Overview:
Embark on a comprehensive western European adventure during the lovely fall season and indulge in rare experiences in France such as exploring the picturesque Normandy countryside, visiting significant World War II sites, and savoring the culinary delights of the Bordeaux region. You will also have the opportunity to visit the charming region of Brittany, the UNESCO-designated Mont Saint-Michel, the modern Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, the historic city of Santiago de Compostela, and the vibrant city of Porto.
Highlights:
- Visit the vibrant cities of Nice, Barcelona, and Lisbon.
- Explore the historic towns of Marseille, Valencia, and Porto.
- Admire the scenic beauty of the French Riviera, Costa Brava, and Algarve.
- Indulge in local cuisine, including French pastries, Spanish tapas, and Portuguese seafood.
- Relax and enjoy the luxury amenities of the cruise ship, including swimming pools, spa, and entertainment.
Advantages:
- Private Tour.
- The tour can start on any date that suits you.
- Top VIP Treatment.
- Enjoy a luxurious nine-night cruise on an exclusively chartered A&K expedition that features the hidden gems of France, Spain, and Portugal, all included in the package.
- Benefit from a small-ship expedition that accommodates no more than 148 guests, offering access to ports that are seldom visited by other cruise ships, such as Bordeaux and the coast of Brittany.
- Choose from a range of included A&K-led excursions in every port, catering to different activity levels and interests, including epicurean, art and architecture, and natural wonders.
- Sample some of Europe’s most celebrated wines at wine tastings held in renowned vineyards, including the UNESCO-designated Porto and Bordeaux.
- Experience a rare opportunity to retrace an ancient pilgrimage route and visit Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, where you can also enjoy tapas, folkloric music, and dance.
- Discover the beauty of Basque Country and Bilbao’s stunning Guggenheim museum, as well as a remarkable Paleolithic art cave.
- Take a step back in time as you explore the magnificent fortress of the Mont Saint-Michel.
Itinerary:
SEP 21
ARRIVAL IN LONDON, ENGLAND
Upon arriving in London, you will meet your fellow guests and the Expedition Team, before heading to Dover to board your luxurious ship in the afternoon. Later, in the evening, there will be a welcome briefing and reception on board.
SHIP NAME: ‘Le Dumont d’Urville’
View Image Gallery Deck Plan
Meals: Dinner
SEP 22
HONFLEUR, FRANCE | DISCOVER NORMANDY
Arriving in Honfleur, a charming Norman port town with a rich maritime history dating back to the 16th century, you can stroll around its narrow streets, visiting St. Catherine’s Church and the Old Port. Alternatively, you could visit the D-Day landing site of Omaha Beach, as well as the Normandy American Cemetery and Visitors Center in Colleville-sur-Mer. You might even embark on a culinary adventure in the countryside, sampling local cheeses, hard cider, and Calvados.
SHIP NAME: ‘Le Dumont d’Urville’
View Image Gallery Deck Plan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
SEP 23
SAINT-MALO | GATEWAY TO MONT SAINT-MICHEL
Upon arriving in Saint-Malo, a historic fortified port renowned for its walled battlements, idyllic beaches, and regional cuisine, you can explore the city’s market, 15th-century buildings, and Fort National. Then, visit a traditional Breton biscuit maker in Cancale and enjoy a seafood lunch. Alternatively, you could visit Mont Saint-Michel, a stunning village perched atop a tidal island, wandering through its steep cobblestone streets and climbing over 350 steps to reach its famous abbey. Or, visit the town of Dinan and its 14th-century castle, enjoying walks along the estuary, a guided oyster farm experience, and a visit to the Jacques Cartier Museum. You could also visit medieval Rennes, the capital of Brittany, to explore its turbulent history, tour its Old Town, and savor a traditional Breton lunch of crêpes.
SHIP NAME: ‘Le Dumont d’Urville’
View Image Gallery Deck Plan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
SEP 24
AT SEA | SAILING TOWARD SOUTHWEST FRANCE
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea, unwinding and indulging in the ship’s amenities while engaging in presentations by experts.
SHIP NAME: ‘Le Dumont d’Urville’
View Image Gallery Deck Plan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
SEP 25
BORDEAUX | INTOXICATING ART DE VIVRE
Bordeaux is a vibrant city that offers an exciting mix of castles, vineyards, art, and urban street life. Upon arrival, you can explore the Old Town, the 13th-century Cathedral of St. André, and the immersive digital art exhibition of the Bassins de Lumières. Alternatively, you could set out for an exclusive Bordeaux wine estate tour and tasting with privileged access to areas closed to the public. Or, visit the seaside resort town of Arcachon, experiencing its golden beaches, Belle Époque atmosphere, and freshly caught oysters. You could also opt for a nature walk through coastal Landes, home to the largest forest in Europe.
SHIP NAME: ‘Le Dumont d’Urville’
View Image Gallery Deck Plan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
SEP26
, you will arrive in Bilbao, a medieval city that has become a modern cultural hub in the Basque Country. You can explore the famous Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, take a leisurely stroll through the city, or visit Guernica, a historic Basque city with connections to the Spanish Civil War. Alternatively, you can choose to go on a hike to a cave decorated with Paleolithic art or visit the quaint fishing town of Bermeo. After lunch, you will spend a relaxing afternoon sailing along the scenic coast of Spain.
SEP27
you will explore the province of A Coruña and the city of Santiago de Compostela, the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes. You can choose to explore the city’s cathedral and Old Town, followed by lunch and a Galician folklore dance performance. Alternatively, you can take a shorter walk to Cape Finisterre, the last stop on the Camino de Santiago, followed by a visit to the medieval castle of Vimianzo. Another option is to explore Santiago’s bustling food market and restaurants and sample local tapas, empanadas, cheeses, and wines.
SEP 28
you will arrive in Porto, a charming and edgy city in Portugal. You can explore the vibrant Cais da Ribeira, visit the Stock Exchange Palace and St. Francis Church, and enjoy a port wine tasting at a famous riverside lodge. Alternatively, you can opt for a culinary tour of Porto’s central market and backstreet taverns. You can also visit the Douro Valley for a winery tour, tasting, and lunch at one of the region’s finest wine estates or see the Baroque Bom Jesus de Braga Sanctuary in historic Guimarães.
SEP29
you will arrive in Lisbon, the charismatic capital of Portugal known for its white-bleached limestone buildings and easygoing charm. You can tour the iconic Tower of Belem and Jerónimos Monastery, pausing to sample local culinary specialties along the way. Alternatively, you can drive to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its glittering palaces, or go on an excursion to the walled city of Évora. You can also learn about the region’s tile-making tradition with a hands-on experience at a local workshop.
SEP30
you will disembark and continue your post-tour extension or transfer to the airport for your return flight after breakfast.
Inclusions:
- 10-day cruise along the coastal cities of France, Spain, and Portugal
- Accommodation onboard a luxurious ship
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Wine tasting tours in Bordeaux and Porto
- Guided tours of La Rochelle, Bilbao, La Coruña, Santiago de Compostela, Aveiro, and Lisbon
- River cruise in Porto
- Fado music performance in Lisbon
- All port taxes and fees
- 24/7 support from our team
Exclusions:
- Airfare and transportation to and from the port
- Gratuities for the crew and staff onboard
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and spa treatments
Pricing Information:
Prices $12000 per person based on double occupancy
Accommodation Plan:
ARRIVE LONDON, ENGLAND: ‘Le Dumont d’Urville’
Tips and advice for travelers:
- Pack comfortable shoes for walking tours
- Bring sunscreen and a hat for protection against the sun
- Consider purchasing travel insurance
- Be prepared to try the local cuisine, which may include seafood and wine
- Inform us of any dietary restrictions or preferences
- Pack appropriate clothing for the weather conditions
Trip notes:
- The itinerary may be subject to change due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances
- The ship provides amenities such as a pool, fitness center, and entertainment activities
- Customizations such as changing the pickup time are available upon request
- Guests should arrive at the port at least 2 hours before the departure time
FAQs:
Q: Is airfare included in the price of the tour? A: No, airfare is not included in the price of the tour. However, we are happy to help you arrange flights at an additional cost.
Q: Can I customize the tour to fit my needs? A: Yes, we offer customization options to suit the needs of our travelers. Please contact us for more information.
Q: What is the cancellation policy for this tour? A: Cancellations made 90 days or more before the departure date will receive a full refund. Cancellations made between 89 and 60 days before departure will be subject to a cancellation fee of 50% of the total tour cost. Cancellations made less than 60 days before departure are non-refundable.