Amsterdam, The Netherlands - Amsterdam is a great city in which to discover the charms of northern Europe. The graceful canals of its central district are lined with beautiful gabled houses. It's many grand art museums display masterpieces of Rembrandt and Vermeer, and the largest collection of Van Gogh's work is found here. Fine food is also easy to find along with ample opportunities for shopping (including excellent vintage finds). This great city is well worth a day or two's stay before or after your cruise.

Dover (London), England - "Sir, when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford." Samuel Johnson's famous words are as true today as when he spoke them. A visitor to London could fill a month with fascinating people, art, music, late-night dancing, fabulous shopping, an endless array of pubs and first rate meals. Tourists should take in Victoria Station, the beauty of Westminster Abbey, Parliament, and the pomp of Buckingham Palace. And then there are the "Elgin Marbles" at the British Museum and the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London. Or visit Sherlock Holmes' HQ on Baker Street (you know the address). After all that, make what might be the most important stop of all: grab a pint at one of the many corner pubs that's been hosting revelers since before America was a nation. Definitely a place to "take in," not just "pass through."

From London, you'll transfer to Dover to board your ship and start your cruise conference.
Pre and Post-Cruise Hotel Packages in London

Portland, England - Your visit to Portland and the English countryside of County Dorset will be rich in scenic beauty and centuries-old history. Visit the ancient village of Cerne Abbas and admire its beautiful 14th-century church and 16th-century houses; explore Sherbourne Castle, commissioned by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594; and marvel at prehistoric Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Cobh (Cork), Ireland - Cobh is just a short train ride to charming Cork, Ireland, whose hilly streets echo with the music of what is renowned to be Ireland's most talkative citizenry. Visit local artisans and witness their skills in the arts of weaving and cutting crystal. The charming English Market is a great place to get a taste of the local flavors (including the chance for an excellent meal at the Farmgate Cafe located within). Also, Cork's lovely art museum has many fine works by lesser known artists from the last few centuries.

Liverpool, England - Roll over Beethoven! Liverpool is the birthplace of the Beatles! And it won't take long to discover the amazing legacy of art, music and sport that influence this charming city. A short walk from your ship you'll find Albert Dock a bustling, converted maritime business center that now houses all sorts of entertainments (shopping, food, "The Beatles Story" and wonderful modern art at the Tate Liverpool. A bit further afield (but still quite walkable, if you're hearty), you'll find the Cavern Club, where the Beatles got their start.

Belfast, Northern Ireland - So much of Ireland's political history is tied up in Belfast that many visitors are surprised to find that it is also a modern city that blends old and new effortlessly as the troubles of its past fade into history. Just a day trip away are the Giants' Causeway (a series of stone pillars that extends to Scotland) and the spectacular Antrim coast.

Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland - Scotland's largest city, Glasgow's skyline is a kaleidoscope of architectural gems, encompassing the magnificent 12th century cathedral, the stunning Victorian cityscape and revolutionary Art Nouveau. Against this backdrop, the famed art galleries and museums of Glasgow have ensured that its cultural heritage stands alongside that of other major European cities. See works by some of the worlds greatest artists at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum housing a superb collection of paintings by, among others, Botticelli, Rembrandt, Monet, Van Gogh and Picasso.

Lerwick (Shetland), Scotland - Almost 100 islands make up the Shetland Islands, which sit on the northernmost part of the British Isles. Lerwick is Shetland's only town and is a cosmopolitan seaport that offers warm hospitality to its visitors. The old waterfront is filled with pleasure boats, visiting yachts, and more. Travelers can experience everything from lively "theme" bars and clubs to a Town Hall that boasts breathtaking stained glassed glass windows, each with its own story.