European Spring Explorer – From Lisbon to Dover Cruise
UNESCO treasures
Your adventure begins in the history-rich Portuguese capital of Lisbon, home to UNESCO sites such as the Belém Tower. Setting sail, you’ll head north towards Porto, where you’ll explore the tiled façades and ornate churches of its historic centre. 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 towards the British Isles, our compact ship and small expedition boats allow us to call at 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 colours of spring. And in the Channel Islands, Europe’s hidden gem, you’ll seek out vibrant wildflowers amid the spring birdsong.
Highlights
• Revel in the history and springtime splendour 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Vessel Type: Expedition
Length: 114m
Passenger Capacity: 276
Built: 2007
MS Fram is designed for sailing in polar waters, holds the highest safety standards and is the perfect size for optimum nautical manoeuverability and guests' comfort. With space for only 276 guests, you are sure to get to know many of your fellow travellers. You will share stunning sights and memories of a lifetime long after returning home. The Norwegian word Fram means ‘forward’ – lifting expectations of the voyage at hand.
MS Fram was built in 2007 with one mission in mind - to bring her guests closer to nature, wildlife and unforgettable experiences. As well as offering numerous lounges in which to relax, our more active guests can use our well-equipped gym. Meanwhile, on deck, our Jacuzzis guarantee you surreal memories when passing the towering icebergs of Antarctica or Greenland.
Inclusions
HX Expedition voyages include
• Voyage on board in selected cabin category
• On board lectures
• Daily expeditions and activities such as hikes, community visits, talks and more
• Full board dining, including breakfast, lunch and dinner with house wine and beer
• Wine, beer, spirits and cocktails available across the day and evening
• All-day coffee, tea & soft drinks
• Free Wi-Fi
• Gratuities
• Our interactive science programme, Science Centre and activities both on and off the ships
• Access to sauna, hot tubs, fitness room and more
• Professional photos from the onboard photographer
• Opportunities to engage with and support local communities and environmental initiatives through Hurtigruten
Foundation.
• Take home expedition jacket and reusable water bottle
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you
Coastal Express include
• Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) from Norway's Coastal Kitchen
• Norwegian- and English-speaking Coastal Experience Team on board
• Engaging onboard activities and lectures:
• Onboard lectures and presentations on Norway’s history, biology, geography, geology, and culture
• Introductory photo presentation, camera adjustment and tips and tricks, photo and film footage from the voyage
• A welcome event, and daily gatherings to recap the day and prepare for the day to come
• Presentations about the ports we visit
• Presentation of excursion programmes
• Point of interest presentations out on deck
• Captain’s dinner and a farewell event
Exclusions
• International and domestic flights unless otherwise stated
• Passport and visa costs where applicable
• Travel insurance
• Transfers unless otherwise stated
• Optional Excursions
• Pre and Post voyage accommodation
• Beverages on board unless otherwise stated (Premium drinks (top shelf spirits, vintage wines, champagne, etc.)
• Meals while ashore
• Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area
• Some specialist excursions and experiences with limited capacity
• Fine dining in our Lindstrøm restaurant
• For those who want to set sail in style for a little bit extra, our Expedition Suites offer a complimentary bottle of champagne, unlimited access to our Lindstrøm fine dining restaurant, laundry and turn-down service and more.
Notes
• All planned activities are subject to weather conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet your entry and boarding requirements
Expedition
Our Associates Include
