Europe Cruises: Excursions

At the end of the Land’s End boat Tour (previously described), you’ll be escorted to a waiting vehicle for an approximately 15-minute non-guided drive through town to Sunset Da Giorgio’s restaurant. Its spectacular location atop the cliffs at the far end of the bay provides an unforgettable view of Land’s End, its famed arches and your ship, at anchor in the bay of Cabo San Lucas. There you’ll have ample time to enjoy a complimentary beverage, take pictures or just relax and enjoy the view. Continuous taxi shuttles will whisk you back to the pier for last-minute shopping on your own. less

Travel through the city districts of Sodermalm, Gamla Stan, Norrmalm, Ostermalm, and Djurgarden. Pass the Royal Palace, which overlooks Stockholm’s inner harbor. Fjallgatan with its magnificent view of the city is a must, as well as the enchanting medieval Old Town, “Gamla Stan” with the Royal Palace. From the historic Island of Riddarholmen, adjacent to the Old Town, you have a stunning view over the lake Malaren and the City Hall. Proceed past the Royal Dramatic Theatre along Strandvagen to the island of Djurgarden. This is full of Stockholm’s amusement and recreation centers, also great parklands, beautiful gardens, cafés and restaurants. Here, you’ll also find the Grona Lund Tivoli, the Skansen Open Air Museum and the well known Vasa Museum, housing the 17th century warship Vasa. On the island of Kungsholmen, you’ll pass the impressive City Hall, renowned for its architecture, and site of the annual Nobel Prize. Proceed south via the Western Bridge to Sodermalm before returning to your ship. Note: If traveling in a wheelchair, please call 1.866.625.1167 for assistance with these reservations. These spaces are capacity controlled. You will not be able to book this option online. There will be no inside visits conducted on this tour; there will be photo stops only. Wheelchair can be stored in luggage compartment, if foldable. less

Depart the pier in the late morning for an approximate 2 1/2-hour scenic tour that covers the main attractions within the Warnemuende/Rostock area. Drive to Rostock past the typical Eastern Block living quarters of the area. Upon arrival in Rostock’s center, you’ll see its century’s old red-brick architecture, experience the local Hanseatic ambience, pass the old ‘New Market’ with its beautiful City Hall, and St. Mary's Church – Rostock's famous landmark. Continue past ruins of the old city walls and a former STASI prison (State Security of former East Germany) before continuing into the countryside. You’ll pass by the Bad Doberan Cathedral, one of northern Germany’s largest and mightiest medieval churches that towers above the rest of the village and nearby fields. From here you’ll continue through lush countryside and small villages before returning to your ship. This is a perfect tour for guests with walking difficulties. Note: The order of the sights may vary. Most shops in Rostock will be closed on Sundays. less

Iceland is not only famous for its spectacular landscapes, history and culture - its horses have also been the subject of much praise and attention. In the earlier days, they were romantically nicknamed 'the most useful servant' being the most common subject for Icelandic poets through the ages. Tough, strong animals, they bore the brunt of a long and arduous working day. They were also the only means of transport for both people and goods. Bred for the harsh elements, in an environment where only the strong survive, the present day stock is the result of their ancestors having survived the rigors of extreme weather conditions and volcanic petulance. There is an age old law forbidding the import of horses - and any horse leaving Iceland can never return. This means the present day horses in Iceland are the same race as those of the Viking Age. Their average height is only 13 hands but they are hardy and sure footed, friendly and docile with a flowing mane. The Icelandic horse has many characteristics unique unto itself, the most obvious being its ability to perform five gaits. These gaits are the 'fet', the walk or step, the 'brokk' or trot, the 'tölt', which is a faster type of walk, the 'skeid' or the pace and the 'stökk,' or gallop. Why not try for yourself? Included is the transfer to the Ishestar riding center. You’ll put on an overall, riding helmet, boots and gloves. After a short introduction to the horses and staff, your adventurous ride starts from the Íshestar Riding Center into the lava fields surrounding Mt. Helgafell volcano, or to Lake Hvaleyrarvatn and into the beautiful surrounding area. The choice of the riding path will depend on the weather and conditions of the path. Note: This tour is not recommended for passengers with mobility problems. less