Europe Cruises: Excursions

Drive in a Super 4 x 4 vehicle over the lava plateau of Hellisheidi onto the southern coastal lowlands, to the greenhouse village of Hveragerdi. Your journey takes you through some of the prettiest countryside in Iceland, with the green fields, farms and villages so characteristic of the South. Make a short stop at Hvolsvollur before continuing towards the magical land of Thorsmork. The route changes as you leave behind the asphalt of the main road and head inland. You’ll have to cross several brooks and rivers thus experiencing the wilderness at its best. A stop at a glacier fed lagoon makes you realize how close you are to the surrounding glaciers, as their icy tongues appear from the hills above. In this desert of ice and rock, the valley of Thorsmork marks a clear contrast with its vegetation and grass covered Rhyolite Mountains. Leaving the Glacier Lagoon, you'll drive through the beautiful landscape of the valley of Thorsmork before stopping for lunch. Before the barbecue feast, you'll explore a little of the area on foot, hiking along a mountain path. Those who are not able to walk have the option to stay behind and enjoy the scenery. After this exhilarating experience, you’ll head back to Reykjavik, making one last stop at the waterfall Seljalandsfoss. Here you’ll have the opportunity to walk behind the waterfall itself. Note: This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility problems. less

Spend the day exploring the many treasures the village of Orvieto unveils at every turn. During your scenic drive to Orvieto in Umbria, you’ll pass by several small villages scattered over the hills boasting Medieval castles and churches. Upon arrival in Orvieto, you’ll take the cable car to reach the center. Orvieto goes back to the 9th century B.C. and the Etruscan civilization. Perched on a plateau atop huge cliffs, this town boasts of one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Italy. Its construction started in 1263 under the pontificate of Urbano IV who wanted to consecrate the so-called ‘miracle of the blood’. But your attention is immediately drawn by the wonderful Gothic facade of this cathedral. Inside, some chapels are structured with cross vaults, some of which are embellished by very important frescos painted by Fra Giovanni and by Luca Signorelli. In the transept you can admire a Pity from the 16th century. After the cathedral’s visit, your guide will lead you on a walking tour through the narrow streets of this beautiful city and point out other things of interest that you could do during your leisure time. You’ll then have about 2 1/2 hours of free time to further explore Orvieto. During your free time, you might want to visit the Underground Passages, the Museum of Archeology, or St. Patrick's well, built in the early 16th Century by Pope Clement VII, an architectural marvel. If exploring is not your thing, you might opt to relax in the Piazza del Duomo over lunch, an ice cream or a glass of the famous local wine with some cheese and salami. What about doing some shopping? Orvieto is famous for its ceramics, glass, leather and olive wood work, in addition to the many local goods produced in the area, such as olive oil or the famous wine, Orvieto Classico. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll surely have a wonderful day. Note: You’ll need to navigate through cobblestone streets, uneven and inclined terrain on this tour with approximately 1 1/2 to 2 miles of walking and approximately 15 to 20 steps to negotiate at the Duomo. AVAILABLE FOR ALL NORWEGIAN SPIRIT SAILINGS AND ON BARCELONA TO BARCELONA NORWEGIAN EPIC SAILINGS ONLY. less

Discover one of the best kept secrets in the world of photography – Iceland! Whether you consider yourself a keen amateur or a dedicated professional, there is no doubt that Iceland’s fascinating photographic terrain will set your pulse racing. If you are an enthusiastic nature and landscape photographer, you know that there are precious few places left in the world that offer a dramatic and accessible landscape that has not been over exposed. Iceland is a visually exciting place for those photographers seeking inspiration for a new and challenging location to explore. You’ll be able to take in some of the best photographic locations in the region. Through your photo lens, discover wonderful panoramic views over vast lava fields, hot springs, mountain ranges, lakes, unspoiled nature, bird life and picturesque fishing villages. Enjoy a buffet lunch at the famous Blue Lagoon complex. Note: Participants must be 16 years of age and be in good health. Most venues are not wheelchair accessible. Guests must be able to step in and out of the vehicle rather quickly to take advantage of the photographic opportunities. This is a special interest tour for photography enthusiasts - no equipment is provided. less

This touring option allows you complete freedom to maximize your time and explore the places that really interest you. Discover in comfort and at your own pace with the convenience of a private vehicle, driver and English speaking guide (other languages available on request) at your disposal. You set your pace and itinerary, just tell us where you want to go! Note: Entrance, parking fees and meals are not included in order to allow you complete freedom of choice. Bring local currency, as credit cards may not be accepted everywhere. Extra hours available at an additional cost. Guests who are planning to visit the religious sites during free time or on tour, please dress appropriately; no bare shoulders or shorts are allowed. The level of exertion on this tour is completely up to you. Prices are per vehicle and not per person, so only one person in the party needs to book this tour. 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

This touring option allows you complete freedom to maximize your time and explore the places that really interest you. Discover in comfort and at your own pace with the convenience of a private vehicle, driver and English speaking guide (other languages available on request) at your disposal. You set your pace and itinerary, just tell us where you want to go! Note: Entrance, parking fees and meals are not included, in order to allow you complete freedom of choice. Bring local currency, as credit cards may not be accepted everywhere. Extra hours available at an additional cost. Guests who are planning to visit the religious sites during free time or on tour, please dress appropriately; no bare shoulders or shorts are allowed in churches. The level of exertion on this tour is completely up to you. Prices are per vehicle and not per person, so only one person in the party needs to book this tour. Tour only available for Norwegian Jade. less