Crucero por Europa Occidental: de Irlanda a Portugal

Travel through the rolling countryside of County Kilkenny, where patchwork fields, stone walls, and winding country roads lead to the remarkable Jerpoint Abbey. One of Ireland’s finest medieval monastic sites, the abbey dates largely from the late 12th century and offers a fascinating insight into monastic life. Explore its beautifully preserved cloisters, intricate stone carvings, and impressive central tower while learning about its long and storied history. Continue through the heart of rural Ireland to the market town of Thomastown before travelling on to the picturesque village of Inistioge. Nestled in the scenic Nore Valley, this charming village is known for its tree-lined square, historic character, and as a filming location for Circle of Friends and other well-known productions. Your return journey follows the beautiful Nore and Barrow Valleys, offering sweeping views of the lush countryside and fertile farmland that make this region one of Ireland’s most scenic landscapes. Minimum participation required; tour may be cancelled or subject to price changes if not met.

Depart the ship for a scenic drive through the Waterford countryside to Waterford City, Ireland’s oldest city and a place rich in Viking and medieval heritage. Originally settled by the Celtic Deisi tribe and later established as a Viking stronghold, Waterford’s history spans more than a thousand years. Today, it is best known around the world as the home of Waterford Crystal. Your visit centres on the House of Waterford Crystal, where a guided tour reveals the fascinating journey from molten glass to the beautifully crafted crystal pieces for which the city is renowned. Watch skilled artisans at work and learn about the history and craftsmanship behind one of Ireland’s most famous brands. Following the tour, enjoy tea, coffee, and traditional Irish scones at a local venue. Before returning to Dunmore East, there will be free time to explore Waterford at your own pace, browse local shops, or simply enjoy the atmosphere of this historic city

Step ashore in Waterford and enjoy a visit to the renowned Mount Congreve Gardens, one of Ireland’s finest woodland and ornamental garden estates. Set along the banks of the River Suir, the gardens feature vibrant seasonal displays, winding pathways, tranquil water features, and an extraordinary collection of plants gathered from around the world. During your visit, take time to explore the beautifully maintained grounds before relaxing at the Stables Café, where tea or coffee and traditional Irish scones are served in the charming surroundings of the restored stable buildings. On the return journey, enjoy a short panoramic drive through Waterford City, Ireland’s oldest city, passing historic streets and notable landmarks that reflect its Viking origins and rich maritime heritage before returning to the 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.

Salida desde el muelle para un trayecto panorámico por la campiña de Bretaña hasta el Castillo de Kerjean, una impresionante finca renacentista construida alrededor de 1550. Rodeado de imponentes fortificaciones interiores y exteriores, el castillo refleja las tradiciones arquitectónicas de las grandes casas señoriales y fortalezas de su época. Durante su visita, admire elementos como la elegante terraza con arcadas y la capilla de entramado de madera; en el interior, maquetas, pinturas y una extensa colección de mobiliario bretón ilustran la rica historia de la finca a lo largo de distintos periodos. También dispondrá de tiempo para pasear por el parque ajardinado, donde fuentes renacentistas, un palomar tradicional y la picota histórica ofrecen un vistazo a la vida en la finca hace siglos. Tras la visita, relájese durante el viaje de regreso al muelle. Se requiere un número mínimo de participantes; el tour puede ser cancelado o estar sujeto a cambios de precio si no se alcanza.

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.

Board Le Petit Train for a relaxed and scenic journey around the charming Île d'Yeu, one of France's most unspoilt Atlantic islands. Travelling at a leisurely pace, this exclusive guided tour provides an ideal introduction to the island's spectacular coastline, picturesque villages, and unique maritime heritage. Departing from Port Joinville, follow the scenic coastal road towards the island's rugged northwest coast, where dramatic cliffs and rocky headlands have been sculpted by the Atlantic Ocean. Pause at Pointe du But before continuing through traditional villages to Anse des Sabias. Here, enjoy time to admire the panoramic views of the Vieux Château, the striking Pointe du Châtelet, and the sandy cove of Plage des Sabias, complete with its charming fishermen's huts. Your journey continues to the picturesque Port de la Meule, widely regarded as the jewel of Île d'Yeu. Nestled between steep cliffs, this beautiful natural harbour is lined with colourful fishing boats and traditional cottages, offering the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll and photographs. After time to explore, re-board the little train for the return journey to Port Joinville, completing a delightful introduction to one of France's most enchanting islands

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.

Situado a aproximadamente 22 millas de Santander, el pintoresco pueblo de Santillana del Mar es considerado uno de los mejor conservados asentamientos medievales de Europa. Declarado monumento nacional de España, Santillana fue en su día un importante lugar de peregrinación. El renombrado filósofo Jean-Paul Sartre incluso lo describió como «el pueblo más bonito de España». Pasee por las encantadoras calles empedradas y visite la Colegiata románica de Santa Juliana, dedicada a la patrona del pueblo. Explore su fascinante claustro antes de continuar para contemplar hitos históricos como la fortificada Casa de Borja, la Casa del Águila y la imponente Torre de los Merinos. Tras explorar Santillana del Mar, regrese a Santander para un pintoresco recorrido panorámico por los lugares más emblemáticos de la ciudad. Pase en coche junto a la majestuosa Catedral gótica de Santander y el impresionante Palacio de la Magdalena, que fue en su día la residencia veraniega de la realeza española. Disfrute de las vistas de la popular playa del Sardinero, conocida por sus arenas doradas y su animado ambiente. Por último, admire la magnífica sede del Banco Santander, una joya arquitectónica que simboliza el patrimonio económico de la ciudad. Este recorrido ofrece una combinación perfecta de encanto medieval, monumentos históricos y belleza costera, lo que lo convierte en una experiencia inolvidable. Se requiere un número mínimo de participantes; la excursión puede cancelarse o estar sujeta a cambios en el precio si no se alcanza.

Desde el muelle, daremos un breve paseo al otro lado de la calle para visitar la impresionante Catedral, una obra maestra de la arquitectura gótica. Esta singular construcción consta de dos iglesias superpuestas con plantas idénticas. La iglesia inferior, ahora parroquia del Santísimo Cristo, data de principios del siglo XIII, mientras que la iglesia superior se construyó más tarde en el siglo y fue ampliada tras el devastador incendio de la ciudad en 1941. A continuación, pasearemos por los encantadores Jardines de Pereda, bautizados en honor al renombrado escritor cántabro del siglo XIX José María de Pereda. Su célebre obra Escenas Montañesas está bellamente representada en bronce y piedra a lo largo del parque. Mientras continuamos, prepare su cámara para la imponente fachada de la sede original del Banco de Santander, construida en 1875. Adornada con estatuas que simbolizan las artes, la cultura, el comercio y la navegación, esta referencia arquitectónica es una verdadera joya. Nuestra caminata guiada nos llevará luego a la Iglesia de Santa Lucía, un templo de estilo neoclásico construido en 1868. Antes de regresar al barco, disfrute de una degustación de tapas locales y podrá elegir prolongar su tiempo explorando la ciudad a su propio ritmo o regresar a bordo. Se requiere un número mínimo de participantes; el recorrido puede cancelarse o estar sujeto a cambios de precio si no se alcanza.

Museo Guggenheim Bilbao: Visite la emblemática obra maestra arquitectónica de Frank O. Gehry y explore sus colecciones de arte moderno y contemporáneo de clase mundial. Arte, arquitectura y cultura: Experimente un edificio icónico que ha transformado Bilbao en un destino cultural global. Tiempo libre en Bilbao: Disfrute de tiempo para probar pintxos locales, pasear por la ribera del río o explorar el histórico Casco Antiguo antes de regresar a 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.

Introducción panorámica a Oviedo: Disfrute de un recorrido escénico por la capital de Asturias, destacando sus elegantes bulevares, parques y su refinado paisaje urbano. Casco histórico y catedral: Pasee por el Casco Antiguo de Oviedo, bellamente restaurado, y visite la Catedral gótica de San Salvador, un hito clave del Camino de Santiago. Tiempo de ocio en la ciudad: Disponga de tiempo libre para explorar tiendas locales, cafeterías y plazas animadas antes de regresar al barco

Salga del muelle en autocar para un recorrido panorámico hasta Oviedo, la moderna capital de Asturias y una de las ciudades del norte de España más importantes desde el punto de vista cultural e histórico. Durante la visita panorámica, admire los elegantes bulevares de Oviedo, sus parques arbolados y su ordenado trazado urbano, que ofrecen una combinación de tradición y vida contemporánea. Comience una visita guiada a pie por el centro histórico, cuyo punto culminante es la visita a la Catedral de San Salvador, un impresionante monumento gótico y un lugar de peregrinación clave en el Camino de Santiago. Continúe por el casco antiguo meticulosamente restaurado, famoso por sus encantadoras plazas, fachadas históricas y distintivas esculturas públicas, así como por su reputación de ser una de las ciudades más limpias de Europa. Tras la parte guiada, disfrute de tiempo libre para explorar Oviedo por su cuenta. Pasee por las tiendas locales, relájese en una cafetería o siga descubriendo los hitos culturales de la ciudad antes de regresar al barco. Se requiere un número mínimo de participantes; el tour puede cancelarse o sufrir variaciones de precio si no se alcanza.

Disfrute de un recorrido panorámico de 45 minutos hasta La Coruña. Al llegar y entrar en la parte antigua de la ciudad, verá las "galerías", situadas frente al puerto que han dado a La Coruña el sobrenombre de "La Ciudad de Cristal", debido a las cientos de ventanas que poseen estas casas. Hace muchos, muchos años el mar estaba más cerca de la ciudad y estas ventanas reflejaban la luz del sol sobre la superficie del agua. En el paseo marítimo - el más largo de Europa que rodea gran parte de la costa de La Coruña - pasaremos por el Castillo de San Antón, construido en una isla; en un principio fue la fortaleza local y, hoy en día, alberga el museo arqueológico y está conectado con la ciudad por una calzada. A continuación llegaremos a la Torre de Hércules; este faro construido por los romanos es el único de su tipo en el mundo que sigue cumpliendo su propósito original. Como monumento más importante de la ciudad, forma parte del escudo de armas de La Coruña, junto con los huesos de Gerión, un gigante que fue derrotado por Hércules y enterrado bajo el faro. Continúe hasta la base del Monte de San Pedro, desde donde podrá disfrutar de una hermosa vista de la Torre de Hércules y del océano, donde verá el pulpo, una escultura de dos metros de altura con el faro detrás. A continuación, visite uno de los lugares más emblemáticos de La Coruña, la Plaza de María Pita, donde se sitúa el ayuntamiento. María Pita fue una mujer que encabezó la defensa y derrotó al pirata Sir Francis Drake en el siglo XVI, cuando intentó invadir la ciudad. Tendrá tiempo libre para pasear por la plaza del centro de la ciudad, donde encontrará cientos de tiendas, bares y mercados, antes de regresar a Ferrol. Se requiere un número mínimo de participantes; la excursión puede cancelarse o estar sujeta a cambios de precio si no se alcanza.

Siga la legendaria ruta del Camino de Santiago en sus últimos 5 km, atravesando bosques pintorescos, suaves colinas y caminos históricos antes de entrar en el corazón de Santiago. Llegue a la Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, Patrimonio de la Humanidad de la UNESCO, y explore sus impresionantes fachadas barroca, neoclásica y románica, así como la Puerta Santa, que solo se abre en los Años Jubilares. Disfrute de una visita guiada a la Catedral, presencie el famoso botafumeiro y reciba una vieira tradicional del Camino, símbolo de su inolvidable travesía

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.

Visite Guimarães, ampliamente considerado como la cuna de Portugal y su capital original. Esta ciudad medieval bien conservada ofrece una mezcla extraordinaria de historia y arquitectura, y es conocida por ser el lugar de nacimiento del primer rey del país, Afonso Henriques. Su visita guiada incluye una visita exterior al Castillo de Guimarães, encaramado sobre el casco antiguo, donde conocerá su historia real y su importancia militar. Continúe hasta el cercano Palacio de los Duques de Braganza, un monumento nacional del siglo XV, para explorar sus magníficos interiores, mobiliario de época, armaduras, tapices y retratos. A continuación, disfrute de un recorrido guiado a pie por el centro histórico de Guimarães, con sus calles estrechas, balcones de hierro y plazas tradicionales, seguido de tiempo libre para recorrer los comercios locales o relajarse antes de regresar al muelle. Se requiere un número mínimo de participantes; el tour puede cancelarse o estar sujeto a cambios de precio si no se alcanza.

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.