Western Europe Cruise - from Bremerhaven - 115764

Bremerhaven, an administrative district in its own right in the federal state of Bremen, lies to the North of Bremen, on the lower Weser. Founded in 1827, the first regular connection between America and Europe set out from Bremerhaven in 1847. In 1938, Bremerhaven was amalgamated with the town of Wesermünde. In 1947, Wesermünde was re-named Bremerhaven, forming the federal state of Bremen. Sights include: the Atlanticum, the German Shipping Museum, the Historical Museum, the Kunsthalle Bremerhaven, the harbour museum, the museum ships the "Wal", the "Gera" and "Goliath", the fishing harbour, the "Wilhelm Bauer" submarine and the zoo.

The port of "Le Havre de Grace" was founded in 1517 by François I on the right bank of the Seine estuary. The seafront, the beach and the harbour basin reach right into the heart of the town. The town's image is shaped by the Seine estuary and the port. Le Havre is not only an important trading port, but also has a yacht marina and a beach. The alabaster coast with its tall chalk cliffs stretches north from Le Havre to the Somme estuary. Always connected with the sea, today Le Havre is the fifth-largest European port. Sights include: the port, the town hall, Villa Maritime, the swimming dock, St. Josef's Church, the garden at St. Roch, Malraux museum, and Notre Dame cathedral.

Portugal's unofficial capital, Porto, is the name-giver for the entire country. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and is known primarily for its famous port wine. Those who enjoy the city atmosphere will love Porto, the second-largest city in the country. The harbour is where the renowned Portuguese fleet was built. Now, there are lots of cafés and bistros here. The houses in the city are packed close together on the steep slopes, often close behind and beside one another, forming really lovely terraces. Sights incude: Praça da Liberdade, Câmara Municipal and the Soares dos Reis National Museum.

The white city by the sea, built on seven hills and framed by the natural harbour of "Rio Tejo" was founded by the Phoenicians in around the 9th-7th century B.C.. Today it is the capital of Portugal and one of the oldest cities in Europe. Lisbon is rich in architectural monuments. The Portuguese capital also has a varied and interesting cultural scene with theatre performances, concerts and exhibitions. "Bairro Alto" (the upper city) is well known for its nightlife. Sights include: Jerónimo's Monastery, Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, Comércio Square, São Jorge castle, and "Baixa Pombalina".

Funchal is the capital of Madeira and lies at the South coast of the island. The port stretches from a relatively flat area of the coast to high up in the adjacent mountain chain. Funchal is perfect not only for relaxing in one of the floating cafés by the harbour, but also for shopping for delicacies in the market hall, which has a huge assortment of fish, flowers and vegetables. The city centre is also worth seeing: in the old town area is the famous fort. The upper town is dominated by the "Castelo de São de Pico", also known as "Pico Fort". At the foot of the fort lies the English cemetery. Further attractions: the cathedral, the old customs house, the fort "São Tiago", the city park, "Quinta das Cruzes" gardens with an archaeological park.

Funchal is the capital of Madeira and lies at the South coast of the island. The port stretches from a relatively flat area of the coast to high up in the adjacent mountain chain. Funchal is perfect not only for relaxing in one of the floating cafés by the harbour, but also for shopping for delicacies in the market hall, which has a huge assortment of fish, flowers and vegetables. The city centre is also worth seeing: in the old town area is the famous fort. The upper town is dominated by the "Castelo de São de Pico", also known as "Pico Fort". At the foot of the fort lies the English cemetery. Further attractions: the cathedral, the old customs house, the fort "São Tiago", the city park, "Quinta das Cruzes" gardens with an archaeological park.

'The island capital of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a lively, friendly city with picturesque streets, parks and squares as well as a world-renowned botanic garden. The centre of Santa Cruz is a mixture of old areas and modern architecture. The famous beaches of Las Gaviotas and Las Teresitas are very close nearby the city. Monte de la Esperanza, which towers over the city is also worth a visit, since the view from the summit is truly breathtaking. 'Sights include: the Plaza de Espana with its war memorial, the Museums of Archaeology and Anthropology, Carta Palace, the baroque church of Iglesia de la Concepción, the Museum of painting and sculpture, Castillo de Paso Alto.

The largest city on the Canary Isles is on Gran Canaria and has a population of 355,000 and a totally original and unique architecture. The cathedral, on which construction work began following the discovery of America, has a Gothic and Neo-classical style. It stands on the lovely square "Santa Ana", which is where the archiepiscopal palace and several other buildings in the distinctive 'Canary' style are also situated. The "Barrio de la Vegueta" area stands out due to its many manor houses, which show the influence of the Latin American colonial style. Sights include: the "Centro Atlantico de Arte Moderno" which has an important collection of contemporary art.

Arrecife is the capital city of Lanzarote and has a population of around 40,000. As recently as two hundred years ago, there was only a small harbour here which belonged to the former capital, Teguise. Only during the last century did the town slowly begin to develop. Arrecife is made almost entirely of narrow, winding streets. Sights include: the "Castillo de San Gabriel" with an archaeological museum and the "Castillo de San José". The main business streets, "Calle Real" and "León y Castillo" are packed with shops and entertainment venues.

La Coruña, the port and capital city of Galicia, is located on the Atlantic, in the most north-westerly part of the country. This was the backdrop for the battle carried by King Felipe the Eleventh against the English in 1588. The city has been shaped by the atmosphere and the smell of the Atlantic and is characterised by its glazed balconies and rain-washed stones. The harbour at La Coruña determines the locals' lives, and they are vivacious and very hospitable. Sights include: the fishing district "Pescaderia" with traditional bars and restaurants, the medieval old town with numerous churches and grand manors dating from the 18th century.

Bremerhaven, an administrative district in its own right in the federal state of Bremen, lies to the North of Bremen, on the lower Weser. Founded in 1827, the first regular connection between America and Europe set out from Bremerhaven in 1847. In 1938, Bremerhaven was amalgamated with the town of Wesermünde. In 1947, Wesermünde was re-named Bremerhaven, forming the federal state of Bremen. Sights include: the Atlanticum, the German Shipping Museum, the Historical Museum, the Kunsthalle Bremerhaven, the harbour museum, the museum ships the "Wal", the "Gera" and "Goliath", the fishing harbour, the "Wilhelm Bauer" submarine and the zoo.