Iceland & Ireland 13 Nights • Amsterdam, Netherlands • CELEBRITY ECLIPSE

Amsterdam, the beautiful capital of the Netherlands, has the wonderful atmosphere of a 17th-century city combined with the contemporary character of a modern metropolis. It is a treasure chest of superb architecture and is famous for its canals and extraordinary museums. Once you arrive on your cruise to Amsterdam, be sure to catch the city’s highlights, especially the iconic houses that straddle the snaking canal system of which the city is known for. When in Amsterdam, do as the Dutch and discover this first-class city on two wheels as this is one of the most bike-friendly places on the planet. When it comes to viewing the world’s great artistic masterpieces, you could hardly pick a better city. Pay a visit to the famous Van Gogh Museum and ponder the works of Holland’s favorite son. Afterwards, pop into a cozy cafe or tavern and let the charms of this city wash over you.

Your ship departs promptly at 5:00 pm, so we recommend arriving at least 2-3 hours early to smoothly navigate check-in and boarding. All ship amenities are open and ready, so kickstart your vacation with a refreshing drink or a delicious snack.

Cork (Cobh), Ireland- Affectionately referred to as ‘The real capital of Ireland’, Cork is a musical and resilient place where tradition and modernity often meld; where live music and local pride are the order of the day. Navigate Cork's hilly streets and discover the melody of Ireland's most talkative citizenry with their signature gift of gab.

The seaside town of Cobh is located on the south coast of Ireland in County Cork and is considered one of the world’s most noteworthy, natural harbors. For history buffs, Cork is also a great find. Ring the Shandon Bells inside the 300-year old tower of St. Anne’s Church. Admire the French Gothic spires of St. Finbarre’s Cathedral and stroll through 17th-century alleys surrounded by the River Lee. Ireland’s second city is fast becoming one of Europe’s most playful destinations.

You’ll easily find yourself downing a pint of stout in a cozy pub or enjoying hearty Irish favorites at a corner bistro on your Cork cruise. The town also boasts an array of market-source international restaurants serving French, Spanish, and American cuisine. Visit local artisans and witness their skills in the arts of weaving and cutting crystal. Cork is filled with the lore, tradition, and good cheer of Ireland at its best.

Belfast has undergone an enormous transformation in recent years and, thanks to a focus on expansion and regeneration, the city is now experiencing a tourism renaissance. Today, free from the mayhem that once was, this capital city of Northern Ireland has done a terrific job in both recovering from her tumultuous recent past and creating a thriving, positive public image. With new cultural quarters—the Cathedral Quarter, the Gaeltacht Quarter, the Queen’s Quarter and the Titanic Quarter—the former linen and shipbuilding epicenter is a flourishing community that blends industry with culture. Here, where the Titanic was so carefully built, you can see beautifully restored Victorian architecture, indulge retail therapy at a fabulous shopping center, and enjoy the quintessentially Irish experience at the lively waterfront, which is a friendly hub of live music, overflowing pubs and modern art. During your cruise from Belfast, experience amazing waterfront lined with modern art galleries, clubs that feature music from artists both local and from abroad, a chef-driven food scene that favors local and seasonal ingredients, and pubs pulsating with the Belfast way of life.

Iceland- Iceland's capital and largest city is located on the country's southwest coast at the head of Faxafloi Bay. Settled in 877 A.D., Reykjavik has grown into an important seaport and center of government and education with theatres, museums and observatories. Interestingly, this modern city still chooses to use water from nearby hot springs to heat all of its buildings.

And you’ll find on your cruise to Reykjavik that the culinary scene is eclectic and awesome. The seafood is amazing just about anywhere throughout the city and traditional Nordic salt cod or fish stews are readily available. But there is no shortage of international culinary favorites like French and all sorts of new Nordic fusion-style options as well. Explore the city’s artistic boutiques for authentic Icelandic souvenirs and trinkets, like music boxes, unique clothing, driftwood furniture and fish-skin handbags. 

Isafjordur, the largest town in the Westfjords peninsula, is known for its breathtaking landscapes. Here guests can enjoy and wide variety of outdoor activities from biking, hiking, kayaking and horseback riding to whale watching. They can explore the history of the town that started as a trading post in the 16th century with growth triggered in the 19th century by salt fish production which is still the most important industry for the town.  

Akureyri, Iceland is the country’s second-largest city and one of the country’s most important ports and fishing centers. Affectionately known as the Capital of North Iceland, it has a cool café scene, a growing gourmet movement, and a bustling nightlife that proves this city is more than meets the eye. From fabulous summer festivals fueled by the Midnight Sun, like the Akureyri Summer Arts festival (late June-late August), to some of the best skiing this side of the arctic circle, Akureyri, Iceland is a laid-back Nordic city and a study in contrasts. Soar into the blue sky to discover Grimsey Island, home to only 92 residents and thousands of sea birds. The city’s Botanical Gardens is famed for its collection of high-latitude plants and well worth a visit. Explore the ancient lava formations of Dimmuborgir and the geothermal landscape of bubbling mud and hissing fumaroles at Namafjall Mountain. The Great Fish Day of Dalvik, on the second Saturday in August, where revelers feast for free on the North Atlantic’s bounty is a paradise for seafood lovers.

The city is best known as the gateway to Iceland’s natural wonders – thundering waterfalls, gurgling lava fields, snow-capped mountains, sweeping fjords, and robust folk culture. Whatever you choose, it's sure to be the adventure of a lifetime.

Almost 100 islands make up the Shetland Islands, which sit on the northernmost part of the British Isles. Lerwick is Shetland's only town and is a cosmopolitan seaport that offers warm hospitality to its visitors. The old waterfront is filled with pleasure boats, visiting yachts, and more. Travelers can experience everything from lively "theme" bars and clubs to a Town Hall that boasts breathtaking stained glassed glass windows, each with its own story.

Inverness is the Scottish Highland's major city. Literally, it means "mouth of the River Ness," and it’s the hub for international visitors who come hoping to catch a glimpse of the famous, yet elusive, Loch Ness Monster. While you’re here, be sure to take a cruise down the Loch and a stroll along the riverbank to not only take in this picturesque spot, but to work up an appetite for dinner in one of the city’s excellent restaurants. Inverness brings you the cuisine of the Scottish Highlands. Fresh seafood caught in the coast waters, salmon straight from the river and a host of farm-raised beef and lamb options.  And, of course, there are a few local whisky distillers that are worth a visit. The streets of Inverness are teeming with independent boutiques and shops for keepsakes. Wander down medieval Church Street and find yourself transported back to days of yore on this cruise to Inverness, Scotland. Follow the circular path that descends Inverness Castle and winds along the river past St. Andrews Cathedral and into the Ness Islands. Winding along the banks of River Ness and crowned by pink sandstone castle, Inverness is a pastoral city of flower gardens and green parklands. 

Your cruise may have ended, but the adventure continues. Take advantage of the fantastic activities in the area. If you're flying out, please keep your departure flight time in mind and plan accordingly.