How wonderful May is: birdsong, fresh green nature and a warm breeze that awakens a sweet anticipation of summer. Spring is here, and it’s a particularly melodious one at that. Along the coast of Western Europe, the HANSEATIC spirit composes scenic spring magic and cultural diversity into a special musical cruise. The varied experiences with the ship are accompanied by concerts at selected locations. As an overture, Spain sets the tone with Bilbao. The economic and cultural centre of the Basque country is a melting pot of innovation and proud traditions. Get to know the city of architecture on a city walk*. The tour ranges from the Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of deconstructivism by Frank O. Gehry, to the Zubizuri bridge and elegant historic buildings from the 19th century. Alternatively, impressive natural surroundings await on a hike through the Basque landscape*. The first of your exclusive music concerts rounds off your impressions in virtuoso style.

It’s “vive la France!” to the beat of the Marseillaise: the cruise on the Gironde takes you into the heart of a world-famous wine-growing region. Spring temperatures here make the vines grow just as much as your curiosity about Bordeaux - a city full of life. Take advantage of the evening to stroll through the illuminated old town at your own pace, as the HANSEATIC spirit will moor here overnight.

Today, you will deepen your insights on a walking tour* of the large architectural ensemble from the 18th century – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Quench your thirst for knowledge with fine wines on an excursion to the Medoc wine region with a visit to a vineyard*. Enjoy the Atlantic, oysters and sandy beaches in abundance – these characterise the coastal resort of Arcachon and Europe’s largest sand dune*, almost 3 km (1.9 mi.) long and over 100 m (328 ft) high. Alternatively, a walking tour of historic Saint-Emilion* shows you France’s religious heritage with numerous churches and monasteries.

Plenty of time is also planned for the Channel Islands: two days, three islands and a potpourri of ruggedly romantic scenery, aristocratic charm and blooming splendour. On Jersey, go for a coastal walk* and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere of the picturesque bays. Or take a trip back in time to the Middle Ages with a visit to Mont Orgueil Castle*. Guernsey and its nature already inspired Renoir. The gardens around Saint Peter Port* are the perfect subject for an impressionist painting. The vintage flair on Guernsey* classic bus tour shows how the mild climate of the Gulf Stream allows a diverse range of lush and exotic plants to bloom. The polyphony of impressions can also be heard here at an exclusive concert. La Seigneurie is one of the finest gardens in the Channel Islands. This paradise is designed around an 18th-century manor house, and you can explore it at your own pace on the little rocky island of Sark.

Culture lovers will feel like they’re in paradise when they arrive in Honfleur. The maritime district around the old port with its colourful houses is a lovely place for an independent stroll. At this time of year, when the hills and fields are freshly green, a scenic tour to medieval Rouen* is particularly appealing. With half-timbered houses, a Gothic cathedral and the Le Gros-Horloge astronomical clock, the city has a story to tell of turbulent times. The surrounding countryside has already inspired many French artists like Monet and Boudin. Develop your own impressions on a hike along the Alabaster Coast*. The route to the coastal resort of Etretat takes you past steep cliffs with inspiring views.

Da capo – when you reach Ostende, Belgium provides you with an encore of the fine arts. Avant-garde fashion, fine chocolates and the adventures of Tintin and Snowy: Belgian artistry is world renowned, following in the tradition of the Flemish painter Jan van Eyck. The medieval times will still feel just as alive as they do in his oil paintings as you experience romantic Brugge* or take a walking tour of Ghent*. What will be your favourite sensory experience? Most likely all of the experiences on this cruise with the HANSEATIC spirit, celebrating Europe’s west coast in the most beautiful tones.