Detailed Port Descriptions

Day 1 | June 6, 2023 | Rotterdam, Netherlands

Europe’s largest port city today had humble beginnings as a fishing village in the 13th century. Now, it's a lively, thriving metropolis that's home to a multicultural population. The Euromast observation tower provides a great panoramic view of the city and more, especially some of the fine and striking architecture on the Wilhelminapier. The first viewing platform takes you to 100 meters, then you can go a further 85 meters if you’re brave. Or, visit one of the many top-class museums, such as Boijmans, Van Beuningen or the Kunsthal in Museum Park.

Day 2 | June 7, 2023 | At Sea

Rise and shine and head to registration for the CME prior to the opening comments and first 4 hours of CME. We finish at 12:30 pm today for you to head for lunch and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon enjoying some relaxing time on the ship. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board.

Day 3 | June 8, 2023 | At Sea

This morning we have 4 more hours of CME, and the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Day 4 | June 9, 2023 | Akureyri, Iceland

Akureyri, Iceland is the country’s second-largest city and one of the country’s most important ports and fishing centers. Affectionately known as the Capital of North Iceland, it has a cool café scene, a growing gourmet movement, and a bustling nightlife that proves this city is more than meets the eye. From fabulous summer festivals fueled by the Midnight Sun, like the Akureyri Summer Arts festival (late June-late August), to some of the best skiing this side of the arctic circle, Akureyri, Iceland is a laid-back Nordic city and a study in contrasts. Soar into the blue sky to discover Grimsey Island, home to only 92 residents and thousands of sea birds. The city’s Botanical Gardens is famed for its collection of high-latitude plants and well worth a visit. Explore the ancient lava formations of Dimmuborgir and the geothermal landscape of bubbling mud and hissing fumaroles at Namafjall Mountain. The Great Fish Day of Dalvik, on the second Saturday in August, where revelers feast for free on the North Atlantic’s bounty is a paradise for seafood lovers. The city is best known as the gateway to Iceland’s natural wonders –thundering waterfalls, gurgling lava fields, snow-capped mountains, sweeping fjords, and robust folk culture. Whatever you choose, it's sure to be the adventure of a lifetime.

Day 5 | June 10, 2023 | Isafjordur, Iceland

Isafjordur, the largest town in the Westfjords peninsula, is known for its breathtaking landscapes. Here guests can enjoy and wide variety of outdoor activities from biking, hiking, kayaking and horseback riding to whale watching. They can explore the history of the town that started as a trading post in the 16thcentury with growth triggered in the 19thcentury by salt fish production which is still the most important industry for the town.

Days 6—7 | June 11—12, 2023 | Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland's capital and largest city is located on the country's southwest coast at the head of Faxafloi Bay. Settled in 877 A.D., Reykjavik has grown into an important seaport and center of government and education with theatres, museums and observatories. Interestingly, this modern city still chooses to use water from nearby hot springs to heat all of its buildings. And you’ll find on your cruise to Reykjavik that the culinary scene is eclectic and awesome. The seafood is amazing just about anywhere throughout the city and traditional Nordic salt cod or fish stews are readily available. But there is no shortage of international culinary favorites like French and all sorts of new Nordic fusion-style options as well. Explore the city’s artistic boutiques for authentic Icelandic souvenirs and trinkets, like music boxes, unique clothing, driftwood furniture and fish-skin handbags.

Day 8 | June 13, 2023 | At Sea

Today is a full day of CME. We will finish the day at 3:15 pm with closing comments and will provide your CME certificates.

Day 9 | June 14, 2023 | Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast has undergone an enormous transformation in recent years and, thanks to a focus on expansion and regeneration, the city is now experiencing a tourism renaissance. Today, free from the mayhem that once was, this capital city of Northern Ireland has done a terrific job in both recovering from her tumultuous recent past and creating a thriving, positive public image. With new cultural quarters—the Cathedral Quarter, the Gaeltacht Quarter, the Queen’s Quarter and the Titanic Quarter—the former linen and shipbuilding epicenter is a flourishing community that blends industry with culture. Here, where the Titanic was so carefully built, you can see beautifully restored Victorian architecture, indulge retail therapy at a fabulous shopping center, and enjoy the quintessentially Irish experience at the lively waterfront, which is a friendly hub of live music, overflowing pubs and modern art. During your cruise from Belfast, experience amazing waterfront lined with modern art galleries, clubs that feature music from artists both local and from abroad, a chef-driven food scene that favors local and seasonal ingredients, and pubs pulsating with the Belfast way of life.

Day 10 | June 15, 2023 | Liverpool, England

With a history that dates back more than 800 years, Liverpool has been a major port for centuries. The awe-inspiring architecture, and amazing restaurants are just the beginning of this exciting city. The art scene is probably best known for the Beatles, and you can visit where it all began for them. The amazing galleries, theatres and museums make Liverpool a cultural capital.

Day 11 | June 16, 2023 | At Sea

We have left this day free for you to enjoy time with friends and family, or maybe grab a coffee with a fellow colleague and talk about some case studies.

Day 12 | June 17, 2023 | Dover, England

The White Cliffs of Dover stand as a symbol of England's legendary strength and character. These cliffs were the first sign of home for British soldiers returning from the battlefields of WWII. Dover is a post-war city whose beauty lies in the history and pride that lives beneath her terrain.Among Dover's attractions are the massive Dover Castle and the unique archaeological site of the Roman Painted House, uncovered 28 feet underground by a road crew in 1970. Dover Castle, easily the most iconic and enduring attraction of this clifftop city, dates back some 2,000 years. So much history passed through the stone walls of this ancient castle, the best way to relive it is through the wonderful, immersive tours that are offered on your Dover cruise.You will have the opportunity to see the secret underground tunnels the English army used to conduct operations, as well as to evacuate many troops from the beaches of Dunkirk. Take in the Old-English opulence on a tour of Leeds Castle, whose stately grounds and grand chambers have played host to six medieval Queens. You’ll also find plenty of scrumptious and hearty English dining options fit for a royal feast, from Steak and Ale Pies to plenty of international choices, including Greek, Mexican, Italian, and French restaurants.

Day 13 | June 18, 2023 | Rotterdam, Netherlands

The ship arrives back in Rotterdam at 6:00 AM this morning. Disembark for your flight home or onward journey.