The Atlantic and North Sea coastlines of Western Europe are a treasure trove for explorers in early summer with wondrous locations, moving history and stunning landscapes. Marvel at the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela* in La Coruna, the first highlight of your diverse cruise. It is considered a place of pilgrimage for fans of architecture due to its numerous architectural styles. Enjoy the typical Galician lifestyle and cuisine during a walk and tapas in La Coruna*, which proudly displays its Roman origins with the Tower of Hercules.

Past and present stand shoulder to shoulder in Aviles: medieval arcades can be found in close proximity to the futuristic Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre. The region’s religious heart also reveals itself through impressive architecture which you will explore in the capital of Asturias, Oviedo*. In the 8th century, the Holy Cave of Covadonga* provided the Christians with a place to hide from the Arabs. The appearance of the Virgin Mary gave them the courage to fight back.

Peaceful for centuries, enchanting Ile d’Yeu sits in the Atlantic – discover its authentic flair on an early-summer walk along the bays.

Nantes tells of kings and the power of the church, of dukes and holy people. Impressive manor houses, parks and castles pass slowly by during a boat trip on the River Erdre*. Meanwhile, the magic of the castles on the Loire* is characterised by extensive gardens and facades in the impressive style of the Italian renaissance. Take an evening cruise on the Loire with the HANSEATIC spirit, enjoy the panorama and relax as the day draws to a close.

Between the coasts of France and England, the Channel Island of Jersey thrills with craggy cliffs and sandy beaches. What was life like in a mighty castle during the Middle Ages? A visit to Mont Orgueil Castle* will provide fascinating insights. Alternatively, enjoy stunning panoramas on a bicycle tour of the island*. The treasures of Guernsey also shine through its eventful history and wild, romantic cliffs. The vintage flair on a bus tour on Guernsey* shows how the mild climate of the Gulf Stream allows a diverse range of splendid and exotic plants to bloom. Alternatively, a hike along the coast* will lead you through heathland and fragrant pine forests.

Many French painters have taken inspiration from the landscape along the meandering course of the Seine. See for yourself on a short cruise on the Seine – a river with a unique connection to France’s soul. The Le Gros-Horloge astronomical clock in Rouen tells of turbulent times. A walk through the old town* will also take you to the market square where Joan of Arc met her tragic end in 1431. Be inspired on the trail of Claude Monet* in Giverny, the place where he spent his final years of creativity.

The Wadden Sea, a biosphere reserve unique worldwide, impresses with its clear light and salty air. Texel is famous for its rich bird life which you can observe in the De Slufter nature reserve*. A bicycle tour of the island* will take you through the dunes and heathland.

Discover one of North Germany’s most imposing natural landmarks – Lange Anna on Helgoland: the red stack of rock rises 47 m (154 ft) into the air off the island’s coast, You can also enjoy one of Germany’s smallest nature reserves, the Lummenfelsen. This attracts not only day trippers but also a great number of animal inhabitants. Did you know that Germany’s largest predator lives off Helgoland? The grey seal, which shares the dunes with common seals, reaches speeds of up to 40 km/h (25 mph) in the water as it hunts for sardines and cod. You, meanwhile, will hunt for spectacular panoramas on a 2.8 km (1.7 mi.) walk along the cliffs or on a Zodiac ride. Say goodbye to the North Sea and continue your journey back to Hamburg, the metropolis on the Elbe. It’s hard to believe how many North Sea stories you’ll take home from this cruise.

As you approach Hamburg, think back on the exhilarating moments of your early-summer adventure that have spoken to both your heart and your senses.