Europe Cruises: Excursions

Visit the world-famous caves known for their delicately ramified dripstone formations, enjoy some free time at the quaint fishing village of Porto Cristo and learn how the famous Majorca pearls are made. You’ll start with a scenic drive towards the east and continuing past the villages of Algaida, Montuiri, Villafranca and Manacor. Some of these villages are known for the production of man made pearls and you’ll stop in one of them to visit one of the famous pearl factories. Situated near Porto Cristo are the Caves of Hams, which will be your next destination. The incomparable beauty of the caves is heightened by the artistic lighting created by Lorenzo Caldentey, son of the discoverer. Inside the caves there are several lakes and on the largest of all, the 'Sea of Venice', there are daily performances of the show 'Magical Mozart', in special tribute to the famous composer. Leaving the caves a short drive takes you to Porto Cristo, where you’ll have some free time to walk around this small village or relax in a cafe and simply people watch. Note: This tour involves approximately 1 mile of walking and 100 steps in the caves. less

Board your local boat (caique) from the old port of Santorini for a 15-minute trip up to Nea Kameni. En route, admire the volcanic shores with the peculiar shape formations of the black volcanic rocks and the white pumice. After disembarking, a steep and fast-paced 30-minute (3/4-mile) hike on rocky and gravel terrain takes you to the crater of the still active volcano. During your walk up an ascending path, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the lava fragments and the volcanic rock formations. Once you’ve reached the crater you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the view of Santorini Island and the amazing cliffs of the caldera. Then you start your descent back to the boat. Finally you’ll sail towards the thermal springs of Palea Kameni, with its green sulfur warm waters and temperatures that reach 37° C (98° F). Here you’ll have the opportunity to jump off the boat and swim to the springs (weather permitting). Note: The volcano’s hiking area is a very steep lava field with loose rock and uneven terrain. There is no shade; we recommend that you wear appropriate sun protection and footwear. If you wish to swim, please bring your swimsuit, a towel and a change of clothes. The changing facilities on the boat are limited. You must be a strong swimmer as the waters are deep and the current is strong. There are no lifeguards on the boat or the island. The sulfur water may stain your clothes. The sea water is cold; however the springs are very warm. Tour participation is limited. Temperatures can reach extreme highs during summer months; we recommend that you drink a lot of water and use suitable sun protection. This tour ends at the tender pier and you have a choice of returning to your ship or purchasing a cable car ticket to get to Fira town. less

On your visit to Marseille, you’ll see the entrance of the old port guarded by the two fortresses: Saint John and Saint Nicolas. Drive to the Basilica Notre Dame de la Garde for a very interesting visit where you’ll discover the city of Marseille. In Avignon, city of art and culture, the metropolis of the Vaucluse region which spreads along the banks of the Rhone River, see the famous Pont d’Avignon with only four of its arches remaining. Avignon was a small but prosperous town when its destiny changed in the early 14th century with the exile of the Popes to France, leading to a century of brilliance. It is surrounded by ramparts and dominated by the Doms Rock which is crowned by the magnificent Cathedral and Palace of the Popes. Enjoy some free time for lunch and shopping on your own. Note: Tour involves walking for approximately 3 hours on uneven ground and cobblestone, with a few steps in Avignon. Driving time between Marseille and Avignon is approximately 1 1/2 hours long. This tour is not recommended for guests who are wheelchair confined. Public restrooms are available in Avignon. less

The Ottomans and Byzantines ruled this city for centuries, and testament to these great empires stand the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, opposite each other in Sultanahmet Square. You’ll visit these two impressive landmarks of Istanbul as well as the Basilica Cistern and the Grand Bazaar. Start with a visit to one of the most recognized landmarks in the world, the Mosque of Sultan Ahmet, better known as the Blue Mosque because of the over 21,000 blue-green Iznik tiles used for its interior decoration. The six minarets and the layout of the domes and semi-domes create a unique exterior. From here, continue to the Hippodrome, to see the remains of what was once the scene for political struggles and uprisings in the capital city of the Byzantine Empire. Visit the St. Sophia Museum, also known as Hagia Sophia, and a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. It served as a church for hundreds of years during the Byzantine Empire and was converted to a Mosque when the city was conquered by the Ottomans in 1453. Here, you’ll find evidence of both. Continue to the great Byzantine Basilica Cistern, located across from Hagia Sophia. You might think that having so many breathtaking sites to visit above ground leaves no need to go under. But you’ll soon discover why this visit is worth every minute. Next stop is the Grand Bazaar. The Bazaar is composed of two sections; the covered part and the modern part. The covered part is surrounded by a wall which can be entered through several gates. The maze of lanes are one of the greatest sights in the city, where various trades such as carpets, jewelry, leather goods, silver, souvenirs, textiles and antiques are segregated into particular sections of the bazaar. You’ll have a short time to experience the exotic atmosphere of the covered part. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the open and modern section of the Grand Bazaar which offers the best artworks and most reliable shopping. During your time around the Grand Bazaar, you’ll attend a presentation on the unique art of Turkish carpets with additional time to shop at the handicraft store while enjoying complimentary refreshments. You’ll also have free time for lunch during the tour and you’ll find many choices around the area (at your own expense). Note: Tour is not available for the Norwegian Spirit August 3rd, 2013 sailing, or for day one of the Norwegian Jade winter sailings. Expect differences in tour durations due to traffic conditions. Participants are required to remove their shoes in order to enter the mosque and are provided with an environmentally friendly bag to store them. As this tour visits a place of worship, please dress respectfully: no bare shoulders or exposed knees. Should the Blue Mosque be closed to visitors due to religious festivities, you’ll visit another historical mosque. On Sundays, the Grand Bazaar closes and only the shops of the outer bazaar remain open, therefore the visit to the Grand Bazaar may be replaced with the Spice Bazaar. The "Gallery" section of St. Sophia and "Harem" section of Topkapı Palace are not included, however may be visited during free time. There is approximately 1 1/2 miles of walking over uneven surfaces and some inclines and steps on this tour. This tour will be subject to national and religious festive days due to the closure of the sites and venues during the month of Ramadan from July 9th, 2013 through August 7th, 2013, including the Festival Period of Ramadan from August 8th, 2013 to August 10th, 2013. less

Enjoy the fun and adventure of Corfu’s countryside while traveling over stony trails through the olive groves. You’ll catch glimpses of the sparkling Ionian Sea and beautiful green hills and take a look at the traditional way of life led by many of the local people. After picking up your 4 x 4 vehicle at the pier, your guide will lead you up the main coastal road to the northeast of the island. You’ll then take small country roads to quaint villages, stopping at one of the prettiest traditional and oldest villages of the island to take in the views. Then take an uphill narrow winding road (with 27 zigzag turns) to the Sokraki where you’ll stop once more to admire one of the most fantastic panoramic views. Following a dusty road, you’ll arrive at Troumbetta. You’ll also pass through other picturesque sites and stop at Bella Vista to take in some more spectacular views and enjoy some refreshments and Greek snacks. You’ll find it difficult to decide which village is the prettiest as all will leave you with incredible pictures and memories. At the end of the tour you’ll visit a traditional Koum Kouat distillery. The Koum Kouat citrus fruit, a variety which only grows in Corfu, is made into one of the island's most famous products - a liqueur with the same name, plus fruit-preserved sweets. You’ll be able to view a small exhibition of antique distillery equipment, sample the produce and of course purchase local liquors. Note: Vehicles are all manual transmission and self-driven. Driver must be experienced with manual transmission and be able to start the vehicle on an incline or off road situation. There is no narration while driving; your leader/guide will give explanations at the different stops. A local guide will lead the caravan. If you would like a personal driver for the vehicle, please visit the Shore Excursion Desk onboard to make arrangements at an additional cost. Four persons can be accommodated per vehicle, but we recommend two passengers per vehicle as the back seats are not comfortable for some adults. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and must provide a valid driver’s license. Even though this tour has limited participation, a minimum number of participants is required to operate. Not recommended for guests with neck, back or hip problems as well as physical limitations. Temperatures can reach extreme highs during summer months; we recommend that you drink a lot of water, use suitable sun protection and dress in layers. less

Hop in your jeep and drive through the rugged terrain of Mykonos to the old lighthouse. Continue your drive to the Fragma and to Agios Ioannis where you can see the island of Delos from a distance. Following the road to Kalo Livadi, you’ll admire the great view of rugged rocks to the left and right. Arriving at Kalafatis Beach, you’ll be given free time to swim in the crystalline waters of the Aegean; umbrellas, sun beds and water sport facilities are available on the beach at your own expense. As you explore the hidden corners of Mykonos Island you’ll pass by Monastiri before arriving at Ano Mera Village. Here you’ll enjoy some snacks and refreshments at the peaceful square of the village before taking the road back to your ship. Note: The vehicles are manual transmission and self-driven. Driver must be experienced with manual transmission and be able to start the vehicle on an incline or off road situation. There is no narration while driving; your leader/guide will give explanations at the different stops. If you would like a personal driver for the vehicle, please visit the Shore Excursion Desk on board to make arrangements for an additional cost. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and must provide a valid driver’s license. Four persons can be accommodated per vehicle, but we recommend two persons per vehicle, as the back seats are not comfortable for some adults. Even though this tour has limited participation, a minimum number of participants is required to operate. Not recommended for guests with neck, back or hip problems as well as physical limitations. If you plan to swim at the beach, please remember to wear your swimsuit, and bring a towel and sun protection. No changing facilities or showers are available. Swimming will only be possible from June through September. Temperatures can reach extreme highs during summer months; we recommend that you drink a lot of water, use suitable sun protection and dress in layers. In case weather is not permitting, the beach stop will be replaced with free time in Mykonos town at the end of the tour. This tour is only available from June through August. less