Northern Adventure - 10 nights, December 2013

Departing from the base of the Akershus Castle and Fortress, your guide will provide an interesting commentary as you pass the modern landmarks of the City Hall, Parliament, National Theatre, the Royal Residence and up to the Holmenkollen Hills, for excellent views over parts of the city and the Oslofjord.

A stop will be made at the Vigeland Sculpture Park, for an interesting guided walk around the fascinating 'wonder-world' of human figures in stone, iron and bronze. The artist, Gustav Vigeland, never explained these works, leaving the interpretation to each beholder.

Leaving the Park, you will head towards the peninsula of Bygdøy, for a visit to the Viking Ship Museum. Here you will see the incredible craftsmanship of Viking ships. The 'Gokstad' is a classic Viking ship, while the 'Oseberg', which was dug out in 1904, is richly adorned and was probably used as a pleasure boat. The Museum holds a collection of sleds, implements and gold and silver jewellery found with the ships.

Afterwards, travel past the pleasure boat harbour and glimpse the charming, little castle 'Oscarshall, built in the 19th century by the Swedish-Norwegian King, Oscar I.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The Viking Ship Museum is a popular attraction and can get crowded. There is approximately one hour of walking including several steps in Vigeland Park. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended. The journey may involve two tunnels.

Explore the small picturesque town of Drøbak, with its narrow streets and beautifully restored 18th century wooden houses. Local law protects Drøbak, due to its significant cultural value, therefore much of the city centre looks like it did 100 years ago.

Feel the festive cheer of this decorated town as you visit the Christmas House and Drøbak Post Office. The Christmas House has a range of Christmas articles such as candles, tablecloths, angels, dolls, decorations etc. The Post Office is said to be Santa’s personal post office, and as a result they receive thousands of Christmas letters from all over the world.

Drøbak also contains art galleries, small shops, a saltwater aquarium, museums and a quaint market square to occupy your time. If you want a more leisurely afternoon then you can sit back and absorb the local atmosphere over a coffee and waffle in one of the restaurants or enjoy the lovely views over the Oslofjord.

Before you leave don’t forget to post your Christmas cards so they can be stamped with Drøbak’s official Christmas postmark. Enjoy a short orientation of Oslo before returning to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The journey involves several tunnels. There are some steep slopes and uneven surfaces to reach the residential area. Walking is at guests’ own discretion. Guests are advised that the small shops are popular in December so queues may be experienced. There is approximately 1½ hours’ free time in Drøbak. Comfortable, flat shoes are recommended. This excursion is extremely popular so book early to avoid disappointment.

No visit is complete without seeing the city’s most famous symbol, The Little Mermaid. Completed in 1913, this statue was erected to express gratitude to Hans Christian Andersen and his well-known fairy tales. Close by is Copenhagen's famous Gefion Fountain, set amidst the parkland of the Kastellet and depicting the Nordic legend of the Goddess Gefion.

Travel to the royal residence of Amalienborg Palace for a short photo stop, before driving through the lively Nyhavn area. Nearby you’ll see King’s Square where the Royal Theatre, embassies and many fashionable shops are located. View the old fish market warehouses which date back to medieval times and Glyptotek, founded by the Danish Brewer, Carl Jacobsen, the creator of Carlsberg beer. Next to Glyptotek lies Tivoli Gardens (exterior view), one the world’s oldest theme parks. Before returning to the pier, you will catch a glimpse of the City Hall and Rosenborg Castle.



This excursion will operate by coach. This tour does not include any visits. There will be various photograph-stops, depending on traffic and time permitting. There is approximately 30 minutes’ total walking involved in this tour.

Enjoy a narrated panoramic drive with scenes of the Flemish countryside, before arriving in Bruges for a walking tour followed by free time.

As you enter this historical old town, the beautiful medieval atmosphere is immediately evident. Cobble-stoned streets twist and turn and centuries-old buildings hover over the canals. A guided walk takes you through the picturesque city passing the Market Place with its merchant guild houses, the Belfry Tower, Town Hall and the Gothic-style Chapel of the Holy Blood (exterior views only).

Enjoy free time to visit the charming Christmas Markets. Browse the stalls selling hand-made decorations, gifts, chocolates and local delicacies. The traditional step-gabled buildings decorated with sparkling lights, the huge Christmas tree and the ice rink in Market Square all add to the delightfully festive atmosphere.

Your guide will lead you to the 'Lake of Love' to your coach for the return journey.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour requires a moderate level of walking over cobbled streets. Luncheon has NOT been included to allow maximum flexibility.

Your scenic drive takes you into Bruges, where you will disembark your coach at a designated drop-off point in the city, close to the major attractions. Enjoy Bruges as you please for half a day. Please bear in mind that this excursion is non-guided and exclusive of refreshments and entrance fees. City maps will be provided on the coach.

At the time specified by your escort, your coach will depart from the designated pick-up point for the return drive to Zeebrugge.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a walk of approximately 20 to 30 minutes over cobbled stones between the city to the coach park, for the return drive to Zeebrugge. This is, unfortunately, unavoidable due to local traffic restrictions. This tour is non-guided and does not include any meals, refreshments or entrance fees.

With more than 60 miles of waterways, Amsterdam has more canals and bridges than Venice, and this is one of the best ways to become acquainted with the waterside scenery. From your glass-topped motor-launch, experience a canal cruise consisting of a myriad of sights and sounds: the fine old houses of the city's rich Dutch traders; picturesque house boats; Anne Frank's house and many other attractions.

Enjoy a panoramic drive passing the inner city's central landmark, Dam Square, and the classical-style Royal Palace, before continuing to Nieuwe Kerk, an imposing late-Gothic church dating from around 1500, where royal inaugurations are held. Of particular interest is the lovely, 16th century Weeper’s Tower, one of the most famous of the city's collection of stunning towers and steeples. You will have an opportunity to photograph a perfect symbol of Holland's past, a windmill - many have long since been replaced by modern technology.

During the tour, you will have 1 hour of free time to explore the streets, stalls and shops in the city.

This excursion will operate by coach, canal boat and on foot. The order of highlights may be reversed. Limited toilet facilities are available on the canal cruise. There are approximately ten steps to the landing platform and a further three steep steps into the boat.

Once onboard your four stop transfer, you will be given a map of Copenhagen, so you can plan your free time.

The first stop is by the Cathedral of Copenhagen, you’ll have time here to look inside or maybe take a stroll in the Bohemian Quarter. You might like to wander to Nytorv (New Square) and Gammeltorv (Old Square) where you will find the City Court of Copenhagen and the oldest fountain in Copenhagen - The Well of Caritas that dates back to 1608.

At Gammel Strand you may choose to wander down the famous shopping street, Stroeget or admire the fabulous architecture including Christiansborg Castle, home of the Danish Parliament, the Old Stock Exchange, the Naval Church and Thorvaldsens Museum.

The third stop is at Amalienborg Royal Palace, the home of Queen Margrethe II. Enjoy an hour of free time to view the palace from the beautiful square; visit the nearby Marble Church which boasts the fourth largest dome in Europe or head off on a short walk to Nyhavn, famous for its charming old houses and lively waterfront. No visit to Copenhagen would be complete without a visit to the Little Mermaid, for photographs.


This excursion will operate by coach. A tour assistant will be on hand to provide practical information about where and when to meet for the onward transportation. Please note that the assistant is not a tour guide. A map of Copenhagen will be provided. No entrance fees are included in the tour price.

Travel to the land of the kings and queens of Denmark and their former residences. Hamlet’s Castle, also known as Kronborg Castle, is beautifully situated on a point overlooking the Sound to Sweden and the northern coastline. Enjoy a walk around the courtyard and along the ramparts. A buffet luncheon with typical hot and cold Danish dishes and will be provided during your time in Helsingor.

Attractively located in the middle of a park surrounded by the Esrum Lake, you will see the Queen's summer residence of Fredensborg Castle.

Considered by many to be the most beautiful castle in Denmark, Frederiksborg Castle is situated on three islands in the middle of a tiny lake. From the main courtyard, the spectacular Neptune Fountain and the numerous copper spires, make a lasting impression. Enjoy a guided tour through several of the interior rooms of the King’s Wing, including the Knight’s Hall with its intricate woodcarvings, as well as the church where Danish monarchs were crowned from 1671 to 1840.

Back in Copenhagen, a short city drive will highlight the oldest and most charming parts, including Rosenborg, Christiansborg and Amalienborg Palaces, and Nyhavn the colourful and lively waterfront district.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour includes a visit to Frederiksborg Castle and exterior views of Hamlet’s Castle and Fredensborg. This tour involves approximately two hours of walking including several steps.

On arrival in Brussels drive past the King Boudewijn Stadium and make a photograph stop at the Atomium. This was built for the World Fair in Brussels in 1958 and represents the atoms of an iron molecule.

Near the Central Station walk through the Old Town area to admire the St Hubert Arcades and Butchers' Street with its plethora of restaurants and cafes. You will be astonished by the beauty of the Grand Place, adorned in its Christmas finery. A few blocks further, meet Manneken Pis, Brussels' best known little boy.

During your free time, visit the annual Christmas Market. No fewer than 220 wooden chalets will be present for the Christmas market. A huge array of Christmas goods, craft products and delicacies will be on sale in the beautifully illuminated shopping area. A 160 feet high giant wheel gives fantastic views of the city and the traditional Christmas tree and decorations.

As the year-end draws near, the Christmas markets blossom in many cities and towns in Belgium. This market with its cheerful lights, delicious aromas and vast number of stalls promises a truly festive atmosphere.

After a short walk back to the coach, pass by the Royal Palace, the European Parliament, the Cinquantenaire Arcade and the Koekelberg Basilica before heading back to Zeebrugge.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour requires a moderate level of walking over cobbled streets. Luncheon has NOT been included to allow maximum flexibility.

Start your tour with a cultural guided tour of the city of Amsterdam, taking in the attractions of Dam Square with the Royal Palace and The New Church. Of particular interest is the lovely 16th century Weeper's Tower, one of the most famous of the city's collection of stunning towers and steeples.

Afterwards, visit the Van Gogh Museum, where you will be able to witness the history of one of the most famous Dutch painters and experience his works first hand. Although guiding is not allowed in the Museum, your guide will give general information prior to entry and you will be given the opportunity to purchase Van Gogh literature and souvenirs at the Museum shop.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Photography inside the Van Gogh Museum is not permitted.

Your scenic drive takes you along the highway with scenes of the Flemish countryside as your companion. On arrival in Ghent, take a walking tour through the old city passing by the interesting guild houses with their steep, gabled fronts.

The Flemish city of Ghent was considered the most powerful next to Paris in the 16th Century and was an important Medieval and Renaissance art centre. The past seems to still be alive and you can feast your eyes during a walk in the heart of the city. Take a stroll over St Michael’s Bridge, which overlooks the old river port and enjoy a view of the well-known ‘Row of Three Towers’, consisting of St Nicholas Church Tower, the Belfry Tower and St Bavo’s Cathedral Tower.

During your visit inside St Bavo’s Cathedral, you will have an opportunity to admire the church’s highlight – the famous painting of ‘The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb’, by the brothers Van Eyck. Also of particular note is the ornately carved wooden pulpit.

Enjoy some free time browsing independently through Ghent. Find the perfect memento of your visit in the many shops offering delicious Belgian chocolates, handmade lace and wonderful little souvenirs and handicrafts.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There are cobble-stoned streets and small steps leading into St Bavo's Cathedral. Appropriate attire is required for the visit to the Cathedral. From 2012, a five year project to renovate the panels of the 'Lam Gods' will be undertaken. During that process, some panels may be replaced by copies.

The Roman City of Bath and the beautiful countryside which surrounds it, has been described as one of England's most beautiful places to visit. Bath is situated within the south west of England and is a 2,000 year old fabulous spa town, built around Britain's only hot mineral springs.

Bath offers a multitude of fantastic places to visit and is very easy to navigate on foot. Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987, the city has some of the finest architectural sites in Europe and boasts a unique and diverse range of historic features, which attract people the world over.

Your visit will begin with a panoramic tour of Bath, with your guide bringing the city to life as you pass the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, the Circus and the parks, including Royal Victoria Park. There will be approximately three hours’ free time to explore this historic city at your own leisure. Watch the many street performers, visit the Roman Baths Museum, discover Jane Austen’s connection to the city at the Jane Austen Centre, wander around the fabulous shops or simply sit back and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.


Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in Southampton should not book a shore excursion for this port.  Southampton excursions are available for guests visiting Southampton as a port call.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The transfer time to Bath is approximately 1¾ hours. Luncheon is not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling). Any walking is at guests’ own discretion. Bath is relatively flat but some streets are cobbled.

Your tour begins with a short transfer to the Westerkerk (Western Church) and the small statue of Anne Frank. Walk the short distance to the Anne Frank House where you will be able to see where the Jewish girl, Anne Frank, wrote her renowned diary while hiding away with her family from the Nazis. It is in this very house that she spent the last two years of her life before being transported to Germany where her story came to an end. Guiding inside the Museum is not permitted, so the guide will give general information prior to entry.

Continue the tour with a scenic drive around the centre of Amsterdam passing such highlights as the Baroque Royal Palace at the Dam square (the Queen's residence when she visits the city). Pass by Nieuwe Kerk or New Church, a 550-year old church which is the site of numerous inaugurations and the resting place of many important Dutchmen. View the Mint Tower, built in 1618 over a medieval gate a place where coins were minted, and the 16th century Weepers' tower.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The Anne Frank House is an old mansion with various steep steps and photography is not permitted inside the museum.

Step aboard a canal boat for a leisurely 50-minute cruise. As you glide gently along, you’ll pass some of the city’s main sights such as The Little Mermaid and the old naval area of Holmen.

Following your relaxing boat cruise, spend some time absorbing the atmosphere at Copenhagen’s famous amusement park - Tivoli. Situated in the heart of the city, Tivoli has been visited by millions of people since its opening in 1843. There are beautiful merry-go-rounds, as well as more adventurous rollercoaster rides and plenty of attractions to amuse. Alternatively you may prefer to simply watch the world waltz by at one of the many cafés or restaurants. Your guide will advise you of a meeting point and time for your return journey to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and canal boat. From the ship, there is a short distance to walk to reach the boat and approximately ten steps to negotiate when embarking. Entrance to Tivoli is included within the price of the tour. Tivoli has many visual attractions as well as an amusement park including funfair rides, slot machines and souvenir shops, all of which are payable directly and not included in the fare. You may encounter crowds and delays at the attractions during peak season. The advertised itinerary may operate in reverse.

Enjoy a panoramic drive through the city of Amsterdam, passing by some of the city’s most famous landmarks including the Royal Palace at Dam Square. This baroque-style palace hosts the Queen of Holland during her visits to Amsterdam. Continue past the New Church and the Mint Tower. Built in 1618 over a medieval gate, the Mint Tower was where money was coined. You will also see the Central Railway Station and the 15th century Weeper’s Tower.

Relax in the comfort of your coach and capture beautiful landscapes as you journey through the beautiful lowlands of North of Amsterdam, passing lakes and windmills. The far horizons may remind you of the famous landscape paintings you have seen in many museums around the world.

The “Beemsterpolder” (the Beemster lowland) is an exceptional example of reclaimed land in the Netherlands and is registered on UNESCO’s world heritage list. Pause at a typical Dutch windmill for photographs before continuing to a local cheese farm.

At the cheese farm, you will have the opportunity to sample a variety of Dutch cheeses, and some free time to purchase the delicious produce on sale.

Enjoy refreshments of tea, coffee and a slice of cake before the return journey to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour is conducted by coach and requires very little walking. The order of sights may be reversed.