Name: Panama and Costa Rica: Crossing the Canal
Brand: AE Expeditions

Overview

Pack your bags for Mediterranean and The Douro River - Douglas Mawson departs Lisbon on this 16-night cruise with AE Expeditions. Your journey takes in 3 ports of call, including Porto, La Rochelle, and Scheveningen. Whether it's exploring towns and cities ashore or unwinding on deck, this AE Expeditions sailing delivers variety at every turn. Prices for this cruise start from £10,594 per person.

AE Expeditions

AE Expeditions is a small Australian cruise line which specialises in off-the-beaten-track voyages led by remote area experts.

The company’s adventurous co-founders, Greg and Margaret Mortimer, established AE Expeditions in 1991 and had by the following year, already begun running voyages to Antarctica

Cruise Itinerary

Days 1-2

Lisbon

In the annals of maritime lore, Lisbon stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered centuries of conquest and exploration. Its labyrinthine streets whisper tales of Moorish conquests and Age of Discovery triumphs, each cobblestone a silent witness to the city's rich past. Beneath the warm Mediterranean sun, Lisbon exudes an undeniable charm, drawing travelers seeking an authentic escape from the beaten path. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its serene waterfront, Lisbon offers a glimpse into Portugal's soul, where fado music reverberates through alfresco cafes, and the aroma of freshly baked pasts de nata fills the air, tempting even the most seasoned voyagers.

Day 3

Porto

Porto may be Portugal’s second city, but it takes first place in many cruisers’ hearts. It’s a gastronomic wonderland – with port and tonics, pastel de natas and excellent seafood. It's also full of architectural marvels, including the famous ironwork bridge joining the neighbourhoods of Gaia and Ribeira. You’ll find that both ocean liners and river cruise ships stop at its ports.

Day 4

Vigo

Day 5

La Coruña

Day 6

Gijón

Day 7

San Sebastian

Day 8

Bordeaux

Ships dock close to the centre, making it easy to explore on foot. The UNESCO-listed old town is packed with neoclassical buildings, lively cafés and riverside walks. Landmarks like Place de la Bourse, the water mirror and the gothic cathedral are all within easy reach.Bordeaux is also home to La Cité du Vin, a futuristic wine museum with interactive exhibits and a panoramic tasting area. You can also hop on a tram to explore the Chartrons district, once home to wine merchants and full of vintage shop and galleries.Cruise excursions might include vineyard visits, bike tours or food tastings. Some itineraries even offer evening moorings here so you can enjoy dinner in town or take a night-time stroll along the Garonne.

Day 9

La Rochelle

Nestled along the Atlantic coast, La Rochelle boasts a maritime legacy steeped in resilience and adventure. Its storied past, from medieval fortifications to bustling ports, echoes through the cobbled streets. The mild oceanic climate blesses visitors with refreshing breezes and abundant sunshine, ideal for leisurely strolls along the picturesque harbors. Unlike bustling metropolises, La Rochelle offers an authentic glimpse into French coastal life, with its vibrant markets and quaint cafes serving up fresh seafood delicacies. As a beacon of maritime history, La Rochelle's iconic towers stand tall, guarding secrets of seafaring adventures that have shaped the region's identity for centuries.

Day 10

Concarneau

Day 11

Roscoff

Day 12

Saint-Malo

Day 13

Honfleur

Honfleur is one of Normandy’s most charming ports, often topping the list of favourite stops on Seine cruises. Set on the estuary where the Seine meets the Channel, Honfleur’s appeal lies in its narrow cobbled streets, slate-fronted houses and historic harbour.The Vieux Bassin, or Old Dock, is the heart of Honfleur, with its tall, narrow buildings and the cafés and galleries that line the quay. Nearby, the Church of Sainte-Catherine, built in the 15th century, is one of France’s few remaining wooden churches.Honfleur’s artistic heritage is another draw. Painters, including Monet and Boudin, were inspired by the town.

Day 14

Oostende (Ostend)

Day 15

Scheveningen

Days 16-17

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ lively capital, famous for its historic canals and art museums. Cruising into the city reveals a network of waterways lined with tall, narrow houses with ornate gables, a hallmark of Dutch Golden Age architecture. The city’s past as a busy trading city can be seen in its harbour and historic buildings.Exploring on foot or by bike, visitors can check out world-class museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, alongside the poignant Anne Frank House. The city’s compact centre makes it easy to wander through charming neighbourhoods like Jordaan with its boutique shops, cafés and galleries.Despite its popularity, Amsterdam maintains a relaxed vibe with leafy canals and parks offering a peaceful break from the busy centre.

Days 1-2

Lisbon

Day 3

Porto

Day 4

Vigo

Day 5

La Coruña

Day 6

Gijón

Day 7

San Sebastian

Day 8

Bordeaux

Day 9

La Rochelle

Day 10

Concarneau

Day 11

Roscoff

Day 12

Saint-Malo

Day 13

Honfleur

Day 14

Oostende (Ostend)

Day 15

Scheveningen

Days 16-17

Amsterdam

154

Passengers

Crew

2025

Launched

8500t

Tonnage

104m

Length

18m

Width

12kts

Speed

Decks

USD

Currency

Douglas Mawson

Adventure has a new name. Setting sail in 2025, our new state-of-the-art ship, the Douglas Mawson, is the last in a line of purpose-built vessels that have redefined small ship expedition cruising.