Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical centre where one can stroll along the Skólavördustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.

Spend exceptional moments sailing aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar exploration vessel and the first PC2-class polar cruise ship capable of sailing into the very heart of the ice, on seas and oceans which the frozen conditions render inaccessible to ordinary ships. Le Commandant Charcot is fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts. Take advantage of the on-board lectures and opportunities for discussion with these specialists to learn more about the poles. Participate in furthering scientific research with PONANT and let us discover together what these fascinating destinations have yet to reveal to us.

Aboard your ship, follow in the footsteps of Jules Poret de Blosseville, a French explorer and sailor. In 1833, he set off to discover this isolated and unexplored part of eastern Greenland aboard La Lilloise, an adventure with a fatal outcome. The uninhabited territory that bears his name lies to the south of Scoresby Sound. Surrounded by ice, icebergs and pack ice - thin or thick, flat or pronounced - as far as the eye can see, Blosseville Coast is a wild and distant place to which very few people have access. Exploring it means a slow immersion into the heart of a frozen, almost unreal desert, where the variations in light transform one’s perception of the landscape. In the kingdom of the polar bears, Le Commandant Charcot, a silent ship open to the exterior, will offer exceptional moments observing Arctic wildlife, through a series of encounters.

On the East coast of Greenland, in the Ittoqqortoormiit region that is covered with snow and ice for nine months of the year, you will have the rare opportunity of immersing yourself in the heart of an isolated territory and exploring the beauty of its infinite polar whiteness. The high alpine mountains punctuate the sky and gradually reveal their dark rock edges beneath a coat of snow. Located at the entrance to the longest system of fjords in the world, sits the village of Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the northernmost inhabited places on the East coast. Its name means ‘great house’ in Greenlandic and it is home to the last hunters of the polar region, whose ancestral way of life you will encounter. As soon as the thickness of the ice floe allows it, the hunters set out on the trail of walruses, seals, narwhals, musk oxen and polar bears, travelling by traditional dog sleds. On these expanses of immaculate snow, the silence is broken only by the sounds of the dogs, the grating of a sled coming back from a run or of footsteps on the ice. You will discover Inuit traditions through privileged and festive moments on the ice floe and in the village.

The north-east of Greenland is renowned for being home to one of the oldest and thickest layers of ice on the planet. Aboard your ship, you will have the unique opportunity of sailing to the heart of this icy wilderness, many thousands of years old, and will travel along one of the world's most isolated coasts, between drifting ice and blue icebergs.

Enjoy the absolutely unique experience of sailing to the heart of the ice floe, this vast expanse of virgin, immaculate ice. The landscapes are constantly changing, shifting from a smooth, flat wilderness to a chaos of ice, then to channels of open water. Your ship will sail along these naturally open channels and through the areas where the frozen layer is thinnest, offering you the chance to experience magic maritime moments in the midst of drifting sea ice. It will also often be an opportunity to see a particular kind of fauna, totally dependent on the ice floe.

Defined by a 90° North latitude, the Geographic North Pole lies on the Earth’s rotational axis, at the intersection of all meridians. Plunged into darkness for six months of the year, then lit by the sun for the following six months, this mythical site, permanently covered in ice and remote from any land, has fascinated generations of explorers. So far, only a very few people have ever reached it: an exploit which is now accessible to you aboard Le Commandant Charcot.

Enjoy the absolutely unique experience of sailing to the heart of the ice floe, this vast expanse of virgin, immaculate ice. The landscapes are constantly changing, shifting from a smooth, flat wilderness to a chaos of ice, then to channels of open water. Your ship will sail along these naturally open channels and through the areas where the frozen layer is thinnest, offering you the chance to experience magic maritime moments in the midst of drifting sea ice. It will also often be an opportunity to see a particular kind of fauna, totally dependent on the ice floe.

A kingdom of contrasts and natural marvels dotted with islands and peninsulas, northwest Spitsbergen fascinates with its preserved beauty. On these pristine lands, infinity unveils itself, treating the eyes to beauty sculpted by nature and enhanced by the changing light. The fjords bathed by icy waters, the jagged mountains and the imposing glaciers stand majestically before you, like monumental sculptures. In these lands, where souls are filled with deep serenity, only the murmur of broken ice, bearing mysteries and legends, disturbs the calmness. Aboard our Zodiacs and in the company of naturalist-guides, get as close as possible to this unique fauna and discover this centre for scientific expedition departures. In the distance, majestic whales glide silently through the glacial waters, whereas seals, walrus and Arctic foxes add a playful touch of life. As Svalbard reindeer wander the vast expanses, Arctic terns liven up the polar sky with their gracious flight and polar bears, which you may be lucky enough to see, patrol magnificently along the icy shores.

Set sail for southwest Spitsbergen, immerse yourself in this environment unlike any other and explore its unexpected riches. In this natural sanctuary, the polar light combines with the changing weather of the Arctic, a big blue sky, the horizon scattered with clouds, the enveloping mist erasing the border between the land and the sea. Follow in the footsteps of the first explorers and admire the majestic fjords and glaciers sculpting the breathtaking landscapes, their icy waters shimmering beneath the midnight sun. The fjords, veritable cathedrals of ice, reveal their millennial secrets, while the glaciers, like sleeping giants, move slowly towards the sea, setting free sparkling icebergs. On the water, you might spot belugas and rorquals, while on the shores, seals and Arctic foxes add a touch of mystery to this living tableau, where the steep cliffs become breeding grounds for thousands of seabirds, like guillemots. Southwest Spitsbergen is an ode to nature in its rawest and purest form.

Longyearbyen is the capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, located on Svalbard’s main island, and is the northernmost territorial capital on the planet. With winter temperatures dropping to below 40°C, the landscapes of this mining town are simply breathtaking. The glaciers, the mountains stretching as far as the eye can see and the untouched nature, make you feel like you’re in completely unexplored territory.

Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical centre where one can stroll along the Skólavördustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.

Spend exceptional moments sailing aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar exploration vessel and the first PC2-class polar cruise ship capable of sailing into the very heart of the ice, on seas and oceans which the frozen conditions render inaccessible to ordinary ships. Le Commandant Charcot is fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts. Take advantage of the on-board lectures and opportunities for discussion with these specialists to learn more about the poles. Participate in furthering scientific research with PONANT and let us discover together what these fascinating destinations have yet to reveal to us.

Aboard your ship, follow in the footsteps of Jules Poret de Blosseville, a French explorer and sailor. In 1833, he set off to discover this isolated and unexplored part of eastern Greenland aboard La Lilloise, an adventure with a fatal outcome. The uninhabited territory that bears his name lies to the south of Scoresby Sound. Surrounded by ice, icebergs and pack ice - thin or thick, flat or pronounced - as far as the eye can see, Blosseville Coast is a wild and distant place to which very few people have access. Exploring it means a slow immersion into the heart of a frozen, almost unreal desert, where the variations in light transform one’s perception of the landscape. In the kingdom of the polar bears, Le Commandant Charcot, a silent ship open to the exterior, will offer exceptional moments observing Arctic wildlife, through a series of encounters.

On the East coast of Greenland, in the Ittoqqortoormiit region that is covered with snow and ice for nine months of the year, you will have the rare opportunity of immersing yourself in the heart of an isolated territory and exploring the beauty of its infinite polar whiteness. The high alpine mountains punctuate the sky and gradually reveal their dark rock edges beneath a coat of snow. Located at the entrance to the longest system of fjords in the world, sits the village of Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the northernmost inhabited places on the East coast. Its name means ‘great house’ in Greenlandic and it is home to the last hunters of the polar region, whose ancestral way of life you will encounter. As soon as the thickness of the ice floe allows it, the hunters set out on the trail of walruses, seals, narwhals, musk oxen and polar bears, travelling by traditional dog sleds. On these expanses of immaculate snow, the silence is broken only by the sounds of the dogs, the grating of a sled coming back from a run or of footsteps on the ice. You will discover Inuit traditions through privileged and festive moments on the ice floe and in the village.

The north-east of Greenland is renowned for being home to one of the oldest and thickest layers of ice on the planet. Aboard your ship, you will have the unique opportunity of sailing to the heart of this icy wilderness, many thousands of years old, and will travel along one of the world's most isolated coasts, between drifting ice and blue icebergs.

Enjoy the absolutely unique experience of sailing to the heart of the ice floe, this vast expanse of virgin, immaculate ice. The landscapes are constantly changing, shifting from a smooth, flat wilderness to a chaos of ice, then to channels of open water. Your ship will sail along these naturally open channels and through the areas where the frozen layer is thinnest, offering you the chance to experience magic maritime moments in the midst of drifting sea ice. It will also often be an opportunity to see a particular kind of fauna, totally dependent on the ice floe.

Defined by a 90° North latitude, the Geographic North Pole lies on the Earth’s rotational axis, at the intersection of all meridians. Plunged into darkness for six months of the year, then lit by the sun for the following six months, this mythical site, permanently covered in ice and remote from any land, has fascinated generations of explorers. So far, only a very few people have ever reached it: an exploit which is now accessible to you aboard Le Commandant Charcot.

Enjoy the absolutely unique experience of sailing to the heart of the ice floe, this vast expanse of virgin, immaculate ice. The landscapes are constantly changing, shifting from a smooth, flat wilderness to a chaos of ice, then to channels of open water. Your ship will sail along these naturally open channels and through the areas where the frozen layer is thinnest, offering you the chance to experience magic maritime moments in the midst of drifting sea ice. It will also often be an opportunity to see a particular kind of fauna, totally dependent on the ice floe.

A kingdom of contrasts and natural marvels dotted with islands and peninsulas, northwest Spitsbergen fascinates with its preserved beauty. On these pristine lands, infinity unveils itself, treating the eyes to beauty sculpted by nature and enhanced by the changing light. The fjords bathed by icy waters, the jagged mountains and the imposing glaciers stand majestically before you, like monumental sculptures. In these lands, where souls are filled with deep serenity, only the murmur of broken ice, bearing mysteries and legends, disturbs the calmness. Aboard our Zodiacs and in the company of naturalist-guides, get as close as possible to this unique fauna and discover this centre for scientific expedition departures. In the distance, majestic whales glide silently through the glacial waters, whereas seals, walrus and Arctic foxes add a playful touch of life. As Svalbard reindeer wander the vast expanses, Arctic terns liven up the polar sky with their gracious flight and polar bears, which you may be lucky enough to see, patrol magnificently along the icy shores.

Set sail for southwest Spitsbergen, immerse yourself in this environment unlike any other and explore its unexpected riches. In this natural sanctuary, the polar light combines with the changing weather of the Arctic, a big blue sky, the horizon scattered with clouds, the enveloping mist erasing the border between the land and the sea. Follow in the footsteps of the first explorers and admire the majestic fjords and glaciers sculpting the breathtaking landscapes, their icy waters shimmering beneath the midnight sun. The fjords, veritable cathedrals of ice, reveal their millennial secrets, while the glaciers, like sleeping giants, move slowly towards the sea, setting free sparkling icebergs. On the water, you might spot belugas and rorquals, while on the shores, seals and Arctic foxes add a touch of mystery to this living tableau, where the steep cliffs become breeding grounds for thousands of seabirds, like guillemots. Southwest Spitsbergen is an ode to nature in its rawest and purest form.

Longyearbyen is the capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, located on Svalbard’s main island, and is the northernmost territorial capital on the planet. With winter temperatures dropping to below 40°C, the landscapes of this mining town are simply breathtaking. The glaciers, the mountains stretching as far as the eye can see and the untouched nature, make you feel like you’re in completely unexplored territory.

Nicknamed “ America's Walking City”,   the city is considered to be the epicentre of American history. Founded in 1630, the tenth largest agglomeration in the United States,  is a pleasure for walkers. To get around, just follow the Freedom Trail circuit that serves most of the tourist sites with its red line traced on the ground. Don’t miss all the delicious local specialities on offer at Quincy Market, like the lobster sandwich, and then take time to explore North End, the Italian quarter. For the more romantic among you, Beacon Hill, the historic quarter, with its absolutely charming cobbled streets, is really worth a look.

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 ship’s 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.

A historical port city on the Canadian east coast, Halifax, surrounded by enchanting nature, stands out as the provincial capital and the cultural hub of Nova Scotia. The city played an important strategic military role in the two world wars and was also the largest Royal Navy base during the American Revolutionary War and the Napoleonic Wars. Most of the victims of the Titanic disaster were laid to rest here in the Fairview cemetery, which you will have the chance to discover. At this port of call, you will also have the opportunity to visit the picturesque fishing village of Peggy’s Cove and discover its breathtaking natural landscapes.

2 available excursions

Halifax highlights & Peggy’s Cove, Halifax past & present

Yarmouth, anchored on the south-western coast of Nova Scotia, is appreciated for its maritime charm. A historic port and the second southernmost town in Canada, the charming little town is overflowing with rich Acadian culture, evidence of its vibrant past. The Acadians, descendants of the French settlers who arrived at the start of the 1600s, have conserved their language, culture, customs and traditions. Explore the emblematic Cape Forchu Lighthouse, with its spectacular ocean views, and fall under the charm of the warm and welcoming atmosphere that reigns in its streets edged with colourful houses as well as around its lively quays.

At the Canadian border, Eastport is, as its name suggests, the easternmost city in the United States. It is here that, in 1604, the first French people to arrive in the New World settled. Discover their story at the Saint Croix Island International Historic Site. In the late 19th century, this charming town in Maine grew significantly as a result of the development of the canned sardine industry. At the time, the town boasted more than a dozen sardine canneries. The architecture and some mansions from this period live on, affording the town a distinct elegance. One of the attractions of this town is undeniably its proximity to the Old Sow Whirlpool, the largest tidal whirlpool in the Northern Hemisphere, where visitors can watch the birds and marine mammals that come to feed on the nutrients driven up to the surface.

The former colonial maritime port of Portland, lying in the hollow of Casco Bay, will fascinate you with its abundant nature, cultural riches and unique atmosphere. Let yourself be guided by the salty air of the Atlantic and admire the colourful fishing boats in the old port. A stroll through the paved little streets edged with historical red-brick buildings from the 19th century promises you an extraordinary journey back in time. This city of nature is home to many verdant parks, botanical gardens and other nature reserves where you will find it easy to recharge your batteries and reconnect with the elements.

At the far end of Cape Cod is where you’ll find this hidden little New England village. Its elongated bay offers pristine, sandy beaches. For a bit of shopping, you can explore Commercial Street and the many art galleries and coffee shops there. At the end of the street, you will come across the Pilgrim Monument and its 116 steps. This tower was built at the beginning of the century to celebrate the first pilgrims who arrived a few hundred years earlier. The Provincetown museum commemorates the history and way of life of the Mayflower Pilgrims. Fine food is not scarce here, and you’ll be tempted by delicious sea food platters in the restaurants opposite the harbour!

1 available excursions

Santa Catalina visit

Sail on this emblematic North American passage, an artificial waterwayconnecting Cape Cod Bay to Buzzards Bay. Here, the waters of the Atlantic Ocean are an invitation to adventure, while boats sail graciously beneath the watchful eye of the seagulls and cormorants. Find out about this region’s rich history, marked by fishing legends and accounts of the first explorers. This navigation, between sheer cliffs and golden sandy beaches, invites you to enjoy an interlude of peace and quiet. A unique experience, where maritime past encounters natural beauty.

This marina harbour, with only 25,000 inhabitants, boasts fabulous Gilded Age mansions inspired by French and Italian palaces. One example is The Elms, the summer residence of the Berwind family, who made their fortune in the coal industry. Another is the imposing Château-sur-Mer built by the Wetmore family. But the cream of the crop is The Breakers, a Renaissance-style palace composed of 70 rooms.

The biggest city in the United States is fascinating on many accounts. With its five particularly spread out districts - Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx and Staten Island –, it offers an incredible number of cultural interests. You’ll just love taking in the constant buzz in Times Square, discovering beautiful classical masterpieces at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, taking a stroll in Central Park’s 341 hectares, or climbing to the top of the Statue of Liberty. Not surprising then that the Big Apple is to be consumed without moderation!

4 available excursions

Brooklyn and Highline walking tour, Ground Zero and the September 11 memorial sites, Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, The Manhattan Experience with SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

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 ship’s 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.

Nicknamed “ America's Walking City”,   the city is considered to be the epicentre of American history. Founded in 1630, the tenth largest agglomeration in the United States,  is a pleasure for walkers. To get around, just follow the Freedom Trail circuit that serves most of the tourist sites with its red line traced on the ground. Don’t miss all the delicious local specialities on offer at Quincy Market, like the lobster sandwich, and then take time to explore North End, the Italian quarter. For the more romantic among you, Beacon Hill, the historic quarter, with its absolutely charming cobbled streets, is really worth a look.

Welcome to Germany. Transfer to the ancient city of Nuremberg, the second largest centre in Bavaria, where your Danube journey begins. This afternoon, board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship and settle into your spacious suite. Join your fellow guests for a welcome reception and toast to the start of an exciting journey. You will remain docked in Nuremberg overnight, so you can also set out to explore the city’s bustling restaurant scene. Please book your flight to arrive into Nuremberg prior to 02:00 PM.

Awaken in Nuremberg today. The city is dominated by one of the most significant imperial forts of the Holy Roman Empire, the 12th century Imperial Castle, which was the preferred residence of German kings. Behind its charming facade, Nuremberg also has a turbulent history. During WWII, the city was favoured by the Nazis for party rallies and many of the anti-Jewish laws began here. By 1945, the city was reduced to rubble, including large sections of the Imperial Castle and Old Town. After the war, Nazi leaders were tried here for the atrocities that took place. Scenic Freechoice: Make your selection from today’s Scenic Freechoice experiences: Walking tour of Nuremberg Old Town: Drive into Nuremberg’s city centre, passing by the ancient city walls, then join your local guide for a walking tour of the Old Town to see the Imperial Castle, St. Egidien’s Church and the market square. World War II tour: Your local guide will highlight the main events that occurred in Nuremberg during the Nazi regime. Learn about this dark time in Germany's history and visit some of the most important sites. Rock cut beer cellars: Go underground to discover Nuremberg’s unique beer culture. More than 20,000 square metres of rock cut cellars sit underground beneath the Imperial Castle and have been used to store and brew beer. Finish your tour with a tasting of traditional brews. This afternoon you will cruise towards Regensburg.

You will arrive in Regensburg today. Boasting a staggering 2,000-year history, Regensburg has one of Germany’s best preserved medieval town centres, with more than 900 of its Romanesque and Gothic buildings listed as World Heritage sites. Within its narrow laneways, the city lays claim to having the highest concentration of bars in the country. Scenic Freechoice: Today, Regensburg offers a selection of Scenic Freechoice activities to choose from: Walking tour of Regensburg: On the confluence of three rivers in Bavaria, Regensburg is known as the best-preserved medieval city in Germany. Guests will join a walking tour with a local guide to see the old stone bridge, the Church of St. James, and the Porta Praetoria. Traditional sausage making class: Join an expert from a local family-owned butcher for a hands-on lesson in the art of making traditional white breakfast sausages. Learn the recipe, how to measure the ingredients and fill the casing, and the importance of fresh herbs. Bavarian beer tasting: Immerse yourself in Regensburg’s centuries-old brewing tradition as you explore historic breweries and sample a range of classic Bavarian beers. Each tasting reveals the craftsmanship and heritage behind the city’s renowned beer culture.

Set on the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau has been an important trading city since medieval times, particularly for salt, commonly known as ‘white gold’. Each river is distinct in colour and some days you can clearly see the green, blue and black hues where the waters meet. At the centre of the Baroque city, the 13th century Italianate Old Town is packed with tight laneways tunnels and archways, including an ‘Artist’s mile’ where old buildings are occupied by artist studios, workshops and galleries. With a late departure tonight, you can go ashore to explore the city after dark. Scenic Freechoice: Plan your day with the following Scenic Freechoice excursions: Highlights of Passau: Join your local guide on a walking tour, admiring the brightly coloured buildings that line the waterways. Visit St. Stephens Cathedral, originally built in the year 450 but destroyed by fire in 1662 and rebuilt in the Baroque style. Paddling on the River Inn: Take in this region from a different perspective as you paddle down the River Inn past charming villages, ancient castles and historic bridges, crossing between Germany and Austria. Cross border cycling: Travel further afield on a guided e-bike ride along the Inn River, during which you will cross the border from Germany to Austria. Cycle through quaint towns, viewing local life and admire the spectacular views of the region.

Wake up in Austria today, where your Scenic Space-Ship will dock in the heart of Linz, allowing you to effortlessly explore. This city is known for its vibrant music and arts scene and beautiful blend of traditional and contemporary architecture and lifestyle. The city’s quaint old town and Main Square are resplendent in Baroque architecture, while its harbour doubles as an outdoor street art gallery. Scenic Freechoice: This morning, choose to explore your way with Scenic Freechoice: Guided tour of Linz: Join a local guide on a walking tour to discover the balance between the city’s vibrant history and contemporary living. You’ll see famous sights like the restored Castle of Linz and Saint Martin's Church, and the Main Square with its towering Holy Trinity column. Full day excursion to Ceský Krumlov: Journey to the Czech town of Ceský Krumlov, a World Heritage site brimming with charm. Explore with your local guide, admire the well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, and enjoy lunch in a restaurant with local cuisine. Mauthausen WWII Concentration Camp: Venture out of the city to Mauthausen’s former concentration camp that housed more than 190,000 people between 1938 and 1945, during the reign of the National Socialist Party. Learn about the terrible conditions that the prisoners lived under during this sombre tour. Linzer Torte cooking class: Create your own version of this Austrian delicacy in a hands-on cooking class in one of the city’s oldest cafes. Learn the 400-year history of this iconic tart, baked using handmade short crust pastry, red currant jam and almonds. This afternoon and evening are at leisure and with a later departure you can explore more of this enchanting city. Perhaps lace up your walking shoes to hike to Postlingberg Church, perched high above the city or perhaps explore the city’s local nightlife with many galleries and museums open after dark or wander and appreciate the glistening skyline.

Spend this morning in Dürnstein, a small and picturesque town in Austria’s picturesque Wachau Valley. Enjoy some free time in Dürnstein explore this World Heritage-listed town, nestled on the edge of the Danube River and surrounded by ancient terraced vineyards. Scenic Freechoice: Today offers a variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from: Göttweig Abbey: Founded in the sixth century, the abbey burned down during the 18th century and rebuilt to be one of the most magnificent in the Wachau Valley. Your local guide will show you its impressive frescoes as well as the staircase, the largest Baroque staircase in Austria. Wachau Valley wine tasting: The Wachau Valley is one of the prominent regions for wine growing in Austria. Today you'll visit a local winemaker and learn about the flavour profiles and age-old traditions of winemaking while sampling the delicious wines produced on site. UNESCO Wachau Valley e-bike experience: Join your guide on a e-bike tour along the Danube to the quaint village of Krems. Pass by charming villages and rolling vineyard landscapes. You will have time to stop along the way to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Danube, whilst observing daily life in the region. On board this evening, join an informative talk on the production of local delicacies and taste some varieties.

Welcome to Vienna, the capital of Austria and a centre of art, music and culture. The city fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, and oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces, a vibrant coffee-house scene, and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums. Scenic Freechoice: Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice activities: Schönbrunn Palace: Explore the former summer residence of the Habsburg family, an influential European family which ruled Austria from 1282 until 1918. Wander its ornately designed rooms, see impressive gardens, and hear about the royal family that lives here and their storied tales of territory expansion. Art tour of Vienna including Kunsthistorisches Museum: Vienna has an abundance of cultural institutions and a visit to the Kunsthistorisches provides something for everybody. Join a local guide who will give you an overview of the magnificent exhibits including its world class art collection and impressive ancient artefacts, before some time to wander the museum at your leisure. Cycle to Danube Island: Explore a different side of Vienna on a guided e-bike tour to Danube Island, where locals come to enjoy bathing, boating, cycling and relaxing on its beaches. Central Vienna: Vienna is brimming with history, elegance and diverse architecture. During this tour your expert local guide will delight you with stories from the city before allowing you free time to explore as you wish. Scenic Enrich Palais Liechtenstein: Breathe in the opulence and luxury of Palais Liechtenstein this evening as you relish an exclusive private classical concert. Enjoy a glass of fine Austrian Sekt and listen to the timeless music of Strauss and Mozart performed by a renowned orchestra. Accompanied by ballet dancers and vocalists, and surrounded by world-famous art, this will be a concert that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

This morning relax on board as you cruise down the Danube towards Bratislava. Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993, Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is glorious with Medieval and Gothic architecture. Its well-preserved hilltop castle, which dates back to the ninth century, still dominates the town. These charming historic sites contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture, which is evident around the city. Scenic Freechoice: Discover more of the city this afternoon with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions: Walking tour of Bratislava: Join a knowledgeable local guide to see the highlights of the city, including the Hlavné Námestie (main square) and the Old Town Hall while discovering the history of the city. You’ll also learn what everyday life was like behind the Iron Curtain and taste some local delicacies. Coffee & cake at Kormuth Bakerai: Experience Bratislava’s famed coffee house culture. Your local guide will tell you the history of the cafe which is said to date back to the 16th century while you admire the spectacular architecture, frescoed ceilings and, of course, the magnificent home-made cakes with recipes from the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Ancestry of the kitchen cooking class: One of the best ways to get to know a culture is through its cuisine and during this hands-on workshop you will do just that, as you learn how to prepare traditional Slovak Bryndzové Halušky (potato dumplings with cheese).

This morning you will arrive in Budapest, the capital of Hungary and one of Europe’s most diverse and vibrant cities. Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, this city became united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. It’s an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. It is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths and has a vibrant nightlife scene. Scenic Freechoice: Choose from a range of Scenic Freechoice activities on offer this morning: Budapest in depth: Explore this magical city by coach. Starting in Buda, see the Várkert Bazár before crossing the Margaret Bridge to the Pest side to see Széchenyi Square and Elizabeth Square. End your tour with a mesmerising piano recital at the Institute for the Blind. Beethoven’s favourite getaway: Travel to Brunszvik Castle, a favourite retreat of the famed composer, to admire its Neo Gothic architecture and the grand gardens. Learn about Beethoven’s life in the dedicated Memorial Museum. Ancestry of the kitchen cooking class: Immerse yourself in traditional Hungarian culture as you learn how to make goulash with the locals. This excursion gives a unique opportunity to experience local cuisine, hospitality and the way of life. This afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps pack your swimsuit and make your way to one of Budapest’s thermal baths for a relaxing soak in the therapeutic waters or explore the Central Market Hall. Your ship will remain docked in Budapest overnight, so you can venture out on your own to discover some of its legendary nightlife.

Your journey concludes this morning. After one final breakfast on board, depart with a lifetime of memories of your time along one of Europe’s most historic rivers. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.