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Excursion
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Price
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Brest, France
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Quimper
Setting out from the pier, journey for approximately one hour by air-conditioned motor coach to Quimper; the ancient capital of Cornouaille. Your guided walking tour will begin with an exploration of the twin spires of St. Corenthin’s Cathedral. Dominating the skyline of Quimper, the cathedral’s construction began in 1240 and ended in the 15th century. You will see the vibrant stained-glass windows dating from the 15th-19th centuries. The city itself, once completely walled, has retained the aspects of a fortified town with a covered walkway and watchtower; dating from the 15th and 16th centuries. Since 1690, Quimper has been famous for its production of faience, elegant hand-painted pottery which often features decorative flowers and animals; framed by blue and yellow borders. Originally created as wedding presents and heirlooms, faience is now exported to collectors worldwide. In this traditional setting you will have an hour to discover on your own the fine houses and handicrafts before returning to the ship by motor coach.
Activity level:
Moderate Activity
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$89
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Mythical Coast Motor Tour
Drive to Plouguerneau where the tallest lighthouse in Europe, at 271 feet, is found. The drive continues along the Abers Coast, past golden sandy beaches and ever-changing landscapes. Since the 5th century this Leon country has held secrets and memories of Welsh and Irish immigrants, on their way to Christianize Brittany. Discover the peculiar coastline, a mixture of small capes, rocky islets and large estuaries (abers). Travelling along the Coast of Legends, you may find yourself following the footsteps of St. Pol Aurelien. Just before reaching the little harbour of Porsall, you will see the Aber Wrec’h and the Aber Benoit and the experience the charm of their deeply indented coastlines. Next the rocky promontory of Saint Mathieu Point will come into view. There, the ruins of Saint Mathieu Abbey stand proudly. The beauty of this site will cast a spell on you and you will have time to wander around the site before your return drive back to Brest.
Activity level:
Moderate Activity
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$85
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Cherbourg, France
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Bayeux Tapestry & Omaha Beach
Bayeux is a small town that lies on the Aure River in Normandy, located 16 miles west-northwest of Caen and roughly 166 miles northwest of Paris. It is home to the famous tapestry which bears its name. You will visit The Musee de la Reine Mathilde that displays the world’s most famous embroidery, the Bayeux Tapestry. You will continue on to the Bayeux Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Bayeux) which is a Norman-Romanesque cathedral consecrated on July 14, 1077, in the presence of William, Duke of Normandy and King of England. After lunch, there will be a 30-minute drive to Omaha where you will visit the American Cemetery and American Interpretive Center. Omaha is the Beach where the 29th and the 1st Infantry Divisions landed with 34,000 men during WWII. Your next visit will be Pointe du Hoc, where the American 2nd Rangers climbed the 110-foot-high cliff. On the way back to the ship, your last stop will be to the German Military Cemetery where more than 21,000 German soldiers are buried. After this very intense day you will head back to your port of call for some relaxation.
Activity level:
Moderate Activity
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$199
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D-Day of Normandy
This tour is in honor of the more than one million Americans who landed in Normandy during World War II to bring back freedom and democracy, with 31,000 of them paying for their motivation with their lives. You will see Utah Beach, where the 4th Infantry Division landed with 28,000 men and then you will be driven by the narrow country lanes used by the paratroopers of the 82nd and 101st Divisions to arrive in Ste Mère Eglise where you will see the American Airborne Museum, the perfect key to understanding the sacrifices of these brave individuals. You will have lunch at the Roosevelt Restaurant on Utah Beach, then you will continue to Pointe du Hoc, the American 2nd Rangers site. Visit Omaha Beach, where the 29th and the 1st Infantry Divisions landed
Activity level:
Moderate Activity
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$199
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La Coruña, Spain
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A Coruña & Betanzos
Declared a Joint Historical and Artistic Heritage in 1970, Betanzos is home to one of most interesting old quarters of Galicia. The large city guards artistic treasures of an incalculable value. Your walking tour will include sites like the Consistorial Palace, raised in the 18th century by Luck Rodriguez and surrounded by palaces and buildings with galleries. You will see the Palace of Bendaña , the Church of Santiago, and the Palace of Lanzós, built around 1620. You will continue your stroll along the street of Santiago in the Gothic district to see the Palace of Counts de Taboada and the impressive churches of Santa Maria and San Francisco, built by Fernán the Perez de Andrade in the 14th century, beautiful examples of the Galician medieval architecture. Leaving Betanzos, you will drive along the coastline enjoying a view of Riazor and Orzán beaches and of San Anton Castle, a fort now housing the Archaeological and Historical Museum of A Coruña. Afterwards, you will make a photo stop at the Tower of Hercules, the only Roman lighthouse that is still operational and drive back to the pier along A Coruña´s promenade.
Activity level:
Moderate Activity
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$75
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The Northwest Rout
You will start this tour off by visiting the Castle of Santa Cruz. Your guide will explain the history of this place, a very welcome introduction to what you will see. Santa Cruz Castle is located in the town of Porto de Santa Cruz on an island in the bay of Santa Cruz. It was built to complete the defensive system of the Coruña Bay (along with the castles of San Anton, San Diego and San Amaro) by General Diego Das Marinas in the 16th century. After this visit, you will be able to admire the impressive Galician landscape. Enjoy a panoramic drive along the Ria Betanzos and Ares to reach a peaceful valley surrounded by rivers and hills, where you will find Abadia Medieval de Cines. Its foundation goes back to the 10th century and it still is in perfect condition. You will also see the Church of San Nicolas, a magnificent example of architecture which transitions from Romanesque to Gothic style. After this visit you will return to A Coruña.
Activity level:
Moderate Activity
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$85
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Lisbon, Portugal
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Lisbon Orientation for Airport / Hotel Transfers
Lisbon is a city of contrasts, where modern trends merge with ancient ones, accentuating Lisbon’s variety and intensity of colour. Your sightseeing tour will pass by Commerce Square thought by many to be the most beautiful in Europe, the Rossio considered the heart of Lisbon city center. Enjoy a short walk along the pedestrian area of Augusta Street that connects the Commerce Square to Rossio and some time at your own leisure.
Continue along Liberty Avenue a charming old boulevard place of several international stores (such as Prada or Armani) lined with gardens and known for its unique black and white mosaics on the sidewalks in direction to Marquês de Pombal Square, the man who rebuilt the city after the 1755 city Earthquake. Enjoy a photostop at Edward VII’s Park before visiting Belem monumental quarter.
Visit the church of the Jeronimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. This building is widely acknowledged to be the finest sight in Lisbon, built in the 16th century to commemorate the discoveries of Portuguese navigators. Nearby, you will see the lavishly decorated Belem Tower, where Portuguese explorers were given a rousing send-off, and the Monument to the Discoveries, built to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the death of Prince Henry the Navigator, the mastermind behind Portugal’s voyages of exploration and subsequent wealth.
On the way to the hotel or to the airport, you will see, stretching across the Tagus River, the April 25th Bridge, sister to the Golden Gate, and the towering Christ the King statue on the far side.
Activity level:
Easy Activity
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$79
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Porto/Lexio, Portugal
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Scenic Oporto & Wine Tasting
Oporto lies near the Douro River’s mouth and is Portugal’s second largest city. Explore its sights from the comfort of a motor coach – only minimal walking is required.
Your sightseeing begins by passing several of Oporto’s central city landmarks, before pausing at the 12th century Romanesque-styled Oporto Cathedral for photos. There are excellent views of the Douro River from this area, before you continue to the Ribeira Quarter. Although now somewhat faded, it is renowned for its brightly tiled and pastel-painted façades.
You then cross the D. Luís Bridge and head south toward Vila Nova de Gaia to visit a well-known wine cellar. The origins of port wine go back to the 17th century, when British merchants keen to foster trade with Portugal, fortified Douro wine with brandy to avoid spoilage during transit. Experience showed that the stronger and sweeter the wine, the better the flavor it acquired. Techniques of aging and blending were constantly refined and continue today in the port lodges. At the conclusion of a wine tasting and free time at leisure, there is a 30-minute return drive to the ship.
Activity level:
Easy Activity
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$89
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Guimãraes, Birthplace of a Nation
Portugal’s first capital of Guimarães cradles a wealth of magnificent buildings, a rich legacy of its glorious past. You will take a 1-hour drive of 34 miles to this magnificent city, acclaimed as the birthplace of the Portuguese nation. Your visit to the 15th century Palace of the Dukes of Braganca will reveal a museum and art gallery with portraits, tapestries, fine furniture and porcelain. Nearby is stately Guimarães Castle, where you will have free time to explore on your own. While strolling past the Old Town’s quiet alcoves and along its narrow streets, you will glimpse an imposing former manor house, a 10th century church dedicated to the Virgin Mary and the Customs Tower emblazoned with the slogan “Portugal was born here.” Shortly thereafter, you will return to the ship.
Activity level:
Moderate Activity
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$89
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Half Day Private Car and Guide
Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 2 guests. Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person)
Activity level:
Easy Activity
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$599
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Half Day Private Van and Guide
Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 7 guests your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person)
Activity level:
Easy Activity
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$699
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>Book this Tour
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St. Malo, France
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Mont St. Michel
Mont St. Michel is considered one of the great religious sites in all of Europe and is often compared to St. Peter’s, Chartres and Durham. First built following the appearance of Archangel Michael to the Bishop of Avranches, the abbey is constructed at the summit of an immense granite precipice 250 feet above the sea – a monument to the heyday of Norman power and influence in the world. Mont St. Michel makes its strongest impression when seen from a distance, on the approach from a 5-mile long causeway at Pontorson where Mont St. Michel joins the mainland. Once at the abbey, your visit on foot will involve numerous stairs and steep paths – yet you are rewarded with magnificent views at every juncture. You’ll have free time to stroll the labyrinth of streets, browse the shops, and take in this magnificent architectural achievement. Following your exploration of the mount, return to the ship along the coastal road, passing small towns and traditional fishing harbors along the way.
Activity level:
High Activity
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$135
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Dinan & Dinard
Leaving St. Malo, the “Corsair's City,” this tour will take you up the Rance River to Brittany’s finest jewel -- Dinan, a medieval city full of art, culture and history. With more than 1,000 years of history behind it, this charming town will entice you with many treasures. Visit the ramparts, the Basilica Saint Sauveur and then stroll the old streets lined with half-timbered houses and old mansions. Discover the world of the Middle Ages as it is lived again through the traditional skills of the craftsmen of Dinan. Follow down the river, to reach Dinard, a seaside resort on the Rance Estuary. This elegant town offers you the charm of la Belle Époque with very special houses and mansions whose architecture recalls the “Marine style.” Delights of Dinard are the coastline, with enormous villas perched on top of the cliffs and the Promenade du Clair de Lune where, sheltered from the winds, there will be an amazing variety of Mediterranean vegetation. A true Breton Riviera! On the return to St. Malo, you will pass by the Rance tidal power scheme, a power station unique in Europe. It is a modern version of an old tide mill and has an outstanding view over the Rance Estuary.
Activity level:
Moderate Activity
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$79
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St.-Malo Walking Tour
St.-Malo was named after the 6th century monk who converted the locals to Christianity. Once a haven for pirates, it was also an important port in the voyages of discovery. Cartier sailed from here to Canada in 1534. Soon after, St.-Malo began to flourish as a trading port, not only through the furs sent back from the New World, but also due to the plentiful cod fishing. As ship owners grew wealthy, they built beautiful homes in town. And as the town grew in importance, high ramparts were built to ensure security. This is the part of the city you will explore during your guided walking tour.
View typical streets, the cathedral, walk along the ramparts and enjoy some free time on your own before returning to the ship.
Activity level:
Moderate Activity
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$89
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Vigo, Spain
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Highlights of Vigo & Baiona
This tour will show you the beauty of the marshes of Southern Galicia. Begin your exploration of Vigo with a drive up to Mount Castro. Located amidst the forests and leisure areas are the remains of the hill-forts that constituted the early settlement, as well as the ruins of the 10th century O Penso Castle, the layout of which was used for the construction of the 17th century Tower Castle which is still standing. Enjoy a view of the city, the river and your ship. You will continue your drive by bus to Baiona, one of the most important fisherman villages of the Galician coastline. There, you will visit the remains of the old walls dating from the 16th century and view monuments that show the importance of this village through history. See the Romanesque Collegiate Church with its Ogival Romanesque style. The church was built in the 13th century and there is a marvelous Romanesque rose window up in the main façade Visit the Monterreal Palace, which occupies the whole of its own small, fortified peninsula – “Monte Real.” En route to the ship, and time permitting, you can walk through the Oyster Stall on Stone Street to glimpse the seafood culture of Galicia.
Activity level:
High Activity
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$79
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A Trip to Santiago de Compostela
Welcome to Santiago, the city where, according to legend, the remains of the apostle St. James were found, and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It attracts visitors from all over the world thanks to its fantastic monuments. Your guide will impart some of the region’s history, as you go inside the Santiago Cathedral. Your tour of the building (constructed with a combined influence of Romanesque, Ogival Gothic and Baroque styles) will feature highlights like: the Portico de la Gloria and the silver Urn than contains the ashes of St. James, the Obradoiro façade of the cathedral that was the work of Fernando de Casa y Novoa, the main altar and the crypt of the Apostle St. James which is located beneath it. Enjoy the lunch served at Reyes Catholicos, a 17th century building declared a National Monument. Then, you will take a guided walking tour through the quiet streets and picturesque squares to admire the Plaza del Obradoiro and Palacio Rajoy, an enormous and elegant neoclassic building in front to the cathedral. At the moment it lodges the Presidency of the Xunta of Galicia and the Compostelano City council. Before arriving back in Vigo, you will be able to admire the impressive Galician landscape as you travel their coastline full of wide beaches and large marshes.
Activity level:
Moderate Activity
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$169
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>Book this Tour
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Half Day Private Car & Guide
Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 2 guests. Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person)
Activity level:
Easy Activity
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$1,699
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>Book this Tour
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Full Day Private Car & Guide
Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 2 guests. Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person)
Activity level:
Easy Activity
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$2,099
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>Book this Tour
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