Holland America Line Norwegian fjords: 28 nights from Rotterdam with Nieuw Statendam
Oct 2, 2027

Casablanca

Casablanca is the cosmopolitan, industrial and economic heart of Morocco and represents a developing Nation.

Casablanca is where money was made, where industry is, where art galleries show the best contemporary art and where stylists have a window on the world. The old pirate lair is projected into the future, showing its riches and successes. Casablanca is full of contradictions. It is home to suffocating traffic jams, social problems and slums, as well as wide avenues, well-kept public parks, fountains and a surprising colonial architecture. Rich Hispano-Moresque, Art Deco and modernist gems to be discovered in the city center are the modernist symbol of Casablanca, like the huge and incredibly ornate Hassan II Mosque.

Agadir

Splendid beaches, large avenues with palm trees, excellent resort hotels, all kinds of sports activities are the main features of Agadir. It has an excellent covered souk, which sells local specialties. The fish market is worth a visit to see the people at work. Day trips to the desert are a popular choice for cruises that stop here.

Known for its beautiful beaches and thriving tourism industry, Agadir is also an important gateway to the inland attractions of the Sahara desert. It presents an interesting combination of old and new: a long Moroccan tradition and culture combined with modern services offer a lively mix for the cruise passenger.

Arrecife

The capital of Lanzarote Island, in Canary Island, Arrecife was originally a small fishing village that now primarily relies on tourism. Lanzarote is one of the most wild and natural islands of the Canary and is of volcanic origin. Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote, since the second half of the 19th century, is now the administrative and commercial center of the island.

Arrecife is a lively and cosmopolitan city full of culture and history, located on the eastern-central coast of the island. Initially known as a small fishing village in the 15th century, the area continued to grow until it became the capital of the island in 1852. Today, it is known as a wonderful holiday and shopping paradise. The city presents itself to travelers as a peaceful, cheerful and clean town. In its harbor, which is an area of intense commercial activity, two large fortresses, San Gabriel and San Jose, stand as reminders of the constant pirate attacks.

Other interesting monuments include the Castle of San Gabriel, built offshore and connected to the city by drawbridge, the San Juan Castle, and the Castillo del Hambre. Inside the Castello del Hambre, there is the international Museum of Contemporary Art, which exhibits works by the great artist Cesar Manrique.

The center of Arrecife is surrounded by some of the city’s best tourist attractions, such as the Parish of San Ginés Obispo and the shopping district of Calle Real. Heading north along the Coast, you will find the city’s ports: Puerto Naos, a fishing port, and the main port called Puerto de los Marmoles, the third most important port in the Canary Islands.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of Tenerife, is located in the north-east of the island. Its pleasent climate and commercial areas make the city the perfect place for walking and enjoying long hours of relaxation. There are lots of things to visit in the city such as its avenues, parks and Henry Moore's most famous sculptures, hidden treasures and historic buildings such as the Church of the Conception or the Carta Palace.

Do not miss the opportunity to taste local cuisine. Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a beautiful port located in Tenerife, the largest of the western islands of the Canary Islands archipelago. In the area around the port, there are wide avenues, squares, exotic green areas and some examples of modern architecture. At the heart of the city, near the sea, there is Plaza de España, built in the mid-20th century and once the site of the San Cristobal Castle (16th century).

The oldest part of the city is rich in religious monuments. The construction of the Church of San Francisco, one of the best examples of the Baroque style, began in the 17th century. The Church of Pilar, dated back to the 18th century, stands on the remains of an ancient temple. The city has also some green areas filled with exotic tree species. The Garcia Sanabria Park houses an important outdoor Sculpture Museum.

Another not to be missed place is the Maritime Park, a recreational area designed by architect César Manrique and located in the old Canary Islands commercial basin. Also known as the Black Castle, this circular defensive bastion was built in the first half of the 17th century with volcanic stones. From a naturalistic point of view, Tenerife is an island of contrasting landscapes. The wide beaches of fine sand in the south of the island give way to lush vegetation in the north.

Every year, the outfits of the island's capital prepare to host Carnival, declared International Tourist Interest and one of the most spectacular in Spain. Its privileged location makes it possible to enjoy beautiful beaches such as Las Teresitas, get to know the city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or visit Teide National Park, the symbol of the island.

Las Palmas

Located in the Atlantic Ocean 200 km from the African Coast, Gran Canaria has one of the most beautiful tropical landscapes. The island has wide and beautiful golden sand beaches, endless dunes, large indentations with vegetation and charming villages. In this majestic area, you can visit towns that has all kinds of services and amenities, such as in Las Palmas, with large shopping areas and a lively nightlife. You will have the opportunity to practice any water sport: diving, surfing and windsurfing.

Conversely, those who prefer other sports will have the opportunity to go hiking, climbing, or cycling. The island is also an ideal destination for golf lovers, as it has a wide range of excellent courses. Gran Canaria has excellent cuisine and the variety of fun traditional festivals, and theme parks. In short, it is an ideal place for a great island vacation.

Lisbon

Perched on steep slopes overlooking the Tagus River, Lisbon offers all the pleasures you'd expect from Portugal's main attraction.

The capital of Portugal, Lisbon (in Portuguese Lisboa) has experienced a great rebirth in recent years, with a lively and flourishing contemporary culture. Perched on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is one of the rare European cities that face the ocean and use water as an element that defines the city. Lisbon enchants travelers with its white limestone buildings, intimate alleys and an ancient charm that makes it a popular destination all year round.

Dover

Just 21 miles from the European mainland (the French cliffs are visible on a clear day), it is the main passage through the English Channel.

History of Dover

Enveloped by the passage of time, Dover stands as a monumental beacon of Britain's heritage. Situated at the closest point to continental Europe, it has served as the gateway to England for centuries. The iconic White Cliffs of Dover, symbolic of hope and freedom, have witnessed the ebb and flow of conquerors, traders, and travelers. Central to its historical narrative is Dover Castle, known as the "Key to England," boasting an extensive history dating back to the Iron Age and later fortified by the Romans and Normans. This town is not just a witness but a storyteller of England's tumultuous history.

Climate in Dover

Dover's climate is characterized by its mildness, a trait particularly appealing to those seeking to escape extreme weather conditions. Summers are pleasantly warm without being oppressively hot, with average temperatures hovering around 20°C (68°F), making it an ideal time for exploring. Winters are moderate, with temperatures rarely falling below freezing. This temperate climate ensures that Dover can be enjoyed year-round, offering a comfortable environment for all its visitors.

Attractions and Places to Visit

Dover is not just a historical gem but also a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural sites. Beyond the White Cliffs, Dover Castle stands as a formidable reminder of the past, offering breathtaking views and a deep dive into history. The Secret Wartime Tunnels weave beneath the castle, offering an immersive experience into WWII strategies. For nature lovers, the Samphire Hoe Country Park, created from the material dug to build the Channel Tunnel, offers serene walks and stunning vistas. Each site in Dover tells its own unique story, inviting exploration and discovery.

Local Cuisine and Specialty Products

The culinary landscape of Dover is as rich and varied as its history. Known for its fresh seafood, the town boasts dishes like Dover sole, celebrated worldwide for its delicate taste. Local pubs and restaurants also offer traditional English fare, from hearty stews to the classic fish and chips, often with a contemporary twist. Regional produce, like Kentish apples and artisanal cheeses, add to the gastronomic experience, making Dover a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Concluding Remarks: Embark on a Cruise from Dover

Embarking on a cruise from Dover is not just a journey; it's an adventure steeped in history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. This port, renowned for its strategic importance and breathtaking views, serves as the perfect gateway to exploring the British Isles and beyond. With its convenient location, temperate climate, and rich cultural tapestry, Dover invites cruisers to begin their voyage in a city that promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you're drawn by the call of history, the allure of gastronomy, or the simple joy of scenic landscapes, Dover is a destination that transcends expectations, making it an ideal starting point for your next cruise adventure.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam has a booming energy, with an excellent nightlife, a multicultural community, a gritty arts scene and an offer of excellent museums.

Rotterdam, the Netherlands' 'second city', was heavily bombed during the Second World War and spent decades before reconstruction. You won't find the classic medieval Dutch architecture here – it was swept away along with the other debris and debris of war. In its place is an architectural aesthetic that is unique in Europe, a perpetually progressive approach to construction that is clearly a result of the city's post-war, postmodern philosophy. In fact, Rotterdam is known as a city of architecture. In the few square kilometers of the city center you have a complete overview of what the twentieth century produced in terms of modern architecture.

Alesund

It is a seaport, and it is known for its extraordinary concentration of Art Nouveau architecture which will make you discover a great variety of fanciful ornaments on the fronts of the buildings. Climb the 418 steps to the top of Mount Aksla and you will be rewarded with an unforgettable panorama.

Ålesund is a natural starting point for an active holiday with a beautiful coastline and cliffs, deep valleys, fjords and spectacular mountains. It is also a great place for children, offering a series of exciting experiences for the whole family, from seeing the fish and penguins at the Atlanterhavsparken aquarium, to the exciting Barnas Lekeland Children's Playland, to travelling back in time at the open-air Sunnmøre Museum or the Nouveau Art Centre.

Andalsnes

Trondheim

Norwegian Fjords and Arctic Wonders from Trondheim!

Set sail on a captivating cruise from Trondheim, Norway, a historic city nestled at the mouth of the Nidelva River. Known for its colorful wooden houses, medieval Nidaros Cathedral, and vibrant cultural scene, Trondheim offers a picturesque departure point for exploring the stunning Norwegian fjords and the Arctic coastline. Experience its unique blend of history and natural beauty before embarking on a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable discoveries at sea.

Leknes

Tromsoe

Arctic Explorations from Tromsø!

Embark on an extraordinary polar adventure from Tromsø, Norway, the "Gateway to the Arctic," nestled amidst stunning fjords and dramatic mountains. This vibrant city, known for its Northern Lights and midnight sun, offers an unparalleled departure point for exploring the Arctic wilderness. Prepare for a cruise filled with majestic landscapes, unique wildlife, and unforgettable cultural encounters, promising an immersive journey into the heart of the North.

Tromsø is the largest city in northern Norway and one of the most populated and is located about 350 km from the Arctic Circle. The center of the city develops on an island called Tromsøya, while the population lives on the mainland, Tromsdalen: there are many bridges that connect the islands with the mainland, giving the city a decidedly particular character. The area on which Tromsø was later born has been inhabited since the ice age. In the Middle Ages, the Sami settled in this area and it was during this period that it became a border city with Russia.
Due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle, it is possible to witness natural spectacles such as the midnight sun, which occurs near the summer solstice and which means that the night never falls. Tromsø is a tourist destination above all for the phenomenon of the northern lights: between the end of September and the end of March, it is possible to witness this natural spectacle that attracts visitors from all over the world and who are not frightened by the low temperatures, because it is really worth it. Photography lovers will find bread for their teeth and will be able to bring home real photographic trophies.
Tromsø is a university city and there are many students who populate it, both indigenous and foreign. In the city, it is possible to visit a museum that collects finds from expeditions to the Arctic Circle: almost all the expeditions started right from here.
Tromsø is also an important port for the cruise market: cruises on the Norwegian fjords stop here so that visitors can admire its beauty. In spring and summer, the only times of the year in which it is possible to visit these areas by cruise, the valleys are colored with a bright green and are a real spectacle to admire on board a cruise ship.

Alta

Alta

Bergen

Surrounded by seven hills and seven fjords, Bergen is a beautiful, charming city with beauty and entertainment for all tastes. With the bustling port of Vågen as its centrepiece, Bergen climbs up the hills with hundreds of timber-clad houses, while cable cars offer splendid views from above. Great museums, friendly people and a dynamic cultural life make Bergen a popular destination in recent times, also thanks to the surrounding natural beauty. The wonderful natural beauties of this region will leave you speechless. HardangerFjord, Sognefjord and Geirangerfjord are similar if we consider some aspects such as: steep walls of crystal- clear rock plummeting with sublime force directly into the sea, often decorated with waterfalls and small farms that blend harmoniously with the natural landscape.

With the lively port of Vågen as its fulcrum, Bergen climbs the hills with hundreds of wooden-clad houses, while cable cars offer a splendid view from above. Great museums, friendly people and a dynamic cultural life make Bergen a very popular destination in recent times, also thanks to the surrounding natural beauty. This spectacular region will dazzle you with a truly indescribable scenario. Hardanger Fjord, Sognefjord and Geirangerfjord are all variations on the same theme: steep walls of crystalline rock that plunge with sublime force directly into the sea, often decorated with waterfalls and small farms that blend harmoniously with the natural landscape.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam has a booming energy, with an excellent nightlife, a multicultural community, a gritty arts scene and an offer of excellent museums.

Rotterdam, the Netherlands' 'second city', was heavily bombed during the Second World War and spent decades before reconstruction. You won't find the classic medieval Dutch architecture here – it was swept away along with the other debris and debris of war. In its place is an architectural aesthetic that is unique in Europe, a perpetually progressive approach to construction that is clearly a result of the city's post-war, postmodern philosophy. In fact, Rotterdam is known as a city of architecture. In the few square kilometers of the city center you have a complete overview of what the twentieth century produced in terms of modern architecture.