Fjords of Norway & River Cities of France

On the island of Stord, between Bergen and Haugesund, lies the small town of Leirvik, a friendly and authentic slice of western Norway. It has long been a regional hub, with a history shaped by fishing, shipbuilding and trade, with a town centre that is easy to explore on foot, including a lively marina, shops and cafés. Close by is the Sunnhordland Museum, where you can see exhibitions on local culture and traditions, including historic boats and houses, and the impressive steel Storddøra monument that has propellors that rotate in the wind and sparkle in the sun.

The unspoilt and tranquil waters of Akrafjord, located in western Norway offer one of the country’s most breathtaking cruising experiences. As your smaller ship glides through the still, mirror-like waters, sheer mountains rise on either side, interspersed with small hamlets dotting its shores. The main attraction of Akrafjord is Langfoss, one of Norway’s most beautiful waterfalls, which cascades over 600 metres down the mountainside directly into the fjord below, best seen from the decks of your ship.

The idyllic village of Skjolden is located at the end of Norway’s longest fjord, the Sognefjorden, where the deep blue waters contrast against the green landscape and red-roofed houses, creating a summer kaleidoscope of colour. Spectacular waterfalls tumble down steep cliffsides into the fjord below, and close by are the magnificent Jotunheimen Mountains and Jostedalsbreen Glacier, which you will have opportunities to explore on a tour from your ship. You’ll also be ideally placed to enjoy a hike to the tiny hut where world-famous Austrian philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein exiled himself to write some of his most important works.

Nestled among lush green landscapes and climbing gently up forested hills, Nordfjordeid offers a postcard-perfect scene at the tranquil end of Eidsfjorden, an arm of the breathtaking Nordfjord. Though small, this charming town is rich in history and deep-rooted traditions, making it as captivating to explore as it is to admire from the deck of your smaller-sized ship. Stroll through its delightful old town, relax in its scenic parks, and take in its picturesque coastline. Perfectly positioned in the heart of the fjordland, Nordfjordeid is an ideal gateway to some of the region’s most spectacular natural wonders. From the striking Briksdal and Kjenndal glaciers to the thrilling Loen Skylift and serene Hornindal Lake, unforgettable adventures await at every turn.

Known as the 'Cruise Capital of the UK', Southampton is the departure port for hundreds for cruise holidays every year. This historic maritime city on England's sunny south coast has much to offer as a destination in its own right, including the timber-framed treasures of the Old Town, Tudor House and Gardens, and the Sea City Museum, detailing Southampton's links to the Titanic's ill-fated voyage. Other Titanic-related sights include war memorials and the former White Star Line headquarters.

Exploring Bordeaux during the summer offers you the opportunity to discover not just the world’s wine capital but also its fascinating cultural and historical sites. Spend time at Place de La Bourse, with its iconic Miroir d’eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool, or wander along the Rue de Saint Catherine and the maze of streets running through the city, lined with boutiques and wine shops. Renowned for its incredible wines, the region surrounding Bordeaux is home to numerous wineries and vineyards producing some of the best wines from around the globe. You can explore La Cite du Vin, a museum dedicated entirely to wine and its production and designed to look like a wine decanter, discover local food markets and 18 th -century architecture, or simply enjoy a glass of Bordeaux wine on the banks of the Garonne River.

Originally a fortified island, the walled city of St Malo is located at the mouth of the River Rance on the Brittany coast, and is now connected to the mainland by a 'Sillon' causeway. The walls were mainly rebuilt after the Second World War. The town is famous for its links with the seafarer Jacques Cartier, who set out from here to discover the New World in Canada, and who is buried in the Cathedral in Saint Malo.

The beautiful city of Rouen – known as the ‘City of a Hundred Bells’ is a hugely significant and historical destination, particularly prominent in both the Roman times and Middle Ages. Home to the imposing Cathédrale Notre-Dame, painted by Claude Monet, who grew up in Normandy; Rouen is also gateway to the French capital of Paris and its plethora of well-known cultural sights.