HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Europe’s Atlantic Highlights – From Lisbon to Hamburg

Day 1: Lisbon
Begin your trip in Lisbon. After making your way there, head to the port to board the MS Fridtjof Nansen. Once onboard, enjoy the rest of the day to settle into your cabin

Day 2: Porto (Leixoes)
The ship docks in Leixoes today, where you can see the lighthouse of Leca, the Boa Nova Chapel and the beach of Praia Azul. Its also the ideal port for visit Porto, which you can reach by shuttle bus. Enjoy some time to stroll along the waterfront, visit a port cellar for a tasting or cross the Dom Luis I Bridge.

Day 3: Galician Highlights
This morning is at leisure onboard the ship, perhaps relaxing in the hot tub or visiting the Science Centre for an interesting lecture. Later on, the ship enters the Ria de Ferrol before arriving in the port of Ferrol. Spend some time exploring the maritime museums or maybe join an excursion to Santiago de Compostela.

Day 4: Gijon’s golden sands
Sail into the Bay of Biscay to visit the charming city of Gijon. Stroll through the old town to see beautiful Baroque buildings or simply relax on golden beach at Playa de San Lorenzo. While here, take the opportunity to try some Asturian delicacies, perhaps with some local cider.

Day 5: Explore San Sebastian
Continuing along Spain’s northern coast, call at San Sebastian today. Here there’s something for everyone. Visit Parte Vieja, the historical district or perhaps take the cable car up to Monte Igueldo. Make sure to try some of the traditional Basque cuisine on offer here as you explore.

Day 6: Bordeaux
Today’s stop is the city of Bordeaux, famous for its wine. There’s a number of vineyards a tram ride away if you want to try some for yourself. In the city, don’t miss the famous water mirror at Place de la Bourse or the Gothic St Andre Cathedral.

Day 7: Île-d’Yeu
Explore the little island of Île-d’Yeu, seeing its vast array of landscapes, from sand dunes to pine forests as well as lush meadows. There are also many historic sites to explore, including menhirs and medieval castles.

Day 8: Finistere
Hop on one of the small expedition boats this morning to reach the seaside town of Douarnenez, home to colourful quays and steep cliffs that inspired famous painters. From here, you can choose to visit Pointe du Raz, which looks out over the Atlantic Ocean or visit the Breton town of Quimper, home of the Saint Corentin Cathedral.

Day 9: Saint-Malo
Visit the town of Saint-Malo today, reaching it by small boat. Take a walk around the ramparts for the best view of the town and its surrounding islands. Perhaps visit Demeure De Corsaire to learn about the town’s pirate heritage or walk to Ile de Grand Be at low tide or join an optional excursion to the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel

Day 10: Cruising the Channel
Enjoy a day to relax on board and make the most of the facilities as you sail through the Channel.

Day 11: Explore Heligoland
If conditions allow, head ashore on the islands of Heligoland, which lay just off the German mainland. On one island you’ll find scenic trails along cliffs to spot nesting birdlife and on the other, there’s dunes to search for seals.

Day 12: Hamberg
Your expedition cruise comes to an end in Hamburg.

• Cabin of your choice
• Full board dining
• Wine, beer and spirits available at meals & throughout the day
• All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
• Complimentary Ocean Bottle water bottle
• Wind and waterproof expedition jacket
• Professional photographs by onboard photographer
• Complimentary wi-fi
• Use of sauna, hot tubs, pool, fitness room, lounges and more
• Gratuities
• Tenders where needed
• Loan of certain equipment for activities
• Onboard activities including
  • Lectures and discussions
  • Science centre
  • Daily briefings

MS Fridtjof Nansen