Trip Summary
Discover the enchantment of European coastal life on this well-paced cruise down the Bay of Biscay aboard the luxurious Le Lapérouse. Charming French ports, lively Spanish cities and the rich heritage of Portuguese traditions await your exploration. This thoughtfully curated itinerary includes immersive cultural and historical excursions to UNESCO World Heritage sites, renowned museums and iconic villages. Accompanied by a team of expert guides, each stop offers profound insights and unforgettable experiences designed to enrich your journey.
Event Itinerary
Day 1: En Route from U.S.
- Depart the U.S. for Bordeaux, France
Day 2: Bordeaux, France – Embarkation
- Arrive in Bordeaux and transfer to hospitality lounge before boarding Le Lapérouse
- Settle in, explore the ship, and enjoy a Welcome Reception
Day 3: La Rochelle & Île de Ré
- Tour the island of Île de Ré and its Vauban-designed ramparts
- Explore La Rochelle’s medieval Old Town and enjoy a cognac tasting
Day 4: Saint-Jean-de-Luz
- Visit the Church of Jean Baptiste, where Louis XIV married Maria Theresa
- Enjoy leisure time or a poolside wine tasting hosted by the sommelier
Day 5: Bilbao, Spain
- Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum for modern and contemporary art
- Take a guided tour of the medieval Casco Viejo district
Day 6: Basque Countryside
- Participate in a Basque cooking demo and food tasting experience
- Enjoy a gourmet dinner while cruising the Bay of Biscay
Day 7: Gijón
- Explore the Cimavilla historic district and Universidad Laboral
- Visit a traditional cider house to sample Asturias' famed cider
Day 8: A Coruña | Santiago de Compostela
- Excursion to the historic pilgrimage city of Santiago de Compostela
- Discover its religious heritage and role in the Camino de Santiago
Day 9: Vigo
- Visit the Rías Baixas estuary to learn about mussel farming
- Enjoy mussel and wine tastings before cruising onward
Day 10: Porto, Portugal
- Explore Porto’s medieval Ribeira district and Dom Luís I Bridge
- Visit a port wine cellar for a tasting and learn about its production
Day 11: Day at Sea
- Enjoy a day of leisure on board with scenic views and relaxation
- Celebrate the journey with a Farewell Reception and Gala Dinner
Day 12: Lisbon – Disembarkation | Depart for U.S.
- Disembark in Lisbon and transfer to the airport for return flights
Meet Your Faculty Expert
Jane Carroll
Jane Carroll is senior lecturer in art history at Dartmouth, specializing in the art of Northern Europe from late medieval times to the Early Modern period. She has researched and written on Dutch and German art, focusing on how artworks argue for selected religious ideology, both during the reform of the religious orders and during the Reformation. Her other interests include early prints, and the role of women in the arts especially during the Middle Ages. Recently she has expanded her research to explore depictions of marriage.