Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join us for an explorer voyage in the mild, spring coloured Western Europe. During this voyage, you may visit Santiago de Compostela, famous for the Cathedral where the pilgrim walk ends. We will make an evening stop in La Coruña, and spend a day in Beautiful Bordeaux – famous for its fine wines.
We continue our voyage sailing north and will pay a visit to the peaceful Channel Islands before we continue to Dover with its famous white cliffs.
Visit 8 European highlights in 9 days. The comfort of modern MS FRAM, our skilled expedition team and the visits to some of the most precious areas and cities of Europe will all be part of an unforgettable voyage!
Day 1 Lisbon, Portugal
Since its conquest from the Moors in 1147, Lisbon is a legendary city with centuries of history, built on seven hills along the shores of the River Tejo. We recommend that you acquaint yourself with Portugal’s capital before you embark in the afternoon. The Captain and his crew will welcome you onboard and provide information about the coming days before the FRAM sails down the Tejo and sets course for Leixoes.
Day 2 Leixoes (Porto), Portugal
We call at Leixoes, situated at the mouth of the river Douro, close to the city of Porto. Situated across the river Douro, Porto is Portugal’s second largest city. Its name has its origin in the big lodges of port wine. Although its ancient roots have been preserved with pride, a modern and lively commerce makes it a thriving city. Porto’s traditional importance as an industrial centre does not diminish the charm and character of its old quarters or even of the newer and busy avenues, shopping centres and quiet residential blocks.
Day 3 La Coruña, Spain
This morning we will make a short port call in Villa Garcia to disembark the guests attending our optional overland excursion to Santiago de Compostela, before we continue towards La Coruña where we are scheduled to arrive in the evening.
Santiago de Compostela is the capital of Galicia, a beautiful, green land with strong Celtic ties. Historically the city is famous as the place where St James was buried after his remains were transferred here by sea from the Holy Land. On the site where he was buried stands the magnificent Cathedral of Santiago which attracts thousands of pilgrims who walk the ancient Way of St James (Camino de Santiago) every year.
La Coruña’s harbour takes a multitude of vessels from small fishing boats to large cruise liners. The harbour facing buildings have galleria style facades; with their combination of glass and white frames these have given the city its nickname “The Crystal City”. La Coruña today combines old and new; here you can find the world’s oldest operational lighthouse “La Torre de Hercules” as well as futuristic new buildings.
Day 4 The Bay of Biscay
We spend the day in the Bay of Biscay, sailing from the eastern point of Spain towards our next port of call, Bordeaux. These waters were known to be some of the fiercest of the Atlantic Ocean, especially in winter times. Today, improved ships and weather forecasts have made it easy to enjoy the crossing of the bay. Spend the day on day spotting for whales, dolphins and seabirds, or follow our on board lecture programme given by our expedition team.
Day 5 Bordeaux, France
This morning we will sail up the Gironde River to Bordeaux. The city has more than 1 million inhabitants, and is the fifth largest metropolitan area of France. With an annual production of approx 700 million bottles of wine, Bordeaux is among the world’s major wine industry centres. Some of the world's greatest wines are produced in the Gironde estuary, the area around Bordeaux, and it is possible to visit some of the vineyards and châteaux. Among the most celebrated are Margaux and Lafite-Rothschild. The city itself is attractive, too; it boasts wide avenues, neoclassical architecture and beautiful parks, which gives it a 18th century atmosphere.
Day 6 At Sea
Enjoy the day on board as we sail around the coast of France, heading towards the English Channel and the islands of Sar and Guernsey.
Day 7 Sark and Guernsey, UK
Lying close to the north coast of France and bathed by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, the Channel Islands are the perfect holiday destination. Although Guernsey is geographically much closer to France than the UK, it is loyal to the British crown. This loyalty can be traced back to Norman times when the Channel Islands first became part of the English realm. St Peter Port, the island’s capital, is a bustling harbour town, and a tapestry of architectural styles that tell the story of the region’s changing fortunes. Nearby, the island of Sark offers stunning coastal views and a picturesque rural interior. Going to Sark is like taking a step back in time; still today it is traffic-free and overflowing with natural beauty.
Day 8 Honfleur France
The small town of Honfleur on the coast of Normany has one of the most picturesque ports of Europe, and is beloved by tourist from all over the world. Despite its popularity, Honfleur retains its timeless character. There are many interesting things to see here. The centre of attraction is usually the Vieux Bassin with its boats, quays and signature buildings: the tall, narrow, slate- fronted waterside houses. Close-by we find the church of St Catherine which was built by local ships' carpenters, entirely from wood.
Day 9 Dover, UK
Backed by its famous White Cliffs, Dover is situated in Kent, on England's south eastern tip and is the UK's closest geographical point to Continental Europe. Every day of the year, regular cross Channel ferries travel between the port, Calais and Dunkirk in France, and Ostend in Belgium. Here we find fairy tale castles and imposing fortresses by the sea, Roman houses and high-tech galleries. Dover is both a busy, modern port and at the same time a quaint seaside village, filled with history, restaurants and shopping. Our voyage ends here, and we recommend you to acquaint yourself with lovely Dover before you continue your journey home.