Europe | Windstar Cruises - Star Pride
June
Edinburgh, Scotland; Kirkwall, Scotland; Bergen, Norway; Geiranger, Norway; Alesund, Norway; Molde, Norway; Torshavn, Denmark; Reykjavik, Iceland; Heimay Island, Iceland; Seydisjordur, Iceland; Akureyri, Iceland; Isafjordur, Iceland; Grundarfjrdur, Iceland; Reykjavik, Iceland
Explore the finest small ports in Scotland, Norway, and the Faroe Islands (Denmark) before circumnavigating Iceland on this 18-day summertime adventure from Edinburgh to Reykjavik. Your first 11 days cover the shorelines of Scotland and Norway, stopping off to see Denmark’s Faroe Islands. The following week explores Iceland’s majestic fjords, imposing volcanoes and remote rocky reaches. Discover the challenges faced by Iron Age communities near Kirkwall, Scotland, sample almond ring cake and other Norwegian culinary delights at a historic farm near Bergen, Norway, and kayak among sea birds and urban artistry in Alesund, Norway. Iceland excursions include flights above waterfalls and volcanoes on Heimaey Island, detailed archaeological examinations of a medieval farm near Seydisfjordur, and relaxing moments immersed in the natural geothermal waters of the Myvatn Nature Baths outside Akureyri.
With only 212 guests, a Star Pride cruise will make you feel like you're on board your own private yacht almost as soon as you step aboard. The sitting area of your spacious, suite gives you an expansive ocean view, making it a welcome retreat. When you're ready to make an appearance, the lounges, club, casino, screening room, and library are waiting to be explored. Take some "you" time in the tranquil WindSpa, enjoy a dip in the pool, work off that decadent dessert in the Fitness Center , and, of course, you are always welcome to visit the Bridge to examine navigation charts with the Captain. Star Pride is large enough to pamper and entertain you, yet small enough to tuck into delightful tiny harbors and hidden coves that others can’t reach.
Day 1 | Edinburgh, Scotland: From the Firth of Forth, a UNESCO site, to the Royal Mile, Edinburgh is steeped in history. Edinburgh Castle. The Royal Botanic Gardens. The UNESCO site of Old Town. The wonders of Edinburgh are never ending. From one of Europe’s best-preserved castles to the world’s longest herbaceous border, a riot of color and culture pervades. In this city as old as Scotland itself, you’ll find the perfect blend of historic tradition and natural beauty.
Day 2 & 3 | Kirkwall, Scotland: Everything about Orkney is olde, from the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae (the “Scottish Pompeii”) to the peat-distilled whisky at Highland Park to the UNESCO site of the Ring of Brodgar, dating back to 2700 B.C. Even the local brogue hints at times past, accented by the area’s Viking legacy.
Day 4 | At Sea
Day 5 | Bergen, Norway: Colorful Bryggen, Bergen’s Hanseatic quay and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is so delightful you may find it difficult to explore further. But do. Watch the Huldras (forest nymphs) dance at Kjosfossen Waterfall, wander the narrow smau between the old buildings climbing the hillside.
Day 6 | Geiranger, Norway: Visit tiny goat villages to sample homemade cheese. Take a RIB boat out on the spectacular Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Buy yourself a mango ice cream cone and absorb all the beauty around you.
Day 7 | Alesund, Norway: At the entrance to spectacular Geirangerfjord, Alesund has been voted the most beautiful town in Norway, and not only because of its location. The town burned to the ground in 1904 and was rebuilt in Art Nouveau style, with a few added elements from Nordic mythology – a longboat here, an image of Thor there.
Day 8 | Molde, Norway: Known as the City of Roses, Molde is encircled by 222 mountains, each one worthy of oohs and ahhs. Breathtaking excursions await, including the world-famous Trollstigen scenic mountain road with its sheer cliffs, waterfalls, and hairpin turns. Or take the low road—the Atlantic Road—twisting its way across the islands of the North Sea like an asphalt roller coaster.
Day 9 | At Sea
Day 10 | Torshavn, Denmark: Dock within walking distance of Old Town and marvel at a place where people mow their roofs and 17th century buildings are considered young. Listen to echoes of Old Norse in the language of shopkeepers and passersby as you shop for warm knit sweaters made from the islands’ distinctive wool.
Day 11 | At Sea
Day 12 | Reykjavik, Iceland: The world's most northerly capital enjoys almost 24-hour sunlight in summer, all the better to show off the city’s eclectic architecture and dazzling natural wonders. Soak in the milky Blue Lagoon, visit Guilfoss Waterfall, find Pingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , or explore the surprisingly vibrant local museum and art scene.
Day 13 | Heimaey Island, Iceland: Witness a world still in transition. Circle Surtsey Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which rose from the sea in the 1960s. Next up, Heimaey, where a volcanic eruption created a modern-day Pompeii in 1973.
Day 14 & 15 | Seydisfjordur, Iceland: Seydisfjord is 11 miles of long, narrow, beautiful waterway surrounded by high mountains that ends at the town of Seydisfjordur, known for its old multi-colored wooden buildings and cascading waterfalls even in the town. This is home of the Skalanes Nature Reserve with its wide variety of wildlife including more than 45 bird species. The first high-voltage electricity in Iceland was opened here in 1913 and is still in operation today. A popular hiking path starts at the town center, following the east bank of the Fjardara River that flows through the center of town.
Day 16 | Akureyri, Iceland: Akureyri is an important port and fisheries center especially because of its ice-free harbor so close to the Arctic Circle. It lies at the end of Iceland’s longest fjord, which is 37 miles long, at sits at the base of snowcapped peaks that offer some of Iceland’s best skiing during the winter. Must-sees in Akureyri include the Listagil (art canyon) which is home to many arts and crafts galleries and shops, the beautiful church in the center of town, the botanical garden, and Hafnarstraeti, the main shopping street.This is also the perfect place to ride an Icelandic horse or soak in the sky-blue Myvatn Nature Baths.
Day 17 | Isafjordur, Iceland: Small and easily walkable Isafjordur has one of the largest fisheries in Iceland. But the sever decline of the fishing industry has caused Isafjordur to look elsewhere for work. Despite its small size, this town has a school of music and has become a center for alternative music and they host a yearly festival that provides a platform for local musicians, band from around Iceland and the world to perform.
Day 18 | Grundarfjordur, Iceland: Beautiful Grundarfjordur is located between a mountain range and the sea. The road nearby crosses a lava field that is partially warm so snow does not always stick there. The main attraction of the area is Snæfellsjokull National Park full of regal glaciers, lava fields, waterfalls, caves, calderas, and basalt cliffs. The peninsula there received the EARTHCHECK Sustainable Community Award in 2010, the first area in Iceland to win such an award.
Day 19 | Reykjavik, Iceland: The world's most northerly capital enjoys almost 24-hour sunlight in summer, all the better to show off the city’s eclectic architecture and dazzling natural wonders. Soak in the milky Blue Lagoon, visit Guilfoss Waterfall, find Pingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , or explore the surprisingly vibrant local museum and art scene.
All meals in all venues at all times, including room service menu available 24 hours. All non-alcoholic beverages, including cappuccino, espresso, and other specialty non-alcoholic drinks are offered to guests. There is also a welcome cocktails reception as well.
Guests are allowed unlimited access to use all water sports equipment and there is also on board entertainment. A casino, library/business center, lounge, pool, two whirlpools, a veranda, a watersports platform, and a bridge are also available for guests at their leisure.
Explore beautiful landmarks throughout your journey between Spain and Rome on many highlighted excursions. Below are just a few of the many that you can experience on your voyage.
Orkneys Viking Capital
Walking Tour of Hanseatic Bergen & Mt. Floyen
The Golden Circle
Panoramic Alesund & Giskey Island
Vestmanna Sea Cliffs
Caves & Islands Rib Safari
Skalanes Nature Reserve
Horseback Riding in Akureyri
History at Hesteyri
Fins & Feathers
All accommodations feature a queen size bed with luxurious linens, robe and slippers, flat screen TV with DVD player, a fully stocked mini bar/refrigerator, a safety deposit box, a direct dial phone, luxury bath amenities, Wi Fi access, fresh flowers and fruit, granite vanity with magnifying mirror, a walk in closet, a bathroom with granite counter tops and a full size tub and shower and a hairdryer.
Gracious Balcony and Ocean View Suites offer stylish comfort and ocean views that welcome you into the 277 square foot space. Enjoy a luxurious soak in your full-size tub or an invigorating shower, then wrap up in your waffle-weave robe and slippers, savor a treat from the fresh fruit bowl, or simply stretch out and enjoy the fresh flowers.
Classic Suites allow you to relax in a spacious 400-530 square foot space with your own living area that offers beautiful views from the forward-facing window and French doors onto your private veranda. Two spacious closets give you plenty of room to unpack.
Owner’s Suites include 575 square feet of space and offers a separate living room and dining room areas. A veranda, two flat-screen TVs and DVD players, and a full master bath and separate powder room indulge you in spacious comfort.
WindSpa is available to guests who wish to take time and relax after an adventurous day out exploring.
There is a fitness center on board for guests who want to continue their workout while sailing.
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