Enchanting Lisbon

One of southern Europe's most captivating cities

The Portuguese capital is rich in history and culture. Before embarkation, enjoy a stroll through the classical districts of Baixa and Bairro Alto, Chiado, and Alfama, the old Islamic quarter, where there are remains of a Roman theatre and Moorish fortress. 

You can also visit the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery a little further out from the city centre. Then it’s time to board MS Spitsbergen and begin your adventure at sea.  

Pre-Programme  

If you have time to spare, why not join our optional Pre-Programme for a sightseeing tour of the city and surrounding areas. You’ll visit the impressive Monserrate Palace and its gardens before heading to Cabo da Roca – the westernmost point of mainland Portugal, continental Europe and the Eurasian land mass.

The City of Port Wine

Explore the UNESCO-listed historic centre of Porto

Our first stop is Leixões, Portugal. From here, you can see the lighthouse of Leça, the Boa Nova Chapel, and the beautiful beach at Praia Azul.    

You can take a shuttle bus to Porto – famed for its port wine and UNESCO-listed historic centre. An undulating city made for walking, you'll fall in love with the pastel houses, colourful tiled façades, street art, ornate churches and panoramic views across the Douro River.   

Here, you can stroll along the bustling promenade by the Ribeira docks, cross the Dom Luís I Bridge, snack on delicious petiscos, and enjoy wine tastings at the port cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia.

The 'Land’s End’ of Spain

Discover Fisterra – an ancient place of pilgrimage  

Fisterra owes its name to the Romans, who thought its rocky cape was the end of the world. A picturesque fishing village, many people come here to enjoy the magnificent landscapes of Cape Fisterra, which is also the end of the Camino de Santiago’s holy pilgrimage route.  

The cape is dominated by one of the most famous lighthouses in Galicia, Faro de Fisterra, which you’ll observe perched high on a cliff overlooking the ocean 

Fisterra sits in a wide and open ría – or estuary. This means it can be exposed to swell at times, making landing difficult. If that’s the case, we’ll dock at Brens, a nearby port, instead.

Galician highlights 

Explore Ferrol and get a taste of Galicia

Our next stop is Ferrol on the rugged coast of Galicia. Once a small fishing hamlet, for the past three centuries it’s been Spain’s main naval base. There are more forts, citadels and barracks here than any other harbour in the country.   

An overnight stay in Ferrol gives us two full days to explore the highlights of northern Galicia. Get to know the historic centre of Ferrol on a guided tour, walk a section of the ancient pilgrimage trails that crisscross Galicia, or join optional excursions to the UNESCO-listed towns of Lugo and Santiago de Compostela.

Sailing the Bay of Biscay

Unwind and enjoy the natural world around you

As we cruise towards Finistère in Brittany, grab your binoculars and look out for wildlife. Up to a quarter of the world’s species of whales, dolphins and porpoises have been spotted in the bay's waters. Our onboard photographer will be on hand to give tips. 

If you haven’t already done so, now would be an excellent time to explore the onboard Science Center. Or why not join the Expedition Team for lectures on different topics related to your travels. You can also make full use of the leisure facilities on MS Spitsbergen, like the panoramic sauna.

Fascinating Finistère 

The landscapes that inspired world-famous artists

Today we’ll explore Finistère – the 'Land's End' of France, and proudly Breton. We’ll use our small expedition boats to go ashore at the picturesque seaside town of Douarnenez, where we’ll see the colourful quays, sandy beaches and steep cliffs that inspired famous painters like Renoir and Boudin. You’ll visit dramatic Pointe du Raz, one of Brittany's westernmost headlands. 

If conditions prevent us from reaching Douarnenez, we'll head to Brest, a historic maritime city with medieval fortifications. Lastly, we’ll visit Pointe Saint-Mathieu, where you’ll see the ruins of an abandoned abbey.

Land’s End in Cornwall

Discover Cornwall’s quaint villages and local legends

Your cruise continues to the British Isles. Located on the southwestern peninsula of Britain, idyllic Cornwall is the next stop on our journey. Enjoy a stroll from the fishing port of Newlyn to either the lively town of Penzance or the picturesque village of Mousehole. 

If conditions allow, our expedition boats will take you to St Michael's Mount, a tidal island boasting subtropical gardens overlooked by a castle. We'll also visit mainland England’s most southwesterly point, Land’s End. This iconic landmark is a magnet for coastal birdlife and the inspiration for age-old myths and legends.

Isles of Scilly

Enjoy crystal waters, sandy beaches and natural beauty

Just 30 miles off the tip of Cornwall are the Isles of Scilly. This enchanting archipelago is home to some exquisite, small islands, that we’ll visit if conditions allow.  

Explore Tresco’s white sandy beaches and its renowned 19th century Abbey Garden, or visit St Mary’s, the largest of the Isles of Scilly. 

Or why not join a trip around the archipelago, visiting shipwreck sites and spying seals lying on the rocks. Then sail around the bird sanctuary of Annet to spot puffins and numerous other breeding seabirds.

The ‘Land’s End’ of Wales

Explore scenic coastlines and the UK's smallest city

Nestled between the Preseli Hills and the Pembrokeshire coast is the charming Welsh coastal town of Fishguard. You’ll find the original hamlet and harbour in Lower Fishguard, and there are spectacular sea views from the ‘Main Town’ above. 

A short drive away is the UK’s smallest city, St David’s. More a village than a city, it owes its city status to its 12th century cathedral. You can explore this conservation area while you’re here. 

The dramatic headland nearby is the most westerly point in Wales. You can enjoy spectacular views here along the beautiful Pembrokeshire coastal path.

Enigmatic Isle of Man

Explore this independent island kingdom

From Wales, we'll cruise up the Irish Sea to Peel on the Isle of Man, a self-governing British Crown Dependency. The imposing ruins of Peel Castle loom over the port. There's plenty to see here in the 14th century former Manx capital. 

Celtic and Viking history surround you as you wander the winding lanes of merchants’ houses and explore the castle ruins. In the House of Manannan, you’ll see a replica of Odin’s Raven, a Viking longboat that sailed here from Norway. 

You can even learn about the island’s more recent history of high-speed racing, in museums showcasing vintage bikes and cars.

Seabirds of Rathlin

Rugged nature and rich birdlife await in Rathlin

Our cruise continues to Rathlin Island, home to Northern Ireland's largest seabird colony. Look out for guillemots, kittiwakes, razorbills and fulmars. Also, be sure to listen for the rattle of the Corn Crake. 

At just six miles long and one mile wide, Rathlin is ideal for exploring by bike or on foot. Admire the unspoiled natural beauty on scenic clifftop walks and along trails. 

Enjoy a guided walk around the RSPB Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre and the working ‘upside-down’ lighthouse perched on the cliff. At the Rathlin Boathouse Visitor Centre, you'll learn about the culture and traditions of this small island community.

Stylish Glasgow (Greenock)

End your cruise in Scotland’s hip city of culture

Your expedition cruise ends in Glasgow – a cultural hot spot packed with museums, galleries and parks. In the harbour, you'll find the striking Riverside Museum, and the tall ship Glenlee beside it. 

Take this opportunity to visit the Gothic Glasgow Cathedral, see the eclectic art at Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, and discover the splendid Art Nouveau architecture of Charles Rennie Mackintosh.