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Portoferraio,Elba

Mediterranean

Despite its small size, the island of Elba has been known since the beginning of recorded history. Called Ilva by the Ligurians and Aethalia by the Greeks, Elba passed to the Etruscans and later the Romans. It was ruled by Pisa in the Middle Ages, was a haven for Barbary pirates in the 16th century and then privately owned by the powerful Medici family. The island's most famous resident was Napoleon Bonaparte, whose first exile from France and short reign over Elba lasted from May 1814 to February 1815. During that time, Napoleon was able to improve the island by altering street plans, building new roads, modernizing agriculture and developing the iron mines. Iron ore is still mined above the Rio Marina and then shipped from Portoferraio (Port of Iron). With a population of just over 11,000, the town is the largest of the eight on the island and is considered its capital. Geologists and gem stone collectors find Elba a treasure trove with over 150 minerals and semiprecious stones found here due to the seismic turmoil that created the island. The rich soil also produces an astonishing range of foliage and flowers aided by sun that shines almost every day of the year. Despite summer tourism, the island is largely agricultural and the ambience is quiet and relaxed, allowing the visitor to enjoy Elba's natural charm, peaceful abundance and timeless beauty.

79 cruises

Callao, Peru
Photo: Meg von Haartman / Unsplash

Callao, Peru

South America

Lima retains a certain elegance, particularly in its colonial centre. The city still brims with culture and history, though it may not be obvious at first. Top of its attractions are some excellent museums – the best of which should definitely be visited before setting off for Machu Picchu or any of Peru's other great Inca ruins – as well as fine Spanish churches in the centre, and some distinguished mansions in the wealthy suburbs of Barranco and Miraflores. First of all, while enjoying your MSC World Cruise, you can visit Lima Centro with all its splendid architectural attractions, the neighbourhood is very much a centre of Limeños’ daily life. The main axis is formed by the parallel streets – Jirón de la Unión and Jirón V Carabaya – connecting the grand squares of the Plaza San Martín and Plaza Mayor. Here the roads are narrow and busy, bringing together many of the city’s office workers with slightly downmarket shops and their workers. There are many fine buildings from the colonial and Republican eras, overhung with ornate balconies, yet apart from a few – notably the Presidential Palace and Torre Tagle – these are in a poor state of repair. To the north you’ll find the slightly run-down, but fascinating Rimac suburb, home to the city’s bullring. South of the two main plazas, some lavish parks and galleries are within walking distance. South of here, along and just inland from the ocean clifftop, the modern centre of Miraflores, where most tourists stay, buzzes with shoppers by day and partiers by night. East along the coast a few kilometres, what was once a separate seaside suburb and artists’ quarter, Barranco, still boasts both tradition and a vibrant atmosphere. This is just one of the fantastic destinations of our cruise around the world: MSC World Cruise 2020!

78 cruises

Hong Ngu, Vietnam

Asia

Hồng Ngự is a provincial city in Đồng Tháp Province in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. It was separated from Hồng Ngự District in 2008. The town is subdivided into 5 wards: An Bình A, An Bình B, An Lạc, An Lộc and An Thạnh, and 2 communes: Tân Hội, Bình Thạnh.

78 cruises

Santa Cruz, Mexico

Mexico & Central America

On cruises to Mexico, you might not be too familiar with the Huatulco cruise port and its surrounding areas, but you soon will be. In recent years, the Huatulco area has grown in popularity and has retained a natural beauty and a dedication to ecological preservation that few other resort towns can boast about. From the Parque Eco-Arqueológico Copalita to Huatulco National Park, there’s no shortage of nature to explore during your Huatulco cruise stop. Head on a boat tour along the coast’s various bays, including the Bahía San Agustín, Each of the nine bays has a different feel, from secluded to brimming with colorful coral. Beyond natural beauty, Huatulco is also known for its cuisine. From flavorful, chocolate-tinged mole to spicy mezcal, you’re in for a treat here. Tour a coffee farm or enjoy a mezcal tasting while you’re in port. Huatulco is the perfect place to experience life’s simplest pleasures for all five senses. While we don't currently sail to Huatulco, you can still discover the beauty of the country on one of our Mexico cruises. Browse our luxury cruises to Mexico below.

78 cruises

Senja, Norway
Photo: Alexander Sinn / Unsplash

Senja, Norway

78 cruises

St Malo, France
Photo: Mihai Lupascu / Unsplash

St Malo, France

Northern Europe & Baltic

Ship sails flutter in the breeze, at the natural port of Saint-Malo - a historic and resilient walled city, which watches out over golden sands and island fortresses. Strung tenuously to the mainland, Saint Malo was the historic home of a rowdy mix of skilled sailors and new world explorers - as well as the plunderers who earned the place its 'Pirate City' title. Some of history's great voyages have launched from here - including Jacques Cartier's, which led to the settlement of New France and modern-day Quebec. View less Founded by a Welsh monk, who made his way here in the 6th century, Saint Malo's castle is forged from sheer granite, and its steep defensive ramparts arise defiantly. The atmospheric walled town turns its back to the mainland and gazes out longingly into the sea. Explore streets that breathe with maritime tales and medieval charm - restored from the intense damage sustained during the Second World War. Cathédrale de St Malo rises above the tight paths, offering views of the peppered islands and fortifications. Boatloads of fresh oysters and scallops are heaved ashore - savour them or grab savoury crepes galettes, stuffed with cheese and ham. Wash Saint Malo's foods down with a Brittany cider, which challenges wine as the indulgence of choice in these parts. A highly tidal region, the pocket-sized islands of Petit Bé and Grand Bé join the mainland, and you can explore at leisure as the tide recedes. The incredible island of Mont Saint Michel also looms in the estuary of the Couesnon River nearby, hovering like a cinematic mirage above high tide’s waters. Elsewhere, Cap Fréhel's lush green peninsula juts out from the emerald coast towards Jersey, tempting with rich coastal hiking trails.

78 cruises

Almeria

Granada · Mediterranean

While there is archaeological evidence of Phoenician, Greek and Roman settlements in the Andalucían province of Almería, the city of the same name was founded by the Moorish king Abd ar-Rahman in 955. (Its Spanish name comes from its original Arabic one: Al-Mari'yah, or The Watchtower.) Strategically situated on the Mediterranean, it remained a Muslim stronghold until Christians conquered it in the 15th century. The Muslim influence can still be seen throughout the province, and especially in its capital city. The Alcazaba, a massive 10th-century Moorish palace, hovers above the town and has played a starring role in a number of films, including Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Conan the Barbarian and the James Bond movie Never Say Never Again. The city also boasts a remarkable Gothic cathedral dating from the 16th century; resembling a fortress with its towers and battlements, it served as both a place of worship and a bulwark against attacks by pirates. Nicolás Salmerón Park, a long, shady strip of green that runs along the shore, offers excellent views of the marina and port; it's bisected by Avenida de Federico García Lorca, a lively street lined with tapas bars, cafés and boutiques.

77 cruises

Braubach
Photo: Klaus Janowitz / Unsplash

Braubach

Germany · Northern Europe & Baltic

Braubach is a municipality in the Rhein-Lahn-Kreis, in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. It is situated on the right bank of the Rhine, approx. 10 km southeast of Koblenz.

77 cruises

Deggendorf

Northern Europe & Baltic

Deggendorf is a town in Bavaria, Germany, capital of the Deggendorf district. It is located on the left bank approximately in the middle between the Danube cities of Regensburg and Passau. The Danube forms the town's natural border towards the south.

77 cruises

Portree, Isle of Skye
Photo: Paolo Gregotti / Unsplash

Portree, Isle of Skye

Northern Europe & Baltic

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.

77 cruises

Runavik (Faroe Isles)

Northern Europe & Baltic

Originally a fishing port, Kongshavn harbor on the southern end of Eysturoy, the Faroes’ second-largest isle, is now a major staging port for the North Sea oil platforms as well. Runavik’s buildings are scattered across an alluvial fan below looming, green-clad peaks beside the Skalafjordur fjord. The mountainous island is criss-crossed with hiking trails, some of which date from Viking times. The main attraction for visitors is the grandeur of nature, along with the birds and animals that inhabit the island. Lake Toftavatn is one place to see them, on a Ventures by Seabourn hike. A drive around the island will include views of 2,890-foot Mt. Slaettaratindur with stops at the picturesque village of Gjogr on the north end, and a visit to Glyvrar to see the Forni Museum that preserves a typical 17th century island home. Your Ventures by Seabourn team will offer kayaking excursions on Skalafjord, or an excursion the the major Viking site of Toftanes with your expert archaeologist.

77 cruises

Vinh Xoung

Asia

77 cruises

Brugge
Photo: Olga Subach / Unsplash

Brugge

Northern Europe & Baltic

Bruges, Belgium is called “the Venice of the North,” and its canals and romantic cobblestone alleys twist and turn to show visitors a perfectly preserved side of medieval history and culture. The city center of Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, meaning a stroll through its center is a must-see and must-photograph opportunity for travelers. History and art buffs will find plenty to see during a cruise to Bruges, like hearing stories of ancient Belgian lore or touring 19th century castles like Loppem Castle or Castle Wijnendale along the way. Then there’s the Groeningemuseum, an impressive art gallery featuring work from artists like Jan Van Eyck to Magritte. As a stop on a Northern European cruise, Belgium also offers plenty of chances to relax, whether you’re taking a tour of a brewery or simply strolling around the Markt, a medieval square where restaurants, cafes, and weekly markets promise plenty of people-watching. Of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to Belgium without trying the region’s signature beer and chocolate, so leave time and room for a cold one and a rich dessert.

76 cruises

Bastia, Corsica

France · Mediterranean

Long regarded as the “gateway to Corsica”, the picturesque port of Bastia is located on the northeast corner of the French island, and dates back to Roman times. Nowadays, the sunny, charming streets of the Old Town, or Terra Vecchia, are home to lively markets, restaurants and cafés, rich culture, Baroque architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. Venture beyond the town to see ancient Genoese ruins at Furiani, or to Ville-di-Pietrabugno for a spectacular view of Bastia, Cape Corsica and the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago. Be sure to visit the Genoese Governor’s Palace or take a simple stroll through Place Saint Nicholas to enjoy the region’s famous wines, while nature lovers will want to see the Lake Biguglia Nature Preserve and archeological site.

75 cruises

Bayeux, France

Northern Europe & Baltic

Bayeux is a town on the Aure river in the Normandy region of northwestern France, 10 kilometers from the Channel coast. Its medieval center contains cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and the towering, Norman-Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame. The famed 68-meter Tapisserie de Bayeux, an 11th-century tapestry depicting the 1066 Norman invasion of England, is on display in an 18th-century seminary.

75 cruises

Bishwanath, Assam

Asia

75 cruises

Guwahati, India
Photo: Parichay Sen / Unsplash

Guwahati, India

Asia

75 cruises

Kaziranga National Park, India

Asia

75 cruises

Los Gemelos

Santa Cruz Island · Caribbean & Bahamas

75 cruises

Majuli, Assam

Asia

75 cruises

Newcastle, UK

Northern Europe & Baltic

Newcastle upon Tyne is a classic city of England’s north country, where you can visit reminders of some 2,000 years of British history. The city’s crucial location along the River Tyne has meant that it has been the site of Roman forts under Emperor Hadrian and Norman castles under William the Conqueror and the kings that succeeded him. A short drive outside of town offers the chance to stroll along sections of Hadrian’s Wall, built by Romans as a defense against Scottish invaders. And a walk through the city finds a mix of modern and old, with new structures like the Gateshead Millennium Bridge alongside Victorian storefronts, Edwardian marketplaces and remnants of the Industrial Revolution. Perhaps Newcastle’s most recognizable claim to fame is its renowned beer, Newcastle Brown Ale, which you can sample, along with other local craft ales, at historic pubs. Newcastle also makes a great jumping-off point for exploring nearby historic towns like Durham and Alnwick, with their impeccably maintained gardens, historic castles and soaring cathedrals.

75 cruises

Nimati, Assam

Asia

75 cruises

St John, Canada

US East Coast & Canada

St. John's is the capital of Newfoundland and the largest city in the province. Surrounded by a narrow landlocked harbor on the east coast of the Avalon Peninsula it is the most easterly city in North America. This remarkable port city has experienced a long and colorful history. Europeans arrived in the 16th century to exploit nearby fishing grounds and have left an indelible print on the city. As such, St. John's is known as the oldest city founded by Europeans in North America and much of its history is steeped in legend. Although the most popular theory regarding the origin of the city's name dates back to John Cabot's 1497 arrival, the most likely source stems from Portuguese explorer Gaspar Corte-Real, who first visited the harbor in 1500 and named the distant Waterford River St. John's River. St. John's retains an Old World charm with its narrow winding streets similar to those in London and much of its architecture resembles that found in small Irish towns. The city boasts an impressive array of churches and parkland while spectacular vistas abound from Signal Hill and Cape Spear.

75 cruises

Hoi An
Photo: allPhoto Bangkok / Unsplash

Hoi An

Asia

Hội An is a city on Vietnam’s central coast known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, cut through with canals. The former port city’s melting-pot history is reflected in its architecture, a mix of eras and styles from wooden Chinese shophouses and temples to colorful French colonial buildings, ornate Vietnamese tube houses and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge with its pagoda.

74 cruises

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Regions are derived from each port’s coordinates. Sailing counts reflect active upcoming departures, refreshed through our scheduled feed.

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