Southampton (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.

London is most certainly a place to "take in," not just "pass through." You won't be bored.

After your time in London, you'll transfer to Southampton to board your ship and start your cruise conference. Options for doing that from bus transport to the train (which is very near the cruise port in Southampton) to private taxi are all solid choices.

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.

Reykjavik, Iceland - Iceland's capital and largest city is located on the country's southwest coast at the head of Faxafloi Bay. Settled in 877 AD, Reykjavik has grown into an important seaport and center of government and education with theatres, museums and observatories. Interestingly, this modern city still chooses to use water from nearby hot springs to heat all of its buildings.

Isafjordur, Iceland - Marvel at the stunning natural beauty of Iceland on an Isafjordur cruise, where you’ll find a small town surrounded by snow-capped mountains, pristine water, and jaw-dropping vistas. As the largest settlement in the Westfjords, Isafjordur is the ideal place to discover northern Iceland’s unspoiled terrain and spot wildlife, including whales, seals, and arctic foxes, in their natural habitat. Go birdwatching on the nearby island of Vigur. Visit the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, or head to Dynjandi, a group of waterfalls known as the jewel of the region. During your time in Isafjordur, you’ll witness dramatic landscapes you won’t soon forget.

Akureyri, Iceland -  Akureyi, Iceland's second largest city—affectionately known as the Capital of North Iceland—is one of the country's most important ports and fishing centers. Today, Akureyi is creating something of a buzz for its cool café scene, growing gourmet movement and bustling nightlife. But don't let that fool you. The atmosphere here is always laidback. From a fabulous summer festival program (energized by the near 24-hour daylight), to some of the best winter skiing you could wish for, Akureyi is a great base for exploring Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord, all year round.

Kirkwall, Scotland - The largest town in the capital of the Orkney Islands, Kirkwall is the center of Orkney in more ways than one. Almost all roads linking the east and west pass through town; it is also the port that provides inter-island ferry links to almost all the northern isles. In addition, it is considered one of the most charming and well preserved small towns in Scotland, rich in scenic beauty , history and medieval architecture.