European Spring Explorer—From Lisbon to Dover
Cruise Overview
Europe Cruise | European Spring Explorer—From Lisbon to Dover
Revel in the history and springtime splendor of Europe’s western fringes on this eight-day expedition cruise from Lisbon to Dover.
Discover some of the Iberian Peninsula’s most iconic UNESCO sites as you visit historic Porto and Ferrol—the gateway to Santiago de Compostela.
Head off the beaten track aboard small expedition boats to discover the Isles of Scilly and the Channel Islands in bloom, exploring lush gardens and rugged coastlines.
UNESCO treasures
Your adventure begins in the history-rich Portuguese capital of Lisbon, which is home to UNESCO sites such as the Belém Tower. Setting sail, you’ll head north toward Porto, where you’ll explore the tiled façades and ornate churches of its historic center. Continuing to Ferrol, Spain’s 18th-century port city, you can join an excursion to the medieval pilgrimage city of Santiago de Compostela.
Delights of spring
Heading toward the British Isles, our compact ship and small expedition boats allow us to visit breathtaking archipelagos on the way. Turquoise waters and white sands await you in the Isles of Scilly. Explore charming villages and picturesque coastlines, and soak up the kaleidoscopic colors of spring. And in the Channel Islands, Europe’s hidden gem, you’ll seek out vibrant wildflowers amid the spring birdsong.
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Legendary Lisbon
Day 1
Legendary Lisbon
Set out from this enchanting city
The Portuguese capital is rich in history and culture. Take 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 theater and a Moorish fortress. A bit outside the city center, you can visit the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage sites of Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery before you set sail.
MS Fram awaits you in the harbor. After being welcomed aboard, settle into your cabin and begin your adventure at sea.
With so much to see in and around Lisbon, consider arriving early and joining one of our optional Pre-Programs.
Charming Porto (Leixões)
Day 2
Charming Porto (Leixões)
Explore the UNESCO-listed historic center 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 of Praia Azul.
You can take a shuttle bus to Porto, which is famed for its port wine and UNESCO-listed historic center. It’s an undulating city made for walking where you'll fall in love with the pastel houses, colorful 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.
Galician Highlights
Day 3
Galician Highlights
S****ee Galicia's heritage in Ferrol
As we enter the Ria of Ferrol, admire the imposing forts of La Palma and San Felipe, which sit on either side of the headland, protecting the city within.
Ferrol is one of Spain’s best-preserved 18th century port cities. While you’re here, criss-cross Barrio de la Magdalena's grid of streets and explore the city’s maritime museums.
El Camino Inglés, one of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes, starts in Ferrol. You may also be able to join an excursion to Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Christian sites in the world.
At Sea
Day 4
At Sea
Relax at sea and prepare for the adventures ahead
As we say goodbye to the Iberian Peninsula, MS Fram follows in the wake of Roman and Medieval traders as she heads for the springtime splendor of northern Europe.
This is the perfect opportunity to make the most of your ship’s onboard comforts. Relax in the hot tubs or panoramic sauna and unwind in our Explorer Lounge & Bar. Look out for dolphins out on deck or join your Expedition Team for a talk or workshop, and discover more in the Science Center.
Spring in the Isles of Scilly
Day 5
Spring in the Isles of Scilly
Enjoy crystal-clear 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 with crystal clear waters, pristine beaches, and stunning natural beauty. We’ll anchor the ship here and head ashore aboard local boats.
If conditions allow, we’ll split our time here. You can explore Tresco’s white sandy beaches and the spectacular 19th-century Abbey Gardens, which will be awash with the vibrant colors of spring. We also hope to visit St. Mary’s, the largest of the isles. Wander through the charming streets of Hugh Town, or follow the coastal paths to discover dramatic seascapes and rocky coves. Perhaps you may also like to join a boat trip around the archipelago to scout for seals and breeding seabirds.
The Channel Islands
Days 6–7
The Channel Islands
Discover a hidden gem on the edge of Europe
Lying between France and mainland Britain, the Channel Islands are a captivating archipelago with intriguing history and a landscape of unspoiled beaches, coastal castles, and lush countryside.
If conditions allow, we’ll anchor off Guernsey, the “Island of Flowers,” and take our small expedition boats toward St. Peter Port Harbor, passing the 13th-century Castle Cornet, which stands guard on the headland.
We also plan to visit Alderney, where you’ll join your Expedition Team for a guided walk, seeking out vibrant wildflowers amid the spring birdsong.
Disembark in Dover
Day 8
Disembark in Dover
Say farewell by the renowned white cliffs
The sight of the White Cliffs of Dover signals the end of this spring expedition cruise.
As we sail into Dover with the iconic cliffs coming into view, we’ll dock at the harbor, and then it’s time to say a fond farewell to MS Fram and to all those who have made your expedition cruise such a memorable experience.
What's included
Expedition Cruise
- A stay in a cabin of your choice
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws; excludes premium drinks)
- All day coffee, tea, and soft drinks
- Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
- A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
- A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX gear
- Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
- Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note that streaming is not supported.
- Use of sauna, hot tubs, fitness room, lounges, and more
- Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX (though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated).
- Range of included activities
Onboard Activities
- In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
- Full access to the ship’s Science Center
- The Citizen Science Program allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
- An onboard professional photographer will give tips and tricks for taking the best landscape and wildlife photos
- Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings
Landing Activities
- Escorted landing with small expedition boats
- Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
- Expedition photographers on hand to assist you
Notes
- All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
- Excursions and activities are subject to change
- Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
- Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight stay might be needed (not included)
What's not included
International flights
Depending on when your flight arrives, an additional overnight stay might be needed (not included).
Travel insurance
Luggage handling
Optional shore excursions with our local partners
Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team
Special offers
Expedition exclusive cost savings and rare opportunities.
* Certain offers may not be combinable, up to two savings opportunities except where noted otherwise
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