A Journey of Northern Harmony & Tranquil Fjords

Hamburg, Germany's foremost port and one of its most handsome cities, might also be one of Europe's most underrated destinations. Many Americans -- and even Europeans -- have yet to discover its charms, not least of which is its beauty, thanks to its location on the banks of the Elbe River. Germany's second-largest city also has lovely buildings with traditional architecture, premier museums and a long history with the powerful Hanseatic League. It's a sophisticated destination that is walkable and bikeable. Founded in 800 by Charlemagne, Hamburg initially took off as a trading centre, given its proximity to the rest of Northern Europe and its location on the Elbe, which links the North Sea to inland Europe. While Hamburg was largely destroyed by Allied bombing during World War II, much of it was rebuilt in the traditional style, resulting in a powerful sense of continuity with the past. Few intrusive modern structures upset the skyline, so the churches and the beautiful Rathaus (City Hall) dominate the cityscape. The notable exception is HafenCity, a separate district of newer housing, offices and cultural centres. Today, Hamburg is a thriving north German city of just fewer than 2 million people with the surrounding districts doubling the population. The city thrives on its port, shipyards and international trade, and it's also a media and civil aerospace centre. Not surprisingly, water is a key element in Hamburg life. The Elbe passes through the city, splitting into waterways that meander, canal-like, between handsome, brick, Victorian-era former warehouses that now serve as offices, residences and museums. Hamburg's lakes -- the Binnenalster (Inner Alster) and much larger Außenalster (Outer Alster) -- form centrepieces for the city centre and its transition to the close-in residential suburbs. Parallel canals and narrow streets link the Alster and the Elbe's wide expanses. For the tourist, it's a delight to follow them. The city has oodles of individual sights relating to its maritime heritage: excellent museums, historic ships, architectural landmarks and a church tower viewpoint. Visitors can take simple pleasure in walking the grand Elbe River promenade, the canal paths in the Speicherstadt (Warehouse District) and the lakeside footpaths. Day cruises are a popular pastime, with numerous boat operators departing from the Landungsbrücken pier to cruise the Elbe River and from Jungfernsteig for Alster trips. Hamburg's visitors are mostly Germans and other Europeans, and most of the cruise calls are by ships carrying German-speaking passengers. However, some lines catering to North Americans are finding their way there. Cunard's Queen Mary 2 is the city's favourite caller, and 1 million people routinely turn out along the banks of the Elbe to see the ship arrive from the North Sea. Celebrity Cruises, Silversea, Costa Cruises, MSC Cruises, Hurtigruten and Ponant Cruises also visit Hamburg.

Relax and enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard your ship. If the weather is good take some sun and sunbathe on the pool deck. Otherwise explore below deck the wide range of activities that will be available during the day. Perhaps you prefer to find a quiet spot and catch up on your reading.

The Homeland of the Viking Kings is located between Stavanger and Bergen in the heart of Norway's south-western cruise region, and nestling among countless small islands and the mighty, almost endless, fjords such as Åkrafjord, Hardangerfjord and Lysefjord. Haugesund is a vibrant and historic town dating back to Viking times. This is where, a thousand years ago, King Harald Fairhair united Norway into a single kingdom, and it was from this area that the Viking Kings ruled Norway for more than 500 years.

Known as the "capital of roses" because its mild climate allows pretty flowers to flourish, Molde (pronounced "Mol-da") is also known for its annual July jazz festival, which has attracted artists such as Branford Marsalis, Chick Corea and Joss Stone in the past. With a population of roughly 26,000, Molde boasts a Gothic-style cathedral, a variety of shops and cafes and the Romsdal Museum, which showcases historical dwellings and gives visitors a taste of life in the Romsdal region of yesteryear. The open-air attraction, a 15-minute walk from the port, is considered one of Norway's better folklore museums and features buildings and interesting interiors as well as staff dressed in traditional costume.

Nordfjordeid, nestled at the head of the stunning Nordfjord in Norway, offers breathtaking scenery and a glimpse into traditional Norwegian life.  Surrounded by majestic mountains and pristine waters, this charming town is the perfect base for exploring the region's natural wonders, from hiking to kayaking and simply enjoying the peace and quiet of the fjord.

Sandnes, Norway, offers a charming cruise stop near Stavanger. Explore the town's shops and restaurants, enjoy the nearby beaches, or venture further afield to discover the stunning fjords and Pulpit Rock for a taste of Norway's natural beauty.

Relax and enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard your ship. If the weather is good take some sun and sunbathe on the pool deck. Otherwise explore below deck the wide range of activities that will be available during the day. Perhaps you prefer to find a quiet spot and catch up on your reading.