9-Day European Cruise

Departure: April 1, 2010

Celebrate Easter with a European cruise along the shores of Western Europe, on board the exquisite MS Fram. As your Easter cruise sets sail from Lisbon, capital of Portugal, the holiday celebration begins. After a call at picturesque Porto, you arrive in La Coruna, Spain, the day before Easter. If you wish you can explore nearby Santiago de Compostela. This site is famous for its 11th century cathedral, the last stop on the famous Way of St. James pilgrimage route. Back on the ship, your European cruise experience is enhanced with onboard lecturers revolving around a special Easter-themed program about the various Easter traditions of Europe. At each mealtime on your European cruise, the head chef will delight you with a carefully selected array of special Easter dishes. From Spain, your European cruise continues towards France, the Channel Islands, and, finally, Dover, in the U.K., with its famous White Cliffs. Thanks to the comfort of the modern MS Fram, our skilled Expedition Team, and visits to some of the most precious sights and cities of western Europe, this Easter cruise will be a holiday you will never forget.

Your European Easter Cruise Includes:

Since its reconquest from the Moors in 1147, Lisbon-built on seven hills along the shores of the River Tejo-has grown into a legendary city with centuries of history. Take time to acquaint yourself with this beautiful Portugal capital before you embark the MS Fram in the afternoon. The captain and his crew will welcome you on board and provide information about your European cruise before the MS Fram sails down the Tejo and sets course for Leixoes.

Your first call is at Leixoes, at the mouth of the River Douro, close to the city of Porto. Portugal's second largest city, scenic Porto has lent its name to the famous port wine produced nearby. Although its ancient roots are preserved with pride, modern and lively commerce makes Porto a thriving city. Traditional importance as an industrial center does not diminish the charm and character of Porto's older quarters or even the newer and busy avenues, shopping centers, and residential blocks.

This morning there will be a short port call in Villa Garcia, Spain. Here, those guests partaking in the optional overland excursion to Santiago de Compostela will disembark; enjoying the famous burial place of the apostle St. James. Its magnificent cathedral attracts thousands of pilgrims, who walk the ancient Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago) every year. After this short stop you set sail again, arriving in La Coruña in the evening. Its harbor, filled with vessels from small fishing boats to large cruise liners, boasts buildings with galleria-style facades. With their combination of glass and white frames, they have given the city its nickname: "The Crystal City." Today, La Coruña combines old and new; from the world's oldest operational lighthouse, The Tower of Hercules, to its futuristic new buildings.

You will spend Easter Sunday on the Bay of Biscay, sailing from the easternmost point of Spain towards Bordeaux, France, the next port of call on your Easter cruise. During this crossing you will happily spend the day spotting whales, dolphins, and seabirds, or, if you prefer, follow our onboard lecture program given by our Expedition Team.

This morning, your European cruise continues up the Gironde River to Bordeaux. The city, the fifth-largest metropolitan area of France, has more than 1 million inhabitants. Producing around 700 million bottles of wine annually, Bordeaux is one of the world's major wine centers. Some of the world's greatest vintages are produced in the Gironde estuary, the area around Bordeaux, and it is possible to visit some of the vineyards and châteaux. The intoxicating city itself boasts wide avenues, neoclassical architecture, and beautiful parks, which give it an 18th century atmosphere.

Enjoy the day on board MS Fram as your Easter cruise continues with a sail along the coast of France, heading towards the English Channel and the islands of Sark and Guernsey.

Lying close to the north coast of France and bathed by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, the Channel Islands are the perfect holiday destination. Although Guernsey is geographically much closer to France than the U.K., it is loyal to the British crown. This loyalty can be traced back to Norman times, when the Channel Islands first became part of the English realm. St. Peter Port, the island's capital, is a bustling harbor town, and a tapestry of architectural styles that tell the story of the region's changing fortunes. Nearby, the island of Sark offers stunning coastal views and a picturesque rural interior. Going to Sark is like taking a step back in time; it is traffic-free and overflowing with natural beauty you are sure to enjoy.

The small town of Honfleur on the coast of Normandy has one of the most picturesque ports in Europe and is beloved by tourists from all over the world. Despite its popularity, Honfleur retains its timeless character. The centre of attraction is usually the Vieux Bassin with its boats, quays and signature buildings: the tall, narrow, slate- fronted waterside houses. Close-by is the church of St Catherine which was built by local ships' carpenters, entirely from wood.

Backed by its famous White Cliffs, Dover lies in Kent, on England's southeastern tip, Britain's closest geographical point to continental Europe. Every day of the year, regular cross-Channel ferries travel between the Dover and Calais and Dunkirk in France, and Ostend in Belgium. Here, you will encounter fairytale castles and imposing fortresses by the sea, Roman houses, and high-tech galleries. Dover is both a busy, modern port and a quaint seaside village, filled with history, restaurants, and shopping. Although your cruise ends here, be sure to explore lovely Dover before your journey home.

Single supplement 50%

*Cabin category H is equipped for physically challenged guests.

Single supplement 50%

*Cabin category H is equipped for physically challenged guests.

Prices are per person, double occupancy, in USD and subject to change without notice.
Early booking rates valid for bookings made by Jan. 31, 2010 and subject to change or withdrawal without notice.
Single supplement 50%
Discount per person for 3 or 4 passengers in stateroom 15%
Child Discount 25%

Hurtigruten explorations, including a European Easter tour await. Request a brochure or contact a travel agent. Embark on a journey of exploration, adventure and luxury with Hurtigruten, authentic voyages to pristine lands.