When spring revitalises coastlines, this cruise transforms the Azores, the Channel Islands and Helgoland into fascinating new territory. Welcome to Faial, home to whales and marine biologists. Horta's harbour is steeped in the stories of people who have circumnavigated the globe, and who meet in Peter Cafe Sport. Listen to their tales of the high seas or try the Atlantic's best gin and tonic. Share the passion of volcanologists on a scenic tour to the Capelinhos volcano* or a hike around the Faial Caldera*. Deep-black rocks, rugged volcanic cones and Portugal's highest mountain: Pico continues the overwhelming sights. A beautiful journey across the crater island* presents you with bizarre rock formations and lava fields. Discover how the nutritious volcanic soil brings the grapevines to life when you explore Pico's vineyards on foot*. The grapes grow in labyrinths of small stone walls. The creative power of the earth's core also becomes apparent on Terceira. Explore the island in a jeep* and marvel at lava formations, natural swimming pools and the interior of a volcanic cave. On a city walk through Angra do Heroismo*, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attractive white houses, a cathedral and a palace tell of the times when the city was an intermediate stop for overseas trade.

The HANSEATIC spirit follows in the footsteps of the pioneering seafarers of old when it heads for the Portuguese mainland. Porto is like an open-air museum of the baroque. Take a nostalgic tram ride in the old town* or explore at your own pace - fall in love with this port city over and over again. Or do the Middle Ages make your heart beat faster? If so, historic Guimaraes* is perfect for you, with a majestic castle, opulent palace rooms and town houses.

A coastal town that is often overlooked, Vigo is located in the region of Galicia in northern Spain. The traditional fishing village is still one of the most important fishing ports in Europe. The old town, also called Casco Vello, is built around the old fishing quarter of O Berbes, near the harbour, and is the heart of the city with its lively bars and restaurants. The world-famous pilgrimage site of Santiago de Compostela* is enchanting. Away from the Way of Saint James, it is well worth exploring the old town with its arcade-lined streets. The famous cathedral and the old town with its ancient buildings and streets are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Lesser-known aspects will provide impressions of Galicia* and show you a different side to the “land of the thousand rivers”.

Douarnenez, a new cruise destination, is closely linked with the development of the sardine industry. From here, explore the capital of art, history and legends: take a city walk of Quimper* through streets lined with half-timbered houses and embark on an architectural journey through time - rounded off with the 13th-century Gothic Cathedral of Saint Corentin. Mighty granite rock faces and heathland set the scene for a walk on Cap Sizun*.

Plenty of time has been scheduled for the unknown territory of the Channel Islands: three days, four islands - a blend of wild and romantic landscapes, aristocratic charm and blossoming glory. On Jersey, go for a coastal walk* and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere of the picturesque bays. A visit to Mont Orgueil Castle* will show that very few castles have been constructed so strategically: built on the cliff tops, surrounded by cliffs, overlooking the fishing village of Gorey. Guernsey's nature inspired Renoir. The gardens around Saint Peter Port* would be the perfect subject for an impressionist painting. The vintage flair on Guernsey* bus tour shows how the mild climate of the Gulf Stream allows a diverse range of splendid and exotic plants to bloom. 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. The rich flora and fauna on Alderney also paint unforgettable pictures. A hike along the west coast* will allow you to cast your gaze over cliffs, bays and the nesting places of thousands of northern gannets. Alternatively, take a bicycle tour of the island* to revive your body and soul. Your destination: a lighthouse dating from 1912.

The red sandstone of a North Sea beauty also sends a strong signal: Helgoland. Many people tend to forget about it, but for the HANSEATIC spirit, this is a truly fascinating destination. Take the time to walk around Germany's island gem. Lange Anna, a natural landmark, adds a final exclamation point to this special cruise bursting with contrasts.