Europe Cruises: Excursions

Your walk will start at Victoria Pier in the heart of Lerwick, opposite the Market Cross. A leisurely stroll takes in the award winning, recently restored Tolbooth. This is now the headquarters of Lerwick's lifeboat station. You’ll see the unique "lodberries", once used by the town merchants for the landing and storage of goods. Climbing uphill you’ll observe a traditional method of recycling in the Shetlands, where an upturned former ferry is now the roof of a garage. You’ll pass various churches on the way to the steep, narrow, intricate web of lanes to the Town Hall, built in 1882. On the first floor, you’ll find the Shetlands' history depicted in pictorial narrative through stained glass windows. Proceed to Fort Charlotte, named after Queen Charlotte, wife of George III. The fort never saw action, but it housed a garrison throughout the Napoleonic Wars; it was later a base for the Royal Naval Reserve. It also served as the town jail and courthouse from 1837-75, and later a customs house and a coastguard station. At the end of your walking tour you may wish to stay in town to explore Lerwick's variety of small independent shops, browsing for local crafts and knitwear. 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

Board a replica of a 17th-century old Galleon which will take you on a two-hour cruise around Cartagena’s Bay. A guide will provide you with information on the general history of Cartagena and the sights. While cruising, take in a lovely view of Fort of Manzanillo located at the eastern entrance of the bay. Enjoy the sun and the cool tropical breezes as you forge ahead between the faraway island of Tierra Bomba and the Castillo Grande peninsula. Marvel at the age-old walled city of Cartagena and enjoy a refreshing drink as you get lost in the panoramic views of land and sea. Following, you’ll have a chance to enjoy a traditional folkloric show celebrating the history and culture of Cartagena. Note: There is a total walking distance of 150 yards. This tour is not wheelchair accessible. Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, sunscreen and camera. less