Enjoy life on board as we sail towards the Bay of Biscay and Rouen. Our expedition team will be giving a series of interesting lectures about the areas that we will be visiting. 

This morning the MS Fram will navigate its way up the Gironde towards Rouen, the charming capital of the Normandy region. Home to William the Conqueror and the city where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake, for much of its life Rouen was second only to Paris, making it one of medieval Europe’s most prosperous cities. Much of the city’s ancient heart has remained beautifully preserved and its Gothic architecture and half-timbered buildings make for some lovely sightseeing options. 

As we sail along the French coast you may like to enjoy the views from our spacious Observation lounge, or perhaps luxuriate in our outdoor Jacuzzi. For those interested in learning more about this fascinating region there is our onboard lecture program to enjoy.  

Refined and elegant, the city of Nantes lies at the center of a region blessed with lovely parks and picturesque chateaux. Its city streets are lined with beautiful stone buildings that attest to its once glorious past and its position as one of the most historically important cities in Brittany. 

Once infamous, these waters were known to be some of the fiercest in the entire Atlantic Ocean. Today however, improved ships and more accurate weather forecasting have made the crossing somewhat easier and we shall make the most of the day on the lookout for whales, dolphins and seabirds. 

The port of La Coruña is our next stop, where the harbor facing buildings, whose glass and white frame facades have earned the place its poetic moniker of “The Crystal City,” make for a captivating night stop.

The port of Leixoes is situated across the River Douro, close to the ancient city of Porto, who’s name originates from the large vats used to store its famous port wine. Proud of its ancient roots, the city has retained much of its old charm, whilst an infusion of lively commerce has engendered it with an air of bustling conviviality. 

Once an important center in the merchandising of spices and precious stones, Lisbon’s historic heart exudes the vibrant feel of a thriving commercial center. Its cultural centre is filled with the reminders of 450 years of Arab domination and the indelible influences of the Portuguese explorers returning from the New World. 

With some of the best weather in Europe (an impressive 300 days of sunshine a year on average), the resort of Portimão lies at the mouth of the River Arade, its natural harbor and easy access onto the coast once making it a popular haunt for pirates and smugglers.  

Morocco’s largest city, Casablanca is infused with a rich heritage that attests to its European and Arabic influences. The largest port in North Africa, the city was once a refuge for the pirates and privateers who plundered shipping along this coast. 

A popular tourist destination, Agadir lies along Morocco’s southwest coast. Its mild winter climate and sandy beaches have turned it into a mecca for Europeans looking to escape the northern winters.

Arrecife has it all - mountains and volcanoes, beaches and forests, a tropical rainforest, tiny villages and breathtaking views. Add to that a stable climate and you have the perfect recipe for Ideal for rest, and relaxation. 

Our voyage ends in Las Palmas, the third largest of the Canary Islands, whose incredibly rich diversity of natural and cultural highlights has seen it recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site and a Biosphere Reserve.

*Prices are in USD per person, double occupancy, subject to withdrawal, valid for North, South and Central American residents only and subject to change without notice. Cruise fuel surcharge is not included in above rates and will be added at time of booking at a rate of $8 per cruise night for all new bookings made on or after April 1, 2011. Ship's registry: Norway

• Voyage in cabin grade of your choice on a full board basis
• Transfers between Hamburg airport and the port and from Las Palmas port to the airport. Transfers are at fixed times.
• Suites include a selection of drinks with meals on board
• Wind and water proof jacket

Not included:
• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Luggage handling
• Optional excursions & gratuities