Hamburg To Cape Town

The quirky and heritage-filled Hamburg is a true city of water, nestled snugly between the Baltic and North seas and intersected by a frayed network of rivers and canals, spanned by hundreds of pretty bridges. Explore the Speicherstadt, the world’s largest warehouse district and a UNESCO site, known for its neo-gothic architecture.

The nearby Elbphilharmonie concert hall is impressive with its striking design and views over the Elbe River. For a taste of local life, visit the lively Fish Market or stroll along the waterfront at Landungsbrücken, where ferries offer scenic river cruises along the canals.

Whether you're an absolute beginner or simply keen to perfect your steps you'll love the opportunity to join the variety of dance classes on offer. Available on voyages of 7 nights or more, classes are lead by coupled instructors and include ballroom as well as Latin and line dance. And when evening falls, what better way to showcase your new moves than in the chandeliered grandeur of the Queens Room?

Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, is famed for its picturesque canals and historic charm. Start your visit with a leisurely canal cruise, offering a unique perspective of the city's stunning 17th-century architecture. The Anne Frank House, located on Prinsengracht, provides a poignant glimpse into history, making it a must-see landmark.

Wander through the Museum Quarter, home to the renowned Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum. For a local experience, explore the lively Jordaan district, filled with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and art galleries. Don't forget to stop by the Albert Cuyp Market, where you can sample Dutch treats like stroopwafels and fresh herring, immersing yourself in Amsterdam's vibrant culinary scene.

The largest port in Europe, Rotterdam, is an intriguing mix of the old and the new, with bold modern architecture intermixed with classic 18th and 19th century buildings. Destroyed during WWII, the city has since been completely rebuilt to become the Netherlands second largest city.

You'll dock at the Rotterdam Cruise Terminal, conveniently located in the heart of the city. The terminal is just 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the city center, making it a quick 10-minute taxi ride or a pleasant 25-minute walk. Public transportation options include trams and buses, providing easy access to key attractions including the Markthal - a bustling market with diverse food stalls, and the Cube Houses, a unique architectural marvel. For a dose of history, visit the Maritime Museum.

A visit to Bruges offers a step back in time with its medieval architecture, winding canals, and charming cobblestone streets. The Belfry of Bruges provides stunning panoramic views of the city, and don’t miss the chance to sample world-famous Belgian chocolates from local chocolatiers or take a leisurely boat tour through the picturesque canals.

As the heart of the European Union, Brussels boasts a blend of historic sites and modern attractions. Art lovers will appreciate the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the surrealist artist René Magritte. Be sure to try a classic Belgian waffle or indulge in mussels and fries at one of the city’s renowned brasseries, enjoying a quintessential Brussels culinary experience.

Zeebrugge serves as the gateway to both Bruges and Brussels. Bruges is approximately 17 km (10.6 miles) away, a 20-minute drive, offering medieval architecture and charming canals. Brussels, the Belgian capital, is about 100 km (62 miles) from the port, taking around 1.5 hours by car or train.

London, a vibrant metropolis brimming with history and culture, is a must-visit destination for cruise travellers. Explore the historic Tower of London, witness the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, and stroll across the majestic Tower Bridge. Art enthusiasts will relish the treasures housed in the British Museum and Tate Modern.

Explore London's culinary diversity at Borough Market, where a variety of international flavors await. Be sure to visit the lively Covent Garden, renowned for its street performers and charming boutiques. From the tranquil Royal Parks to the vibrant West End theatres, London provides a captivating blend of British heritage and modern vitality.

Southampton has a long maritime history, it was the departure point for the Mayflower in 1620, and for the ill-fated Titanic in 1912. Today the city is the cruise capital of Northern Europe. During your time in Southampton, explore its medieval architectural spots like Bargate and the Old Town walls, shop at the ultra-modern Westquay and historic sites such as the SeaCity Museum and the Titanic Trail. Southampton is approximately 128 kilometers (80 miles) southwest of London, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by car or train. The port is conveniently located near the city center.

It couldn't be easier to meet people on board. The ship's social host ensures that guests need never feel out of place, enabling solo travellers to make connections at specially hosted coffee gatherings and dinner tables, and also a range of daytime activities. Indeed, before your invitation to the 'Welcome Cocktail Party' arrives, there's every chance you'll already have met the perfect company to share in the excitement.

Madeira, an enchanting archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, is renowned for its lush landscapes and year-round spring-like climate. Start your exploration with a visit to the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal, where you can savor local fruits and admire the island's famous flowers. Don't miss the awe-inspiring views from Cabo Girão, one of the world's highest sea cliffs.

For a unique experience, take a leisurely stroll through the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with endemic plants and wildlife. Wine enthusiasts should visit the Madeira Wine Museum to sample the island's renowned fortified wines.

Ships docking in Funchal, Madeira, use the Port of Funchal, located about 3 km (1.9 miles) from the city center. This short distance can be covered in around 10 minutes by taxi or shuttle bus. The port is conveniently situated, allowing easy access to Funchal's charming streets, vibrant markets, and stunning botanical gardens. To explore Funchal, taxis and local buses are readily available. A popular spot is the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, reachable by cable car offering panoramic views. Don't miss the traditional wicker toboggan ride down to Livramento.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the bustling capital of Tenerife, offers a delightful mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. Begin your exploration at the Plaza de España, where you can admire the impressive artificial lake and historic fortifications. Nearby, the Auditorio de Tenerife, designed by Santiago Calatrava, stands as an architectural marvel, hosting an array of cultural performances.

Stroll through the García Sanabria Park, a lush green oasis perfect for a leisurely walk among exotic plants and intriguing sculptures. For a taste of local culture, visit the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, where vibrant stalls offer fresh produce, local delicacies, and crafts. Don't miss the Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre, showcasing Tenerife’s rich archaeological and natural history.

A day at sea offers a world of experiences, all tailored to your pace and preferences. Enjoy a refreshing dip in one of the heated pools or take in expansive ocean views with a few laps of Promenade Deck. Relax at the Mareel® Wellness & Beauty spa, with rejuvenating treatments inspired by the ocean. Partake in a guided gin tasting or attend a classical concert.

Indulge in gourmet meals at the grand Britannia Restaurant, sip champagne at sunset or enjoy a cocktail by the pool. Choose from an array of entertainment options, including stage shows, live bands, and late-night dancing. Play a round of paddle tennis, table tennis, golf putting, and shuffleboard. Younger guests will also stay entertained at one of four dedicated children’s clubs, ensuring fun for the whole family.

Mindelo, nestled on São Vicente Island in Cape Verde, stands as a cultural jewel, renowned for its lively music scene and colonial charm. This city is a hub of creativity, home to the famous Carnival that rivals Brazil's with its vibrant costumes and infectious rhythms, showcasing the rich Creole culture of the island.

The waterfront area, with its colorful buildings and bustling markets, offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll. The Mercado de Peixe (fish market) provides a glimpse into local life, offering fresh seafood and the chance to mingle with friendly locals. For art enthusiasts, the Centro Cultural offers insights into the island's artistic traditions. Mindelo's natural harbor, Porto Grande, is a testament to its historical significance as a coaling station for transatlantic shipping, adding a layer of historical intrigue to its lively cultural tapestry.

Discover new ways to learn and grow with the remarkable guest speakers and classes we host on board. During your voyage, you may be joined by some famous faces with fascinating stories to share - perhaps a famous writer, actor or musician or possibly an eminent scientist, explorer or politician.

Walvis Bay is the principal port of Namibia and is situated on the west coast of southern Africa - a quirky town focused around the busy harbour with many townspeople employed in the huge fishing and shipping industry that operates out of it.

One of the most unique and interesting aspects of Walvis Bay is it's huge natural lagoon. This always has numerous seabirds on and around it. Over 100,000 birds were counted on the lagoon, the most noticeable being flamingos and pelicans. These are joined annually by another 200,000 migratory birds, making this an excellent place for keen birdwatchers.

It couldn't be easier to meet people on board. The ship's social host ensures that guests need never feel out of place, enabling solo travellers to make connections at specially hosted coffee gatherings and dinner tables, and also a range of daytime activities. Indeed, before your invitation to the 'Welcome Cocktail Party' arrives, there's every chance you'll already have met the perfect company to share in the excitement.

With the magnificent backdrop of Table Mountain, the Port of Cape Town is a picturesque cruise destination. Your cruise ship will be piloted through Table Bay to the dockside. From here you can explore the culture and attractions of South Africa’s most scenic city.

Top Things to Do in Cape Town:

• Explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where Cape Town locals shop and eat
• Take a scenic trip up Table Mountain
• Visit Boulders Beach and walk amongst native African penguins
• Take a railway journey to visit renowned wineries

With the magnificent backdrop of Table Mountain, the Port of Cape Town is a picturesque cruise destination. Your cruise ship will be piloted through Table Bay to the dockside. From here you can explore the culture and attractions of South Africa’s most scenic city.

Top Things to Do in Cape Town:

• Explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where Cape Town locals shop and eat
• Take a scenic trip up Table Mountain
• Visit Boulders Beach and walk amongst native African penguins
• Take a railway journey to visit renowned wineries