Europe Cruises: Excursions

Visit the Art Nouveau centre, located in the old pharmacy building, right in the heart of Alesund. The museum provides an interesting insight into the history of the fire in 1904 and the creative Art Noveau period. The town centre was rebuilt shortly after the fire in the characteristic architecture of that period. You’ll see various examples of this picturesque Art style that has made Ålesund one of the three last Art Nouveau-cities in Europe. Continue through the town of Alesund and uphill to the little attractive park at the foot of mount Aksla. Here, you’ll find exotic trees and plants as well as a memorial stone dedicated to the emperor Wilhelm II, which he also has the main street in town named after him. You may walk up towards mount Aksla for a spectacular view or just sit at the park and rest before heading back to your ship. Note: This is a walking tour and participants must be in good health. Bring a rain gear jacket as this tour operates in all weather conditions. less

This is a short and pleasant paddling experience to the magnificent Los Arcos, a dramatic natural rock that arches starkly out of the sea at Land’s End. You’ll be transported by van from the pier to the kayak launching area and geared up as your guide briefs you. Easy paddling of your two-person kayak will take you across the San Lucas Bay, an underwater park and marine sanctuary and to the famed Lover’s Beach, only accessible by water and one of the few beaches in the world that joins two seas: the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean. After you paddle back to the beach, you’ll return to the tender pier by van. Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age and weigh no more than 220 lbs. This tour is not for pregnant women or guests with knee, back, neck or heart problems. Guests must be physically fit and able to paddle a kayak 1-1/2 miles. Snorkeling gear and a bottle of water will be provided. Snorkeling instructions are available upon request. Wear your swimsuit and bring towel. less

Board a 24-foot Zodiac boat powered by twin 115HP engines with a maximum capacity of 15 passengers. This vessel is zippy and maneuverable but at the same time very safe and seaworthy. Your experienced Captain also serves as your tour guide. Head out in search of the migrating whales visiting the waters off Cabo. The Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean host numerous whale species each season including humpbacks, grays, as well as the more elusive blues whales and occasional pods of dolphin and orcas. Once a whale is spotted, your boat will get you there quickly and quietly without disturbing the whales. Keep those cameras handy, you’ll want to record your experience of a lifetime before you head back to the pier. There will be time for you to do some sightseeing as your boat cruises by Land’s End for a good view of the Arch, the sea lion colony and Lover’s Beach. Note: Participants must be at least 7 years of age and weigh no more than 250 lbs. You must wear your life jacket at all times. Pregnant women and guests with back/neck injuries are not permitted on this tour. Bottled water and soft drinks are provided. Comfortable clothing and sun protection is suggested. A light jacket is recommended, there are no restrooms onboard. Shoes must be removed and stored in a storage locker on board your boat to keep your gear out of the way. Sightings are frequent, but not guaranteed. Please note that ride can be bumpy. This tour is only available on Mexican Riviera cruises, N. Star. This is a seasonal tour running from December 15 through March 31. less

Discover the highlights of Tenerife's capital by foot. Join your guide and see places most tourists miss. Not far from the harbor, you’ll find a fusion of modernity and tradition in the Plaza de España, next to the Cabildo (municipal council). Head towards the Guimera Theater, built in 1849 in classical romantic style. Nearby is Noria Street with its many pubs and restaurants where locals enjoy nightlife and where you’ll learn about the ‘murgas’, the satiric singing groups which perform songs during the carnival. You’ll notice that each 'murga' has its own colonial-style house where they rehearse their songs in strict secrecy so other 'murgas' don't find out what their lyrics are. Your journey continues with a visit to the municipal market ‘Nuestra Señora de Africa’ where you’ll find traditional foods, local fruits and vegetables and everything the locals buy every day in this popular market. Continue over the Serrador Bridge towards Calle Castillo (Castle Street) where most of the city center shops are located. Your walk leads you to Weyler Square. See the beautiful Carrara marble fountain and the palace of the Captaincy General. Head to Garcia Sanabria Park; an idyllic urban park in the heart of the city. Its large garden area where the vegetation blends with walkways, fountains, sculptures and gazebos, invites to leisurely walks and relaxation. You next destination is Pilar Street, lined with high-end shops. Before heading back to the port, you’ll have an opportunity to admire Principe Square and the San Francisco church. You may opt to stay in town a little longer to shop or explore more of this lovely city on your own or instead follow your guide back to the ship. Note: This tour involves a considerable amount of walking, participants should be fit. It’s not suitable for those on wheelchairs or with walking difficulties. We recommend you bring a bottle of water, wear a cap and sunglasses. Included in your tour is a visit to religious sites, please dress appropriately; no bare shoulders or shorts are allowed in churches.The market is closed on Easter, Christmas Eve and New Years Eve, so tour itinerary will vary during holidays. less

On this two-tank dive you’ll travel through deep submarine canyons just off San Lucas Bay and marvel at the rich marine environment on this adventure. Diving locations are just off the rocky shore and feature large boulders and pinnacles; the rocky walls attract schools of fish such as snapper and goatfish. The ledges are covered with marine invertebrates, starfish, nudibranchs and urchins. Look out for king and Cortez angelfish, Moorish idols and guinea fowl puffers. Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age, weigh less than 280 lbs. and in good physical condition. You’ll be required to complete a medical release form. You must present a valid certification card (C-Card) and must have logged a certified dive within the last year. All equipment, including professional supervision and boat transportation is included. Dive sites are chosen based on weather and sea conditions and are subject to change. less

Marseille, one of the oldest ports in the Mediterranean, is a vibrant mix of old and new, ideal for exploring on foot. Here in Marseille, France’s second largest commercial port, is where the ancient Phoenicians and Greeks used to trade. The Greeks used to bring grapes to Marseille, making it the start of the French wine industry. Take a short coach ride along the commercial port with a hostess onboard. Meet your guide at the Old Port to begin your walking tour through the oldest neighborhood in Marseille. As you stroll, hear about the rich history of the city while taking in the great views of the Panier Area, the forts at the entrance of the harbor, the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde, and the Abbey of St. Victor, along with many other interesting sites. At the Town Hall on the Old Port you’ll have free time before heading back to your ship, either with your group or at leisure, if you prefer to stay in town a bit longer. Note: Tour participation is limited. There are approximately 2 miles of walking over relatively flat terrain. less