42-Day Solar Eclipse & British Isles

The 42-Day Solar Eclipse & British Isles is a 42-night Western Mediterranean cruise aboard Nieuw Statendam, operated by Holland America Line. Departing Rotterdam on July 10, 2027, the voyage visits 23 ports. Fares start from $10,744 per person.

Length: 42 nights
Departs: Jul 10, 2027
Returns: Aug 21, 2027
Ports of call: 23
Days at sea: 13

from $10,744

$255 / night per person, incl. taxes & fees

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Itinerary

Day 1 Jul 10, 2027 Rotterdam Departs 17:00 Your MSC cruise will lay anchor in the largest port in the world, Rotterdam, is a no-nonsense working-class city lying at the heart of a maze of rivers and artificial waterways that together form the outlet of the rivers Rijn (Rhine) and Maas (Meuse). After devastating damage during World War II, Rotterdam has grown into a vibrant, forceful city dotted with first division cultural attractions. Your MSC cruise of Northern Europe will give you the opportunity to see that the immense land reclamation work hasn’t obliterated its earthy character though: its tough grittiness is part of its appeal, as are its boisterous bars and clubs. Amongst the most interesting attractions to enjoy during your vacation in Holland, is Rotterdam’s Kunsthal, the museum of contemporary art, and the Boijmans van Beuningen Museum, which has an outstanding art collection including representative works from almost all the most important Dutch painters: both are in the city’s designated culture zone, the Museumpark. Other interesting sites to visit on an MSC excursion are the Oude Haven, the city’s oldest harbour, ravaged during World War II but sympathetically redeveloped, and Delfs haven, an antique harbour that managed to survive the bombs pretty much intact. Rotterdam also boasts a string of first-rate festivals, including the much-lauded North Sea Jazz Festival and the colourful Summer Carnival. The postwar period saw the rapid reconstruction of the docks and, when huge container ships and oil tankers made the existing port facilities obsolete, Rotterdammers promptly built an entirely new deep-sea port, the Europoort, jutting out into the North Sea some 25 km to the west of the old town. Completed in 1968, the Europoort is able to welcome the largest ships in the world, amongst which also the MSC cruise ships. Rotterdam port guide Search cruises visiting Rotterdam

Rotterdam photo — Day 1 Jul 10, 2027 Rotterdam Departs 17:00 Your MSC cruise will lay anchor in the largest port in the world, Rotterdam, is a no-nonsense working-class city lying at the heart of a maze of rivers and artificial waterways that together form the outlet of the rivers Rijn (Rhine) and Maas (Meuse). After devastating damage during World War II, Rotterdam has grown into a vibrant, forceful city dotted with first division cultural attractions. Your MSC cruise of Northern Europe will give you the opportunity to see that the immense land reclamation work hasn’t obliterated its earthy character though: its tough grittiness is part of its appeal, as are its boisterous bars and clubs. Amongst the most interesting attractions to enjoy during your vacation in Holland, is Rotterdam’s Kunsthal, the museum of contemporary art, and the Boijmans van Beuningen Museum, which has an outstanding art collection including representative works from almost all the most important Dutch painters: both are in the city’s designated culture zone, the Museumpark. Other interesting sites to visit on an MSC excursion are the Oude Haven, the city’s oldest harbour, ravaged during World War II but sympathetically redeveloped, and Delfs haven, an antique harbour that managed to survive the bombs pretty much intact. Rotterdam also boasts a string of first-rate festivals, including the much-lauded North Sea Jazz Festival and the colourful Summer Carnival. The postwar period saw the rapid reconstruction of the docks and, when huge container ships and oil tankers made the existing port facilities obsolete, Rotterdammers promptly built an entirely new deep-sea port, the Europoort, jutting out into the North Sea some 25 km to the west of the old town. Completed in 1968, the Europoort is able to welcome the largest ships in the world, amongst which also the MSC cruise ships. Rotterdam port guide Search cruises visiting Rotterdam

Day 3 Jul 12, 2027 Copenhagen, Denmark 08:00 – 21:00 13.0 hrs ashore Effortlessly cool and down to earth, Copenhagen is a contemporary, clean and classy highlight of Scandinavia. A city built to be liveable, Copenhagen has refused to compromise, resulting in a forward-thinking metropolis that’s green and clean. Swim in the waters of Havnebadet Islands during summer, or shelter from winter’s bite by snuggling in beside a roaring open fire during winter. You can even hop on a train to Sweden, traversing the famous span of a Nordic Noir star - the Öresund Bridge. It takes just a touch over half an hour to step off the train in Malmö. There’s only one way to truly explore Copenhagen and that’s on two wheels. Easy bike hire schemes will get you moving across this flat city, designed with bikes at the forefront of the mind. Choose a model with electronic assistance to take the strain out of any journey, giving you the freedom to whizz around and explore the modern angular architecture of the centre, and the pastoral colours of Nyhavn waterfront. Head out to the Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale - the strikingly-restrained statue is the perfect landmark for Copenhagen; unshowy, self-assured and utterly irresistible. The Danish concept of hygge is very much alive here, and you’ll feel that warm cosy feeling as you visit cafes illuminated by the warm glow of hanging filament bulbs, and stuffed to the brim with thick, dusty books. Home to mega-brewer Carlsberg, Copenhagen is also a city for hop enthusiasts, and there is a thriving craft brewing scene to sample. Danish Smørrebrød sandwiches are a must try, or for something a little more substantial, settle in for a culinary voyage and try a taster menu – the city’s restaurants are littered with Michelin stars. Copenhagen, Denmark port guide Search cruises visiting Copenhagen, Denmark

Day 4 Jul 13, 2027 Aarhus 07:00 – 15:00 8.0 hrs ashore Different, modern and fun, Aarhus is one of the happiest cities on Earth and is also known as “the smallest big city in the world.” On an MSC cruise, you will be introduced to this incredible place located on the Jutland peninsula in Denmark full of beaches, forests and nature trails to explore. Aarhus is rich in attractions and places not to be missed, including the Jelling rune stones, one of UNESCO's World Heritage sites, along with the fjords and coasts. In 2017, it was also elected the European Capital of Culture and hosts many events, performances and exhibitions. The highlight of the city is Den Gamle By, or the “old city”, much more than an open-air museum. With approximately seventy-five buildings from different periods, the urban life of past centuries is faithfully reproduced in every detail. In addition to traditional shops, there are also schools, the customs office, a theater and much more. It is a perfect attraction for taking a fascinating journey back in time. Looking out over the urban buildings of Den Gamle By, you pass from the 18th century to the 1970s. Another stop not to be missed during your visit of Aarhus is at its town hall: known for its modernist structure, the building was designed by the famous Danish architect Arne Jacobsen and inaugurated on June 2, 1941, on the exact day of the 500th anniversary of the foundation of the city. On your holiday with MSC Cruises, you will also have the opportunity to visit the southern Jutland, a breathtaking natural site with rivers, lakes and areas that offer fantastic views. The city of Silkeborg in particular, rich in culture, is a splendid starting point for enjoying its lakes and beautiful countryside by hiking and exploring the best of Danish nature. Aarhus port guide Search cruises visiting Aarhus

Aarhus photo — Day 4 Jul 13, 2027 Aarhus 07:00 – 15:00 8.0 hrs ashore Different, modern and fun, Aarhus is one of the happiest cities on Earth and is also known as “the smallest big city in the world.” On an MSC cruise, you will be introduced to this incredible place located on the Jutland peninsula in Denmark full of beaches, forests and nature trails to explore. Aarhus is rich in attractions and places not to be missed, including the Jelling rune stones, one of UNESCO's World Heritage sites, along with the fjords and coasts. In 2017, it was also elected the European Capital of Culture and hosts many events, performances and exhibitions. The highlight of the city is Den Gamle By, or the “old city”, much more than an open-air museum. With approximately seventy-five buildings from different periods, the urban life of past centuries is faithfully reproduced in every detail. In addition to traditional shops, there are also schools, the customs office, a theater and much more. It is a perfect attraction for taking a fascinating journey back in time. Looking out over the urban buildings of Den Gamle By, you pass from the 18th century to the 1970s. Another stop not to be missed during your visit of Aarhus is at its town hall: known for its modernist structure, the building was designed by the famous Danish architect Arne Jacobsen and inaugurated on June 2, 1941, on the exact day of the 500th anniversary of the foundation of the city. On your holiday with MSC Cruises, you will also have the opportunity to visit the southern Jutland, a breathtaking natural site with rivers, lakes and areas that offer fantastic views. The city of Silkeborg in particular, rich in culture, is a splendid starting point for enjoying its lakes and beautiful countryside by hiking and exploring the best of Danish nature. Aarhus port guide Search cruises visiting Aarhus

Day 9 Jul 18, 2027 Portland, Dorset, UK 05:30 – 19:00 13.5 hrs ashore Situated along the southernmost part of the Dorset Coast site lies the fabled island of Portland. This natural harbor was used for over 500 years by the British Royal Navy, and when breakwater construction was performed between 1848 and 1905, it created one of the largest man-made harbors in the world. An important launch site during both World Wars, the harbor was used for naval exercises until 1995, after which the waters became popular for tourism and were used for the sailing events during the 2012 Olympic Games. The tiny limestone island is home to the Abbotsbury Swannery, the only place in the world where you can walk freely through colonies of nesting mute swans, and is a perfect jumping-off point to visit the stone ruins of Corfe Castle, built by William the Conqueror. Take in the nearby magnificent Salisbury Cathedral, and experience the ancient mystery of the somber plinths of Stonehenge. Just four miles long by a mile and a half wide, Portland is ruggedly beautiful, with endless vistas and wild, natural landscapes.

Day 10 Jul 19, 2027 Le Havre 07:00 – 21:00 14.0 hrs ashore As you sail on your MSC cruise to France, you’ll come to Le Havre, the country’s second-largest port, which takes up half the Seine estuary. However, the town itself, home to almost 200,000 people, is a place of pilgrimage for fans of contemporary architecture. Le Havre – “The Harbour” – is the principal trading post of northern France and a port of call of our MSC Northern Europe cruises. Following its near-destruction during World War II, Le Havre was rebuilt by a single architect, Auguste Perret, between 1946 and 1964. The sheer sense of space can be exhilarating: the showpiece monuments have a winning self-confidence, and the few surviving relics of the old city have been sensitively integrated into the whole. While the endless mundane residential blocks can be dispiriting, even those visitors who fail to agree with Perret’s famous dictum that “concrete is beautiful” may enjoy a stroll around his city. A shore excursion on your MSC Northern Europe cruise can also be the opportunity to discover Rouen, the capital of Upper Normandy, one of France’s most ancient cities. Standing on the site of Rotomagus, built by the Romans at the lowest point where they could bridge the Seine, it was laid out by Rollo, the first duke of Normandy, in 911. Captured by the English in 1419, it became the stage in 1431 for the trial and execution of Joan of Arc, before returning to French control in 1449. Rouen today can be very seductive, its lively and bustling centre well equipped with impressive churches and museums. North of the Seine at any rate, it’s a real pleasure to explore. As well as some great sights – Cathédrale de Notre-Dame, all the delightful twisting streets of timbered houses – there’s history aplenty too, most notably the links with Joan of Arc. Le Havre port guide Search cruises visiting Le Havre

Le Havre photo — Day 10 Jul 19, 2027 Le Havre 07:00 – 21:00 14.0 hrs ashore As you sail on your MSC cruise to France, you’ll come to Le Havre, the country’s second-largest port, which takes up half the Seine estuary. However, the town itself, home to almost 200,000 people, is a place of pilgrimage for fans of contemporary architecture. Le Havre – “The Harbour” – is the principal trading post of northern France and a port of call of our MSC Northern Europe cruises. Following its near-destruction during World War II, Le Havre was rebuilt by a single architect, Auguste Perret, between 1946 and 1964. The sheer sense of space can be exhilarating: the showpiece monuments have a winning self-confidence, and the few surviving relics of the old city have been sensitively integrated into the whole. While the endless mundane residential blocks can be dispiriting, even those visitors who fail to agree with Perret’s famous dictum that “concrete is beautiful” may enjoy a stroll around his city. A shore excursion on your MSC Northern Europe cruise can also be the opportunity to discover Rouen, the capital of Upper Normandy, one of France’s most ancient cities. Standing on the site of Rotomagus, built by the Romans at the lowest point where they could bridge the Seine, it was laid out by Rollo, the first duke of Normandy, in 911. Captured by the English in 1419, it became the stage in 1431 for the trial and execution of Joan of Arc, before returning to French control in 1449. Rouen today can be very seductive, its lively and bustling centre well equipped with impressive churches and museums. North of the Seine at any rate, it’s a real pleasure to explore. As well as some great sights – Cathédrale de Notre-Dame, all the delightful twisting streets of timbered houses – there’s history aplenty too, most notably the links with Joan of Arc. Le Havre port guide Search cruises visiting Le Havre

Day 12 Jul 21, 2027 Le Verdon 08:00 – 18:30 10.5 hrs ashore Lying on the south bank of the Garonne estuary, Le Verdon is your gateway to what is arguably the finest wine-producing region in the world: the vineyards surrounding Bordeaux. Though the city has long been an important trading center, the foundation of its prosperity has always rested on the wine trade. That trade began in the Middle Ages, when Bordeaux shipped Claret to England in exchange for British wool. While Bordeaux itself is a charming city that boasts superb examples of 18th-century neo-classical architecture, wine lovers are seldom able to resist the lure of the fine wine estates of the Medoc.

Day 13 Jul 22, 2027 Bilbao 08:00 – 16:00 8.0 hrs ashore Whether it’s the flow of its boundary pushing architecture, delights of its finger food tapas, or sweeps of gorgeous shoreline nearby, Bilbao is a city that places a premium on aesthetics. The relentless drive to all things beautiful may be a reaction to the city’s industrial past, but it has led this Basque city to emerge as a new beacon of artistry. American architect Frank Gehry’s masterpiece of flowing metal is the shining standout here, a perfect harmony of smooth titanium and glass, and a thrilling piece in itself. Inside the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, world-class exhibitions are exhibited in the bright, expansive interior - which practically begs you to explore more. The city has gorgeous historical presence too. Casco Viejo - the medieval area - is its historic core, and home to the original seven streets and cathedral, dating back to the 14thcentury. Tall banks of coloured buildings rise either side as you walk, dwarfed by a tide of pretty facades, overflowing flower boxes, and intricate rail balconies. Plaza Nueva is Bilbao’s neoclassical square, with a procession of arches all around you. Morning flea markets regularly overtake it, offering opportunities to pick through piles of coins, dusty books and rusted antiques on the hunt for bargains, in this most elegant setting. The titanic Mercado de la Ribera market looms tall by the river. Explore to eat your way through an endless pile of Basque pintxos – the local take on tapas. Cocktail sticks will quickly stack up as you gorge on plump olives, organic cheeses, and feather thin slices of curled hams, while orbiting Europe’s largest covered market. Described as a perfect blend of beauty and function by UNESCO, the Vizcaya Bridge is an unusual but spectacular piece of industrial architecture. The world’s oldest, gigantic transporter crane is still in use today, swinging cars and passengers from one side of the gaping Nervion River’s mouth to the other. Bilbao port guide Search cruises visiting Bilbao

Bilbao photo — Day 13 Jul 22, 2027 Bilbao 08:00 – 16:00 8.0 hrs ashore Whether it’s the flow of its boundary pushing architecture, delights of its finger food tapas, or sweeps of gorgeous shoreline nearby, Bilbao is a city that places a premium on aesthetics. The relentless drive to all things beautiful may be a reaction to the city’s industrial past, but it has led this Basque city to emerge as a new beacon of artistry. American architect Frank Gehry’s masterpiece of flowing metal is the shining standout here, a perfect harmony of smooth titanium and glass, and a thrilling piece in itself. Inside the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, world-class exhibitions are exhibited in the bright, expansive interior - which practically begs you to explore more. The city has gorgeous historical presence too. Casco Viejo - the medieval area - is its historic core, and home to the original seven streets and cathedral, dating back to the 14thcentury. Tall banks of coloured buildings rise either side as you walk, dwarfed by a tide of pretty facades, overflowing flower boxes, and intricate rail balconies. Plaza Nueva is Bilbao’s neoclassical square, with a procession of arches all around you. Morning flea markets regularly overtake it, offering opportunities to pick through piles of coins, dusty books and rusted antiques on the hunt for bargains, in this most elegant setting. The titanic Mercado de la Ribera market looms tall by the river. Explore to eat your way through an endless pile of Basque pintxos – the local take on tapas. Cocktail sticks will quickly stack up as you gorge on plump olives, organic cheeses, and feather thin slices of curled hams, while orbiting Europe’s largest covered market. Described as a perfect blend of beauty and function by UNESCO, the Vizcaya Bridge is an unusual but spectacular piece of industrial architecture. The world’s oldest, gigantic transporter crane is still in use today, swinging cars and passengers from one side of the gaping Nervion River’s mouth to the other. Bilbao port guide Search cruises visiting Bilbao

Day 15 Jul 24, 2027 Lisbon 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city open to the sea and carefully planned with 18th-century elegance. Its founder is said to be the legendary Ulysses, but the theory of an original Phoenician settlement is probably more realistic. Known in Portugal as Lisboa, the city was inhabited by the Romans, Visigoths and, beginning in the 8th century, the Moors. Much of the 16th century was a period of great prosperity and overseas expansion for Portugal. Tragedy struck on All Saints' Day in 1755 with a devastating earthquake that killed about 40,000 people. The destruction of Lisbon shocked the continent. As a result, the Baixa (lower city) emerged in a single phase of building, carried out in less than a decade by the royal minister, the Marques de Pombal. His carefully planned layout of a perfect neo-classical grid survived to this day and remains the heart of the city. Evidence of pre-quake Lisbon can still be seen in the Belém suburb and the old Moorish section of the Alfama that sprawls below the Castle of St. George. Lisbon is a compact city on the banks of the Tagus River. Visitors find it easy to get around as many places of interest are in the vicinity of the central downtown area. There is a convenient bus and tram system and taxis are plentiful. Rossio Square, the heart of Lisbon since medieval times, is an ideal place to start exploring. After a fire destroyed parts of the historic neighborhood behind Rossio in 1988, many of the restored buildings emerged with modern interiors behind the original façades. The city boasts a good many monuments and museums, such as the Jeronimos Monastery, Tower of Belém, the Royal Coach Museum and the Gulbenkian Museum. High above the Baixa is the Bairro Alto (upper city) with its teeming nightlife. The easiest way to connect between the two areas is via the public elevator designed by Gustave Eiffel. Cruising up the Tagus River to the ship's berth, you can already spot three of Lisbon's famous landmarks: the Monument to the Discoveries, the Tower of Belém and the Statue of Christ, which welcomes visitors from its hilltop location high above Europe's longest suspension bridge. Lisbon port guide Search cruises visiting Lisbon

Lisbon photo — Day 15 Jul 24, 2027 Lisbon 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city open to the sea and carefully planned with 18th-century elegance. Its founder is said to be the legendary Ulysses, but the theory of an original Phoenician settlement is probably more realistic. Known in Portugal as Lisboa, the city was inhabited by the Romans, Visigoths and, beginning in the 8th century, the Moors. Much of the 16th century was a period of great prosperity and overseas expansion for Portugal. Tragedy struck on All Saints' Day in 1755 with a devastating earthquake that killed about 40,000 people. The destruction of Lisbon shocked the continent. As a result, the Baixa (lower city) emerged in a single phase of building, carried out in less than a decade by the royal minister, the Marques de Pombal. His carefully planned layout of a perfect neo-classical grid survived to this day and remains the heart of the city. Evidence of pre-quake Lisbon can still be seen in the Belém suburb and the old Moorish section of the Alfama that sprawls below the Castle of St. George. Lisbon is a compact city on the banks of the Tagus River. Visitors find it easy to get around as many places of interest are in the vicinity of the central downtown area. There is a convenient bus and tram system and taxis are plentiful. Rossio Square, the heart of Lisbon since medieval times, is an ideal place to start exploring. After a fire destroyed parts of the historic neighborhood behind Rossio in 1988, many of the restored buildings emerged with modern interiors behind the original façades. The city boasts a good many monuments and museums, such as the Jeronimos Monastery, Tower of Belém, the Royal Coach Museum and the Gulbenkian Museum. High above the Baixa is the Bairro Alto (upper city) with its teeming nightlife. The easiest way to connect between the two areas is via the public elevator designed by Gustave Eiffel. Cruising up the Tagus River to the ship's berth, you can already spot three of Lisbon's famous landmarks: the Monument to the Discoveries, the Tower of Belém and the Statue of Christ, which welcomes visitors from its hilltop location high above Europe's longest suspension bridge. Lisbon port guide Search cruises visiting Lisbon

Day 16 Jul 25, 2027 Seville 11:00 – 23:00 12.0 hrs ashore Hanging off the southwestern edge of Spain, Cádiz is one of Andalucía’s regional capitals and a place bursting with personality. Europe’s oldest continually inhabited city, with a history stretching back 3,000 years, has fallen on hard times in recent years, but a combination of pride, good humor and stoicism keeps it on an even keel. The famous Carnival, one of Spain’s most important in the genre, is a thrilling fiesta into which Cádiz pours all its energy and ingenuity. The city’s fond nickname, la tacita de plata ("little silver cup"), alludes to its curious geography—it juts out on a long peninsula into a sheltered bay. Old town Cádiz is a warren of cobbled streets where the houses, painted white or dusty ochre, have the weather-beaten look of a place subjected to centuries of wind and salt. This ancient city has one good example of everything that matters: a great food market, a theater (the Teatro Falla, a grand Art Nouveau Moorish gem), a gorgeous cathedral, impressive fortifications and a beach—the picturesque and famous La Caleta. Seville port guide Search cruises visiting Seville

Seville photo — Day 16 Jul 25, 2027 Seville 11:00 – 23:00 12.0 hrs ashore Hanging off the southwestern edge of Spain, Cádiz is one of Andalucía’s regional capitals and a place bursting with personality. Europe’s oldest continually inhabited city, with a history stretching back 3,000 years, has fallen on hard times in recent years, but a combination of pride, good humor and stoicism keeps it on an even keel. The famous Carnival, one of Spain’s most important in the genre, is a thrilling fiesta into which Cádiz pours all its energy and ingenuity. The city’s fond nickname, la tacita de plata ("little silver cup"), alludes to its curious geography—it juts out on a long peninsula into a sheltered bay. Old town Cádiz is a warren of cobbled streets where the houses, painted white or dusty ochre, have the weather-beaten look of a place subjected to centuries of wind and salt. This ancient city has one good example of everything that matters: a great food market, a theater (the Teatro Falla, a grand Art Nouveau Moorish gem), a gorgeous cathedral, impressive fortifications and a beach—the picturesque and famous La Caleta. Seville port guide Search cruises visiting Seville

Day 17 Jul 26, 2027 Tangier, Morocco 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Set on the Maghreb coast, Tangier is Africa’s outstretched hand to Europe. With its bustling markets and lively waterfront, this city on Morroco's north is an energetic and invigorating place and an exciting immersion into an incredible continent. The location, on the highly strategic narrowing of the Strait of Gibraltar, made Tangier a vital Phoenician trading town - and the resulting city is an invigorating mesh of cultures and curiosities. View less Part of the fun of Tangier is the well-rehearsed dance, as you dodge good-natured hawkers, and this is certainly a place to stroll with confidence and purpose. Delve into the mayhem of the walled Medina of Tangier for a rush of stimulation, as bartering and bantering echoes along the tight alleys. Crowded, noisy and busy, you’ll be sold to with a smile as you wander between stands of colourful spices, dried fruits and fabrics in this authentic Moroccan marketplace. Refresh and escape the sun with a fresh orange juice - or a sip of mint tea. Close to the city, you can find the Caves of Hercules, a coastal hollow that opens at both ends. The Phoenicians cut a window in the shape of the African continent, which reveals views of the Atlantic's waves, and legend says Hercules rested within its confines. From Tangier, you can also venture inland to the Rif Mountains, where gorgeous Chefchaouen - a village of bright blue alleyways - waits. Punctuated by blooming flowers, the entire town is a beautiful, moulded artwork of colour, spilling down the mountain like a waterfall. Tangier, Morocco port guide Search cruises visiting Tangier, Morocco

Tangier, Morocco photo — Day 17 Jul 26, 2027 Tangier, Morocco 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Set on the Maghreb coast, Tangier is Africa’s outstretched hand to Europe. With its bustling markets and lively waterfront, this city on Morroco's north is an energetic and invigorating place and an exciting immersion into an incredible continent. The location, on the highly strategic narrowing of the Strait of Gibraltar, made Tangier a vital Phoenician trading town - and the resulting city is an invigorating mesh of cultures and curiosities. View less Part of the fun of Tangier is the well-rehearsed dance, as you dodge good-natured hawkers, and this is certainly a place to stroll with confidence and purpose. Delve into the mayhem of the walled Medina of Tangier for a rush of stimulation, as bartering and bantering echoes along the tight alleys. Crowded, noisy and busy, you’ll be sold to with a smile as you wander between stands of colourful spices, dried fruits and fabrics in this authentic Moroccan marketplace. Refresh and escape the sun with a fresh orange juice - or a sip of mint tea. Close to the city, you can find the Caves of Hercules, a coastal hollow that opens at both ends. The Phoenicians cut a window in the shape of the African continent, which reveals views of the Atlantic's waves, and legend says Hercules rested within its confines. From Tangier, you can also venture inland to the Rif Mountains, where gorgeous Chefchaouen - a village of bright blue alleyways - waits. Punctuated by blooming flowers, the entire town is a beautiful, moulded artwork of colour, spilling down the mountain like a waterfall. Tangier, Morocco port guide Search cruises visiting Tangier, Morocco

Day 18 Jul 27, 2027 Malaga 08:00 – 23:00 15.0 hrs ashore The elegant central zone of Málaga – a stop-off on your MSC cruise of the Mediterranean – is largely pedestrianized with the focal point, marble-paved Calle Marqués de Larios, lined with fashionable stores, its most elegant thoroughfare. Plaza de la Constitución, Málaga’s main square, hosts a monumental fountain flanked by slender palms and the terraces of numerous cafés and restaurants. Málaga centre has a number of interesting churches and museums, not to mention the birthplace of Picasso and the Museo Picasso Málaga, housing an important collection of works by Málaga’s most famous son. Perched on the hill above the town are the formidable citadels of the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro, magnificent vestiges of the seven centuries that the Moors held sway here. Málaga is also renowned for its fish and seafood, which can be sampled at tapas bars and restaurants throughout the city, as well as at the old fishing villages of El Palo and Pedregalejo, now absorbed into the suburbs, where there’s a seafront paseo lined with some of the best marisquerías and chiringuitos (beachside fish restaurants) in the province. The impressive Alcazaba is the place to make for if you’re joining a shore excursion. Clearly visible from your cruise ship, to the left of its entrance on c/Acazabilla stands the Roman Theatre accidentally discovered in 1951, and – following excavation and restoration – now a venue for various outdoor entertainments. The citadel, too, is Roman in origin, with blocks and columns of marble interspersed among the Moorish brick of the double- and triple-arched gateways. Above the Alcazaba, and connected to it by a long double wall (the coracha), is the Gibralfaro castle. Like the Alcazaba, it has been wonderfully restored and now houses an interesting museum devoted to its history. Malaga port guide Search cruises visiting Malaga

Malaga photo — Day 18 Jul 27, 2027 Malaga 08:00 – 23:00 15.0 hrs ashore The elegant central zone of Málaga – a stop-off on your MSC cruise of the Mediterranean – is largely pedestrianized with the focal point, marble-paved Calle Marqués de Larios, lined with fashionable stores, its most elegant thoroughfare. Plaza de la Constitución, Málaga’s main square, hosts a monumental fountain flanked by slender palms and the terraces of numerous cafés and restaurants. Málaga centre has a number of interesting churches and museums, not to mention the birthplace of Picasso and the Museo Picasso Málaga, housing an important collection of works by Málaga’s most famous son. Perched on the hill above the town are the formidable citadels of the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro, magnificent vestiges of the seven centuries that the Moors held sway here. Málaga is also renowned for its fish and seafood, which can be sampled at tapas bars and restaurants throughout the city, as well as at the old fishing villages of El Palo and Pedregalejo, now absorbed into the suburbs, where there’s a seafront paseo lined with some of the best marisquerías and chiringuitos (beachside fish restaurants) in the province. The impressive Alcazaba is the place to make for if you’re joining a shore excursion. Clearly visible from your cruise ship, to the left of its entrance on c/Acazabilla stands the Roman Theatre accidentally discovered in 1951, and – following excavation and restoration – now a venue for various outdoor entertainments. The citadel, too, is Roman in origin, with blocks and columns of marble interspersed among the Moorish brick of the double- and triple-arched gateways. Above the Alcazaba, and connected to it by a long double wall (the coracha), is the Gibralfaro castle. Like the Alcazaba, it has been wonderfully restored and now houses an interesting museum devoted to its history. Malaga port guide Search cruises visiting Malaga

Day 20 Jul 29, 2027 Barcelona Arrives 08:00 On the northeast coast of Spain, overlooking the Mediterranean, Barcelona is a vibrant port city, packed with centuries of iconic art and architecture—Gaudí and Picasso both called it home—and lined with sunny white-sand beaches. Explore the Catalan capital's tourist attractions and historic neighborhoods, Modernisme and world-renowned art museums, galleries and local crafts shops—some of which are centuries old and stock traditional Catalan wares. After you see the sights, there are lively tapas bars around every corner where you can stop for a drink, a café amb llet (Catalan for espresso with steamed milk) or a snack, no matter the hour. Green spaces for picnics, long walks and respite from the hustle and bustle are scattered throughout Barcelona's attractions: There's Gaudí's mosaic-decorated park, a neoclassical maze at the Laberint d'Horta, as well as plenty of high places (mountains, monuments and edifices) where sightseeing visitors can take in the view. A short trip from Barcelona by car or train, luxury outlets, cava wineries, a mountaintop abbey and the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean coast await. Barcelona port guide Search cruises visiting Barcelona

Barcelona photo — Day 20 Jul 29, 2027 Barcelona Arrives 08:00 On the northeast coast of Spain, overlooking the Mediterranean, Barcelona is a vibrant port city, packed with centuries of iconic art and architecture—Gaudí and Picasso both called it home—and lined with sunny white-sand beaches. Explore the Catalan capital's tourist attractions and historic neighborhoods, Modernisme and world-renowned art museums, galleries and local crafts shops—some of which are centuries old and stock traditional Catalan wares. After you see the sights, there are lively tapas bars around every corner where you can stop for a drink, a café amb llet (Catalan for espresso with steamed milk) or a snack, no matter the hour. Green spaces for picnics, long walks and respite from the hustle and bustle are scattered throughout Barcelona's attractions: There's Gaudí's mosaic-decorated park, a neoclassical maze at the Laberint d'Horta, as well as plenty of high places (mountains, monuments and edifices) where sightseeing visitors can take in the view. A short trip from Barcelona by car or train, luxury outlets, cava wineries, a mountaintop abbey and the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean coast await. Barcelona port guide Search cruises visiting Barcelona

Day 23 Aug 1, 2027 Gibraltar 12:00 – 23:00 11.0 hrs ashore Gibraltar is one of the most famous places in the world, linked to numerous legends. Here, the Mediterranean ended and with it the world, but fortunately today we know that’s not the case. Its strategic position meant that it was disputed over for many centuries by the seafaring nations who had political and commercial interests between Europe and Africa. The Spain cruise to Gibraltar reveals the charm of this colony with its Rock overlooking the sea where Neanderthal remains have been found, and where a rare breed of macaques roam free. The Rock is the main natural attraction for the number of plant species that flourish on its slopes (as many as 600!) and its colonies of migratory birds. The movements of storks and birds of prey are sight not to be missed and are thrilling to watch as they fly in flocks. More good reasons to climb to the top are the view from the Rock, a panorama that spans two continents set against the beautiful colours of the sea, and a visit to the monument to the Pillars of Hercules. In addition to the natural attractions, don't miss a walk to Europa Point, the lighthouse that still guides ships safely, and a shore excursion to the caves of St. Michael, caves that form the stage to numerous concerts and performances due to their perfect acoustics. Gibraltar port guide Search cruises visiting Gibraltar

Day 25 Aug 3, 2027 Leixoes, Portugal 12:00 – 23:59 12.0 hrs ashore Porto, Portugal's second largest city after Lisbon, is one of Europe's oldest cities and was registered as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996. Of course, Porto's name itself hints at perhaps Portugal's most famous export—port—for it is here that the fortified wine was first produced. The city is reminiscent of times gone by and you wouldn’t be far wrong to liken it to an ideal Shakespearean backdrop. Here, the skyline is composed of sky-high bell towers, opulent baroque churches and majestic beaux art buildings, which combine to create a romantic air that’s only heightened by the glorious shafts of sunlight that illuminate the city.

Day 28 Aug 6, 2027 Dover, UK 07:00 – 18:00 11.0 hrs ashore Dover, in the county of Kent in southeast England, has understandably been one of the most important ports of entry to the country for centuries, given its location on the English Channel across from France. The famous White Cliffs of Dover greet you as you arrive, and the city has a number of historic sights, including a medieval castle. For many travelers, however, it is primarily a gateway to London. Few places can compete with England’s capital for sheer energy, atmosphere and variety. London’s vibrancy—in art, in music, in architecture—is formidable. It’s a city with not only multiple attractions, grand structures and great cultural institutions (though there are plenty of those) but also scenic parks, walkable villages and striking modern additions.Culinary pioneers are reviving traditional techniques and introducing menus that are at the forefront of the world’s premier restaurant experiences. Leg-powered sightseeing (by bike or on foot) around London maximizes opportunities for stumbling across secret alleys, courtyards housing quirky art galleries and tiny old pubs serving fresh British ales. Shoppers will want to check out the items at some of the retail emporiums known the world over as well as diminutive boutiques stocking unique souvenirs. Dover, UK port guide Search cruises visiting Dover, UK

Dover, UK photo — Day 28 Aug 6, 2027 Dover, UK 07:00 – 18:00 11.0 hrs ashore Dover, in the county of Kent in southeast England, has understandably been one of the most important ports of entry to the country for centuries, given its location on the English Channel across from France. The famous White Cliffs of Dover greet you as you arrive, and the city has a number of historic sights, including a medieval castle. For many travelers, however, it is primarily a gateway to London. Few places can compete with England’s capital for sheer energy, atmosphere and variety. London’s vibrancy—in art, in music, in architecture—is formidable. It’s a city with not only multiple attractions, grand structures and great cultural institutions (though there are plenty of those) but also scenic parks, walkable villages and striking modern additions.Culinary pioneers are reviving traditional techniques and introducing menus that are at the forefront of the world’s premier restaurant experiences. Leg-powered sightseeing (by bike or on foot) around London maximizes opportunities for stumbling across secret alleys, courtyards housing quirky art galleries and tiny old pubs serving fresh British ales. Shoppers will want to check out the items at some of the retail emporiums known the world over as well as diminutive boutiques stocking unique souvenirs. Dover, UK port guide Search cruises visiting Dover, UK

Day 31 Aug 9, 2027 Newhaven Arrives 07:00 Newhaven, about two miles north of the Edinburgh city center on the Firth of Forth, is an historic harbor from which to visit Scotland’s stately capital. Once an important fishing and shipbuilding community, Newhaven is a conservation area with unique vernacular architecture using a forestair to access a house’s first floor living area, above a ground floor traditionally used for storing nets. The town’s Victoria Primary School is the oldest operating primary school in the United Kingdom. Edinburgh is perennially listed among the most attractive and interesting cities in Europe. Its patrician skyline bristles with steeples and spires between the Castle Rock and Carlton Hill. Both the Old Town and New Town are inscribed by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. The city’s seven hills guard an immensely rich heritage of architectural and historic buildings, districts and streets to delight visitors. Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile and the Princes Street Gardens area are world-renowned. The noble Scottish National Parliament, City Chambers, Law Courts and Scottish National Gallery are equally prestigious sights. A university city, Edinburgh nurtures a vibrant arts and cultural community, a spirited nightlife and a burgeoning culinary scene. A year-round agenda of celebrated festivals add further appeal for visitors. Newhaven port guide Search cruises visiting Newhaven

Day 33 Aug 11, 2027 Invergordon 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore The Highlands in the northern part of Scotland are known for their magnificent scenery, boasting a landscape of dramatic mountains and forested hills. This region also is of historic importance and full of legends including the fabled Loch Ness monster. For centuries, Scotland was England's principal enemy. Then in 1603, James VI of Scotland became James I of England, thus establishing the first political union between the two countries. Despite these ties, Scottish nationalism persisted.The resistance came to an end in 1746 when Bonnie Prince Charlie, in a sad but heroic attempt to reclaim the throne, was defeated in the Battle of Culloden. It changed the social structure of the Highlands forever. Powerful clans were disarmed; for many years wearing kilts was prohibited because the kilt was seen as a symbol of Scottish pride. Scotland ultimately was ruled from London. Invergordon is the port for Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands and junction of many routes. Over the centuries, Inverness was often the focal point of clashes between Highland chiefs, and the Crown. Today the town is a popular tourist attraction as well as a gathering place for the clans of the surrounding area. Many of the traditional Scottish events take place here each summer, including the Highland Games and the Sheep Dog Trials. Invergordon is also a good starting point for excursions to many of the area's attractions, including the Battlefield of Culloden, Loch Ness, the villages of Tain and Cromarty, historic castles and old whisky distilleries. The local economy relies heavily on tourism, in addition to fishing and agriculture. Enjoy the picture-perfect scenery and perhaps an opportunity to chat with a Highlander eager to introduce you to his fabled land and its rich heritage.

Day 34 Aug 12, 2027 Portree, Isle of Skye 08:00 – 18:00 10.0 hrs ashore Portree is the Isle of Skye's largest and liveliest town. Set within a pretty natural harbour with brightly-coloured houses and surrounded by rocky cliffs and rolling hills, Portree is a truly beautiful place to explore. Its name (from the Gaelic for King's Harbour) commemorates James V, who arrived here in 1540 to pacify the local clans. The town is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its stunning coastline and interesting attractions that include the Aros Centre and the An Tuireann Arts Centre, which celebrate the island's Gaelic heritage. Portree also serves as a gateway to other attractions on the island, such as the intriguing rock formations at Trotternish Ridge, north of the town, the ruins of Tusdale, and the peninsula unflatteringly known as ‘The Lump’, which once provided a setting for public hangings. Portree, Isle of Skye port guide Search cruises visiting Portree, Isle of Skye

Day 35 Aug 13, 2027 Belfast 11:00 – 23:00 12.0 hrs ashore Reborn as a cool, modern city, Belfast has successfully left its troubles behind, emerging as a hotbed of culture and architecture, where the comfort of a cosy pub is never far away. Take a voyage of discovery in its maritime quarter, home to a celebrated museum dedicated to the most famous ship ever built, which was constructed right here in the city’s shipyards. A walk across the Lagan Weir Footbridge brings you to Belfast’s fascinating Titanic District – an area of the city devoted to its rich ship-building heritage. The state-of-the-art Titanic Museum brings the story of the doomed vessel to life, and is the largest museum dedicated to the infamously ‘unsinkable’ ship. Wind up a nautical-themed ramble along the Maritime Mile with a visit to SS Nomadic, the smaller cousin of the Titanic, and a ship which serves as a fascinating time capsule back to the pomp and grandeur of the Titanic, while also telling its own stories of service in both World Wars. There’s just enough time to give the 10-metre long Salmon of Knowledge sculpture a quick peck for luck, before continuing to explore. A stark barbed wire and graffitied sheet metal barrier marks an abrupt scar through the city’s residential areas. The Peace Line was constructed during the height of the Troubles, when Belfast was plagued by sectarian divisions between Protestants and Catholics. Nowadays, you can jump in a black taxi tour to see the colourful murals and living history of the walls, which stand as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace. After exploring the city’s historic divisions, a reminder of Belfast’s uniting creativity can be found at the Metropolitan Arts Centre – a seven-storey tall building, which invites light to gloriously cascade inside. The Cathedral Quarter is a cobbled blend of flower-adorned pubs, restaurants and theatres, and venues where music spills out onto the streets at night, and many a pint is cheerily shared. Belfast port guide Search cruises visiting Belfast

Belfast photo — Day 35 Aug 13, 2027 Belfast 11:00 – 23:00 12.0 hrs ashore Reborn as a cool, modern city, Belfast has successfully left its troubles behind, emerging as a hotbed of culture and architecture, where the comfort of a cosy pub is never far away. Take a voyage of discovery in its maritime quarter, home to a celebrated museum dedicated to the most famous ship ever built, which was constructed right here in the city’s shipyards. A walk across the Lagan Weir Footbridge brings you to Belfast’s fascinating Titanic District – an area of the city devoted to its rich ship-building heritage. The state-of-the-art Titanic Museum brings the story of the doomed vessel to life, and is the largest museum dedicated to the infamously ‘unsinkable’ ship. Wind up a nautical-themed ramble along the Maritime Mile with a visit to SS Nomadic, the smaller cousin of the Titanic, and a ship which serves as a fascinating time capsule back to the pomp and grandeur of the Titanic, while also telling its own stories of service in both World Wars. There’s just enough time to give the 10-metre long Salmon of Knowledge sculpture a quick peck for luck, before continuing to explore. A stark barbed wire and graffitied sheet metal barrier marks an abrupt scar through the city’s residential areas. The Peace Line was constructed during the height of the Troubles, when Belfast was plagued by sectarian divisions between Protestants and Catholics. Nowadays, you can jump in a black taxi tour to see the colourful murals and living history of the walls, which stand as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace. After exploring the city’s historic divisions, a reminder of Belfast’s uniting creativity can be found at the Metropolitan Arts Centre – a seven-storey tall building, which invites light to gloriously cascade inside. The Cathedral Quarter is a cobbled blend of flower-adorned pubs, restaurants and theatres, and venues where music spills out onto the streets at night, and many a pint is cheerily shared. Belfast port guide Search cruises visiting Belfast

Day 36 Aug 14, 2027 Greenock (Glasgow) 08:00 – 23:00 15.0 hrs ashore At your MSC cruise port of call in Greenock, Scotland, you’ll be just a short trip away from Glasgow. Glasgow is a sprawling post-industrial metropolis on the banks of the River Clyde. An upbeat cruise destination, it boasts great bars, clubs and restaurants. Its museums and galleries are some of the best in Britain, while the city’s impressive architecture reflects the wealth of its eighteenth- and nineteenth-century heyday. Set on the banks of the mighty River Clyde, Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, has not traditionally enjoyed the best of reputations. However, the cityscape has been spruced up, and many visitors are knocked out by the architecture, from long rows of sandstone terraces to the fantastical spires of the Kelvingrove Museum. Glasgow has some of the best-financed and most imaginative museums and galleries in Britain – among them the showcase Burrell Collection and the palatial Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum – nearly all of which are free. Glasgow’s architecture is some of the most striking in the UK, from the restored eighteenth-century warehouses of the Merchant City to the hulking Victorian prosperity of George Square. Most distinctive of all is the work of local luminary Charles Rennie Mackintosh, whose elegantly Art Nouveau designs appear all over the city, reaching their apotheosis in the stunning School of Art. MSC Northern Europe cruises also offer excursions to Stirling. Straddling the River Forth a few miles upstream from the estuary at Kincardine, Stirling appears, at first glance, like a smaller version of Edinburgh. With its crag-top castle, steep, cobbled streets and mixed community of locals, students and tourists, it’s an appealing place. Stirling was the scene of some of the most significant developments in the evolution of the Scottish nation as commemorated by the lofty Wallace Monument high on Abbey Craig to the north-east.

Day 38 Aug 16, 2027 Liverpool 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore An MSC Northern Europe cruise to England is the perfect opportunity to discover the dynamic, exciting port of Liverpool: it’s a vibrant city with a Tate Gallery of its own, a series of innovative museums and a fascinating social history. And of course it also makes great play of its musical heritage – as well it should, considering that this is the place that gave the world The Beatles. The main sights are scattered throughout the centre of town, but you can easily walk between most of them. If you want a cathedral, they’ve “got one to spare” as the song goes; plus there’s a fine showing of British art in the celebrated Walker Art Gallery and Tate Liverpool, and a multitude of exhibits in the terrific World MuseumLiverpool. When you step ashore from your MSC cruise, you can’t miss St George’s Hall, one of Britain’s finest Greek Revival buildings and a testament to the wealth generated from transatlantic trade. Now primarily an exhibition venue, but once Liverpool’s premier concert hall and crown court, its vaulted Great Hall features a floor paved with thirty thousand precious Minton tiles (usually covered over), while the Willis organ is the third largest in Europe. Huge and flashy, in a show-stopping Danish-designed building, the Museum of Liverpool opened in 2011. Spread over three floors, the galleries play on Liverpool’s historic status as the “second city of Empire”, exploring the complex political and life histories that have unfolded in a community whose wealth and social fabric were built on international trade. Dominating the waterfront are the so-called Three Graces – namely the Port of Liverpool Building (1907), Cunard Building (1913) and, most prominently, the 322ft-high Royal Liver Building (1910), topped by the “Liver Birds”, a couple of cormorants that have become the symbol of the city. Liverpool port guide Search cruises visiting Liverpool

Liverpool photo — Day 38 Aug 16, 2027 Liverpool 08:00 – 22:00 14.0 hrs ashore An MSC Northern Europe cruise to England is the perfect opportunity to discover the dynamic, exciting port of Liverpool: it’s a vibrant city with a Tate Gallery of its own, a series of innovative museums and a fascinating social history. And of course it also makes great play of its musical heritage – as well it should, considering that this is the place that gave the world The Beatles. The main sights are scattered throughout the centre of town, but you can easily walk between most of them. If you want a cathedral, they’ve “got one to spare” as the song goes; plus there’s a fine showing of British art in the celebrated Walker Art Gallery and Tate Liverpool, and a multitude of exhibits in the terrific World MuseumLiverpool. When you step ashore from your MSC cruise, you can’t miss St George’s Hall, one of Britain’s finest Greek Revival buildings and a testament to the wealth generated from transatlantic trade. Now primarily an exhibition venue, but once Liverpool’s premier concert hall and crown court, its vaulted Great Hall features a floor paved with thirty thousand precious Minton tiles (usually covered over), while the Willis organ is the third largest in Europe. Huge and flashy, in a show-stopping Danish-designed building, the Museum of Liverpool opened in 2011. Spread over three floors, the galleries play on Liverpool’s historic status as the “second city of Empire”, exploring the complex political and life histories that have unfolded in a community whose wealth and social fabric were built on international trade. Dominating the waterfront are the so-called Three Graces – namely the Port of Liverpool Building (1907), Cunard Building (1913) and, most prominently, the 322ft-high Royal Liver Building (1910), topped by the “Liver Birds”, a couple of cormorants that have become the symbol of the city. Liverpool port guide Search cruises visiting Liverpool

Day 39 Aug 17, 2027 Dun Laoghaire, Ireland 07:00 – 19:00 12.0 hrs ashore Dun Laorghaire, pronounced Dunleary, is an elegant little coastal town situated close to Dublin and is steeped in history. You’ll be sure to receive a traditional Irish welcome as you step ashore and begin your explorations. Breathe in the Irish sea air as you take a stroll along the mile-long East Pier Walk, marvelling at the stunning views across Dublin Bay, passing by the beautiful Victorian bandstand, as small boats quietly sail in and out of the harbour. Explore the People’s Park, created as a formal Victorian Garden, encircled by wrought iron railings, and housing a multitude of landscaped lawns and sweet-smelling flowers. Each weekend, market vendors bring colourful art collections and local produce here, drawing visitors in to browse contentedly. The famous James Joyce Tower and Museum, noted for its appearance in the opening scenes of the novel Ulysses, now houses many artefacts of Joyce, including letters, photographs and rare first edition books. For those feeling brave enough, take a dip in the Irish Sea at Forty Foot, a historic bathing pool, named among the best places to swim in the world. Visit Mariner’s Church, or the Oratory of the Sacred Heart, both of which are easily accessible. Dun Laoghaire, Ireland port guide Search cruises visiting Dun Laoghaire, Ireland

Dun Laoghaire, Ireland photo — Day 39 Aug 17, 2027 Dun Laoghaire, Ireland 07:00 – 19:00 12.0 hrs ashore Dun Laorghaire, pronounced Dunleary, is an elegant little coastal town situated close to Dublin and is steeped in history. You’ll be sure to receive a traditional Irish welcome as you step ashore and begin your explorations. Breathe in the Irish sea air as you take a stroll along the mile-long East Pier Walk, marvelling at the stunning views across Dublin Bay, passing by the beautiful Victorian bandstand, as small boats quietly sail in and out of the harbour. Explore the People’s Park, created as a formal Victorian Garden, encircled by wrought iron railings, and housing a multitude of landscaped lawns and sweet-smelling flowers. Each weekend, market vendors bring colourful art collections and local produce here, drawing visitors in to browse contentedly. The famous James Joyce Tower and Museum, noted for its appearance in the opening scenes of the novel Ulysses, now houses many artefacts of Joyce, including letters, photographs and rare first edition books. For those feeling brave enough, take a dip in the Irish Sea at Forty Foot, a historic bathing pool, named among the best places to swim in the world. Visit Mariner’s Church, or the Oratory of the Sacred Heart, both of which are easily accessible. Dun Laoghaire, Ireland port guide Search cruises visiting Dun Laoghaire, Ireland

Day 40 Aug 18, 2027 Cobh, Ireland 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore When you step ashore from your MSC Northern Europe cruise in Cork, everywhere there is evidence of its history as a great mercantile centre, with grey-stone quaysides, old warehouses, and elegant, quirky bridges spanning the River Lee to each side of the city’s island core. But equally powerful draws are its lively atmosphere and large student population, combined with a vibrant social and cultural scene. Massive stone walls built by invading Normans in the twelfth century were destroyed by William III’s forces during the Siege of Cork in 1690, after which waterborne trade brought increasing prosperity, as witnessed by the city’s fine eighteenth-century bow-fronted houses and ostentatious nineteenth-century churches. The graceful arc of St Patrick’s Street – which with Grand Parade forms the commercial heart of the centre – is crammed with major chain stores. Just off here on Princes Street, the English Market offers the chance to sample local delicacies like drisheen (a peppered sausage made from a sheep’s stomach lining and blood). The west of the city is predominantly residential, though Fitzgerald Park is home to the Cork Public Museum, which focuses on Republican history. Kinsale, 25km south of Cork city, is also waiting to be enjoyed on an MSC Northern Europe cruise excursion. Kinsale enjoys a glorious setting at the head of a sheltered harbour around the mouth of the Bandon River. Two imposing forts and a fine tower-house remain as evidence of its former importance as a trading port, and Kinsale has built on its cosmopolitan links to become the culinary capital of the southwest. Add in plenty of opportunities for watersports on the fine local beaches and a number of congenial pubs, and you have a very appealing, upscale resort town. Cobh, Ireland port guide Search cruises visiting Cobh, Ireland

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Lowest fare we've tracked over the observed 86-day span: $10,744 · range $10,744–$10,884

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Per person · 2 guests · incl. taxes & fees