
Holland America Line, which has been sailing for 150 years, visits 400 ports in 114 countries every year. Dutch heritage shines through in some of the $4million-worth of artwork to be seen onboard, complimenting the luxurious cruise experience.
Live music remains HAL's forte, with venues including the Rolling Stone Rock room and BB King's Blues Club. For foodies, a wide range of restaurants serve the finest of fayre.
Perched majestically on the limestone cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, Valletta beckons with its timeless charm and centuries-old history. Home to the Knights of St. John, its streets whisper tales of valiant knights and grand sieges. The Mediterranean climate blesses visitors with warm summers and mild winters, creating an inviting atmosphere year-round. Unlike typical tourist traps, Valletta offers an authentic glimpse into Malta's soul, where locals mingle with visitors in bustling markets and quaint cafes. As the smallest capital in the EU, Valletta boasts one of the highest concentrations of historic sites, including St. John's Co-Cathedral, adorned with Caravaggio's masterpieces.
View moreAmidst the sun-kissed shores of Messina lies a tapestry of history woven with tales of ancient civilizations and legendary events. Its storied past, marked by encounters with Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans, echoes through its cobblestone streets and majestic architecture. The Mediterranean climate here offers a balmy embrace, perfect for leisurely exploration and al fresco dining. Beyond the bustling ports, Messina unveils hidden gems, from charming cafes to vibrant markets, where travelers can savor authentic Sicilian flavors and immerse themselves in local traditions. As the gateway to Sicily, Messina beckons cruisegoers with its rich heritage and timeless allure, promising an unforgettable journey through the heart of Italy.
View moreAmidst the captivating backdrop of Mount Vesuvius, Naples beckons with a tapestry of ancient allure. Its fabled past, steeped in mythology and legend, whispers tales of emperors and poets, of Pompeii's tragic fate and the birth of pizza. The Mediterranean climate blesses Naples with warm, sun-drenched days, perfect for savoring gelato on cobblestone streets or basking in the glow of historic piazzas. This vibrant city pulsates with an energy that ignites the senses, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in authentic Neapolitan life. And did you know? Naples boasts the world's oldest continuously operating pizzeria, Antica Pizzeria Port'Alba, dating back to 1738.
View morePerched on the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Civitavecchia boasts a storied past intertwined with maritime adventures. As the gateway to Rome, its harbor has welcomed seafarers for centuries, echoing with tales of ancient civilizations and grand conquests. The Mediterranean climate blesses visitors with balmy breezes and sun-drenched days, creating an idyllic atmosphere for exploration. Away from the bustling metropolis, Civitavecchia offers an authentic Italian experience, where cobblestone streets wind through charming piazzas and trattorias serve up delectable seafood caught fresh from the sea. Don't miss the chance to stroll along the historic harbor walls, built to protect against marauding pirates centuries ago.
View moreAjaccio, cradled by the cerulean Mediterranean, boasts a vibrant legacy as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. Its sun-kissed shores and temperate climate make it a haven for those seeking an authentic Mediterranean experience. Away from crowded tourist hubs, Ajaccio invites travelers to savor the essence of France with its charming cobblestone streets and bustling markets, where local artisans showcase Corsican craftsmanship. Beyond its historical allure, Ajaccio captivates visitors with its culinary delights, from succulent seafood to aromatic cheeses. As dusk falls, the city's promenades come alive with the melodic strains of Corsican polyphonic singing, a testament to the island's rich cultural tapestry.
View moreNestled on the sun-kissed shores of the French Riviera, Villefranche-sur-Mer exudes an enchanting charm steeped in maritime history. Its azure waters have witnessed the passage of ancient mariners and modern-day adventurers alike. Bask in the Mediterranean climate, where gentle sea breezes mingle with the scent of citrus groves, offering respite from the bustling city life. This idyllic haven provides a gateway to the authentic essence of France, with its quaint cobblestone streets and colorful waterfront cafes. As cruise lines dock in its picturesque harbor, Villefranche-sur-Mer unveils its hidden treasures, inviting travelers to savor its culinary delights and immerse themselves in its vibrant local culture.
View moreBarcelona, a city defined by its innovative spirit from the architectural wonders of Gaudto the bustling medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter, offers a vivid window into Spains artistic soul. The city benefits from a Mediterranean climate, ensuring pleasant weather perfect for leisurely explorations of its many districts. Cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian utilize Barcelona as a key port, giving travelers the chance to immerse themselves in a blend of modernist architecture and vibrant local life. An intriguing fact about Barcelona is its beach was artificially created in preparation for the 1992 Olympics, showcasing the city's ability to ingeniously reinvent itself while maintaining its historical roots.
View moreNestled along the Mediterranean coast, Cartagena exudes an air of ancient grandeur, tracing its roots back to the Phoenicians and Carthaginians. This historic port city boasts a climate blessed with year-round sunshine, perfect for leisurely strolls along its palm-lined promenades. Beyond its famed Roman ruins and imposing fortifications, Cartagena offers a glimpse into authentic Spanish life, with bustling markets brimming with local flavors and artisans' wares. Cruise lines strategically dock to provide easy access to Cartagena's wealth of cultural treasures, from the Roman Theatre to the Modernist architecture of its city center. It's a destination where history meets modern charm, leaving an indelible mark on every visitor's memory.
View moreThe North District of Gibraltar unfolds like a chapter from a historic novel, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of naval supremacy and strategic importance. Its rugged landscape, framed by the imposing Rock of Gibraltar, creates a dramatic backdrop for exploration. The climate here, tempered by the Mediterranean Sea, provides a pleasant ambiance year-round, perfect for leisurely strolls through quaint streets lined with colorful houses. Away from the bustle of typical tourist spots, this district showcases authentic glimpses of local life, from bustling markets to cozy cafes. As the gateway to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, it's also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with the chance to spot Barbary macaques, Europe's only wild monkeys, roaming freely amidst lush vegetation.
View moreFort Lauderdale, known as the "Venice of America," offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors before or after embarking on a cruise. Explore the picturesque canals aboard a water taxi, admiring the luxurious waterfront homes and lush landscapes. Hit the vibrant shops and restaurants along Las Olas Boulevard, where culinary delights and boutique finds await. Relax on the sun-drenched beaches, from bustling Fort Lauderdale Beach to the serene Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. For cultural immersion, visit the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens or the NSU Art Museum, showcasing diverse collections of art and history.
View moreOosterdam, a Vista Class cruise ship, brings high style to the high seas with thoughtful upgrades and stunning artwork. Guests will have plenty to do on board when not taking in expansive views or stretching out in spacious staterooms.
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