"The goal of a CME AWAY® conference by Sea Courses is to provide the very best opportunity for health care professionals to not only LEARN but to CONNECT with peers in a stimulating yet RELAXING environment."
Ocean Cruises

France & Spain – August 19 – 30, 2026

On Board Azamara Quest

Topics: Preventative MedicinePrimary Care

Departing August 19th, 2026 - August 30th, 2026

Set sail on an unforgettable 11-night journey on board the elegant Azamara Quest. Discover the charm of Europe’s Atlantic coast with immersive stops in iconic ports including Honfleur, St. Malo, Bordeaux, Bilbao, Ferrol, Vigo, and Porto. Enjoy late-night stays and culturally rich shore excursions before arriving in captivating Lisbon, Portugal. This voyage blends Azamara’s signature boutique luxury with authentic local experiences, offering a perfect balance of relaxation and discovery.

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Faculty & Conference Details

Dr. Vivien Brown

Dr. Vivien Brown

Specialty:

Family Medicine & Vaccines

About The Speaker

Dr. Vivien Brown is a family physician and author in Toronto. Educated at McGill University, she currently is appointed to the Department of Family & Community Medicine at the University of Toronto, holding the rank of Assistant Professor. An award winner for teaching on many levels, her major interests are in the area of health promotion and prevention for women, and continuing medical education, Adult Immunization and Vaccine Preventable Illness. The College of Family Physicians of Ontario named Dr Brown “Physician of the Year for the Region of Toronto”, awarded November 2012. Canada. She is the Past President of the Federation of Medical Women of Canada and is immediate past Vice President for North America for the Medical Women’s International Association. Recently she was named one of Canada’s most influential women by the organization Women of Influence, for her work on advocacy on HPV vaccine for Canadians.

In March 2017, she was honored to present HPV initiatives in Canada at the UN meetings for the Commission on the Status of Women. In 2018 she was honored with the Media Award from the North American Menopause Society for her work in Women’s Health. She also received the May Cohen Award from the Federation of Medical Women of Canada for her work in Women’s Health. In September 2024, she received the Reproductive Health Award from the Federation and was also awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her work in the community.
Her most recent book, “The New Woman’s Guide to Healthy Aging” was recently published to rave reviews.

Dr. Marla Shapiro C.M.

Dr. Marla Shapiro C.M.

Specialty:

Family Medicine, Preventive Medicine and Public Health

About The Speaker

Dr. Marla Shapiro C.M. is a Fellow of the Canadian College of Family Medicine.  In addition, she holds a Fellowship from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada as a specialist in Preventive Medicine and Public Health. She is a Full Professor at the University of Toronto and is also based in Ontario.

Dr. Shapiro C.M. is seen on CTV NewsChannel biweekly as their medical expert.

Dr. Shapiro C.M.  received an Award of Excellence from the College of Family Physicians of Canada and was awarded the Excellence in Creative Professional Activity by the University of Toronto.

In 2015 Dr. Shapiro C.M. was named a Member of the Order of Canada for her contributions as a family physician and trusted source of health information. One of this country’s highest civilian honours, the Order of Canada recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community, and service to the nations.

CME Topics

Primary Care and Preventative Medicine

Sea Courses is pleased to invite you on an 11-night CME AWAY® Cruise to France and Spain. Dr. Vivien Brown is a Toronto Based Family Physician. She has spoken both nationally in Canada as well as internationally and has developed and collaborated on many CME programs. An award winner for teaching on many levels, Dr. Brown’s major interests are in the area of health promotion and prevention, continuing medical education, adult immunization, and vaccine preventable illness. The College of Family Physicians of Ontario named her Physician of the Year for the region of Toronto in 2012. Recently Dr. Brown was honored to be awarded the King Charles Coronation Medal for her advocacy in the community promoting HPV vaccine. Dr. Marla Shapiro C.M. is a Fellow of the Canadian College of Family Medicine.   In addition, she holds a Fellowship from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada as a specialist in Preventive Medicine and Public Health. She is a Full Professor at the University of Toronto and is also based in Ontario. Dr. Shapiro C.M. is seen on CTV News Channel biweekly as their medical expert. She received an Award of Excellence from the College of Family Physicians of Canada and was awarded the Excellence in Creative Professional Activity by the University of Toronto. In 2015, Dr. Shapiro C.M. was named a Member of the Order of Canada for her contributions as a family physician and trusted source of health information. One of this country’s highest civilian honours, the Order of Canada recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community, and service to the nations. Topics to be covered in this CME will include: IMMUNIZATION: Herpes Zoster, HPV, Pneumococcal Disease, Respiratory Syncitial Virus in Children and Adults, Insomnia, Dyslipidemia, GSM, Menopause 101, Menopause Management, Non Hormonal Management of Menopause, New options in Menopause Treatment and Obesity This educational program will be highly interactive and of interest to family physicians, specialists, and allied health professionals. CME AWAY™ looks forward to seeing you at the CME sessions and on the Cruise to France and Spain.  

Dr. Brown and Dr. Shapiro C.M.-

  • Herpes Zoster
  • HPV
  • Pneumococcal Disease
  • Respiratory Syncitial Virus in Children and Adults
  • Insomnia
  • Dyslipidemia
  • GSM
  • Menopause 101
  • Menopause Management
  • Non Hormonal Management of Menopause
  • New options in Menopause Treatment
  • Obesity

Cruise, Land, Resort must be booked through CME AWAY®.

This course is designed for family physicians, specialists, and allied health care professionals. The aim is to provide evidence-based material, as well as practical and relevant clinical pearls that will be easy to implement into one’s own medical practice. Conference attendees will be invited to complete a pre-course Needs Assessment to assist the faculty with the development of their presentations.

Conference Tuition Price
FP $1445
Specialist $1445
Resident, Retired, NP, RN, PA, Other $1245
Conference Tuition Book Before November 18th, 2025 Book After November 18th, 2025
FP $1295 $1445
Specialist $1295 $1445
Resident, Retired, NP, RN, PA, Other $1095 $1245

France & Spain – August 19 – 30, 2026

On Board Azamara Quest

Sailing August 19th, 2026 - August 30th, 2026

Trip Characteristics

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  • Faculty & CME Details
  • Venue Information
  • Itinerary & Schedule
  • Pre-And-Post Trip Information
  • Need Air?

Faculty & CME Details

Dr. Marla Shapiro C.M.

Dr. Marla Shapiro C.M.

Specialty:

Family Medicine, Preventive Medicine and Public Health

About The Speaker

Dr. Marla Shapiro C.M. is a Fellow of the Canadian College of Family Medicine.  In addition, she holds a Fellowship from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada as a specialist in Preventive Medicine and Public Health. She is a Full Professor at the University of Toronto and is also based in Ontario.

Dr. Shapiro C.M. is seen on CTV NewsChannel biweekly as their medical expert.

Dr. Shapiro C.M.  received an Award of Excellence from the College of Family Physicians of Canada and was awarded the Excellence in Creative Professional Activity by the University of Toronto.

In 2015 Dr. Shapiro C.M. was named a Member of the Order of Canada for her contributions as a family physician and trusted source of health information. One of this country’s highest civilian honours, the Order of Canada recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community, and service to the nations.

Dr. Vivien Brown

Dr. Vivien Brown

Specialty:

Family Medicine & Vaccines

About The Speaker

Dr. Vivien Brown is a family physician and author in Toronto. Educated at McGill University, she currently is appointed to the Department of Family & Community Medicine at the University of Toronto, holding the rank of Assistant Professor. An award winner for teaching on many levels, her major interests are in the area of health promotion and prevention for women, and continuing medical education, Adult Immunization and Vaccine Preventable Illness. The College of Family Physicians of Ontario named Dr Brown “Physician of the Year for the Region of Toronto”, awarded November 2012. Canada. She is the Past President of the Federation of Medical Women of Canada and is immediate past Vice President for North America for the Medical Women’s International Association. Recently she was named one of Canada’s most influential women by the organization Women of Influence, for her work on advocacy on HPV vaccine for Canadians.

In March 2017, she was honored to present HPV initiatives in Canada at the UN meetings for the Commission on the Status of Women. In 2018 she was honored with the Media Award from the North American Menopause Society for her work in Women’s Health. She also received the May Cohen Award from the Federation of Medical Women of Canada for her work in Women’s Health. In September 2024, she received the Reproductive Health Award from the Federation and was also awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her work in the community.
Her most recent book, “The New Woman’s Guide to Healthy Aging” was recently published to rave reviews.

This course is designed for family physicians, specialists, and allied health care professionals. The aim is to provide evidence-based material, as well as practical and relevant clinical pearls that will be easy to implement into one’s own medical practice. Conference attendees will be invited to complete a pre-course Needs Assessment to assist the faculty with the development of their presentations.

Conference Tuition
Conference Tuition Book Before November 18th, 2025 Book After November 18th, 2025
FP $1045 $1195
Specialist $1045 $1195
Resident, Retired, NP, RN, PA, Other $845 $995

Venue Information

Set sail on an unforgettable 11-night journey on board the elegant Azamara Quest. Discover the charm of Europe’s Atlantic coast with immersive stops in iconic ports including Honfleur, St. Malo, Bordeaux, Bilbao, Ferrol, Vigo, and Porto. Enjoy late-night stays and culturally rich shore excursions before arriving in captivating Lisbon, Portugal. This voyage blends Azamara’s signature boutique luxury with authentic local experiences, offering a perfect balance of relaxation and discovery.

Additional Noteworthy Features

Your boutique hotel at sea, the Azamara Quest® is a mid-sized ship with a deck plan that’s intimate but never crowded, and offers everything modern voyagers are looking for—plus some unexpected extras. Onboard amenities include a luxurious spa, a fitness center, multiple bars and lounges, a pool, and enriching cultural and educational programs. The ship's smaller size allows it to access unique ports and less-traveled destinations that larger ships cannot reach, providing guests with deeper, more immersive travel experiences. Azamara is known for its emphasis on "Destination Immersion," offering longer stays, more overnights, and night tours in ports, allowing passengers to explore the local culture and attractions in greater depth. The Azamara Quest® embodies this philosophy, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a rich, culturally enriching cruise experience. There’s nothing better than opening your door to the fresh sea air and views. Azamara’s friendly ships are an altogether wonderful place to call your home away from home!

Entertainment

While Vacation is a time to explore it is also a time to relax. The Discoveries Bar is located just outside Azamara’s main restaurant and this congenial bar is a favorite gathering place for pre- and post-dinner conversation and drinks. Bar service includes a full selection of fine wines, mixed drinks, and premium spirits. Enjoy live performances of professional full-stage musicals, classical soloists, bands and other forms of entertainment in the Cabaret Lounge with a full bar and cozy tables. Each cruise has as many as four distinctly different shows while on board. Azamara’s famous Evening Under the Stars party and buffet, held at least once on every cruise is always rated as of the guest’s highlights. Colorful décor and linen-draped tables, a fabulous buffet feast, and boutique wines on the house make this an event like no other. Dance late into the night as the live band kicks in after dinner. Wearing white is optional, but encouraged.

Dining

Azamara offers a choice of 7 distinctive dining options, as well as 24-hour room service and a quality café. Whether you’re a fan of adventurous cuisine or classic cooking, you'll love the quality reflected in the fresh ingredients, careful preparation, and variety of menu choices. Discoveries Dining, the main restaurant presents elegant yet lively dining with a renewed décor befitting the culinary heart of our ships. Reservations are not required, and you have the choice of being seated at a table for two or as part of a larger group of fellow guests. There are two specialty restaurants Aqualina and Prime C. At Aqualina, you’ll find some of Italy’s most authentic dishes. Pastas made from scratch, traditional recipes, and scrumptious vegetarian dishes that make sure there’s something for everyone. Plus our famous desserts: Sorrento lemon liqueur mousse, hazelnut chocolate soufflé and more. Prime C, offers your choice of steak, cooked to perfection. Herb-coated rack of lamb, duck confit and Chilean sea bass—all paired with savory sides. At Prime C, you’re in for more than delectable dining. Expect an great evening with stunning views and lush décor. Windows Café is primary spot for casual dining with indoor and outdoor tables. Enjoy an intimate breakfast, lunch, or dinner for two or a lively meal for six with the flexible seating options. The Patio serves as a casual “pool grill” during the day and becomes transformed into a more sophisticated dining experience in the evening. The self serve Frozen yogurt station is a staple of the Patio and is available all day. Mosaic Café is the on board coffee corner where You'll find all your favorite coffee drinks and you can order them just the way you like as well as light snacks. Lastly is the delicious Room Service served 24 hours a day. Lunch and dinner room service features a menu of hearty soups, fresh salads, gourmet sandwiches, pizzas and desserts.

On Board Activities and Enriching Experiences

Treat yourself to health, beauty, and restorative treatments in the all new Sanctum Spa. With a focus on wellness and vigor, the relaxing spa can provide you an oceanfront massage, a quick manicure teeth whitening, barber services, or even a healing acupuncture treatment. The well-equipped Fitness Center filled with lifecycles, treadmills, stair-steppers and weights will help you maintain your body despite the delicious dining on board. There are complimentary group classes like sunset yoga on the deck, Pilates, cycling, core workouts, and nutrition classes. You also have the option of working with certified personal trainers who will help you develop a customized workout plan and lead you through individualized instruction. The beautiful library on board is known as the Drawing Room. The library is one of the quiet jewels of Azamara, a peaceful and beautifully appointed space for reading or relaxing after dinner. Browse the collection and feel free to borrow the library books or simply relax in the tranquil atmosphere. For on board shopping You’ll find a tasteful collection of merchandise and beautiful jewelry and watches in four on board stores. The daily news will outline specials and one-time offers that make shopping even more fun. The Photo Stop has camera supplies that can be purchased and displays photos available of the previous day’s events, taken by the ship’s roving photographer.

Inclusive Amenities for All CME AWAY® Guests

• Unlimited wifi • AzAmazing Evenings® event (on most voyages of seven nights or longer) • Select Standard Spirits package, international beers and wines served in public areas • Gratuities • Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas served in public areas and available in staterooms • Self-service laundry • Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available • Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations

Itinerary & Schedule

Date Port / Location Arrival Time Departure Time Notes / Details
August 19th Portsmouth, United Kingdom 6:00pm
August 20th Honfleur, France 7:00am 7:00pm
August 21st St. Malo, France 7:30am 7:00pm
August 22nd At Sea CME TBA
August 23rd Bordeaux, France 8:00am
August 24th Bordeaux, France
August 25th Bordeaux, France 2:30pm CME TBA
August 26th Bilboa, Spain 8:00am 6:00pm
August 27th El Ferrol, Spain 1:00pm 9:00pm CME TBA
August 28th Vigo, Spain 10:00am 8:00pm
August 29th Oporto (Leixoes), Portugal 8:00am 5:00pm
August 30th Lisbon, Portugal

Detailed Port Descriptions

Day 1 Portsmouth, United Kingdom

Portsmouth is a historic port city on the southern coast of England, known for its rich maritime heritage and as the home of the Royal Navy. It houses famous ships like HMS Victory and the Mary Rose, and features the striking Spinnaker Tower overlooking the harbor. The city also offers vibrant cultural venues, shopping at Gunwharf Quays, and easy ferry access to the Isle of Wight. Today you will embark beautiful Azamara Quest to start your journey around France and Spain, finishing in Lisbon, Portugal.

Day 2 Honfleur, France

Honfleur is a picturesque port town in Normandy, France, known for its charming harbor, narrow slate-fronted houses, and strong artistic heritage. It inspired painters like Claude Monet and Eugene Boudin, making it a key site in the development of Impressionism. Today, it’s a popular tourist destination with cobbled streets, seafood restaurants, and the beautiful wooden church of Sainte-Catherine.

Day 3 St. Malo, France

St. Malo is a walled port city in Brittany, France, known for its dramatic tides, pirate history, and beautifully preserved medieval ramparts. Once a stronghold for privateers, it now attracts visitors with its sandy beaches, historic old town (intra-muros), and scenic coastal views. The city also serves as a gateway to nearby Mont Saint-Michel and the Channel Islands.

Day 4 At Sea

Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck.In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.

Days 5, 6 & 7 Bordeaux, France

Bordeaux is a vibrant city in southwestern France, renowned as the world capital of wine and home to hundreds of prestigious vineyards in the surrounding region. It boasts elegant 18th-century architecture, a revitalized riverfront along the Garonne, and cultural landmarks like the Place de la Bourse and the Cité du Vin wine museum. Bordeaux blends history, gastronomy, and a laid-back urban atmosphere, making it a favorite among travelers and wine lovers alike.

Day 8 Bilbao, Spain

Bilbao is a dynamic city in northern Spain’s Basque Country, known for its transformation from an industrial center to a hub of art, design, and gastronomy. The iconic Guggenheim Museum, with its striking modern architecture, symbolizes the city’s cultural revival. Surrounded by green hills and close to the coast, Bilbao blends tradition with innovation, offering pintxos bars, historic old quarters, and cutting-edge infrastructure.

Day 9 El Ferrol, Spain

El Ferrol is a historic port city in Galicia, Spain, renowned for its strategic naval significance and rich maritime heritage. Established as a naval base in the 18th century, it boasts one of Spain's largest natural harbors and remains a pivotal center for shipbuilding and military operations.

Day 10 Vigo, Spain

Located in in Galicia, in the northwest of Spain on the Portuguese border, Vigo is perhaps the country’s most underrated destination. Considered by many as “just’ an industrial fishing port (meaning the seafood rarely travels further than a mile to your plate), Vigo seduces everyone with its cuisine, landscape and warm Spanish welcomes. Like many of Galicia’s coastal towns, life in Vigo has been dictated by the ocean. The city dates back to Roman times and Romanesque architecture such as the churches of Santa María de Castrelos, Santiago de Bembrive, San Salvador de Coruxo can be found all over the city. From the 16th-18th centuries it became alive with commercial trade and buccaneers looking for sunken treasure. The town still enjoys its status as having sunken treasure in its waters, and debates about who would own this if ever discovered periodically colour local conversations.

Day 11 Oporto (Leixoes), Portugal

Oporto, or Porto, is a historic coastal city in northern Portugal, famed for its port wine, medieval Ribeira district, and scenic Douro River views. Nearby Leixões serves as the city's main seaport, connecting Porto to international maritime routes and welcoming cruise ships and cargo alike. The city blends old-world charm with a thriving contemporary culture, offering striking architecture, vibrant markets, and a rich culinary scene.

Day 12 Lisbon, Portugal

A glorious mosaic of beauty, freedom and authenticity, Portugal’s capital is a stirring artwork of a city. Known for the seven hills it spreads across, and its stirring fado music, Lisbon is a pastel-coloured blend of houses and beautiful tile artworks - and this creative city strikes a perfect harmony between natural and manmade beauty. Today you will disembark Azamara Quest with beautiful memories and tales from your Atlantic sailing from the United Kingdom all the way to Portugal.

Pre-And-Post Trip Information

There are no pre or post tours created for this itinerary.  To build your own or to simply add hotel nights, please speak with your Advisor.
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