Grand Voyage: Pole To Pole Cruise

Day 1 - Barcelona

Arrive: Thu 24 April 2025

On the northeast coast of Spain, overlooking the Mediterranean, Barcelona is a vibrant port city, packed with centuries of iconic art and architecture—Gaudí and Picasso both called it home—and lined with sunny white-sand beaches. Explore the Catalan capital's tourist attractions and historic neighborhoods, Modernisme and world-renowned art museums, galleries and local crafts shops—some of which are centuries old and stock traditional Catalan wares. After you see the sights, there are lively tapas bars around every corner where you can stop for a drink, a café amb llet (Catalan for espresso with steamed milk) or a snack, no matter the hour. Green spaces for picnics, long walks and respite from the hustle and bustle are scattered throughout Barcelona's attractions: There's Gaudí's mosaic-decorated park, a neoclassical maze at the Laberint d'Horta, as well as plenty of high places (mountains, monuments and edifices) where sightseeing visitors can take in the view. A short trip from Barcelona by car or train, luxury outlets, cava wineries, a mountaintop abbey and the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean coast await.

Day 2 - Barcelona

Depart: Fri 25 April 2025 at 17:00

On the northeast coast of Spain, overlooking the Mediterranean, Barcelona is a vibrant port city, packed with centuries of iconic art and architecture—Gaudí and Picasso both called it home—and lined with sunny white-sand beaches. Explore the Catalan capital's tourist attractions and historic neighborhoods, Modernisme and world-renowned art museums, galleries and local crafts shops—some of which are centuries old and stock traditional Catalan wares. After you see the sights, there are lively tapas bars around every corner where you can stop for a drink, a café amb llet (Catalan for espresso with steamed milk) or a snack, no matter the hour. Green spaces for picnics, long walks and respite from the hustle and bustle are scattered throughout Barcelona's attractions: There's Gaudí's mosaic-decorated park, a neoclassical maze at the Laberint d'Horta, as well as plenty of high places (mountains, monuments and edifices) where sightseeing visitors can take in the view. A short trip from Barcelona by car or train, luxury outlets, cava wineries, a mountaintop abbey and the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean coast await.

Day 3 - At Sea

Day 4 - Seville

Arrive: Sun 27 April 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 27 April 2025 at 18:00

Hanging off the southwestern edge of Spain, Cádiz is one of Andalucía’s regional capitals and a place bursting with personality. Europe’s oldest continually inhabited city, with a history stretching back 3,000 years, has fallen on hard times in recent years, but a combination of pride, good humor and stoicism keeps it on an even keel. The famous Carnival, one of Spain’s most important in the genre, is a thrilling fiesta into which Cádiz pours all its energy and ingenuity. The city’s fond nickname, la tacita de plata ("little silver cup"), alludes to its curious geography—it juts out on a long peninsula into a sheltered bay. Old town Cádiz is a warren of cobbled streets where the houses, painted white or dusty ochre, have the weather-beaten look of a place subjected to centuries of wind and salt. This ancient city has one good example of everything that matters: a great food market, a theater (the Teatro Falla, a grand Art Nouveau Moorish gem), a gorgeous cathedral, impressive fortifications and a beach—the picturesque and famous La Caleta.

Day 5 - At Sea

Day 6 - Lisbon

Arrive: Tue 29 April 2025 at 11:00

Find your way in the city that launched the Age of Discovery. Cross the River Tagus on its soaring suspension bridge, watched over by a colossal statue of Christ. Wander the maze of streets in the Alfama, the old Moorish quarter, dominated by the medieval Castle of St George where peacocks strut and shriek. Stroll the Baixa and refuse to leave without a pair of elegant shoes.

Day 7 - Lisbon

Depart: Wed 30 April 2025 at 17:00

Find your way in the city that launched the Age of Discovery. Cross the River Tagus on its soaring suspension bridge, watched over by a colossal statue of Christ. Wander the maze of streets in the Alfama, the old Moorish quarter, dominated by the medieval Castle of St George where peacocks strut and shriek. Stroll the Baixa and refuse to leave without a pair of elegant shoes.

Day 8 - Leixoes, Portugal

Arrive: Thu 01 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 01 May 2025 at 17:00

From lovely Oporto enjoy a leisurely drive along the Rio d'Ouro (River of Gold) into port wine country. Hear the fascinating story of its origin; taste test the season's best.

Day 9 - At Sea

Day 10 - Brest

Arrive: Sat 03 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sat 03 May 2025 at 17:00

Sitting by a natural harbor at the mouth of the Penfeld River in western Brittany, the city of Brest has a rich maritime history that stretches from the Middle Ages to today, as it is home to the main French naval base in the Atlantic. Brest’s strategic importance was first established in the 1600s, when Cardinal Richelieu created a naval base and arsenal here. Throughout the Napoleonic Wars, warships were produced in its dockyards. During World War I, Americans maintained a naval air station in Brest, then Germany took control of the city during World War II and stationed U-boat submarines in its harbor. Though much of the city was destroyed in 1944 after an Allied invasion, one of Brest’s most important sites escaped the bombing: the Château de Brest, a 13th-century castle that’s the oldest structure in town. Just across the Penfeld River stands the 14th-century tower Tour Tanguy; inside is a museum that showcases the history of the city prior to World War II, with dioramas, photographs, postcards and other objects.

Day 11 - Cherbourg

Arrive: Sun 04 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 04 May 2025 at 18:00

In the 20th century, Cherbourg’s biggest claim to fame was perhaps that it had been a vital port during the Allied forces’ D-Day invasion, which landed to the southeast and traveled overland to capture the well-defended city from the Germans. However, in recent years, Cherbourg has undergone a revitalization that makes it a great place to sample local delicacies in the Place de Gaulle Market and calvados (apple brandy) from nearby orchards, plus visit the historic sites in and near town. Can’t-miss attractions include the wonderful Cité de la Mer maritime museum, as well as the Roule Fort where the Americans ousted the Germans, now home to the Museum of the Liberation. Cherbourg is also a perfect jumping off point for exploring the sights of Normandy, like the D-Day landing locations on Utah and Omaha Beaches, the historic town of Bayeux—the base of William the Conqueror before he invaded England—and the stunning scenery and sea cliffs of the Cape of La Hague.

Day 12 - Zeebrugge

Arrive: Mon 05 May 2025 at 10:00 / Depart: Mon 05 May 2025 at 18:00

From this busy port city tour to canal-laced Brugge; Brussels, home of the European Union; and Ghent, mecca for chocolate lovers. Sample shore excursion: Antwerp, City of Diamonds.

Day 13 - Rotterdam

Arrive: Tue 06 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 06 May 2025 at 17:00

Often called the gateway to Europe, the port city of Rotterdam is full of old-world charm. The harbor offers amazing views and a maze of wharves and canals, along with towering spires make for a beautiful sight. Take a stroll and duck into one of the pubs or eateries along the way. Only three pre World War II buildings in the city centre have survived and are worth a look - city hall, St. Laurence church and the White House. Explore the Museum Boymans van Beuningen, which houses a unique collection dating from the 14th century, or the Museum Voor Volkenkunde - home to ethnological exhibits. Exquisite architecture can be seen in many areas of Rotterdam, most notably in the Delfshaven quarter of the city - where 18th century houses are on display. For a laugh, check out Kijk-Kubus, an upside-down house.

Day 14 - At Sea

Day 15 - South Queensferry

Arrive: Thu 08 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 08 May 2025 at 18:00

History was made in this port, just across the Firth of Forth from Rosyth, when the future Queen Margaret of Scotland arrived around 1071. Her devout religious attitude established 'Queen's Ferry' as the place for pilgrims from abroad to alight on their way to St. Andrews—Scotland's ecclesiastical capital in the Middle Ages. Margaret's legacy continues less than a dozen miles away at Edinburgh Castle. A key attraction up on the castle's rock is St. Margaret's Chapel, believed to be the oldest section of the fortifications and the place where she worshipped. There's more to Scotland's capital than the Castle, though. Edinburgh proudly displays multiple exhibits on national and international scientific achievement at the National Museum of Scotland, as well as some fantastic works of visual art at the National Galleries of Scotland. South Queensferry's moorings are also within easy striking distance of Scotland's largest metropolis: the city of Glasgow. Transformed in many ways since the post–WWII days when it had a reputation for grime and crime, the city is among the most vibrant in the U.K.: It is Scotland's de-facto capital of modern culture, with the hippest DJs and most accomplished conceptual artists.

Day 16 - At Sea

Day 17 - Eidfjord, Norway

Arrive: Sat 10 May 2025 / Depart: Sat 10 May 2025

In the shadow of snowy peaks and near stunning blue-green fjords, Eidfjord is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful villages in Norway. Even though it has a population of less than 1,000, scores of visitors come here each year to bask in the area's natural splendor. Hardangervidda, near Eidfjord, is Europe's largest mountain plateau as well as Norway's largest national park. Interestingly, the legendary polar explorer Roald Amundsen, who led the first expedition to reach the South Pole, and Fridtjof Nansen, who made the first successful crossing of the Greenland interior, both used Hardangervidda to prepare for their expeditions. Walking, hiking, cycling and cross-country skiing are popular, and the area is home to Europe's largest population of wild reindeer. Numerous canyons, including the famous Måbødalen Valley, lead south from the Hardangervidda plateau to the fjords along the coast, and about 16 kilometers (10 miles) south of Eidfjord, visitors can see the dramatic 182-meter-tall (597-foot-tall) Vøringfossen waterfall. In the center of Eidfjord stands the 14th-century stone Eidfjord Kirke, while outside town the famous Kjeåsen Mountain Farm sits on a ledge some 600 meters (1,968 feet) above the Simadalsfjord.

Day 18 - At Sea

Day 19 - Trondheim

Arrive: Mon 12 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 12 May 2025 at 17:00

Although a popular cruise destination, Norway’s Viking capital is often overlooked by other travelers in favor of Oslo and the fjords. Yet Norway’s third-biggest city has plenty to offer those who make the time to explore. The compact city center, enclosed by the Nidelva River, is easy to get around on foot. Within a couple of hours you can explore the main downtown sights and still have time for a bite to eat. The medieval Gothic grandeur of the Nidaros Cathedral is a must-see, as is the historic riverside Bakklandet neighborhood just a few steps away. Despite so much history, the city has a youthful feel to it, thanks to the dominance of NTNU, Norway’s leading technology university. The presence of thousands of students means Trondheim scores well on café culture and shopping. Music lovers will feel right at home here. The Rockheim and Ringve museums chronicle the importance of music to the city’s past, while vinyl stores and basement bars showcase the present.

Day 19 - Scenic Cruising Trondheimfjord

Day 20 - At Sea

Day 21 - Tromso, Norway

Arrive: Wed 14 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Wed 14 May 2025 at 17:00

Gateway to the Arctic and overhung by lofty snowcapped peaks, it's still a bright and lively place, thanks to the Midnight Sun. Visit the Tromso and Polar Museums for fascinating displays of wildlife and Arctic explorations.

Day 22 - North Cape

Arrive: Thu 15 May 2025 / Depart: Thu 15 May 2025

Day 22 - Honningsvag, Norway

Arrive: Thu 15 May 2025 at 10:00 / Depart: Thu 15 May 2025 at 22:00

For many travelers, the sparsely populated settlement of Honningsvåg is nothing more than a pit stop en route to the North Cape, the northernmost point of continental Europe. (The North Cape is rightly an iconic bucket-list destination with postcard views across the open ocean.) But amidst its colorful buildings, Honningsvåg has a lively cultural life powered by local spirit and an economy driven by shipping through the Barents Sea, which is ice-free year round thanks to the warming influences of the Gulf Stream. The town's several notable cultural institutions include a museum and a busy cultural center. Honningsvåg is also a terrific base for exploring the rest of rugged arctic Norway, whether on foot, all-terrain vehicle or on the water. Back in town, be sure to stop by the statue of Bamse, the Saint Bernard dog that became the mascot of the Free Norwegian Forces during World War II. The city was destroyed in bombing during the war and the harrowing experiences of that period are documented at the church, which gave temporary shelter to the residents.

Day 23 - At Sea

Day 24 - Djupivogur, Iceland

Arrive: Sat 17 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sat 17 May 2025 at 16:00

Djúpivogur, a quiet fishing village with fewer than 500 residents, sits on the eastern coast of Iceland and dates back to the days of the Vikings. Despite the fearsome reputation of those who first established Djúpivogur, today what draws visitors to this remote corner of the country is its dramatic natural setting. Located on Berufjörður, it is near stunning natural wonders like the Hofellsjökull Glacier and the Valley of Waterfalls. Wherever you journey in the region, you'll come upon stunning vistas and a landscape shaped by glaciers and geothermal activity. The village itself is home to intriguing sites like Langabúð, a log house built in 1790 that now houses artifacts related to Iceland’s long-held folk traditions. (These include a belief in “hidden folk” who live in the ancient windswept landscapes of rock, glacier and lava.) You can also journey to nearby Papey Island and meet some of eastern Iceland's seabird population including cute and quirky puffins. These birds are so beloved in Iceland that they were long the symbol of the national airline and actually outnumber the country's human population by some 25 to 1.

Day 25 - Akureyri

Arrive: Sun 18 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 18 May 2025 at 17:00

Often described as the capital of north Iceland, the country's second-largest city is both vibrant and pretty, and serves as an ideal hub for exploring the incredible landscape that surrounds it. Located at the head of a 60-kilometer fjord—the country’s longest—and surrounded by snow-streaked mountains, Akureyri was originally settled in the 9th century and was first officially mentioned as a city in the 16th century. Today it boasts a population of around 17,000, a scenic harbor and an array of interesting shops, buzzy cafés and upscale restaurants. Its main sights include the Akureyri Church, a wonderful botanical garden (founded in 1912) and the fascinating Akureyri Museum. From here it’s possible to explore some of the country’s most memorable landscapes, starting with Akureyri’s own fjord, Eyjafjörður, where you'll find several museums (including the Icelandic Folk and Outsider Art Museum), fishing villages like Grenivík and plenty of dramatic mountain scenery. Farther afield are the island of Grímsey, the volcanic wonderland of Lake Mývatn and a whole host of waterfalls, gorges, churches and saga sites.

Day 26 - Isafjordur

Arrive: Mon 19 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 19 May 2025 at 17:00

Day 27 - Reykjavik, Iceland

Arrive: Tue 20 May 2025 at 08:00

See dramatic evidence of Iceland's volcanic origins: geysers, hotsprings, vast fields of cooled lava. Swim in the naturally-warmed Blue Lagoon.

Day 28 - Reykjavik, Iceland

Depart: Wed 21 May 2025 at 17:00

See dramatic evidence of Iceland's volcanic origins: geysers, hotsprings, vast fields of cooled lava. Swim in the naturally-warmed Blue Lagoon.

Day 29 - At Sea

Day 30 - At Sea

Day 31 - Nanortalik

Arrive: Sat 24 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sat 24 May 2025 at 17:00

Greenland's southernmost town, Nanortalik is surrounded by the steep mountain peaks of Tasermiut Fjord - whose rugged landscape and lush vegetation attracts serious climbers all year long. Inside the fjord are the ruins of an Augustinian monastery and the towering trees of the Qingua Valley. In this region, the northern lights dance across the sky in the evenings and polar bears have been known to drift by on ice floes. Visit the old town around the colonial harbor where the museum includes exhibits of rare Norse clothing. This harbor is thought to be the last point of departure of the Norse voyagers when they sailed to or from Greenland. The importance of the site is evidenced in the ruins of boathouses. Take a chilly trip to the ice cap by boat, or warm up in the natural hot springs at Uunartoq.

Day 32 - Qaqortoq, Greenland

Arrive: Sun 25 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 25 May 2025 at 17:00

The name "Qaqortoq" means "the White Place," and indeed, 85% of the area is under ice. Explore the small town of 3,400 and learn how people survive on this immense, remote island administered by the Danes but desperate for individual recognition of its distinctive culture.

Day 33 - Frederikshab

Arrive: Mon 26 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 26 May 2025 at 17:00

Paamiut formerly Frederikshab With more time at sea and more out-of-the-way ports, there’s much to explore—both on and off your ship. Discover the medieval art of Cherbourg. Stroll the gardens of Madeira. Relax and enjoy yourself.

Day 34 - At Sea

Day 35 - St. Anthony, Newfoundland

Arrive: Wed 28 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Wed 28 May 2025 at 15:00

The scenic waters off St. Anthony are known as Iceberg Alley, offering the largest concentration of icebergs in Newfoundland and spectacular whale watching. Sample shore excursions: Icebergs & Whales; L anse Aux Meadows A Viking Tour.

Day 36 - St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada

Arrive: Thu 29 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 29 May 2025 at 17:00

At the easternmost gateway to North America, come ashore in the snug, landlocked harbor to discover a land the Norsemen visited five centuries before Columbus. See fishing villages perched on cliffs, visit the lovely Botanical Gardens.

Day 37 - Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Newfoundland, Canada

Arrive: Fri 30 May 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Fri 30 May 2025 at 17:00

The tiny French island of St-Pierre & Miquelon are the last remnants of the former colonial territory of New France. Enjoy the uniquely French architecture, cafes and people.

Day 38 - At Sea

Day 39 - Halifax

Arrive: Sun 01 June 2025 at 07:00 / Depart: Sun 01 June 2025 at 16:00

Located on a rocky inlet on the Atlantic Ocean, Halifax—Nova Scotia’s provincial capital—is defined by its maritime geography. It's a spirited mix of world-class history and nautical-themed museums alongside bunkers and fortresses that guarded the harbor, plus striking public art and sights, funky shops and excellent pubs serving up folk music (and good pints). Explore the Halifax waterfront where steamships once anchored to drop off arriving immigrants at Pier 21. Savor the low-key but classy culinary scene for fresh seafood and Nova Scotia specialties—the city has both street vendors and casual joints catering to university students and upscale eateries with elegant settings. Along Nova Scotia's southern shores, the city is surrounded by lush greenery and charming villages that are worth the trip from downtown proper. Snap photos of attractions in the charming fishing village, Peggy's Cove, with its picturesque lighthouse on a rocky outcropping. Or wander the streets of Lunenburg, whose colorful Old Town is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also soak in the charms and sights of Mahone Bay, home to artists' studios and a trio of steepled churches.

Day 40 - Bar Harbor, Maine, USA

Arrive: Mon 02 June 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 02 June 2025 at 18:00

Located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, Bar Harbor is the quintessential New England coastal town. Our Bar Harbor cruise takes our guests to this picturesque and charming town with its scenic and walkable streets lined with restaurants and boutiques. Dining on lobster is a must, as is a scoop or two at one of the town’s homemade ice cream shops. Boat tours explore the waters and islands that surround Bar Harbor, with seasonal opportunities to see wildlife—including whales—and lighthouses along the way. A favorite attraction many of our guests enjoy on our cruises to Bar Harbor is the magnificent Acadia National Park, an adventurer’s playground. The park, which is celebrating its centennial in 2016, is home to sites such as Cadillac Mountain, the tallest mountain along the eastern coast of the United States and the first place in the country to see the sun rise. Bar Harbor cruise guests can hike, bike or take a horse-and-carriage ride to explore Acadia’s lakes and striking coastline. While on your cruise to Bar Harbor, take advantage of the best bargain in town during your visit: The free Island Explorer buses take guests to Acadia’s major sites and to other nearby destinations.

Day 41 - Boston, USA

Arrive: Tue 03 June 2025 / Depart: Tue 03 June 2025

New England’s largest city, Boston, Massachusetts, is home to historic sights and modern neighborhoods; stores and restaurants with old-time character; and gracious green spaces as well as a beautiful waterfront. Legendary figures of the American Revolution come alive at buildings and attractions along Boston’s Freedom Trail, including the Paul Revere House and Old South Meeting House, and in Lexington and Concord just outside Boston. Pay homage to great U.S. presidents at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum and in the town of Quincy, birthplace of Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams. Each of Boston’s neighborhoods has its own personality and things to do, whether you’re enjoying the food of the North End’s Little Italy, admiring the beautiful 19th-century architecture of Beacon Hill or watching the street performers in Cambridge’s Harvard Square. The waterfront offers harbor views, while boat tours allow you to take in the city skyline while sightseeing. In every neighborhood, shopping and dining reveal Boston’s true eclectic self, from casual to high-end, but always interesting. Finally, Boston is a city of green spaces where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors. The Emerald Necklace, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, is a 445-hectare (1,100-acre) chain of nine linked parks, including the lovely Boston Common and Public Garden.

Day 42 - At Sea

Day 43 - At Sea

Day 44 - At Sea

Day 45 - Fort Lauderdale

Arrive: Sat 07 June 2025 at 07:00 / Depart: Sat 07 June 2025

There is an abundance of things to see and do in the Ft. Lauderdale area: visit the newly redesigned Ft. Lauderdale Beach and cafes, stroll the historic Riverwalk, shop the luxurious stores on Las Olas Boulevard or adventure to the Everglades for an intriguing air boat excursion.