers, fields and hedgerows as you travel along country roads to Cobh.

Depart from the pier and follow the scenic coastal path to discover the seaside town and harbour of Roscoff. Known both as a traditional fishing port and a centre for thalassotherapy, Roscoff offers a rich maritime atmosphere and sweeping views across the bay. Along the walk, enjoy panoramic vistas toward the Bloscon headland while learning about the town’s history through visits to landmarks such as the Sainte-Barbe Chapel and the seamen’s cemetery, before continuing through the charming historic streets of the town. The tour concludes with a well-deserved Breton snack at a local crêperie, offering a taste of regional flavours, followed by a leisurely walk back to the pier. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Depart from the pier for a scenic drive through the Breton countryside to Château de Kerjean, a striking Renaissance estate built around 1550. Surrounded by impressive inner and outer fortifications, the château reflects the architectural traditions of the great manor houses and castles of its time. During your visit, admire features such as the elegant arcaded terrace and the timber-framed chapel, while inside, models, paintings, and an extensive collection of Breton furniture illustrate the estate’s rich history across different periods. You will also have time to stroll through the landscaped park, where Renaissance fountains, a traditional dovecote, and the historic pillory offer a glimpse into life on the estate centuries ago. After your visit, relax on the return drive back to the pier. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Take the shuttle with your guides to the centre of Roscoff for a guided introduction to this historic port town and its rich maritime heritage. During your walk, discover the former shipowners’ houses—elegant granite mansions with decorative gables that reflect Roscoff’s prosperity during the Renaissance, when merchants and privateers built impressive homes close to the church and harbour. Stroll along Rue Armand Rousseau (formerly Rue des Perles) and around the church square to admire several of these remarkable residences, including the renowned Maison de Marie Stuart on Rue Amiral Réveillère. Following your guided exploration, enjoy some free time to wander the charming streets, browse local shops, or simply take in the atmosphere before returning by shuttle to the pier.

Royan was almost entirely destroyed during Allied air raids in 1945 and was subsequently rebuilt as a showcase of modern architecture and urban planning. Today, the city stands as a remarkable example of 1950s design, where bold concrete structures, clean lines, and innovative layouts reflect the spirit of post-war reconstruction. Join your knowledgeable local guide for a walking tour through this unique seaside town as you explore its architectural highlights, including the striking Notre-Dame Cathedral—an iconic landmark of modernist design—and the distinctive covered market. Along the way, learn about Royan’s transformation and the vision that shaped its redevelopment. The tour also includes free time to browse the lively food market, voted France’s second best in 2018, where you can soak up the local atmosphere and discover regional specialities before returning to the ship.

Travel off the beaten path to discover the historic towns of Brouage and Marennes on this scenic excursion. Journey through coastal countryside to Brouage, once a thriving port protected by 17th-century fortifications. As its harbour gradually silted up in the late 1600s, the former salt-trading capital was left inland, surrounded today by peaceful marshlands and grazing meadows. Within its preserved ramparts, stories of notable figures such as Samuel de Champlain, founder of Quebec, still echo through the town’s historic streets. Continue to the nearby village of Marennes, renowned for its oyster farming tradition. Located between the Seudre River estuary and the southern tip of Île d’Oléron, this area is home to the celebrated Marennes-Oléron oysters. During a visit to a local oyster farm, learn about the techniques involved in cultivating and refining these prized shellfish, followed by a tasting of six fresh oysters served with bread, butter, and a glass of white wine. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Depart by coach for the scenic journey into the renowned Cognac region, home to France’s world-famous brandy. Nestled along the banks of the Charente River, the charming town of Cognac is steeped in history, with highlights including its 13th-century château, birthplace of King François I. Your visit includes a guided tour of Maison Hennessy, one of the most prestigious cognac houses in the world. Discover the traditional methods used in cognac production, from distillation in the distinctive swan-neck alembic stills to the ageing process in oak casks and the delicate art of blending. Learn about the history of the house, founded in 1765 by Irish entrepreneur Richard Hennessy, and how it grew into a globally recognised symbol of French craftsmanship. The experience concludes with a tasting of Hennessy VS and VSOP cognacs before a short guided walk through the historic streets of Cognac. After time to explore, rejoin your coach for the return journey to the ship in Royan. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Located about 22 miles from Santander, the picturesque town of Santillana del Mar is considered one of the best-preserved medieval villages in Europe. Designated as a Spanish national landmark, Santillana was once an important pilgrimage site. The renowned philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre even described it as “the prettiest village in Spain.” Stroll through the charming cobbled streets and visit the Romanesque Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, dedicated to the village’s patron saint. Explore its fascinating cloister before continuing to see historic landmarks such as the fortified House of Borja, the House of the Eagle, and the imposing Merinos Tower. After exploring Santillana del Mar, return to Santander for a scenic panoramic tour of the city’s most iconic sights. Drive past the grand Gothic Cathedral of Santander and the stunning Magdalena Palace, which was once the summer residence of Spanish royalty. Take in views of the popular beach of El Sardinero, known for its golden sands and lively atmosphere. Finally, admire the magnificent headquarters of the Bank of Santander, an architectural gem that symbolizes the city’s economic heritage. This journey offers a perfect blend of medieval charm, historical landmarks, and coastal beauty, making it an unforgettable experience. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

From the pier, we’ll take a short walk across the street to visit the stunning Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. This unique structure consists of two superimposed churches with identical layouts. The lower church, now the parish church of Santísimo Cristo, dates back to the early 13th century, while the upper church was constructed later in the century and underwent expansion after a devastating city fire in 1941. Next, we’ll stroll through the charming Pereda Gardens, named after renowned 19th-century Cantabrian writer José María de Pereda. His celebrated work Escenas Montañesas is beautifully depicted in bronze and stone throughout the park. As we continue, get your camera ready for the grand façade of the original Bank of Santander headquarters, built in 1875. Adorned with statues symbolizing the arts, culture, commerce, and navigation, this landmark is a true architectural gem. Our guided walk then takes us to the Church of St. Lucía, a neoclassical-style church built in 1868. Before returning to the ship, enjoy a taste of local tapas and choose to extend your time exploring the city at your own pace or head back onboard. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Depart the pier for a scenic drive along Spain’s northern coastline to Bilbao, the vibrant cultural capital of the Basque Country. Upon arrival, visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, an architectural masterpiece designed by Frank O. Gehry, whose flowing titanium, stone, and glass exterior is a work of art in itself. Inside, explore the museum’s striking galleries showcasing modern and contemporary art, featuring works from both the Guggenheim’s permanent collection and rotating exhibitions, including pieces on loan from New York’s Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. After your visit, enjoy free time to further explore Bilbao—sample local pintxos, stroll along the riverfront, or wander through the historic Old Quarter—before rejoining your group at the Guggenheim for the return drive to Santander.

Drive approximately one hour from the pier to Las Xanas, home to one of Asturias’s most spectacular natural gorges. Shaped over millennia by the force of water and the folding of ancient Paleozoic rock, the landscape is defined by dramatic limestone cliffs, steep slopes, and striking contrasts between white stone and lush vegetation. Set out on a scenic hike along a path carved into the rock face midway up the gorge. The route passes through several tunnels cut into the stone and winds between towering cliffs where holm oaks, yews, and strawberry trees cling improbably to the rock. As the gorge gradually widens, the scenery softens into dense woodland of hazelnut, ash, maple, lime, and oak trees, concealing the ruins of an old mill. The trail eventually opens onto broad pasturelands with sweeping views of mountains, forests, villages, and deep valleys, offering a rewarding sense of space and beauty. After completing the approximately 8-kilometre round-trip hike, rejoin the coach for the return drive to Gijón, arriving about one hour later. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Depart the pier by coach for a scenic drive to Oviedo, the modern capital of Asturias and one of northern Spain’s most culturally rich cities. Enjoy a panoramic introduction as you pass elegant boulevards, green parks, and historic neighborhoods that reflect Oviedo’s blend of tradition and contemporary life. Arriving in the city centre, begin a guided walking tour through Oviedo’s beautifully preserved historic core. Visit the impressive Cathedral of San Salvador, a Gothic masterpiece and an important pilgrimage stop along the Camino de Santiago. Continue through the restored Old Town, admired for its charming squares, historic façades, and distinctive sculptures that line the streets. Following the guided visit, enjoy free time to explore Oviedo at your own pace. Browse local shops, relax at a café, or continue discovering the city’s cultural landmarks before rejoining your coach for the return to the ship.

Depart the pier by coach for a scenic drive to Oviedo, the modern capital of Asturias and one of northern Spain’s most culturally and historically important cities. During a panoramic tour, take in Oviedo’s elegant boulevards, leafy parks, and well-planned urban layout, offering a blend of tradition and contemporary life. Begin a guided walking tour through the historic center, highlighted by a visit to the Cathedral of San Salvador, an impressive Gothic monument and a key pilgrimage site on the Camino de Santiago. Continue through the meticulously restored Old Town, celebrated for its charming squares, historic façades, and distinctive public sculptures, as well as its reputation as one of Europe’s cleanest cities. After the guided portion, enjoy free time to explore Oviedo independently. Wander through local shops, relax at a café, or continue discovering the city’s cultural landmarks before returning to the ship. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Enjoy a scenic 45 min drive to La Coruna. As we arrive and enter the old part of the city, you will see the "galleries", sited in front of the harbour that gives the name to La Coruna as "The Crystal City”, due to the hundreds of windows these houses have. Many, many years ago, the sea was nearer to the city and these windows reflected the sunlight on top of the surface of the sea. At the promenade - the longest in Europe that surrounds most of Coruna’s coastline – we will pass the Castle of San Anton, built on an island; first it was the local fortress, and nowadays it shelters the archaeological museum and is connected with the city by a stretch road. Next we will arrive at the Tower of Hercules; this beacon built by the Romans is the only lighthouse in the world of its kind that is still working for its original purpose. As the most important monument of the city, it is part of the coat of arms of La Coruna, together with the bones of Gerion, a giant that was killed by Hercules and buried under the beacon. Continue to the foot of Mount San Pedro, from where you will have a beautiful view of the Tower of Hercules and the ocean where you will see the octopus, a two metre tall sculpture with the beacon behind it. Afterwards, view one of the most important places in La Coruna, Maria Pita Square, where the town hall stands. Maria Pita was a woman who lead the fight and defeated the pirate “Sir” Francis Drake in the 16th century, when he tried to invade the city. You will have free time to wander around the city centre square where hundreds of shops, bars and markets, can be found before returning to Ferrol. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Experience the last stretch of the legendary Camino de Santiago, ending at the magnificent Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the believed resting place of Saint James the Great. This pilgrimage is one of only three in the world granting plenary indulgence. Your journey begins outside Santiago, following a scenic 5-kilometre path through forests, hills, and rivers, offering a peaceful and authentic approach to the city. Upon arrival at the Cathedral, your guide will introduce its stunning exteriors, including the Baroque Obradoiro façade, the Neoclassical Plaza de Azabachería, the Romanesque Plaza de Platerías, and the Holy Door in La Quintana Square, which opens only in Jubilee Years. Next, enjoy a guided tour of the Cathedral’s interior, followed by free time to explore on your own—perhaps visiting the crypt or admiring the famous Botafumeiro incense burner. Each guest will receive a traditional Camino shell as a souvenir of this unforgettable experience. Please note this is a 5km walk along dirt and gravel pathways with some mild inclines. Upon arrival in Santiago there are cobblestones and the entrance to the Cathedral has numerous steps. Guests must be fit and able to walk a minimum of 5km at ease.

Follow in pilgrims' footsteps on the legendary “Camino de Santiago” or Way of Saint James. Explore Santiago’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, beginning at Obradoiro Square, home to the impressive Cathedral, the Town Hall, the Palace of St. Jerome, and the Parador of the Reyes Católicos, a former pilgrim hospital. Discover the Cathedral’s grand façades—Baroque, Neoclassical, and Romanesque—before touring its interior. Then enjoy free time to explore.

Oporto, the economic and cultural capital of northern Portugal, is a city of ancient origins whose name was given to the entire country. Set along the banks of the Douro River, its rich blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical architecture has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. Enjoy a panoramic drive through the city, passing notable landmarks such as the Palácio da Bolsa, famed for its elegant 19th-century interiors, and the Gothic São Francisco Church, known for its ornate gilded woodwork. Continue to the lively Ribeira Quarter, where you’ll have free time to explore the waterfront streets at your leisure. Cross the river to Vila Nova de Gaia for a visit to a traditional wine cellar, where you’ll learn about the production of the famous Port wine that has made the city known worldwide, before returning to the ship.

Visit Guimarães, widely regarded as the birthplace of Portugal and its original capital. This well-preserved medieval town offers a remarkable blend of history and architecture, and is known as the birthplace of the country’s first king, Afonso Henriques. Your guided tour includes an exterior visit to Guimarães Castle, perched above the old town, where you will learn about its royal history and military significance. Continue to the nearby Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, a national monument dating from the 15th century, to explore its grand interiors, period furnishings, armour, tapestries, and portraits. Afterwards, enjoy a guided walking tour through the historic centre of Guimarães, with its narrow streets, iron balconies, and traditional squares, followed by some free time to browse local shops or relax before returning to the pier. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Meet your bike guide just outside the ship before a short walk or shuttle transfer to Matosinhos, where your e-bike experience begins. After a detailed briefing and safety introduction (approx. 20 minutes), set off on an easy and enjoyable electric bike ride towards Porto. Cycle from Matosinhos into the historic centre of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, passing some of the city’s most iconic landmarks along the way. Enjoy a short coffee break at Avenida dos Aliados before continuing by e-bike toward the lively Ribeira Quarter. From here, take a brief walk into the waterfront area and enjoy approximately 30 minutes of free time to explore at your own pace. Afterwards, return to your e-bikes for the scenic ride back to Matosinhos, followed by a short walk or shuttle transfer to the ship. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Hop on a convenient shuttle bus service and explore Porto at your own pace. After a 45-minute drive from the port, you can wander the Ribeira quarter's charming hillside, known for its narrow cobblestone streets and facades adorned with colourful azulejos (tiles). Or take a leisurely stroll along the river Douro with rows of bright houses or cross to Gaia on the left bank with its port houses offering a glimpse into Porto's rich trading past.