Europe | Windstar Cruises - Star Pride
June
Lisbon, Portugal; Porto, Portugal; El Ferrol, Spain; Bordeaux, France; La Rochelle, France; St-Malo, France; Dublin, Ireland; Isle of Man, United Kingdom; Portrush, Ireland; Tobermory, Scotland; Kirkwall, Scotland; Invergordon, Scotland; Edinburgh, Scotland; Bergen, Norway; Geiranger, Norway; Alesund, Norway; Molde, Norway; Torshavn, Denmark; Reykjavik, Iceland
This 29-day back-to-back cruise offers more than 20 port stops in Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland, Isle of Man, UK, Norway, the Faroe Islands (Denmark) and Iceland. With extra days spent in Bordeaux, France and Kirkwall, Scotland, so you have additional time for French cooking classes, vineyard visits, Scottish whisky samples and Iron Age archaeological site visits. Other excursion opportunities include exploring the labyrinth-like streets inside the walls of the abbey at Mont St. Michel, France, learning how to pour a perfect pint of stout in the Gravity Sky Bar above the historic Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Ireland, and riding a cable car to the summit of Ulriken Mountain, the highest of the seven peaks above the port city of Bergen, Norway.
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 | Lisbon Portugal: The rhythm of Lisbon invites you to join its captivating dance. This splendid capital city on the banks of the Rio Teja offers a warm welcome and an unparalleled blend of architectural styles. Elegant outdoor cafés line the cobbled sidewalks. Turn-of-the-century funiculars climb the scenic hills. Find the UNESCO sites of the Tower of Belem and the Monastery of the Hieronymites. And, everywhere, the city engages you with its easy style and remarkable charm.
Day 2 | Porto, Portugal: Built into the granite cliffs at the mouth of the Rio Douro, the hilly city of Porto presents a heady juxtaposition of eras and styles. Here, medieval alleyways, orderly neighborhood squares, and ornate Baroque churches readily intermingle. Porto’s historic heart is a UNESCO site of winding lanes, zigzagging staircases and tiled churches. The highlight, though, is a taste of port wine at its best – a happy accident dating from the 17th century when brandy was discovered to preserve wine for transit. After your choice of palate-pleasing shore excursions, return for an onboard fado folk music performance.
Day 3 | El Ferrol, Spain: After entering the estuary mouth, pass through a narrow canal where the twin castles of San Felipe and La Palma welcome you to what was the main base for the Spanish Navy in the 17th century. Spend a pleasant day rumbling around the old Magdalena neighborhood, or make your own pilgrimage to the nearby UNESCO site of Santiago de Compostela or head to Lugo to see the Roman Walls – another UNESCO site.
Day 4 | At Sea
Day 5 & 6 | Bordeaux, France: Bordeaux has long been known as La Belle au Bois Dormant, Sleeping Beauty. And while the beauty part is undeniable, the sleeping part could be argued. Sure, the region is filled with treasures from long ago, including more than 350 historic monuments and buildings in the city alone. But the capital of Aquitaine is also home to a vibrant culture and, as oenophiles well know, is the gateway to some of France’s most famous vineyards. In this UNESCO World Heritage city, 13th century cathedrals and 18th century palaces are commonplace. Venture beyond the city’s borders to the chateaux of the Médoc region or to Saint-Émilion, a breathtaking medieval village set among the vineyards that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 7 | La Rochelle, France: La Rochelle is said to be the most lovely and unspoiled port city in France, and who are we to argue? Two 14th century stone towers guard the gateway to the medieval core of the city, the Vieux Port. And this is a city that is focused on ships. You’ll find yachts floating in the Port des Minimes, ships in the stained glass of church windows, maybe even decorating the arcaded walkways that line the streets. Learn the art of brandy making with a visit to the Cognac region and the Hennessy maisson, dating back to 1765. While walking past the aging barrels, inhale the heady aroma—the escaping vapors known as “the angels’ share.”
Day 8 | At Sea
Day 9 | St-Malo, France: Once notorious as the home of pirates, St.-Malo today is better known for the UNESCO site monastery and town of Mont St. Michel and the famous oysters of nearby Cancale. Walk the city’s ramparts, or pass the time at a seaside boulangerie sampling a fresh and buttery croissant.
Day 10 | At Sea
Day 11 | Dublin, Ireland: Dublin is a city of delights and surprises. Stroll across the Ha’Penny Bridge to Trinity College for a glimpse of the Book of Kells. Step inside the 11th century Dublin Castle. Stop by the Guinness Storehouse or Old Jameson Distillery for a taste of Irish history. And embrace the beauty of Dublin Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Day 12 | Isle of Man, United Kingdom: From the Manx Grand Prix to the 14th century castle at Peel. From Rushen Abbey to the island’s own breed of cats and sheep. The Isle of Man stands on its own. Here you can enjoy one of our most exciting optional excursions – experience the motorcycle course that draws fans from all over the world on our own specially designed 3-seater Trike. And enjoy beautiful scenery of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve while you ride.
Day 13 | Portrush, Ireland: Enjoy this beautiful Northern Ireland resort town, graced by sandy beaches and wonderful tide pools. You may also want to visit Belfast from here, with its superb gardens and architecture. Or arrange a side trip to the famous Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO site. A visit to Mussenden Temple at Downhill Demesne will heighten your appreciation for the builder’s art.
Day 14 | Tobermory, Scotland: On the beautiful approach to Tobermory, you’ll be hard-pressed to decide if the cheery buildings along the harbor or the fishing boats in front have the brighter palette. Call it a draw, and an appetizer to the day ahead in this charming port off the beaten path. Go whale watching or watch the shadows play in the cloister of magnificent Iona Abbey. Good thing your yacht is so appealing or you might be tempted to stay.
Day 15 | Portree, Scotland: Watch for sea eagles as we approach Skye’s picturesque capital. The rare bird with an 8-foot wingspan was re-introduced here in 1975 and several pairs nest at Portree Bay. The pastel buildings along the waterfront and Cuillin Ridges beyond promise a day of Hebrides-style adventure. Visit stately Dunvegan Castle, or shop for naturally dyed yarns in Skye colors.
Day 16 | 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 17 | Invergordon, Scotland: Here is your entry to Scotland’s spectacular Highlands. In Inverness, listen for the song of the Highlands in the sparkling gurgle of the River Ness as it winds through the town’s center. Look for a glimpse of the elusive Nessie in Loch Ness. And wait for whispers of Shakespeare’s Macbeth in the fairytale setting of Cawdor Castle.
Day 18 | At Sea
Day 19 | 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 20 & 21 | 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 22 | At Sea
Day 23 | 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 24 | 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 25 | 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 26 | 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 27 | At Sea
Day 28 | 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 29 | At Sea
Day 30 | 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.
Riverfront Tram Ride
Cooking Class at R&Ch St James Restaurants Cooking School
St. Emilion Vineyards & Village with Underground Monuments
Dinan with Tasting
Cregnaesh & Castle Rushen
Milntown House & Gardens
Walkers Dream – Old Man of Storr
Concierge Collection: Helicopter Fjord Adventure
Art Nouveau Kayak
Haholmen – A Viking Adventure
Island of Vagar
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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