Whales & Volcanoes of Iceland & The Azores
This unique and unforgettable 17-night voyage offers chances to marvel at amazing wildlife linking the contrasting islands of sub-Arctic Iceland and the subtropical Azores. In the deep blue Atlantic waters that surround these spectacular lands, various species of whale migrate to their summer feeding grounds in late spring, and from the comfort of smaller, friendlier Borealis – with the help and guidance of ORCA conservationists on board [ReadMoreMob]– you may get to see the world’s largest mammals living freely in their breathtaking natural habitat. Look out for Blue Whales, Humpback, Orca, Pilot Whales and more, learn of their nature and play a part in assisting with the conservation of these astonishing creatures. [ReadMoreDesk]
Beyond the wildlife in their waters, unspoilt landscapes connects the Azores and Iceland, which await your discovery and exploration. Follow in the footsteps of artists and photographers, revelling in the Azorean wonderland of vibrant colours and black volcanic treasures, from the stunning craters lakes of São Miguel’s Sete Cidades volcano to the lush valleys of emerald-green Faial Island, and immersing yourself in the drama of awe-inspiring Icelandic scenery. You’ll see soaring mountains and sheer cliffs surrounding Ísafjörður, Akureyri and Eskifjörður – facing mighty Mount Holmatindur; and can tour from Reykjavík to uncover the gems of the fabled Golden Circle.
There’s rich history and culture to delve into during your time ashore too. Fascinating historic quarters and centuries-old fortifications – including the impressive 16th-century Fort of Santa Catarina – are yours to explore in the cosmopolitan Azorean towns of Praia da Vitoria and Ponta Delgada, while in Iceland there’s everything from traditional fishing ports and timber-clad town centres to the capital’s cool cafés, interesting museums, extraordinary architecture and world-famous attractions.
Your Itinerary
Liverpool, England
May 06 | Depart - early evening
Liverpool is one of Britain's most iconic and interesting cities, and famously home to the Cavern Club and The Beatles.
Liverpool - a former European Capital of Culture - is globally-renowned for its music, arts, culture and diverse architecture, and attracts visitors from around the globe.
A busy port city, Liverpool is also known for its historic waterfront district and Albert Dock, where some of the city's best known galleries and museums can be found. The Tate Gallery, International Slavery Museum and 'The Beatles Story' exhibition are easily found on foot, and sit alongside the largest collection of Grade One listed buildings in the UK, including the iconic Liver Building and a number of structures associated with the ill-fated RMS Titanic.
Cruising North Sea Canal, Netherlands
May 08 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - early evening
The North Sea Canal (or Noordzeekanaal) is Amsterdam’s direct link to the North Sea and is one of the country’s busiest and most important shipping lanes.
Despite its industrial importance, there’s a lot more to this winding waterway than just container ships. Along the banks of the 16-mile-long canal – from the mouth at Ijmuiden, to the end in Amsterdam – there are an abundance of diverse sights to see on a scenic cruise to the Dutch capital, including interesting fortifications from World War Two, huge power plants, pretty beaches and nature reserves.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
May 08 | Arrive - early evening | Depart - late night
Golden Age canals lined with elegant merchant homes is the familiar backdrop for the Netherlands' historic capital, Amsterdam. Established in the 17th century with the construction of the River Amstel dam, this celebrated port offers everything from treasure-packed museums and antiquarian bookshops to chic boutiques and convivial cafés. Equally, art is never far away in this hub of uber-creative design. One noticeable thing about the city is that, some 150 years after its industrial heyday, Amsterdam is once again awash with producers.
Amsterdam has some 40 museums, and the Museum Quarter boasts three of the most famous: the Rijksmuseum has paintings from Rembrandt, Vermeer and Frans Hals; the Van Gogh Museum; and the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art, displays work from Manet to Picasso. The Anne Frankhuis where Anne Frank and her family hid from German troops during the World War II, is an experience many visitors seek.
Whether on boat or bike - there are more bikes than permanent residents - exploration of the city is relatively straightforward, and a tour of the Canal Ring district, an UNESCO World Heritage site, is not to be missed. Seemingly unchanged since the 17th century, the district has been recognised for its unique cultural and historical values, and is home to many exclusive gabled facades and their celebrity owners.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
May 09 | Arrive - late night | Depart - late afternoon
Golden Age canals lined with elegant merchant homes is the familiar backdrop for the Netherlands' historic capital, Amsterdam. Established in the 17th century with the construction of the River Amstel dam, this celebrated port offers everything from treasure-packed museums and antiquarian bookshops to chic boutiques and convivial cafés. Equally, art is never far away in this hub of uber-creative design. One noticeable thing about the city is that, some 150 years after its industrial heyday, Amsterdam is once again awash with producers.
Amsterdam has some 40 museums, and the Museum Quarter boasts three of the most famous: the Rijksmuseum has paintings from Rembrandt, Vermeer and Frans Hals; the Van Gogh Museum; and the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art, displays work from Manet to Picasso. The Anne Frankhuis where Anne Frank and her family hid from German troops during the World War II, is an experience many visitors seek.
Whether on boat or bike - there are more bikes than permanent residents - exploration of the city is relatively straightforward, and a tour of the Canal Ring district, an UNESCO World Heritage site, is not to be missed. Seemingly unchanged since the 17th century, the district has been recognised for its unique cultural and historical values, and is home to many exclusive gabled facades and their celebrity owners.
Zeebrugge, Belgium
May 10 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late afternoon
Often called the ‘Venice of the North’, Bruges is famous for its beautiful canals and historic buildings. The charming city centre is an UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its cultural, architectural and historical importance. A combination of original gothic structures and modern, intelligent designs give Bruges a completely unique appearance and feel.
With most of the city’s medieval architecture still intact, Bruges is a delight to explore. Home to one of the world’s highest brick buildings, the Church of our Lady and the Madonna and Child sculpture, no wonder Bruges is so highly regarded. A visit to the city’s 13th century Belfry is an absolute must. The most famous landmark in the city, the Belfry houses a 48 bell municipal carillon and a full-time carillonneur that plays free traditional concerts for all to enjoy.
Honfleur, France
May 11 | Arrive - early morning | Depart - late evening
Historic Honfleur in northern France's Lower Normandy region is a quaint little port with a rich cultural and artistic heritage. One of France’s most visited towns, Honfleur – with its beautiful 15th and 16th century architecture and distinctive harbour – was the inspiration for Impressionist painters and poets.
Vieux-Bassin, Honfleur’s colourful old harbour, is lined with 16th to 18th-century lofty slate-and-timber fronted houses. Its sloping cobbled streets have long been a subject for artists including Claude Monet and native son, Eugène Boudin.
A visit to the 15th century St. Catherine's Church, a vaulted timber structure erected by shipbuilders, is a must, as is the maritime museum and Notre Dame de Grâce – a 17th century chapel containing various paintings and models. The chapel also offers fabulous views of the town, the Seine estuary and the impressively-engineered Normandy Bridge that crosses it.
Liverpool, England
May 13 | Arrive - early morning
Liverpool is one of Britain's most iconic and interesting cities, and famously home to the Cavern Club and The Beatles.
Liverpool - a former European Capital of Culture - is globally-renowned for its music, arts, culture and diverse architecture, and attracts visitors from around the globe.
A busy port city, Liverpool is also known for its historic waterfront district and Albert Dock, where some of the city's best known galleries and museums can be found. The Tate Gallery, International Slavery Museum and 'The Beatles Story' exhibition are easily found on foot, and sit alongside the largest collection of Grade One listed buildings in the UK, including the iconic Liver Building and a number of structures associated with the ill-fated RMS Titanic.