Ireland Circumnavigation
Cruise Line: Polar Latitudes Expeditions
Ship: Ocean Victory
Travel Period: Apr 23 2027
Port: Dublin to Dublin
Duration: 7 Days
Ireland Circumnavigation
Day 1
All Aboard in Dublin!
Our expedition begins in Dublin, the beating heart of Ireland. Hosting sites such as the famous Haâpenny Bridge and the spellbinding Book of Kells in Trinity College, the magnificent St Patrickâs Cathedral and the legendary Guinness Storehouse, visitors are spoiled for choice in the Irish capital. In the afternoon, settle into your cabin aboard Ocean Victory and toast your departure into the Irish Sea as we set a course for Cork.
Day 2
Cobh (Cork)
In the morning we sail into the vast natural harbour of Cobh, gateway to Cork, Irelandâs second city. While famous sites such as Blarney Castle and her famous Stone are just a short drive away, Cork city centre is surprisingly compact and walkable, and trad tunes drift from the door of almost every pub. The best food in the city is indisputably found at the English Market, where some of Irelandâs best produce is sold and prepared -an absolute treat for any foodie!
Day 3
Knightstown and the Skelligs
Sitting on Valentia Island, Knightstown is the epitome of rural Ireland â lush, green and dripping with Gaelic charm. Join a hike to the nearby Valentia Island Lighthouse, or journey back through time and see the tetrapod footprints â a palaeontological marvel. In the afternoon we will cruise around the Skellig Islands, magnificent rock pinnacles once home to hermit monks, now a wildlife refuge populated by thousands of seabirds. Keep your binocular handy!
Day 4
Galway
Early in the morning morning, we will pass the legendary Cliffs of Moher before arriving in Galway. While not the largest city in Ireland, Galway is indisputably the islandâs cultural capital, sitting in the heart of the Gaeltacht on the windswept Atlantic coast. Immerse yourself in ancient Celtic culture and discover the ancient heritage of the wild west of Ireland.
Day 5
Kilronan, Aran Islands, and Clare Island
Venturing off Irelandâs wild west coast, we find the windswept Aran Islands. Although small, the Aran Islands are probably the most famous of Irish Islands â barren limestone landscapes and ancient hillforts make up the mesmerising landscape, and the ancient Irish language is spoken almost universally â not to mention the islandsâ world-famous knitwear! In the afternoon we sail to Clare Island, once home to legendary pirate queen Gráinne OâMalley â thankfully, the welcome here is considerably warmer today than in her time!
Day 6
Portrush, Antrim Coast
Sitting on the islandâs northern coast, Portrush is one of Irelandâs premier seaside resort towns, sitting on the breath-taking Antrim Coast. Bizarre geological happenstance has created this spectacular coastline, home to landmarks such as Dunluce Castle (made famous by hit show Game of Thrones) and the storied stones of the Giantâs Causeway, indisputably the most famous geological site on the island of Ireland.
Day 7
Dublin, Disembarkation
On the final day of our expedition, Ocean Victory sails back into Dublin harbour. After a hearty breakfast, bid farewell to the Officers and Crew and step back onto the stones of the Fair City with memories to last a lifetime.
Greenland: Disko Bay & Beyond
Cruise Line: Polar Latitudes Expeditions
Ship: Ocean Albatros
Travel Period: Aug 22 2026 - Sep 12 2026
Port: Kangerlussuaq to Kangerlussuaq
Duration: 8 Days
Greenland: Disko Bay & Beyond
Day 1
All Aboard in Kangerlussuaq!
On day one, we arrive Kangerlussuaq, Greenlandâs only inland town and a key air hub with a rich Cold War history. Upon arrival, we transfer by Zodiac to the Ocean Albatros, settle into our cabins, complete a safety drill, and then toast with champagne as we begin our journey through the stunning Kangerlussuaq fjord.
Day 2
Sisimiut â Greenlandâs Second City
Sisimiut is Greenlandâs second-largest city, with around 5,400 residents. Inhabited since 2,500 BC by Paleo-Inuit peoples, the area holds ancient remains on nearby Tele Island, which can be reached on a refreshing hike. Founded as Holsteinsborg in 1756, Sisimiut features well-preserved historic buildings like the Blue Church from 1775, situated in the cityâs charming museum quarter. Today, Sisimiut is a key hub for education and industry, hosting one of Greenlandâs largest fish processing plants and the supply company KNI, which services remote settlements. The city blends traditional and modern Arctic lifeâexplore the cultural center Taseralik, the city museum, and the famous art workshop, and taste Greenlandic delicacies.
Day 3
Qeqertarsuaq (Disko Island)
Qeqertarsuaq is a picturesque town nestled beneath Disko Islandâs towering basalt mountains. Once the heart of North Greenlandâs whaling economy, the town shifted focus to hunting, fishing, and growing tourism after the industry declined. Qeqertarsuaqâs rich volcanic soil and mild microclimate create uncommonly lush greenery, attracting locals and visitors to its rugged beauty, colorful houses and excellent hiking. In the afternoon, weâll explore the dramatic coastline of nearby Kuannit by Zodiac, famed for lush tundra, caves, waterfalls, and stunning icebergs, before heading north towards Uummannaq.
Day 4
Uummannaq: The Greenlandic Riviera
Uummannaq sits at the foot of its striking 1,170m âheart-shapedâ mountain â a true Greenlandic landmark. Founded in 1763 by Danish colonists, the town blends historic charm with rich Inuit heritage. Today, Uummannaq is a lively community where locals sell traditional handicrafts in the town square and fresh fish at the bustling market, and locals are strongly connected to their traditional lifestyle. Visit the museum for an insight into local history, or hike to Santaâs house â another famous local landmark. As we sail into Uummannaq Fjord, take in breathtaking views of the iceberg-studded waters and towering peaks beneath the endless midnight sun.
Day 5
Eqip Sermia Glacier
Eqip Sermia (a descriptive Greenlandic name meaning âthe Glacier at the End of the Fjordâ) is a relatively small glacier for Greenland, although it is still a truly vast river of ice, flowing directly from the Ice Sheet. It is also one of the most active, and ice constantly tumbles off the vast glacier-front. If conditions allow, we will launch our fleet of Zodiacs to approach this vast river of ice, and hopefully experience the roar of the glacierâs frequent calvings at sea level (from a safe distance of course)!
Day 6
Ilulissat, Iceberg Capital of the World
Ilulissatâmeaning âicebergsâ in Kalaallisutâis the stunning Iceberg Capital of the World, home to the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, accessible on a gentle walk from the harbor. This 70 km fjord leads to Sermeq Kujalleq, the largest glacier outside Antarctica, which drains 13% of the Greenland Ice Sheet and produces 10% of the Northern Hemisphereâs icebergsâmore than the entire U.S. annual water supply! Founded 280 years ago and the birthplace of legendary Arctic explorer Knud Rasmussen, Ilulissat is Greenlandâs third largest town, rich in culture and adventure. Enjoy fresh local seafood, vibrant markets, and elegant art galleries. The hiking trails around the Icefjord are a must-do for visitors, who may also choose thrilling optional boat or flightseeing tours to witness the raw power of the ice up close.
Day 7
Itilleq Village
Itilleq â meaning âthe Crossing Place from the Seaâ â is a picturesque village nestled among mountains and fjords just north of the Arctic Circle. Located at the edge of the Aassivisuit-Nipisat UNESCO World Heritage Site, it preserves a rich Inuit hunting heritage dating back thousands of years. Modern colorful houses have replaced turf huts, but locals still rely on Arctic char, reindeer, and muskox, blending tradition with modern life. Warm Greenlandic hospitality welcomes visitors eager to explore this wonderfully homely hamlet.
Day 8
Kangerlussuaq disembarkation
As our journey concludes, we sail up the 160 km Kangerlussuaq Fjord and disembark by Zodiac after a fond farewell to the Expedition Team and Crew of Ocean Albatros. Though Kangerlussuaq is more known for its Cold War-era military roots and role as a transport hub than its cultural heritage, its surrounding wilderness offers striking natural beauty. Originally built by the U.S. military in the 1950s, the town retains a utilitarian charm. Our Arctic adventure ends at the modern airport, with lasting memories of Greenlandâs wild landscapes.
Landscapes and islands of the North Atlantic
Cruise Line: Ponant Cruise
Ship: Le-Bellot
Travel Period: Apr 29 2026
Port: Bordeaux (France) to London (United Kingdom)
Duration: 9 Days
toLondon.webp "Landscapes and islands of the North Atlantic")
Landscapes and islands of the North Atlantic
Day 1 - Bordeaux
Bordeaux stretches along the banks of the Garonne river, in South-West France. Its rich wine tradition makes it the world capital of wine. Let yourself be carried away by the history of the Port de la Lune, made a UNESCO World Heritage site for its prestigious classical architecture. On the famous Place de la Bourse, the past and the present unite: here you can observe the majestic old buildings reflected in the contemporary Miroir dâeau creation.
Day 2 - Quiberon
Welcome to the Quiberon peninsula in the Morbihan, Brittany's wild and contrasting landscape. On the Atlantic Ocean side, you will see stretches of wild coastline with rugged, windswept cliffs, and on the Quiberon Bay side, long sandy beaches overlooking emerald waters. Port Haliguen, a ten-minute walk from Quiberon, is a marina that has retained all its charms of yesteryear.
3 available excursions
Breton culture in Auray, Sea, land & myths: Etel & Megaliths, Quiberon wild coast hike
Day 3 - Brest
Built around a magnificent harbour, Brest opens onto the Iroise Sea and the river Penfeld that runs through the city. Its port was used by the French navy for centuries before becoming an important commercial port and marina appreciated by the great navigators. As you stroll along Quai Commandant Malbert, you may catch a glimpse of the superb schooner La Recouvrance and, in the distance, a few lighthouses along the chiselled coastline. You will be able to discover the marine ecosystems at the Oceanopolis centre and visit the naval museum housed in Château de Brest. Officially recognised as a city of art and history, Brest will also charm you with its architectural eclecticism, mingling modernism, neoclassicism, art nouveau and art deco.
2 available excursions
Oceanopolis: Plankton & Ocean Wonders, Mythical Coast of legends
Day 4 - Saint-Malo
The mere mention of Saint-Maloâs name is enough to plunge us back into the richness of its past. The fortifications stand as testimony to the Malouinsâ determination to defend their citadel, fought over by France and Britain in turn. When we drop anchor here, immerse yourself in the diversity of its heritage: the time when privateers sailed the oceans in search of trade and victories; the legendary yacht races the port city is still famous for, such as the Route du Rhum; and the final resting place of the French writer François-René de Chateaubriand, who was born here and chose to be buried here anonymously.
3 available excursions
The privateer's city of Saint-Malo, Cancale oyster tasting, Mont-Saint-Michel
Day 5 - Guernsey, Channel Islands
Guernsey is an atypical and unforgettable port of call. This Channel Island will delight you with its mild, iodic climate and its green and floral landscapes. Donât be surprised to come across dolmens and menhirs here and there, testifying to the long history of the island and its rich heritage. The attractive capital of St. Peter Port is characteristic of the delightful British atmosphere that gives the island its charm. The memory of the great writer Victor Hugo is also very present, as he lived for fifteen years in exile in Guernsey. His home, Hauteville House, preserves his memory. The incredible richness of the decoration gives a clear illustration of the creative genius of this great man.
3 available excursions
Guernsey coastal walk, History of Guernsey, Sausmarez Manor and island tour
Day 6- Dartmouth
Succumb to the charming setting of the small town of Dartmouth in the county of Devon, South-East England. Set in the heart of lush scenery, on the banks of the River Dartâs estuary, the townâs magnificent landscapes are typical of English countryside. Its picturesque paved streets will let you discover sumptuous half-timbered houses dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries while, on the northern bank of the river, you will be able to admire former fishermenâs houses in their pastel colours. Now a popular tourist destination, this small port town has nonetheless managed to retain its relaxing and romantic atmosphere.
3 available excursions
Greenway House & gardens, Steam train & river cruise, Sandridge Barton winery
Day 7 - Cowes
Located on the north coast of the Isle of Wight, across from the shores of the port cities of Portsmouth and Southampton, Cowes will win you over with its easy lifestyle, its heritage, verdant landscapes, craggy cliffs, and the crystal-clear waters of the Solent, the stretch of sea separating the island from mainland England. Many have succumbed to the charms of this pristine jewel. This includes Queen Victoria, who, captivated by this natural and authentic setting, had her summer residence built there in 1847: Osborne House, an architectural gem that is now one of the symbols of the town. A shipbuilding centre and the cradle of sailing, Cowes welcomes one of the largest regattas in the world every year during Cowes Week, an event gathering some 10,000 skippers and more than a thousand boats.
3 available excursions
Royal Osborne House, Cowes Walking Tour, Island Drive
Day 8 - At sea
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the shipâs upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Day 8-9 - London
The main residence of the British monarch, financial hub and seat of British government, London is the economic and cultural heart of the country. A city of contrasts, attached to its traditions while buzzing with modernity, the capital of the United Kingdom has countless historic districts and notable sites to explore. From Hyde Park to the City through Westminster and Trafalgar Square, get ready to take on London's frenetic tempo. In between a visit to the National Gallery, a stroll through Covent Garden and a trip to Tower Bridge, you can take a quiet breather in one of London's many beautiful parks and gardens.
Central America Jewels & Panama Canal
Cruise Line: Ponant Cruise
Ship: Le-Bougainville
Travel Period: Nov 14 2026 - Jan 05 2028
Port: Puntarenas - Colon
Duration: 8 Days
Central America Jewels & Panama Canal
Day 1 - Puntarenas
The capital of the eponymous province, Puntarenas is sometimes called âthe pearl of the Pacificâ, for its unique charm. It sits on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, along the Gulf of Nicoya, lined with long expanses of wild natural environments. Further inland, among the countless natural wonders to be found in the generous rainforest of the Costa Ricaâs national parks, Poas and Arena volcanoes towers up in all their majestic glory. In this luxuriant natural setting, Costa Rica protects one of the planetâs richest biodiversity: monkeys, sloths, tropical birds, iguanas, crocodiles, waterfalls, canyons, and more than ten thousand species of tropical plants.
Day 2 - Golfito
The town of Golfito lies on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in the province of Puntarenas, one of the most humid regions in the world. It was occupied by the indigenous Bruncas tribe during the Pre-Columbian era. Once specialised in the export of bananas, Golfito has today become the starting point for visitors who want to reach one of the largest primary tropical rainforests in Central America. Meanwhile, the beaches of Golfo Dulce are some of the most beautiful in Costa Rica, with the lush forest, home to many tropical birds and monkeys as well as a variety of rare species of plants, as their backdrop.
Day 3 - At sea
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the shipâs upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Day 4 - Playa Muerto, Darien National Park
The most remote and least developed region of Panama, the province of Darien is an unspoilt land with an extremely rich variety of flora and fauna. Listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, Darien National Park offers its extraordinary scenery of rocky coastlines, mountain ranges, mangroves, rivers and creeks. Discover Playa Muerto, a tiny coastal village home to the Emberas Amerindian community. You will visit the village, attend traditional songs and dances of the locals, and admire beautiful local craft.
Day 6 - Fuerte Amador, Flamenco Island
An artificial peninsula situated at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal, Fuerte Amador is the gateway to several noteworthy sites. Right near there, the impressive Miraflores Locks are a shining example of the engineering feats deployed during the construction of the Panama Canal. Further north, in villages nestling amid dense vegetation, lives the Embera tribe, guardian of the forest and of the Chagres River. This proud people have successfully preserved their traditions and their ancestral way of life, which predate the colonisation of the region by the Spanish.
Day 6 - Crossing the Panama Canal
Aboard your ship, experience something unique, that has inspired the imagination of numerous adventurers in the 20th century: sailing the Panama Canal. Its construction started in 1880 under the direction of Ferdinand de Lesseps. Abandoned then resumed, this marvel of engineering was completed by the United States and opened in 1914. The canal crosses the Isthmus of Panama and links the Atlantic to the Pacific. Including three levels of locks and by raising ships to the level of Lake Gatun, almost as if the water was a lift, it allows them to avoid having to round Cape Horn.
Day 7 - San Blas Islands
Located on the north-east coast of Panama, the San Blas archipelago is a string of coral islands in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. More than 300 islands and cays cover an area of 300 square kilometres offering travellers a multitude of treasures. Sheltered behind a long coral reef, the San Blas Islands are full of enchanting anchorages. The long sandy white beaches bound by crystal-clear waters will allow you to relax and enjoy incredible marine fauna before engaging with the Kunas Indian community. Still subsisting on hunting and fishing, they will welcome you in their villages of bamboo houses gathered near the beaches.
Day 8 - Colon
Colon is the second largest city in Panama, at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. Colón is today an important port, and the free trade zone created in 1953 contributed greatly to the development of the city. Colón was founded in 1850 by Americans working on the Panama railroad connecting the Atlantic and Pacific coasts through the isthmus of Panama; the city rapidly overshadowed the older Caribbean ports of Panama when the canal opened.
Central America Jewels & Panama Canal
Cruise Line: Ponant Cruise
Ship: Le-Laperouse | Le-Bellot
Travel Period: Nov 07 2026 - Dec 29 2027
Port: Colon - Puntarenas
Duration: 8 Days
Central America Jewels & Panama Canal
Ports of Call & Excursions
Day 1 - Colon
Colón is the second largest city in Panama, at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. Colón is today an important port, and the free trade zone created in 1953 contributed greatly to the development of the city. Colón was founded in 1850 by Americans working on the Panama railroad connecting the Atlantic and Pacific coasts through the isthmus of Panama; the city rapidly overshadowed the older Caribbean ports of Panama when the canal opened.
Day 2 - San Blas Islands
Located on the north-east coast of Panama, the San Blas archipelago is a string of coral islands in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. More than 300 islands and cays cover an area of 300 square kilometres offering travellers a multitude of treasures. Sheltered behind a long coral reef, the San Blas Islands are full of enchanting anchorages. The long sandy white beaches bound by crystal-clear waters will allow you to relax and enjoy incredible marine fauna before engaging with the Kunas Indian community. Still subsisting on hunting and fishing, they will welcome you in their villages of bamboo houses gathered near the beaches.
Day 3 - Crossing the Panama Canal
Aboard your ship, experience something unique, that has inspired the imagination of numerous adventurers in the 20th century: sailing the Panama Canal. Its construction started in 1880 under the direction of Ferdinand de Lesseps. Abandoned then resumed, this marvel of engineering was completed by the United States and opened in 1914. The canal crosses the Isthmus of Panama and links the Atlantic to the Pacific. Including three levels of locks and by raising ships to the level of Lake Gatun, almost as if the water was a lift, it allows them to avoid having to round Cape Horn.
Day 4 - Fuerte Amador, Flamenco Island
An artificial peninsula situated at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal, Fuerte Amador is the gateway to several noteworthy sites. Right near there, the impressive Miraflores Locks are a shining example of the engineering feats deployed during the construction of the Panama Canal. Further north, in villages nestling amid dense vegetation, lives the Embera tribe, guardian of the forest and of the Chagres River. This proud people have successfully preserved their traditions and their ancestral way of life, which predate the colonisation of the region by the Spanish.
Day 5 - Playa Muerto, Darien National Park
The most remote and least developed region of Panama, the province of Darien is an unspoilt land with an extremely rich variety of flora and fauna. Listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, Darien National Park offers its extraordinary scenery of rocky coastlines, mountain ranges, mangroves, rivers and creeks. Discover Playa Muerto, a tiny coastal village home to the Emberas Amerindian community. You will visit the village, attend traditional songs and dances of the locals, and admire beautiful local craft.
Day 6 - At sea
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the shipâs upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Day 7 - Golfito
The town of Golfito lies on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in the province of Puntarenas, one of the most humid regions in the world. It was occupied by the indigenous Bruncas tribe during the Pre-Columbian era. Once specialised in the export of bananas, Golfito has today become the starting point for visitors who want to reach one of the largest primary tropical rainforests in Central America. Meanwhile, the beaches of Golfo Dulce are some of the most beautiful in Costa Rica, with the lush forest, home to many tropical birds and monkeys as well as a variety of rare species of plants, as their backdrop.
Day 8 - Puntarenas
The capital of the eponymous province, Puntarenas is sometimes called âthe pearl of the Pacificâ, for its unique charm. It sits on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, along the Gulf of Nicoya, lined with long expanses of wild natural environments. Further inland, among the countless natural wonders to be found in the generous rainforest of the Costa Ricaâs national parks, Poas and Arena volcanoes towers up in all their majestic glory. In this luxuriant natural setting, Costa Rica protects one of the planetâs richest biodiversity: monkeys, sloths, tropical birds, iguanas, crocodiles, waterfalls, canyons, and more than ten thousand species of tropical plants.
7 Days - Off The Beaten Path Greek Islands
Cruise Line: Windstar Cruise
Ship: Wind Spirit | Wind Surf
Travel Period: Jun 04 2026 - Aug 19 2026
Port: Athens, Greece to Athens, Greece
Duration: 7 Days
The Atlantic coast - with the Paris Opera Ballet
.jpg "The Atlantic coast - with the Paris Opera Ballet")
Cruise Line: Ponant Cruise
Ship: Le Boreal
Travel Period: Aug 06 2027
Port: Lisbon to Bordeaux
Duration: 10 Days
The Atlantic coast - with the Paris Opera Ballet
Day 1 - Lisbon
Portugalâs capital city located on the banks of the Tagus, only a few kilometres from the Atlantic coast, is a city of exceptionally rich cultural diversity. At the mouth of the river harbour, impose two UNESCO World Heritage monuments, Jeronimos monastery and Belem tower. The Alfama hillside is also worth visiting: known for its fado bars and its Moorish streets, this district is the oldest one of the city and one of the most typical. Not far from there, Chiadoâs elegant streets are home to big fashion labels and are an invitation to a bit of of luxury shopping.
Day 2 - Leixoes - Porto
Located at the mouth of the Douro River, the port of Leixões lies less than 10 kilometres from Porto. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historic centre of Porto is worth a visit for its famous Ribeira district, the metallic silhouette of the Dom-Luis bridge looming over its ancient houses, its richly decorated Baroque churches and its national Soares dos Reis museum. The São Bento station is also interesting for its typically Portuguese decoration, using Azulejos, blue square ceramic tiles decorated with geometric patterns or figurative scenes.
Day 3-4 - Vigo â Santiago de Compostela
Nestling on the Atlantic coast, in the south of Galicia, the former fishing port of Vigo is now the regionâs largest municipality. Its old town, more commonly known as O Berbés, will unveil its many historical monuments and the unusual architectural style of its homes. Off the coast, the CÃes Islands, declared a Nature Reserve and located in the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, offer truly splendid landscapes and exceptional biodiversity. Further north, make sure you visit Santiago de Compostela, which welcomes many pilgrims from all over the world every year. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its historical centre has significant architectural heritage.
Day 5 - La Coruna
La Coruna stands on a peninsula in north-west Spain. As you enter the harbour, you can see the imposing Castillo de San Antón, which houses archaeological collections from Galicia. In the old town, youâll travel back in time as you meander through the streets from the medieval church of Santiago to the contemporary Domus building, a museum dedicated to human biology and psychology. Brightly coloured tramways connect to the waterfront, on one side, Riazor beach, and on the other, the Hercules tower: this lighthouse overlooking the Atlantic, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, listed for its history dating back to Antiquity.
Day 6 - Aviles
Now the third largest city in the Principality of Asturias, Aviles has managed to retain all its charm. Its old town, declared a Historic-Artistic Site, contains architectural marvels such as the pedestrianised streets Calle Galiana and Calle Rivero, the Plaza de España and its town hall, and the Church of Sabugo, dating from the 13th century. Between palaces â including the very beautiful Valdecarzana and Camposagrado palaces â, shady arcades, fountains and other historical monuments, fall in love with this city and its unique heritage.
Day 7 - Santander
Facing the Bay of Biscay, its backdrop a natural setting that combines sea and mountain, Santander rolls out along a huge bay on the northern coast of the peninsula. A city of maritime tradition, it has a century-old touristic vocation. It is home to two treasures that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites: a part of the Way of Saint James and the Cave of Altamira. Its Prehistory and Archaeology Museum houses one of the most valuable Palaeolithic collections in Europe and the Maritime Museum of Cantabria is one of the most comprehensive museums in Spain dedicated to the sea. Its beaches with peaceful waters, protected from the wind, offer one of the most beautiful sea fronts with a succession of Belle Ãpoque buildings.
Day 8-9 - Saint-Jean-de-Luz
A renowned seaside resort in the South West of France, Saint-Jean-de-Luz is a picturesque and authentic town with a rich history. In particular, King Louis XIV married Maria Teresa in the famous Saint Jean the Baptist church in 1660. The seafront unveils stunning views, between the Basque architecture and the Cantabrian Sea. An unforgettable bay, which was frequented in the 17th century by privateers and wealthy ship-owners.
Day 10 - Bordeaux
Bordeaux stretches along the banks of the Garonne river, in South-West France. Its rich wine tradition makes it the world capital of wine. Let yourself be carried away by the history of the Port de la Lune, made a UNESCO World Heritage site for its prestigious classical architecture. On the famous Place de la Bourse, the past and the present unite: here you can observe the majestic old buildings reflected in the contemporary Miroir dâeau creation.
Svalbard: North to the Midnight Sun
Cruise Line: Polar Latitudes Expeditions
Ship: Ocean Albatros
Travel Period: May 24 2026 - Aug 22 2027
Port: Longyearbyen to Longyearbyen
Duration: 8 Days
Svalbard: North to the Midnight Sun
Day 1
All Aboard in Longyearbyen!
Begin your journey in Norway and arrive in Longyearbyen, Svalbardâthe northernmost town on Earth. Despite its remote Arctic location, Longyearbyen offers warm Nordic hospitality. Upon arrival, youâre greeted by crisp polar air, dramatic mountain views, and a polar bear warning sign reminding visitors of their wild new location. Your expedition ship Ocean Albatros awaits you in the harbor; toast your departure from civilization as you sail into the Arctic wilderness, on course for adventure!
Day 2-3
Northwest Svalbard
Northwest Svalbard, a National Park since 1973, preserves a rich history of early Arctic exploration and whaling. First visited by William Barents in 1596, the area became a hub for Dutch and English whalers. Their haunting remnants, such as the blubber ovens and graves of young sailors at sites such as Smeerenburg, remain visible. Now heavily protected, the region has been reclaimed by nature, rich in Arctic flowers, seabirds, walrus, and polar bears, making it once again a pristine wilderness and haven for wildlife.
Day 4
Northeast Svalbard
In the morning, the expedition enters the icy wilderness of northeastern Svalbard, a stark polar desert shaped by the absence of warming ocean currents. Here, vast glaciers descend into ice-choked waters, surrounding rugged landscapes which appear barren, yet teem with life. Arctic foxes prowl the chilly shores, while hundreds of thousands of seabirds nest on cliffs above. These cold coastal waters are rich in shellfish, attracting the walrus, which are common in the area. Our exploration plans depend on rapidly changing sea, wind, and ice conditions, embodying the dynamic and unpredictable essence of true polar adventure.
Day 5
North Svalbard
Next, we strive for some of the northernmost pieces of land on Earth â stark landscapes almost permanently beset by ice. With luck, we may reach the polar desert island of Nordaustlandet, or the smaller islands of Sjuøyane in the far north of Svalbard. The almost vegetation-free, rocky islands are located around 1000 km further north than mainland Norwayâs famous Nordkapp. Weather permitting, we will land and walk upon these most northern landmasses. These high Arctic islands are quite barren, and only moss, hardy tundra plants and lichens cover the stones. The birdlife is rich in this area, with scampering shore birds and nesting terns and skuas â keep your binoculars handy! At the end of the day, we will start cruising towards the Arctic ice pack which stretches from Svalbard to the North Pole and beyond.
Day 6
Into the Ice
The Arctic ice pack north of Svalbard is a vast, ever-changing wilderness stretching to the North Pole and beyond to Alaska and Siberia, forming one of Earthâs largest and most dynamic habitats. Though it appears empty at first, this icy realm conceals abundant wildlifeâfrom tiny cod-like fish to seabirds and seals, belugas, bowhead whales, and the elusive polar bear, the regionâs apex predator. Ocean Albatros can navigate these narrow ice channels, offering a rare glimpse into this mysterious, shifting environment where natureâs secrets unfold with patience and careful observation.
Day 7
Kongsfjorden Area
During the Arctic ânight,â we sail into the stunning Kongsfjord, a vast fjord system framed by glaciers and the dramatic Three Crowns mountains. Here we will visit Ny-Ã
lesund, Earthâs northernmost settlement, known for its scientific stations and historic role as a base for legendary polar explorers such as Amundsen and Nansen. This remote outpost continues to support vital research amid its breathtaking surroundings, blending the frontiers of science and exploration.
Day 8
Longyearbyen Disembarkation
On the final morning of our expedition, we arrive back in Longyearbyen. Even this small town will feel like a metropolis after days of isolation in the wilderness of the Arctic! After exploring Longyearbyen and bidding a fond farewell to the crew and fellow Arctic explorers, return to Svalbard Airport and join your flight back to the Norwegian mainland- with memories to last a lifetime.
7 Days - French Feast: Normandy, Brittany & Aquitaine
Cruise Line: Windstar Cruise
Ship: Star Explorer
Travel Period: Aug 19 2026 - Aug 22 2027
Port: Rouen to Bordeaux
Duration: 7 Days
8 Days - Gaelic Explorers
Cruise Line: Windstar Cruise
Ship: Star Legend
Travel Period: Jun 01 2026 - Aug 04 2027
Port: Leith (Edinburgh), United Kingdom to Dublin, Ireland
Duration: 8 Days
*Prices are per person in a shared DBL/TWN cabin. Prices do not include Government Fees & Taxes. Pricing and availability subject to change without notice. STIC Travel Group reserves the right to refuse or honor any prices / sailings that are erroneously printed or quoted. Terms & Conditions apply.
We Accept: 
Secured By: 
Copyright © STIC GSA Services Pvt. Ltd. All rights reserved