Duration
18 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
13 Ports
12 June
Setting sail from Lisbon
The roots of historic Lisbon's fame lie in its strategic position on the edge of the Atlantic and the fact it offers one of the world's greatest natural harbours. No surprise therefore that it became the home of the world's most famous explorers such as Vasco da Gama, Magellan and Prince Henry the Navigator. Built on seven hills, we always find Lisbon to be soulful, captivating and picturesque, with architecture which reflects its status as a great port.
Don't miss
Belem Tower, dating from the 1500s, was both a fortress and the explorers’ departure point. On the façade you will find a stone rhinoceros sculpted into the tower – Europe’s first sight of this extraordinary beast!
13 June
Portugal: Porto
Blessed with a dramatic setting on the steep banks of the river Douro, Portugal’s second city is currently enjoying something of a renaissance, and is best known as the home of the country’s most famous export, port wine.
14 June
At sea
15 June
Spain: San Sebastián
The lovely little city of San Sebastián, set on the golden sands of Playa de la Concha, is a real foodie favourite, famous for its Michelin-starred restaurants and bars serving pintxos (Basque tapas). Spend some time exploring the buzzing old town, and take the funicular to the top of Monte Igueldo for magnificent views.
16-18 June
France: Bordeaux
Bordeaux sits at the centre of the world's most famous wine region, and is home to a beguiling blend of beautiful buildings, sophisticated gastronomy and high culture. It's a marvellous place to spend some time, whether it's a day sampling wines, an evening at the opera or a night on the tiles.
19 June
At sea
20 June
France: Saint-Malo
Saint-Malo grew rich off the back of maritime trade and its plundering corsairs, a seafaring heritage that is still proudly on display today. It’s great fun getting lost in the streets of the walled old town, and the famous medieval abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is an easy day-trip.
21 June
United Kingdom: Plymouth
Plymouth has a fine seafaring heritage, and it was here that the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for the New World on board the Mayflower. The city was badly damaged during the Second World War, but an ongoing regeneration project is breathing new life into the waterfront, and nearby attractions include Buckfast Abbey and Dartmoor National Park.
22 June
United Kingdom: Portsmouth
Perfectly located on a magnificent harbour on the south coast of England, Portsmouth boasts a rich maritime and naval heritage. In addition, it has a glorious sea front, and theatres, art galleries, cathedrals and museums.
23 June
Belgium: Zeebrugge (Bruges)
Zeebrugge’s main attraction is its proximity to Bruges. This beautifully preserved old town is a magical maze of winding cobbled lanes, narrow canals and gorgeous gabled houses, and it’s no wonder so many visitors throng the streets in summer.
24-25 June
Netherlands: Ijmuiden
26 June
At sea
27 June
Norway: Stavanger
Stavanger originally grew rich from its fishing industry, though these days it’s Norway’s oil boom that is powering the city’s economic growth. In spite of this modern gold rush the historic centre of Stavanger retains its charm, and the spectacular Lysefjord is within easy reach of the city.
28 June
Norway: Kristiansand
You might not expect to find a beach resort in Norway, but the sunny city of Kristiansand is where Norwegians go for a spot of fun by the seaside. There are plenty of family-friendly attractions, including a zoo, and it’s also a good base for exploring the pretty fishing villages of the south coast.
29 June
Denmark: Aarhus
Aarhus is Denmark’s second largest city, but it’s also a compact and likeable place with a burgeoning cultural scene and a large student population. The combination of superb restaurants, attractive cobbled streets and excellent museums make Aarhus an unexpected highlight of any cruise around the Baltic.
30 June
Arriving in Copenhagen
With a history that dates back to 1043, this small city is full of historic landmarks, significant buildings and interesting sights and museums. It is of course also a history that sits alongside the height of modern Danish design. It is great to explore on foot, by bicycle or by water. Be sure to visit Amalienborg Palace and to walk down the famed shopping street (Strøget). The pretty harbour of Nyhavn is a great location to stop for coffee or lunch and watch the world go by. And of course highlights include the Tivoli Gardens, and the (surprisingly) tiny statue of The Little Mermaid.
Our tip
Copenhagen boasts some of the world’s best restaurants, so plan your visit and book ahead to get a real taste of Denmark. Really – they book up fast!
Your home from home
Arguably one of the finest ships at sea returned to the ultra-luxury cruise sector in 2023, newly refurbished and enhanced.
What we love
Following extensive refurbishment, Crystal Serenity has emerged reinvigorated with contemporary, spacious accommodations and an industry-leading space to guest ratio. The array of social areas, wide-ranging entertainment and world-class dining options deliver the ultimate in luxury cruising.
Capacity | 740 Guests |
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Style | A new era of Crystal: Reduced guest capacity means nearly one staff member per guest and together with enhanced contemporary accommodations, award-winning cuisine and extensive entertainment options means this is a true luxury experience. |
Inclusions |
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Tailor-make your trip
Our recommended hotel
The Pousada de Lisboa, newly opened in May 2015, has a great location in the heart of the city and an interior to wow you.
Take a day trip from Lisbon
Visit Sintra – Roman and Moorish influences make this magical city with its fairytale palaces and extravagant villas a must.
Two nights in Copenhagen
Excellent super modern hotels abound, but our favourite for comfort and value is 71 Nyhavn, overlooking the harbour front.
Around Copenhagen
Travel out of the city to North Zealand to see the renaissance Frederiksborg Castle, and Hamlet’s Kronborg Castle at Elsinore.