Discover Atlantic Europe’s Rich Heritage | Edinburgh to Lisbon

Begin your adventure in the much-loved city of Edinburgh, the second most visited city in the United Kingdom. Explore its mysterious winding alleys, elegant terraced rows, and numerous shops, bars, and restaurants. Don't miss the majestic Edinburgh Castle, home to Scotland's Crown Jewels and the famed Stone of Destiny. Your comfortable expedition ship, MS Maud (or similar), will be ready and waiting for you at the port.

Your first day at sea is an excellent opportunity to familiarize yourself with your comfortable expedition ship. Enjoy the panoramic views as you relax in the sauna or hot tub, work out in the gym, or participate in a series of lectures by the Expedition Team. On deck, our biologists will help you spot wildlife, or you can pick up some photography tips from our onboard photographer.

Experience the Frisian port city of Harlingen, a city of canals and beautiful harbors, and home to the last traditional pottery factory in the Netherlands. Harlingen lies on the shores of the Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the old harbors of Noorderhaven and Zuiderhaven, filled with traditional sailing ships and historic warehouses. Don't miss the Harlingen Aardewerkmuseum, where you can admire displays of distinctive Frisian pottery.

Arrive in the strategic port of Oostende, a place steeped in European history. Despite the ravages of war and time, many of its medieval features have survived to the present day. From Oostende, visit the UNESCO-listed Bruges, a beautifully preserved medieval town. Explore its winding streets, picturesque canals, and grand 14th-century buildings.

Arrive in the beautiful Breton town of Saint-Malo, an impressive sight from the sea. A circular walk along the ramparts offers the best views of the town and surrounding islands. Take a tour of the Privateers House to learn about the town's pirate heritage. Visit the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel or walk to Île de Grand Bé at low tide, home to the remains of an ancient fort.

Today is a perfect day to relax on deck with your binoculars and watch for whales, dolphins, and porpoises. This is one of the few places in the world where you can spot beaked whales, drawn to the nutrient-rich waters of the bay. You can attend in-depth lectures to learn about the history, geography, and environment of upcoming destinations. You will also learn about the marine biology of the region with hands-on demonstrations.

Our next stop is Ferrol on the rugged coast of Galicia. Once a small fishing hamlet, the city has been Spain's main naval base for the past three centuries. An overnight stay in Ferrol gives us two full days to explore the highlights of northern Galicia. See Ferrol's Neoclassical center on a guided tour, then walk a section of the ancient pilgrimage trail that crosses Galicia. You can also join optional excursions to the UNESCO-listed towns of Lugo and Santiago de Compostela.

Spend another day in Ferrol, exploring the city's Neoclassical center and walking a section of the ancient pilgrimage trail that crosses Galicia. You can also join optional excursions to the UNESCO-listed towns of Lugo and Santiago de Compostela.