Wismar, Berlin on your Own

An approx. 3.5-hour coach ride will bring you to Berlin. During this journey your escort will hand out breakfast snacks and coffee, as well as information material, including a city map and an "emergency kit" with important telephone numbers. Your escort will also inform you of the time of departure. Upon your arrival in Berlin, your motorcoach will drop you off at the central and beautiful location of Gendarmenmarkt, a 17^th century square, and from there you will have approximately 5 - 6 hours to explore the city at your own pace. The main sights of Berlin are nearby: Check Point Charlie, Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Cathedral and Museums Island. After a day full of your own individual sightseeing, your host will be waiting for you at Gendarmenmarkt Square to return to your yacht.
 
Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate clothing. It is advisable to bring some small change of Euro coins as some shops do not accept other currencies nor credit cards for small purchases (furthermore, guests may have to pay for public bathroom facilities, usually between 50 cents and 1,-Euro pp). Please expect traffic.
 
            

 

Wismar, Best of Berlin with Lunch

Meet your escort at the yacht and enjoy a scenic ride to Berlin. Once in the city meet your guide and start your city tour. Drive to your first photostop, one of the few surviving pieces of the Berlin Wall. Keep your camera ready for Checkpoint Charlie. You'll continue to Gendarmenmarket, a 17^th century square, the site of the twin French and German cathedrals and the Concert Hall, a masterpiece of German classical architecture. Next, you'll pass Unter den Linden Boulevard, a tree-lined thoroughfare through the city of Berlin, and see such sites as the State Library and Humboldt University, Berlin's oldest university. Photostop at Bebelplatz. Next, you'll pass by the WWII Memorial, featuring Käthe Kollwitz's emotionally moving sculpture of a mother and her dying son. You'll head to a traditional German restaurant where a luncheon awaits you. Make your way to your next photostop, the Brandenburg Gate. As the only remaining city gate of Berlin, formerly a symbol of the separation of the city between East and West Berlin, the Brandenburg Gate has now come to denote German unity. Just a short stroll away is the Reichstag. Originally constructed to house the parliament of the newly founded German Empire, the contemporary glass dome designed by architect Sir Norman Foster is one of the city's major landmarks today.You'll drive by the Victory Column and pass Bellevue Palace, the official headquarters of the President of Germany, and Congress Hall. As your tour winds down, you'll board your motorcoach and pass by Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, on your way to the Allied Museum. The museum commemorates the U.S., British and French presence in Berlin from 1945 to 1994, tracing the history of Cold War Berlin. Here you'll find the original Checkpoint Charlie guardhouse, a Berlin Wall watchtower, a plane from the Berlin Airlift, and an American spy tunnel. Afterwards drive towards the beautiful Charlottenburg Palace and say good-bye to your guide of the day. Enjoy your scenic coach ride back to the yacht.
 
Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate clothing. It is advisable to bring some small change of Euro coins as some shops do not accept other currencies nor credit cards for small purchases (furthermore, guests may have to pay for public bathroom facilities, usually between 50 cents and 1,-Euro pp). Please expect traffic. Not recommended for people with mobility issues.
 
             
 

Wismar, Hanseatic Wismar Brewery

Discover Wismar, a medieval, Hanseatic town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a guided walk along cobbled streets with Gothic houses, Baroque buildings and Renaissance facades. The classic Town Hall, the water tower, the historic drainage system and merchants’ houses are just some of the fascinating buildings this town has to offer. All these buildings could not have been built without the wealth, that was brought to the city of Wismar by being part of the Hanseatic League, a confederation of merchants in medieval times that shipped goods all over the Baltic Sea region and later even all over the world. One of the main goods that was traded was beer. Therefore, Hanseatic Wismar was known and cherished worldwide for its delicious "liquid gold"  in medieval times. At this time there existed almost 200 breweries in town. So we can say without beer Wismar would not exist in the way it looks like now. This, and other interesting facts will be explained to you by the proud brewing master of the Lohberg Brewery, the oldest brewery in town, located in a half timbered house from the 15^th century. While you listen to the brewing master's interesting stories try three different sorts of freshly brewed beer together with a pretzel. After the beertasting you can either join your tour guide back to your ship, which is only a stone's throw away from the brewery, or go on and explore Wismar on your own.
 
Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate clothing. Headsets / Whisper Systems are provided. It is advisable to bring some small change of Euro coins as some shops do not accept other currencies nor credit cards for small purchases (furthermore, guests may have to pay for public bathroom facilities, usually between 50 cents and 1,-Euro pp). Order of sites visited may vary. Please expect traffic.

           
 

 

Mukran, Rugen’s History and Steam Train

Meet your local guide at the pier and board your coach. The tour will start with a short transfer to the beach resort Prora known for an enormous buidling complex built by the Nazi regime in the 1930s. During your visit of the Documentation Centre, there, you will learn about the diverse history of this place. The facility is a listed building due to its historical and architectural importance, as one of the largest closed architectural remnants of the National Socialist era. The resort project illustrates the machinery used by the regime for mass indoctrination and propaganda, as the site could host up to 20.000 guests for holiday all at once. After the war, the site was turned into a military base for the GDR during the Cold War era. On your guided tour you will learn interesting facts about life during the Nazi regime & east Germany. Your tour will continue to the town of Putbus. This town is also known as the White or Rose City and is the former royal seat of Count and Lord Wilhelm-Malte zu Putbus. Follow your guide on a walk through this white town. You will pass by the ‘Circus’, an architectural landmark in a circular street edged with beautiful Neo-Classical villas. Afterwards, take a walk with your guide through the palace park. Here you will learn about the history and destruction of the palace by the East German regime in 1962. Just a stone’s throw away, the narrow-gauge railway carriages pulled by a steam train await you. Join the Rushing Roland which connects Putbus with Binz, for a 40-minute ride passing small villages and the landscape of Rügen. The ride will conclude in Binz, where your coach awaits you to bring you back to your yacht.
 
Please note: The order of the sights visited may vary depending on traffic and day of the week.
 
 

Mukran, Hanseatic City of Stralsund & Brewery

Mukran, Hanseatic City of Stralsund & Brewery - 2022
Approximately 6 hours
Activity Level: Moderate
 
This tour explores the medieval city of Stralsund, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The Hanseatic city of Stralsund was listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002. Departing from Sassnitz, an approximate 75-minute panoramic drive will take you from the east to the south west of the Island of Rügen then crosses the bridge that joins the Island with the mainland where the city of Stralsund is located. Stralsund was a major trading center of the Hanseatic League during the 14^th and 15^th centuries, later becoming the Swedish administrative and defensive center for the German Territories. Upon arrival in Stralsund you will pass by the Old Harbour, with its warehouses and quays, St. Mary’s Church and the medieval town wall with its gates and towers. In the heart of the old town, your guide will take you on a guided walk and will uncover the hidden treasures of this town. Stroll through the charming narrow streets and admire the splendid Town Hall façade. As you meander through the arcades, look up at the 17^th century Baroque details on the buildings. The centerpiece of this city is the Market Square, the grandeur of its Gothic brick style is a picture book of architecture. Your tour includes an inside visit of St. Nicolas Church, built solely from the donations of the city’s citizens. Afterwards you will have one hour of free time to browse the quaint shops for souvenirs or further explore this beautifully restored city. Then, it’s time for a beer tasting at the famous brewery of Stralsund. Enjoy the tasting of freshly brewed beer and let the experienced master brewer introduce you to the art of brewing and its secrets. Smell the different ingredients and take a look into the fascinating brew kettles before you rejoin your coach for the guided return drive to your vessek.
 
Please note: The order of the sights visited may vary depending on traffic and day of the week. Bring your hat, umbrella, sunscreen, and wear comfortable walking shoes
It is advisable to bring some small change of Euro coins as some shops do not accept other currencies nor credit cards for small puchases (furthermore, guests may have to pay for public bathroom facilities (e.g. at the St. Nicholas Church), usually between 50 cents and 1,-Euro pp).
 

 

Travemunde, Panoramic Tour of Lubeck & Town Hall

Lubeck was founded in 1143 as the first "western city on the Baltic coast."  Journey back in time and discover more on its transformation into the "Queen of the Hanseatic League." Stroll through the streets of Lübeck and get an appreciation of its beautiful old architecture. Start your walking tour at the Holsten Gate, Lubeck's landmark and entrance to the lovely old town. Get a close view of the two biggest churches in the oldtown, St. Petri Church and the St. Mary Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get an inside view of the town hall - one of the biggest medieval town halls in Germany and visit one of the private audience rooms. After you've seen and learned about Lubeck and its history, it's time to taste it. Lubeck is not only known for its beautiful old town, but for its marzipan. Enjoy a piece of cake in Niederegger's iconic café and maybe get a little souvenir. Before your coach will bring you back to the yacht, you'll get a chance to stroll around the streets of Lubeck's old town by yourself and perhaps acquire a small souvenir. There are a lot of cute, little shops, if you want a unique memento from your tour.
 
Please note:  Wear weather appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Bring a hat, umbrella, and sunscreen. Tour operates during all weather conditions. The surface material the you will walk on during this tour is mostly cobblestone. Guests with walking difficulties and/or walkers/wheelchairs will have problems during the walking part. It is advisable to bring some small change of Euro coins as some shops do not accept other currencies nor credit cards for small puchases (furthermore, guests may have to pay for public bathroom facilities, usually between 50 cents and 1,-Euro pp).
 
{{ walking, sightseeing, unesco,  snacks, essentials }}
 

Travemunde, Schwerin Fairytale Castle

Depart Travemünde by coach for the 90-minute ride to the fairy-tale city of Schwerin. Upon arrival, you’ll get to see the magnificent Schwerin Castle, a historic castle located on a picturesque island, considered the federal state capital’s most famous building. Enjoy a guided walk through this fairytale castle and admire the beautiful interior. The gardens with their majestic beauty offer a stunning view of the castle. Next, you’ll be taken on a guided walk of the Old Town. Your walk will cover the main highlights, such as the Mecklenburg State Theatre, the medieval Schwerin Cathedral, one of the imposing Romanesque-Gothic red-brick buildings in Northern Germany and other historical buildings. Afterwards enjoy some time on your own for a snack or some shopping before returning to your ship.
 
Please note: Order of sites may vary. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Most of the streets in Schwerin are cobblestone. Guests with walking difficulties and/or walkers/wheelchairs will have problems during the walking part.
 

 

Travemunde, Travemunde Promenade Walk & Passa

Soak in the unique charm of Travemunde. Founded in 1187 as a medieval fisherman's village it has been home to mariners throughout the centuries. Relish the special atmosphere of Vorderreihe, the town's beachside promenade with all its little shops and tiny cafes, accompanied by half-timbered houses and fascinating doorways. Head up towards Travemunde lighthouse, originally built in 1539, whose 90-foot beacon had been destroyed by lightning in 1827 but restored short thereafter. Close by you will find the public ferry that brings you to the other side of the River Trave. Here, a short walk will lead you and your guide to another historic highlight of the town: The 4-masted steel barque Passat a unique witness to the history of sailing cargo ships. From 1911 until 1957 together with its “sister” Pamir the Passat crossed the oceans numerous times. In fact the Passat was the last sailing cargo ship turning around cape Horn. Enjoy a 60-minute introduction into the PassatI’s history before you have another 30 minutes to explore the details and the ship’s exhibition on your own. A 15-minute walk and a short transfer by public ferry will bring you back to the other side of the River Trave. Here, a typical fish roll and a beverage will round out your experience of Travemünde before a short walk brings you back to your yacht.
 
Please note:  Bring a hat, umbrella, sunscreen, and wear comfortable walking shoes. It is advisable to bring some small change of Euro coins as some shops do not accept other currencies or credit cards for small puchases (furthermore, you may have to pay for public bathroom facilities, usually between 50 cents and 1,-Euro pp.
 

 

Harlingen, A Hidden Treasure

Amsterdam, Canals & Sights of Amsterdam

Enjoy a sightseeing tour through the outskirts of Amsterdam. You will pass by sights as the first Heineken Brewery, Concert Hall, Tropen Museum & Java Island. In 1864, a young Dutch entrepreneur acquired money from his wealthy mother in order to purchase and renovate an old brewery in the center of Amsterdam. A few years after this decisive procurement, the brewery began to produce beer, which was stamped with its creator’s family name – leading to the first batch of Heineken lager. Since then, Heineken has become practically synonymous with Dutch beer and is arguably the most recognizable product of the Netherlands.  The Royal Concertgebouw is a concert hall in Amsterdam. Its superb acoustics place it among the finest concert halls in the world. The hall opened in 1888 with an inaugural concert, in which an orchestra of 120 musicians and a chorus of 500 singers participated, performing works of Wagner, Handel, Bach, and Beethoven. The Tropenmuseum is an ethnographic museum located in Amsterdam. The museum accommodates eight permanent exhibitions and an ongoing series of temporary exhibitions, including modern and traditional visual arts and photographic works. In 2003, the museum was listed as a historical building in Amsterdam. Java Island is a neighborhood of Amsterdam, located on a peninsula. The peninsula was created by dredging water at the end of the 19^th century and was used for shipping services. In the 1990s the area was transformed into residential units. With more than 60 miles of waterways, Amsterdam has more canals and bridges than Venice, and this is one of the best ways to become acquainted with the waterside scenery. You’ll step aboard a glass-topped motor-launch to experience a canal cruise and absorb the myriad of sights. Admire the fine old houses of the city's rich Dutch traders, the picturesque house boats and Anne Frank's house.
 
Please note: For safety reasons, guests must be able to enter/exit the coach and canal boat independently. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
 

 

Amsterdam, Windmills & Dutch Countryside with Airport Transfer

Explore the Dutch countryside, shop for souvenirs and learn about one of Holland's most delicious exports, gourmet cheese. Venture north out of Amsterdam to visit the authentic old village of Zaanse Schans, which is a working open-air museum, as well as Edam, best known for its town's scarlet-skinned cheese. Your scenic drive out of Amsterdam will pass pasturelands dotted with farmhouses and grazing animals. Zaanse Schans is a quaint Dutch windmill village which has been fully recreated to resemble an 18^th century Zaan community. As you stroll through the quaint streets watching the craftsmen practicing the trades of yesteryear, you'll get a glimpse of how Dutch life once was. There were once over 600 windmills in the Zaanstreek, but now only a handful have been preserved. Take the opportunity to witness the old Dutch craft of clog making, or simply relax in an outdoor café. A stop will be made at a local cheese factory to sample some of the products on offer.
 
Please note: For safety reasons, guests must be able to enter/exit the coach independently. Wear comfortable walking shoes.