European Spring Explorer—From Lisbon to Dover

IMPORTANT: NOT A FREE EVENT. COST WILL VARY DEPENDING ON FACTORS SUCH AS DAY OF BOOKING AND CABIN TYPE. RSVPing ON MEETUP DOES NOT GUARANTEE YOU A SPOT ON THE CRUISE. IN ORDER TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE, YOU WILL NEED TO REACH OUT TO ME AT TABITHA.SULLIVAN@CRUISEPLANNERS.COM OR (206) 746-2395 SO I CAN FIND THE BEST DEALS AND BOOK FOR YOU (ALSO, BLACK FRIDAY DEALS ARE HAPPENING RIGHT NOW. IT’S POSSIBLE FOR YOU TO SAVE UP TO 40% IF I BOOK YOU BY DEC 3RD!!!)

IF THESE DATES DON’T WORK FOR YOU, LET ME KNOW, AND I CAN PROVIDE OTHER OPTIONS.

Overview from the Cruise Line:

Europe
A World Within a Continent
Countless cultures, cuisines, histories and landscapes come together in this extraordinary part of the world. Europe cruises with HX take your clients on a voyage around the coastlines of France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and the Iberian Peninsula, exploring grand imperial port cities, historic harbours and charming fishing villages. Alongside human history and cultural marvels, enchanting natural beauty abounds, from sublime windswept cliffs and looming headlands to white, sandy beaches and quiet, hidden coves.

HX’s European cruises offer curated experiences focused on local culture, nature, and wildlife, providing guests with a deeper understanding of each region.

Discover the many coastal paths and nature trails, see spectacular coastal scenery with dramatic cliffs, headlands and bays, and encounter islands and villages.

Marvel at the freshwater canals, pristine fjords, deep oceans, and expansive archipelagos. Spot for seabirds and seals, or swim in crystal-clear water.

A HX cruise includes all from daily excursions to our Science Centre, meals, gratuities, drinks and more

European Spring Explorer—From Lisbon to Dover

Day 1
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 theatre and Moorish fortress. A bit outside the city centre, 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 harbour. After being welcomed aboard, settle into your cabin and begin your adventure at sea.
With so much to see in and around Lisbon, why not arrive early and join one of our optional Pre-Programmes

Day 2
Porto (Leixões)
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 of 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.

Day 3
Galician highlights
See Galicia's heritage in Ferrol
As we enter the ria of Ferrol, admire the imposing forts of La Palma and San Felipe that 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.

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 splendour 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 Centre.

Day 5
Spring in the 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 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 colours 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, scouting for seals and breeding seabirds.

Day 6 and 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 unspoilt beaches, coastal castles and lush countryside.

If conditions allow, we’ll anchor off Guernsey, the ‘Island of Flowers’, and take our small expedition boats towards St Peter Port Harbour, 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.

Day 8
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 harbour, 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