World Cruises Cruise on MSC Musica from Marseille (France)

Marseille (France)

Marseille is the second largest city in France, after Paris and is the third largest urban area and metropolitan area after Lyon. Marseille is the capital of the Provence Alpes Côte dAzur region, as well as the capital of the Bouches du Rhône department. The Quai des Belges at the end of the harbour is the site of the daily fish market. The Old Port or Vieux Port is the main harbour and marina of the city. It is guarded by two massive forts (Fort St Nicolas and Fort Saint Jean) and is one the main places to eat in the city. Things to see and do include the Old Port area, Abbey of Saint Victor, The Centre Bourse, and the adjacent Rue St Ferreol district, for the main shopping area, museums, and historical buildings. Marseille is always a popular cruise port because of its sheer beauty – it’s one of those cruise destinations that you’ll never forget.

Barcelona

The port of Barcelona was born about the same time as the city was. It is one of themost important ports in the Mediterranean, cruise ships leave the city to call on some of themost desirable cities in the Western Mediterranean. The port has modern facilities and allthe services needed to accommodate the many passengers who have Barcelona as anembarkation and a disembarkation port. Barcelona is one of the most cosmopolitan andmulticultural capitals of Europe. Among many attractions that include the Sagrada Familia,Montjuic, Gaudi's Güell Park and the famous Ramblas. It’s a hub of activity and the city isalways bustling.

Gibraltar

It is a small British colony in southern Spain. The population is about 29,000 inhabitants in an area of 2.6 square miles. It is also a naval base of the British Armed Forces. Most interesting things are the Rock of Gibraltar, the famous rock monkeys,the dolphins and the main shopping streets.

Casablanca (Morocco)

Casablanca is the largest city of Morocco, situated in western Morocco on the Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the largest and most important cities in Africa. Casablanca is also Moroccos chief port and industrial centre. Casablanca is like any other European city and the most liberal and progressive of Moroccos cities. Most of the streets have signs, and passersby are extremely helpful in French or Arabic and, more rarely, Spanish or English. Young men flirt brazenly with scantily clad women, designer labels are the norm in the chic, beach front neighbourhood of Ain Diab and many young Moroccans speak to each other exclusively in French. The Medina historic district can be hard to navigate, but its so small that no matter how blindly you wander into it, youre never more than ten minutes from an exit. Places to visit: the Medina historic district, the Corniche, Octagon Square, the Shrine of Sidi Abderrahman, the Mosque Hassan II, the largest in North Africa, and the third largest in the world.

Mindelo (Cape Verde)

Found on the island of Sao Vicente, Mindelo is regarded as Cape Verdes liveliest and most beautiful city. The cultural center of the Capr Verde islands, The island boasts barren yet spectacular volcanic landscapes bordered by white sand beaches and crytal clear waters. Mindelo is a picturesque town lined with cobbled streets that lead onto wide palm tree laden avenues, colourful buildings and architecture from the Portuguese and British colonial era. Home to carnivals and festivals, it also boasts vibrant nightlife with a wealth of cafes, pubs, restaurants and nightclubs. The distinctive and beautiful Morna music is a trademark of Mindelo and Cape Verde. The bay, Porto Grande, has also been classified by UNESCO as one of the most beautiful in the world

Salvador Bahia (Brazil)

Salvador is also known as Brazil's capital of happiness due to its countless popular outdoor parties, including its street carnival. The first colonial capital of Brazil, the city is one of the oldest in the Americas. The city of Salvador is notable in Brazil for its cuisine, music and architecture, and its metropolitan area is the wealthiest in Brazil's Northeast. The African influence in many cultural aspects of the city makes it the centre of Afro-Brazilian culture. The Salvador coastline is one of the longest for cities in Brazil. There are 80 km (50 mi) of beaches distributed between the High City and the Low City, from Inema, in the railroad suburb to the Praia do Flamengo, on the other side of town. While the Low City beaches are bordered by the waters of the All Saints Bay (the country's most extensive bay), the High City beaches, from Farol da Barra to Flamengo, are bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. The exception is Porto da Barra Beach, the only High City beach located in the All Saints Bay.

Rio de Janeiro

The city sports world-class hotels, approximately 49.70 miles of beachland, is one of the most visited cities in the southern hemisphere and is known for its natural settings, carnival celebrations, samba, Bossa Nova, balneario beaches such as Barra da Tijuca, Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon. Some of the most famous landmarks in addition to the beaches include the giant statue of Christ the Redeemer ("Cristo Redentor") atop Corcovado mountain, named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World; Sugarloaf mountain (Pão de Açúcar) with its cable car; the Sambódromo, a permanent grandstand-lined parade avenue which is used during Carnival; and Maracanã Stadium, one of the world's largest football stadiums.

Rio de Janeiro

The city sports world-class hotels, approximately 49.70 miles of beachland, is one of the most visited cities in the southern hemisphere and is known for its natural settings, carnival celebrations, samba, Bossa Nova, balneario beaches such as Barra da Tijuca, Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon. Some of the most famous landmarks in addition to the beaches include the giant statue of Christ the Redeemer ("Cristo Redentor") atop Corcovado mountain, named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World; Sugarloaf mountain (Pão de Açúcar) with its cable car; the Sambódromo, a permanent grandstand-lined parade avenue which is used during Carnival; and Maracanã Stadium, one of the world's largest football stadiums.

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is the largest city of Argentina, and the second-largest metropolitan area in South America. It is located on the western shore of the estuary of the Rio de la Plata, on the southeastern coast of the South American continent. People from Buenos Aires are referred to as porteños (people of the port). Buenos Aires is a top tourist destination, and is known for its European-style architecture and rich cultural life, with the highest concentration of theatres in the world, with scores of theaters and productions.Strongly influenced by European culture, Buenos Aires is sometimes referred to as the "Paris of South America".Buenos Aires is the birthplace of the current Roman Pontiff, Pope Francis.

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is the largest city of Argentina, and the second-largest metropolitan area in South America. It is located on the western shore of the estuary of the Rio de la Plata, on the southeastern coast of the South American continent. People from Buenos Aires are referred to as porteños (people of the port). Buenos Aires is a top tourist destination, and is known for its European-style architecture and rich cultural life, with the highest concentration of theatres in the world, with scores of theaters and productions.Strongly influenced by European culture, Buenos Aires is sometimes referred to as the "Paris of South America".Buenos Aires is the birthplace of the current Roman Pontiff, Pope Francis.

Puerto Madryn (Argentina)

Puerto Madryn is a city in the province of Chubut in Argentine Patagonia. It is the capital of the Viedma Department, The climate is that of a temperate semi-desert zone, with an annual precipitation of between 150 and 200 mm. Puerto Madryn is protected by the Golfo Nuevo, which is formed by the Península Valdés and the Punta Ninfas. It is an important centre for tourists visiting the natural attractions of the Península Valdés and the coast. A new shopping mall in the city centre has helped tourism significantly, making Puerto Madryn a more attractive place for both international and domestic tourists visiting Patagonia. It is twinned with Nefyn, a small town on the Llyn Peninsula in North Wales, the result of its enduring link with Welsh culture since the Welsh settlement in Argentina.

Port Stanley (Flakland Islands)

Stanley is the capital of the archipelago of the Falkland Islands. It is in the east part of the isles, on the east coast (East Falkland). It is a beautiful city with a British stronghold in the Atlantic ocean. There are many known things of England, for example the red telephone cabins, or the typical pubs. The city of Stanley is developed through the fishing and the tourism. The place you cannot miss to visit is the Flaklands Islands Museum.

Ushuaia (Argentina)

Ushuaia is the capital of Tierra del Fuego, Antártida e Islas del Atlántico Sur Province, Argentina. It is commonly regarded as the southernmost city in the world. As a center of population, commerce, and culture, and as a town of significant size and importance. Ushuaia however clearly qualifies as a city. Ushuaia is located in a wide bay on the southern coast of Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego, bounded on the north by the Martial mountain range and on the south by the Beagle Channel.

Ushuaia (Argentina)

Ushuaia is the capital of Tierra del Fuego, Antártida e Islas del Atlántico Sur Province, Argentina. It is commonly regarded as the southernmost city in the world. As a center of population, commerce, and culture, and as a town of significant size and importance. Ushuaia however clearly qualifies as a city. Ushuaia is located in a wide bay on the southern coast of Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego, bounded on the north by the Martial mountain range and on the south by the Beagle Channel.

Puerto Montt (Chile)

It is the capital od the region of Lagos, at the northern end of the Reloncaví Sound in the Llanquihue Province. Puerto Montt was founded in 1853 by Vicente Perez Rosales. One year before the german immigrants had arrived to the city with Valdivia and Osorno. From the bay of Puerto Montt you can view the Corcovado and the volcanoes of Michinmahuida. The bussiness section and the central services of the city are all around the the Plaza Manuel Irrazabal with a lovely view to the sea, and the cathedral located north of the plaza.

Valparaiso (Chile)

Considered "the Jewel of Pacific", Valparaíso is a city nestled in a natural amphitheater, surrounded by 45 mounts that fall abruptly into the sea. Declared World Heritage by UNESCO, Valparaíso tells the basis of its development through its historical architecture, its traditions and its art. This city has inspired well-known writers, architects, musicians and draftsmen due to the charms of its colorful scenery. The most prolific writer was Pablo Neruda, who resided in the city, built his house and wrote several of his outstanding works here.

Valparaiso (Chile)

Considered "the Jewel of Pacific", Valparaíso is a city nestled in a natural amphitheater, surrounded by 45 mounts that fall abruptly into the sea. Declared World Heritage by UNESCO, Valparaíso tells the basis of its development through its historical architecture, its traditions and its art. This city has inspired well-known writers, architects, musicians and draftsmen due to the charms of its colorful scenery. The most prolific writer was Pablo Neruda, who resided in the city, built his house and wrote several of his outstanding works here.

Hanga Roa

Bounty Bay Passage, Pitcairn

Papeete (French Polynesia)

Papeete is the capital of the French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France in the Pacific Ocean. The commune of Papeete is located on the island of Tahiti. Admire the Point Venus view where Captain Cook settled in Tahiti. Visit the busy port of Papeete before venturing to the waterfalls and black sand shores. Don't forget your camera to take back special memories of the helicopter ride.

Papeete (French Polynesia)

Papeete is the capital of the French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France in the Pacific Ocean. The commune of Papeete is located on the island of Tahiti. Admire the Point Venus view where Captain Cook settled in Tahiti. Visit the busy port of Papeete before venturing to the waterfalls and black sand shores. Don't forget your camera to take back special memories of the helicopter ride.

Moorea, French Polynesia

Found only a few kilometers northwest of Tahiti, Moorea is located in the French Polynesian Society Islands. Boasting breathtaking volcanic scenery, its mountain slopes are draped with rain forests and pineapple plantations while its pristine white sand beaches border sapphire blue lagoons. There are a wealth of watersport activities on offer from Deep sea fishing to sailing and of course scuba diving and snorkelling are a must around the islands reefs. The Tiki Village, Opunohu Valley and island tours are also popular attractions with visitors.

Aitutaki Cook Islands (New Zealand)

Aitutaki, also traditionally known as Araura, Ararau and Utataki, is one of the Cook Islands, north of Rarotonga.. Aitutaki is the second most visited island of the Cook Two of Aitutakis 15 islets (motus) are also volcanic. The rest are made of coral. Aitutaki is famous for its turquoise central lagoon, uninhabited islands and palm-fringed beaches. Another advantage is that until now it has been spared by mass tourism. Noteworthy also are an old church (the oldest in the Cook Islands) and some gigantic Banyan trees (Ficus prolixa). Tapuaetai (One Foot Island), a small islet in the south-east of the lagoon, is often said to be the most important attraction. It is regarded as providing the visitor with the best views of the Aitutaki lagoon and, depending on the tide, one is able to walk on a sandbank a decent distance away from Tapuaetai. The trip to this island is the most frequented trip available on Aitutaki.

Rarotonga (Cook Islands)

Rarotonga is the largest of the 15 Cook Islands in the central South Pacific. The interior of the country is characterized by volcanic peaks, mountain ridges and rainforests. A 20-mile (32 km) strait runs around the island, which is lined with beaches, coastal lagoons, and reefs with popular diving and snorkeling spots. Crossing rugged terrain, the Cross-Island Track passes the 650m peak of Te Rua Manga, also known as "The Needle".

Waitangi (New Zealand)

Auckland (New Zealand)

Auckland is a major cruise ship stopover point, with the ships usually tying up at Princes Wharf. Auckland CBD is connected to coastal suburbs, to the North Shore and to outlying islands by ferry. Auckland is home to many cultures. The majority of inhabitants claim European - predominantly British and/or Irish - descent, but substantial Maori, Pacific Islander and Asian communities exist as well. Auckland has the largest Polynesian population of any city in the world and a higher proportion of people of Asian origin than the rest of New Zealand. Ethnic groups from all corners of the world have a presence in Auckland, making it by far the country's most cosmopolitan city.

Tauranga (New Zealand)

Tauranga is the largest city in the region of Bay of Plenty, on the east coast of the Northern island of New Zealand. We can find Mount Manganui, named after an extinct volcano. Famous for the beaches and mostly for its mountain.

Christchurch

Christchurch is the second largest city in New Zealand. It is internationaly known for it's open spaces, its wineries and its gardens.The only place in the world where within two hours of an international airport you can ski at a world class alpine resort, play golf, bungy jump,go rafting, mountain biking, hot-air ballooning, wind surfing, or whale watching.

Dunedin (New Zealand)

Dunedin is the largest city in the province of Otago, New Zealand. You can find endless beaches for the practice of surfing or diving.

Milford Sound (New Zealand)

Renowned as the most famous attractions in New Zealand, Milford Sound is a fjord located in the southwest on the Southern Island of New Zealand. Found in the Fiordland National Park, within the Wahipounamu World Heritage site, Rudyard Kipling called Milford Sound the 8th wonder of the world. An underwater observatory offers visitors the chance to observe the black coral, which usually only found in deep water, as well as a wide variety of marine life. With its awe inspiring views and landscape, Milford Sound offers incredible hiking and kayaking or take the chance to visit the breathtaking Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls and watch the dolphins, seals, and penguins.

Hobart (Tasmania)

On the foot of mount Wellington in Tasmania, Hobart is one of the mos picturesque capitals of the world. Founded in 1802, Hobert has the flavour and charm of a small city of another time where life is more paused. Walk through the streets of this charming city and you will discover the mansions that show excellent examples of clasic georgian and victorian architecture, small cottages, shops and unique galeries, many of which where built by convicts brought from England. Walk through the Richmond Bridge, the eldest bridge in Australia, and finish your tour with a snack or tucker and a beer in a local bar.

Hobart (Tasmania)

On the foot of mount Wellington in Tasmania, Hobart is one of the mos picturesque capitals of the world. Founded in 1802, Hobert has the flavour and charm of a small city of another time where life is more paused. Walk through the streets of this charming city and you will discover the mansions that show excellent examples of clasic georgian and victorian architecture, small cottages, shops and unique galeries, many of which where built by convicts brought from England. Walk through the Richmond Bridge, the eldest bridge in Australia, and finish your tour with a snack or tucker and a beer in a local bar.

Sydney (Australia)

Sydney is known as the Harbour City. It is the largest, oldest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia and one of the world´s most beautiful and liveable cities. Brimming with history, nature, culture, art, fashion, cuisine, design, it is set next to miles of ocean coastline and sandy surf beaches. Recent immigration trends have led to the cities reputation as one of the most culturally and ethnically diverse cities in Australia and the world. The city is also home to the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, two of the most iconic structures on the planet. The city is surrounded by nature and national parks, which extend through the suburbs and right to the shores of the harbour.

Sydney (Australia)

Sydney is known as the Harbour City. It is the largest, oldest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia and one of the world´s most beautiful and liveable cities. Brimming with history, nature, culture, art, fashion, cuisine, design, it is set next to miles of ocean coastline and sandy surf beaches. Recent immigration trends have led to the cities reputation as one of the most culturally and ethnically diverse cities in Australia and the world. The city is also home to the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, two of the most iconic structures on the planet. The city is surrounded by nature and national parks, which extend through the suburbs and right to the shores of the harbour.

Noumea (New Caledonia)

The isles that form New Caledonia are a paradise lost in the Southern Pacific. It is an area that is worth visiting, specially the villages in the coast and that reflect the lifestyle of the kanak culture. Places to visit: Anse Vata, Baie des Citrons and Pointe Magnin, Le Petit train tour, Pierre Vernier promenade, Place des Cocotiers Square and the Tjibaou Cultural Centre, where the market takes place.

Luganville Vanuatu

Apia (Westsamoa)

Samoa is located south of the equator, about halfway between Hawai‘i and New Zealand in the Polynesian region of the Pacific Ocean. The Samoan islands have been produced by vulcanism, the source of which is the Samoa hotspot which is probably the result of a mantle plume. The fa'a Samoa, or traditional Samoan way, remains a strong force in Samoan life and politics. Despite centuries of European influence, Samoa maintains its historical customs, social and political systems, and language. Cultural customs such as the Samoa 'ava ceremony are significant and solemn rituals at important occasions including the bestowal of matai chiefly titles. Items of great cultural value include the finely woven 'ie toga. The Samoan word for dance is siva with unique gentle movements of the body in time to music and which tells a story, although the Samoan male dances can be more physical and snapp. The form and construction of traditional architecture of Samoa was a specialised skill by Tufuga fai fale that was also linked to other cultural artforms.

Pago Pago (Amerian Samoa)

The natural park of the American Samoa is a park of the United States located in the American Samoa, and it is divided in three islands: Tutuila, Ofu and Tau. The park includes corral reefs and rainforrests. It is the perfect place to practice hiking and diving.

Honolulu (Hawaii)

The isle of Hawaii is named Grnad Island, and we explain why. It is more than double the size than all the rest of Hawaiian isles together, and is completely full of luxuriant nature, from the rugged volcanoes to the cascades and the rainy forrests. It is the home of smokey volcano craters and rivers of dry lava in the National Park of the Volcanoes.

Hilo, Hawaii

Hilo is the county seat of the County of Hawai?i and is located in the District of South Hilo. The town overlooks Hilo Bay, situated upon two shield volcanoes; Mauna Loa, an active volcano, and Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano and the site of the world's most important ground-based astronomical observatories.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the largest city in California and the second-largest urban area in the nation. It is located in the southern part of the state on the Pacific Ocean. It is a favorite vacation destination and attracts millions of tourists to the area each year from all over the world. Apart from the movie studios, points of interest include the J. Paul Getty Museum, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the La Brea Tar Pits (famous for Ice Age fossils), Disneyland (Anaheim), and the Santa Anita and Hollywood racetracks. Today, Hollywood is a part of Los Angeles.

Cabo San Lucas (Mexico)

Cabo San Lucas is a modern city with natural tourist attractions and interesting nightlife. It is located in the southern tip of the peninsula of Baja California Sur and bathed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean. the climate is warm. On the coast strong currents cause the erosion of rocks form rocky arches and cliffs that are the principal touristic attraction. From those formations stands out The Arch and Finistere, where the Pacific finds the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez. The region has a shelter for several species of marine life near a deep canyon that opens off the coast. You can also find here a port dedicated to coastal fisheries. Industrial development because this activity was boosted by the establishment of a packing of seafood. San Lucas has become in the favourite touristic spot due to it's extensive beaches and it's beautiful coastline. Fishermen recognize it as an exceptional place because the capture unique specimens can be captured. From the golf courses near the sea, at the same time as you can practice that sport, you will se the migration of the whales that on their journey pass very near the coast. The visitor will also have the possibility of staying in first class hotels, of visiting the elegant shops and various restaurants and night clubs like the famous Hard Rock Cafe and Planet Hollywood.

Puntarenas (Costa Rica)

Puntarenas (Pointsands, from "punta arenas", or "sand point" in Spanish) is the capital and largest city in the province Puntarenas, Costa Rica, at the Pacific coast. The eponymous and oddly shaped province has its largest section in the South, far from the capital. Some 100,000 live in the city and close towns. With beaches on the Pacific Ocean, it also attracts many tourists, especially surfers. It is also a possible stopover point for the tourist destination Monteverde, to the northwest. Its port, Caldera, is one of the main ports in the country. Also, regularly scheduled ferries carry vehicles from Puntarenas to the Nicoya Peninsula.

Panama Canal

The interest of establishing a short route from the Atlantic to the Pacific seas started with the explorers of central america at the beginning od the XVI century. The conqueror of Mexico, Hernan Cortes, suggested the construction of a canal through the isthmus of Tehuantepec. During the years they made a few attempts and projects, but all were neglected or forgotten. Fernando de Lesseps, constructor of the Suez Canal started building it but for economical and political reasons the project failed. Finally the United States took over the company in charge. The construction of the Panama Canal was one of the biggest engineering projects of all times. It was calculated that it would be completed in ten years; although in the summer of 1914 before provisions, it started to work. The construction involved not only the excavation of approximately 143 million m3 of earth, but also the entire sanitation of the canal zone (that was infested of mosquitos that spreaded malaria and yellow fever). The sanitation was done by the medical department of the United States Army, which nearly completely eradicated the diseases. The final cost of the canal was 336 million dolars. Panama has the control of the canal and complete sovereignty of the calle Canal Zone, since the 31st of december 1999.

Panama Canal

The interest of establishing a short route from the Atlantic to the Pacific seas started with the explorers of central america at the beginning od the XVI century. The conqueror of Mexico, Hernan Cortes, suggested the construction of a canal through the isthmus of Tehuantepec. During the years they made a few attempts and projects, but all were neglected or forgotten. Fernando de Lesseps, constructor of the Suez Canal started building it but for economical and political reasons the project failed. Finally the United States took over the company in charge. The construction of the Panama Canal was one of the biggest engineering projects of all times. It was calculated that it would be completed in ten years; although in the summer of 1914 before provisions, it started to work. The construction involved not only the excavation of approximately 143 million m3 of earth, but also the entire sanitation of the canal zone (that was infested of mosquitos that spreaded malaria and yellow fever). The sanitation was done by the medical department of the United States Army, which nearly completely eradicated the diseases. The final cost of the canal was 336 million dolars. Panama has the control of the canal and complete sovereignty of the calle Canal Zone, since the 31st of december 1999.

Ocho Rios (Jamaica)

Ocho Rios is one of Jamaica’s capitals full of pleasures. You’ll be able to go shopping or to see the real Jamaican culture. It is located approximately 67 miles east of Montego Bay. Know as a fishing village, counts with plenty of resort facilities such as hotels and restaurants, it maintains the culture of the past of a small Jamaican Town.It counts with various shopping plazas and with a crafts market located downtown, an easy distance to walk from the ship. In Ocean Village, the main flea market of the town, you can uy everything under the sun, right in the center of Ocho Rios.One of the most beautiful things to see in Jamaica is Dunn’s River Falls, and you will find them in Ocho Rios. Also you can find wonderful beaches to enjoy yourselves. One of the most known beaches is the James Bond Beach, which was named due to his creator living in the proximities. Plan a visit to the Shaw Botanical Gardens, where you can find a variety of exotic flora or you can go canoeing in the White River while the drums are beating.

Road Town (Tortola)

Road Town is the capital city of the insular country British Virgin Islands. Located on the island of Tortola. On the south coast. It is the perfect island to relax and to enjoy the pleasure of it's climate and caribbean waters.

St. Martin (Philipsburg)

Philipsburg is the main town and capital of the country of Sint Maarten. The town is situated on a narrow stretch of land between Great Bay and the Great Salt Pond. The island is located around 240 kilometers east of Puerto Rico. It's great importance is that it an international commercial port. St. Maarten has suffered in recent years a strong population growth due to the strong development of tourism. The leading immigration of Haitian, French and Dominican descents.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is one of the largest cities in Spain, and is the largest city in the Canary Islands The Port of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria receives ships from all over the world. As a beach town, Las Palmas is specially popular for ocean-side activities. Catch a wave, grab your snorkel, or just soak up some sun. The south of the island is hot, dry, relatively arid and home to brash new resorts such as Playa del Inglés. The north and centre of the island is cooler, wetter, and retains more of a Spanish colonial atmosphere. The dramatic lush interior features spectacular volcanic peaks. The capital of Las Palmas functions as a bustling cosmopolitan city and a popular seaside. Those arriving by cruise ship can appreciate the island´s spectacular setting between two bays as they sail into the biggest port in Spanish territory. Most of the island´s top sights are in the north, situated within 30 minutes or so of Las Palmas. However, Las Palmas itself has a variety of first-class attractions plus an excellent golden beach, Playa de las Canteras, which is a 15-minute walk from the cruise terminal (as is the city centre).

Palma (Majorca)

The capital of the island of Mallorca, Palma welcomes you through a magnificent view: the marina, the promenade, the Cathedral that is dominated by the Bellver Castle, situated on a hill which overlooks the harbour. Majorca is a favourite European destination for many cruise passengers. Great shopping centres and tourist services, beautiful and pristine beaches, the cuisine, and traditional products, not to mention the wonderful caves of Drach, all await you on your visit. Inland, you’ll find typical Mallorcan villages and mountain ranges reaching heights of 1,500 metres. 

Naples (Italy)

Naples is the capital of Campania, one of the largest metropolises on the Mediterranean Sea. The Port of Naples is one of the largest Italian seaport and one of the largest seaport in the Mediterranean Sea. Naples' historic city centre is the largest in Europe and is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Naples has long been a major cultural centre with a global sphere of influence, particularly during the Renaissance and Enlightenment eras. In the immediate vicinity of Naples are numerous culturally and historically significant sites, including the Palace of Caserta and the Roman ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Culinary Naples is synonymous with pizza, which originated in the city. Neapolitan music has furthermore been highly influential, credited with the invention of the romantic guitar and the mandolin, as well as notable contributions to opera and folk standards.

Civitavecchia (Rome)

 Civitavecchia is the city of Rome´s port on the Tyrrhenian Sea. The harbour is formed by two piers and a breakwater, on which is a lighthouse. The name Civitavecchia means Ancient Town. There, the Eternal City lies before us in large format architectural and artistic sculptures such as the Colosseum, the most important monument of ancient Rome and used for public entertainment. Do not miss the Trevi Fountain and make a wish while you throw a coin over your shoulder and then continue to the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved monuments of antiquity, Piazza Navona, and the Vatican City. Take a walk through the Plaza of Spain and rest on the steps of Trinita dei Monti before heading to Via Condotti, a wide avenue lined with shops. Civitavecchia is always popular with cruise passengers because, as noted earlier, it is the gateway to Rome. All cruise lines tend to offer shore excursions here to the Eternal City and we highly recommend that you book one. 

Genoa (Italy)

Genoa is the capital of Liguria and the sixth largest city in Italy. Genoa is one of Europe's largest cities on the Mediterranean Sea and the largest seaport in Italy. Nicknamed the Superb One due to its glorious past and impressive landmarks. Part of the old town of Genoa was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The city's rich art, music, gastronomy, architecture, and history allowed it to become the 2004 European Capital of Culture. It is the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and it's waiting for you to discover everything it has to offer. This is a hugely popular embarkation and disembarkation port for many Western Mediterranean sailings, but other distant lands also await.

Marseille (France)

Marseille is the second largest city in France, after Paris and is the third largest urban area and metropolitan area after Lyon. Marseille is the capital of the Provence Alpes Côte dAzur region, as well as the capital of the Bouches du Rhône department. The Quai des Belges at the end of the harbour is the site of the daily fish market. The Old Port or Vieux Port is the main harbour and marina of the city. It is guarded by two massive forts (Fort St Nicolas and Fort Saint Jean) and is one the main places to eat in the city. Things to see and do include the Old Port area, Abbey of Saint Victor, The Centre Bourse, and the adjacent Rue St Ferreol district, for the main shopping area, museums, and historical buildings. Marseille is always a popular cruise port because of its sheer beauty – it’s one of those cruise destinations that you’ll never forget.